_______, the city council voted to approve the new zoning regulations.
5
readingWhich choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A
After hearing testimony from local residents
B
After local residents gave testimony
C
Testimony from local residents having been heard
D
With testimony from local residents
Correct Answer: A
Choice A is the best answer. This question tests dangling modifier correction.
- Context clues: "The city council" is the subject and must be the agent of the modifier.
- Meaning: The council heard testimony before voting.
- Verify: "After hearing testimony... the city council voted" shows who heard the testimony.
💡 Strategy: The subject following a participial phrase must be the one performing that action.
Choice B is incorrect because it makes "local residents" the implied subject. Choice C is incorrect because it's passive and unclear who heard testimony. Choice D is incorrect because it doesn't clearly connect to the council's action.