Physical materials can be classified by how much light passes through them. Clear glass, which is classified as transparent, allows all (or almost all) light to pass _______ wax paper, which is classified as translucent, allows only some light to pass through. Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
Correct answer: C (parsed from the explanation — this source omits an answer key for this item)
Explanation
Choice C is the best answer. The convention being tested is the coordination of main clauses within a sentence. This choice uses a semicolon in a conventional way to join the first main clause (“Clear… through”) and the second main clause (“wax…through”). Choice A is incorrect because it results in a comma splice. Without a conjunction following it, a comma can’t be used in this way to join two main clauses. Choice B is incorrect because it results in a run-on sentence. The two main clauses (“Clear…through” and “wax…through”) are fused without punctuation and/or a conjunction. Furthermore, it results in a confusing and illogical sentence that suggests clear glass allows light to pass through wax paper, which doesn’t make sense in this context. Choice D is incorrect because when coordinating two longer main clauses such as these, it’s conventional to use a comma before the coordinating conjunction.
Loading…
Searched on YouTube by topic, not by question text. Open this search on YouTube →
Extracted from PDF layout: equations, figures and tables do not survive intact. Use the original PDFs for anything the text renders poorly. SAT® is a trademark registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with and does not endorse this project.