Set 14: Form, Structure & Sense
Explanation
PASSAGE
The manuscript's authenticity, questioned by some scholars but accepted by _______ provides crucial evidence for understanding medieval monastic practices.
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. The phrase 'questioned by some scholars but accepted by others' is parenthetical. A comma closes this phrase before the main verb 'provides.' 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 manuscript's authenticity, questioned by some scholars"
• "provides crucial evidence"
Why others are wrong: B (A colon doesn't fit for closing a parenthetical phrase.), D (A semicolon is too strong for closing a parenthetical phrase.), C (Missing punctuation fails to close the parenthetical phrase.).
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