MTEL Communication Literacy Skills : Writing Practice Test

Which of the following best describes a demonstrative pronoun?

1. A pronoun that refers to an unspecified subject

2. A pronoun that points out specific people, places, or things without naming them

3. A pronoun that always comes first in a sentence

4. A pronoun that refers back to the subject of the sentence

The correct answer is: A pronoun that points out specific people, places, or things without naming them

A demonstrative pronoun is specifically designed to indicate or point out particular people, places, or things. These pronouns include words such as "this," "that," "these," and "those." They are used to draw attention to something specific, allowing the speaker or writer to direct the listener's or reader's focus. For example, in the sentence "This is my favorite book," the pronoun "this" directly points to a particular book, making it clear which item is being referenced. This distinct function sets demonstrative pronouns apart from other types of pronouns, as they do not merely substitute for a noun but rather guide the audience toward something specific in a conversation or text. In contrast, the other answers do not accurately describe the function of a demonstrative pronoun. A pronoun that refers to an unspecified subject does not provide the specificity that defines a demonstrative pronoun. The assertion that a pronoun must always come first in a sentence is also incorrect, as pronouns can appear in various positions. Moreover, a pronoun that refers back to the subject of the sentence describes a personal pronoun rather than a demonstrative one. Thus, the function of pointing out specific entities is the hallmark of demonstrative