Grammar 9.4
Fixing Dangling and Misplaced Modifiers
Directions: Rewrite each sentence to fix its dangling modifier.
Example: Broken, the cat sat on the chair.
The cat sat on the broken chair.
1. Reading the contract carefully, it was decided to wait a few days before both parties would sign.
2. While relaxing in the sun, dark clouds suddenly appeared.
3. Enraged by his pitiful score, Ted’s tennis racket was hurled across the court.
4. Breaking the pencil in anger, Ted’s bad temper again revealed itself.
5. Feeling hungry because I skipped lunch, eating supper seemed a really good idea.
6. Realizing that it was time to eat, lunch was served to the hungry students.
7. Hoping there was plenty of air in her tank, the sunken wreck was explored a bit longer by the
scuba diver.
8. After seeing the wreck, Sharon’s day was ruined.
9. While reading my e-mail, somebody knocked at the door.
10. Running up the stairs, Vajra’s nose broke as she fell.
Directions: Correct the error in each of the following sentences. It could be an incorrectly formed
adverb, improper use of comparative and superlative, or dangling or misplaced modifier.
Example: Broken, the cat sat on the chair.
The cat sat on the broken chair.
1. The trumpeter sounded his horn loud to start the show.
2. The stronger the vibrations of the player’s lips, the loud the sound from the horn.
3. Playing from the choir balcony, the sounds of the instruments played by trumpeters filled the
church.
4. Did you know that the simple type of horn is made from animal horn?
5. Played slow, a trumpet creates a sad, funereal tune.