9
Answer: DSet 16: Boundaries
Explanation
PASSAGE
The archaeological discovery, which exceeded expectations, _______ preserved successfully.
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A. have been
B. were
C. being
D. has been✓ Correct
Detailed Answer Explanation
The correct answer is 'has been' because of the rule: subject-verb agreement with singular subject.
Why others are wrong: A ('have been' violates the grammatical rule: subject-verb agreement with singular subject.), B ('were' violates the grammatical rule: subject-verb agreement with singular subject.), C ('being' violates the grammatical rule: subject-verb agreement with singular subject.).