Set 14: Form, Structure & Sense (Advanced)
Explanation
PASSAGE
Glaciers form when snow accumulates over many years and _______ into dense ice under its own weight.
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 function and text organization. 'Snow' is singular and is the subject of both verbs joined by 'and.' 'Compresses' maintains parallel structure with 'accumulates' (both singular present tense). Each sentence in a well-constructed text serves a specific purpose. Consider what role this sentence plays in the argument: does it introduce, support, contrast, or conclude an idea? Understanding why an author includes specific sentences helps you grasp the overall argument. Each sentence should serve a clear purpose: introducing ideas, providing evidence, acknowledging counterarguments, or drawing conclusions. Identify the role to understand the structure.
Key Evidence:
• "snow accumulates"
• "and _______ into dense ice"
Why others are wrong: D ('Compress' is plural; 'snow' is singular and takes 'compresses.'), B ('Compressed' is past tense; needs to match 'accumulates' (present).), A ('Compressing' is a participle; needs to match finite verb 'accumulates.').
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