Set 11: Boundaries (Intermediate)
Explanation
PASSAGE
The novelist's latest work explores themes of identity, _______ through the interconnected stories of three generations.
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
Detailed Answer Explanation
This question tests your understanding of sentence boundaries and punctuation. In a list of three items (identity, belonging, and memory), use serial comma. The comma after 'memory' sets off the following participial phrase. To determine the correct answer, examine where complete thoughts begin and end. Look for independent clauses that need proper separation. A period, semicolon, or appropriate conjunction can correctly join or separate these ideas. When analyzing sentence boundaries, pay attention to how ideas flow from one sentence to the next. Correct punctuation ensures clarity and prevents confusion for readers. Review the options carefully to identify which choice creates proper sentence structure.
Key Evidence:
• "list of three"
• "serial comma + phrase separation"
Why others are wrong: D (Missing serial comma before 'and memory.'), A (Missing serial comma before 'and memory' AND missing comma after.), C (Missing comma after 'memory' to set off participial phrase.).
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