Despite its intimidating appearance, the tarantula is actually known for one distinct ___________ docile temperament.
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
trait: its
trait; its
trait its
trait: it’s
Correct Answer: A
Choice A is the best answer. The colon correctly introduces the explanation of the "distinct trait." The possessive pronoun "its" correctly refers to the tarantula.
Choice B is incorrect because a semicolon separates two independent clauses. Choice C is incorrect because punctuation is needed to separate the noun from its explanation. Choice D is incorrect because "it’s" implies "it is," which is grammatically incorrect in a possessive context.