The researchers discovered a new species of butterfly _______ in the Amazon rainforest.
3
readingWhich choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A
while conducting fieldwork
B
that was conducting fieldwork
C
; conducting fieldwork
D
, and conducted fieldwork
Correct Answer: A
Choice A is the best answer. This question tests modifier placement for logical meaning.
- Context clues: The modifier should describe when/how the researchers made the discovery.
- Meaning: "While conducting fieldwork" modifies the researchers' action of discovering.
- Verify: "The researchers discovered... while conducting fieldwork" correctly modifies the discovery.
💡 Strategy: Place modifying phrases close to what they logically modify.
Choice B is incorrect because it suggests the butterfly was conducting fieldwork. Choice C is incorrect because it creates a fragment after the semicolon. Choice D is incorrect because it suggests a separate action rather than circumstances of discovery.