Prepositions and Phrases — Answer Key
Part A: Fix the Sentence
Each sentence has an error. Rewrite it correctly on the line.
1. Fix the sentence:
The squirrel ran across the tree to grab the acorn.
Corrected: The squirrel ran up the tree to grab the acorn.
Squirrels climb up a tree, not across one, so up matches the vertical movement here.
2. Fix the sentence:
She jumped off into the cold pool with a splash.
Corrected: She jumped into the cold pool with a splash.
Two prepositions clash; into alone shows she entered the water from above the pool.
3. Fix the sentence:
The runners jogged around the track for two miles before stopping at water.
Corrected: The runners jogged around the track for two miles before stopping for water.
Around shows circular motion on a track, which fits the runners going in loops there.
Part B: Fill in the Blank
Write the missing word or number on each line.
1. The cat leaped into the soft armchair and curled up to sleep.
Into shows movement from outside to inside the chair, where the cat then settled down.
2. Marcus walked toward the bus stop to wait for the morning ride.
Toward shows direction of motion; Marcus moves in the direction of the bus stop.
3. The frog hopped off the lily pad and splashed into the water.
Off means leaving the surface of the lily pad before the frog hits the water below.
4. We walked across the wide bridge to reach the other side of the river.
Across means moving from one side to the other, which fits crossing a wide bridge.
Part C: Short Answer
Answer each question in one or two complete sentences.
1. Write a sentence using the preposition around to describe motion in your neighborhood.
Sample answer: Every evening, my dog and I walk around the block together to get fresh air.
Around shows circular movement, so a path that loops back home fits the preposition.
2. Use into in a sentence about entering a building or room at school.
Sample answer: After the bell rang, our class hurried into the gym for the morning assembly.
Into shows movement from outside to inside, perfect for entering a room or building.