Mastering Comparisons in Language: A Key to PERT Success

Which sentence makes a complete comparison?

• A. Abbie cooks chicken better than her mother.
• B. James hates shopping more than his girlfriend.
• C. I like living in Florida more than my brother does.
• D. Wendy eats pumpkin pie more often than her sister.

Answer: (C)

The sentence "I like living in Florida more than my brother does" makes a complete comparison by clearly indicating what is being compared and the relative intensity of the two subjects' preferences. In this case, the speaker's enjoyment of living in Florida is compared directly to their brother's enjoyment, with the completion of the thought achieved by including "does." This structure ensures that the reader understands the comparison is not just about a general preference but specifically addresses how much more the speaker likes it compared to their brother. In contrast, the other sentences may leave some ambiguity. For instance, "Abbie cooks chicken better than her mother" does not specify if it's based on frequency, skill, or some other measure. "James hates shopping more than his girlfriend" can be interpreted in multiple ways, such as whether he hates it more intensely or more often. Finally, "Wendy eats pumpkin pie more often than her sister" provides a comparison, but it lacks clarity over whether it's the enjoyment of pumpkin pie being compared or merely the frequency of eating it. Each of these examples lacks the precise and complete framing that the correct answer provides.

Making it through the Postsecondary Education Readiness Test (PERT) might feel like navigating a maze, but grasping the art of making complete comparisons in sentences can be your secret weapon. You know what? It’s not just about passing a test—it's about mastering a skill that’ll help you express ideas clearly, whether in essays or daily conversations.

Let’s dig into how to spot a complete comparison using an example that floats right in the heart of language clarity. Consider the question: Which sentence makes a complete comparison?

• A. Abbie cooks chicken better than her mother.

• B. James hates shopping more than his girlfriend.

• C. I like living in Florida more than my brother does.

• D. Wendy eats pumpkin pie more often than her sister.

If you guessed C, you are spot on! “I like living in Florida more than my brother does” serves as a shining example of a complete comparison. Why? It clearly paints a picture of the two preferences: the speaker loves living in Florida, and it showcases how much more they enjoy it compared to their brother. This structure doesn’t just scratch the surface; it digs deep, ensuring the comparison hits home without leaving anyone guessing.

But let’s break down the others for a minute. A quick look at A reveals some ambiguity. Abbie cooking chicken better than her mother could mean anything—how often she cooks, or how skilled she is. The specifics are vague, leaving you pondering the true implication of the comparison.

Then there’s B. James hating shopping more than his girlfriend could stir confusion too. Is it about intensity, frequency, or even a matter of emotional response? It’s not clear!

Lastly, D holds a bit of clarity, but it still leaves a question swinging in the air. What’s being measured? The enjoyment of pumpkin pie or just the number of times it’s eaten? You feel me? Each of these other sentences lacks the concise framing that our favorite winner brings to the table.

So, why does this matter as you prep for the PERT? Here’s the kicker—having clarity in comparisons not only enriches your writing but also helps you understand and engage better with the material. Think about it: when you're reading complex texts, spotting clear comparisons allows you to digest information smoothly. It feels like finding the sweet spot at a buffet—you know exactly what you want!

Another important thing to remember is the power of specificity. In your writing or speaking, precision can transform an average sentence into a powerful statement that commands attention. Consider how boring it is to leave someone confused with your words. Instead, aim for responses that spark interest and intrigue.

Let’s not forget that communication is like driving—steering with clarity gets you to your destination quicker. So before you sit for the PERT, practice crafting sentences that draw a clear line in comparisons. Use your own life experiences to create parallels, drawing on personal examples to bolster your understanding.

As you prepare, think of this: mastering complete comparisons is more than just acing a test. It’s about making connections, whether you're arguing a point in class, writing a persuasive essay, or simply chatting with friends about why you love living where you do.

By honing this skill, you're not just preparing for the PERT. You're also becoming a more articulate human being, ready to express yourself with confidence. So, count on those complete comparisons to guide your writing and help you shine at the PERT and beyond!