Guided Practice

KNOWN VERSUS UNKNOWN NOUNS

Recall that a writer can use a specific noun in a manner that signals that it is "known" to the reader or that it is "unknown" to the reader. A known noun refers to something that is unique, that is known through common sense or general knowledge, that has already been mentioned, or that is signaled through identifying information following the noun.

For each sentence below, decide whether the highlighted noun is known or unknown to the reader. Indicate your choice by clicking KNOWN or UNKNOWN.

1. Bill Clinton was the President from 1993 to 2000. KNOWN UNKNOWN

2. How much was the stock you bought yesterday? KNOWN UNKNOWN

3. My roommate is taking five courses this semester. KNOWN UNKNOWN

4. The Statue of Liberty stands in New York harbor. KNOWN UNKNOWN

5. The graduation requirements at this college are very strict. KNOWN UNKNOWN

6. The biology of plant life is fascinating. KNOWN UNKNOWN

7. I plan to take a course in Biology next semester. KNOWN UNKNOWN

8. The College of Arts recently hired a new faculty member. KNOWN UNKNOWN

9. I plan to take the course in Biology offered by Prof. Janusz. KNOWN UNKNOWN

10. She has an assignment due tomorrow. KNOWN UNKNOWN

11. Diana met a boy last night. KNOWN UNKNOWN