The following text is from a linguistics article.
Chomsky's generative grammar hypothesized an innate universal grammar underlying all human languages. This nativist position faced empirical challenges from typological diversity and usage-based accounts emphasizing learning from linguistic experience. Meanwhile, formal models of language processing increasingly incorporate probabilistic and statistical mechanisms rather than rule-governed derivations. The field's trajectory suggests an emerging synthesis that integrates biological constraints with experience-dependent learning.
Which choice best describes the function of the last sentence?
It definitively endorses Chomsky's original hypothesis.
It suggests the field is moving toward integration of competing perspectives.
It introduces a completely new topic about language endangerment.
It provides biographical information about Noam Chomsky.
Correct Answer: B
Choice B is the best answer. The last sentence suggests an "emerging synthesis" integrating biological constraints with learning—moving toward integration of perspectives.
- Evidence: The sentence states: "The field's trajectory suggests an emerging synthesis that integrates biological constraints with experience-dependent learning."
- Reasoning: It predicts a future direction that combines the two opposing views discussed earlier (nativism vs. learning).
- Conclusion: The function is to suggest integration.
đź’ˇ Strategy: Look for "emerging synthesis that integrates."
Choice A is incorrect because synthesis means moving beyond original positions. Choice C is incorrect because the topic continues. Choice D is incorrect because biography isn't provided.