The historian posed a provocative question _______ what if the Industrial Revolution had begun in China instead of England?

5
reading

Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?

A

question:

B

question,

C

question;

D

question—

Correct Answer: A

Choice A is the best answer. This question tests colon usage to introduce a direct question.

  1. Context clues: A complete sentence introduces a direct question that is "the question."
  2. Meaning: A colon can introduce a direct question following a formal introduction.
  3. Verify: "The historian posed a provocative question: what if the Industrial Revolution had begun..." correctly introduces the question.

đź’ˇ Strategy: Use a colon after a complete sentence that formally introduces a direct question.

Choice B is incorrect because a comma doesn't properly introduce a formal question. Choice C is incorrect because a semicolon doesn't introduce questions. Choice D is incorrect because while a dash works, a colon is more formal for introducing questions.

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