Set 7: Form, Structure & Sense (Advanced)
Explanation
PASSAGE
The symphony's structure defies conventional expectations: rather than building toward a dramatic _______ it gradually dissolves into silence.
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. A comma is needed before 'it' to transition between the subordinate clause 'rather than building toward a dramatic climax' and the main clause 'it gradually dissolves.' 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:
• "rather than building toward a dramatic"
• "it gradually dissolves into silence"
Why others are wrong: C (Missing punctuation creates a run-on or fusion of clauses.), B (A semicolon is too strong; the 'rather than' phrase is subordinate.), A (A colon doesn't fit this clause structure.).
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