Set 15: Form, Structure & Sense (Intermediate)
Explanation
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?
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: C (Missing punctuation fails to close the parenthetical phrase.), D (A colon doesn't fit for closing a parenthetical phrase.), A (A semicolon is too strong for closing a parenthetical phrase.).
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