Set 7: Form, Structure & Sense
Explanation
PASSAGE
The amendments, proposed in response to public outcry over government overreach, _______ languished in committee for years before finally being brought to a vote.
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. 'Nevertheless' (without comma) can function as an adverb modifying the verb. It shows contrast between being proposed in response to outcry yet still languishing. 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:
• "proposed in response to public outcry"
• "languished in committee for years"
Why others are wrong: A ('Nonetheless,' would need different structure; this placement is awkward.), B ('Therefore' implies cause-effect; the relationship is contrast.), D ('However' without comma is unusual in this position.).
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