Set 13: Form, Structure & Sense
Explanation
PASSAGE
Water _______ at 100 degrees Celsius at standard atmospheric pressure, a fact that is fundamental to cooking and chemistry.
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. 'Water' is a singular subject requiring the singular present tense verb 'boils.' This describes a general scientific fact. 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:
• "Water"
• "at 100 degrees Celsius"
Why others are wrong: C ('Boil' is the plural/base form; 'water' is singular.), A ('Boiling' is a participle; the sentence needs a main verb.), D ('Boiled' is past tense; this is a general scientific fact requiring present tense.).
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