7

Set 10: Form, Structure & Sense

Explanation

Answer: C

PASSAGE

The hypothesis, though initially met with skepticism by many in the scientific _______ has since gained widespread acceptance following rigorous peer review.

Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?

A. community
B. community:
C. community,✓ Correct
D. community;

Detailed Answer Explanation

This question tests your understanding of sentence function and text organization. The phrase 'though initially met with skepticism by many in the scientific community' is parenthetical. A comma closes this interruption before 'has since gained.' 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:

• "The hypothesis, though initially met with skepticism"

• "has since gained widespread acceptance"

Why others are wrong: A (Missing punctuation fails to close the parenthetical phrase.), B (A colon doesn't fit for closing a parenthetical phrase.), D (A semicolon is too strong for closing a parenthetical phrase.).

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