At just three inches long, _________
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
the hummingbird is capable of beating its wings up to 80 times per second.
the wings of the hummingbird are capable of beating up to 80 times per second.
beating its wings up to 80 times per second is possible for the hummingbird.
the flight of the hummingbird is powered by wings beating 80 times per second.
Correct Answer: A
Choice A is the best answer. The introductory phrase "At just three inches long" describes the size of a creature. "The hummingbird" is the correct subject.
Choice B is incorrect because "the wings" are not three inches long; the bird is. Choice C is incorrect because "beating its wings" is an action, not a physical creature. Choice D is incorrect because "the flight" is not three inches long.