MTEL Communication Literacy Skills : Writing Practice Test

What is an INCORRECT use of "because" in explanatory sentences?

1. Using it to provide a reason after "reason"

2. Using it before an explanation statement

3. Using it instead of "that" in explanations

4. Using it at the end of a sentence

The correct answer is: Using it instead of "that" in explanations

Using "because" in explanatory sentences is a matter of correctly linking causes and effects. In standard English usage, "because" is appropriately used to introduce reasons or explanations. The answer choice that identifies an incorrect use involves substituting "because" for "that" when explaining something. In this context, "that" serves a different grammatical function than "because." "That" is used to introduce a noun clause that describes or specifies something, while "because" introduces a reason. For example, one might say, "The fact that he was late was annoying" rather than "The fact because he was late was annoying." This demonstrates that "because" cannot be used interchangeably with "that" without altering the intended meaning or creating grammatical issues. Other options mentioned involve acceptable uses of "because." For instance, it can effectively provide a reason after the word "reason" or be used at the beginning of an explanation. Using "because" at the end of a sentence can be stylistically unusual, but it is not grammatically incorrect. Thus, the correct answer highlights a misuse of "because" that could lead to confusion or ambiguity in writing.