OpenSAT

Question #N294

The author of the novel, which is set in a rural community in the United States, writes about the difficulties of small-town life and the challenges of navigating complex social dynamics. But while the novel explores themes of isolation and community, the author also offers an optimistic view of the potential for change.

Which choice best combines the sentences at the underlined portion to maintain the meaning and style of the passage?

A. But, while the novel explores themes of isolation and community, the author also offers an optimistic view of the potential for change.

B. The novel, while exploring themes of isolation and community, also offers an optimistic view of the potential for change.

C. Yet, the novel explores themes of isolation and community; the author also offers an optimistic view of the potential for change.

D. However, while the novel explores themes of isolation and community, the author also offers an optimistic view of the potential for change.

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Correct Answer is: B

Choice B is the most effective combination of the sentences because it maintains the meaning of the original passage and uses a style that is consistent with the other sentences in the passage. The comma and the word "while" effectively connect the two clauses, creating a smooth and natural flow. Choice A is incorrect because the comma after the word "But" creates a comma splice, which is a grammatical error. Choice C is incorrect because the semicolon is used incorrectly to separate two independent clauses that are not closely related. Choice D is incorrect because "However" suggests a contrast between the two clauses, which is not what the original passage conveys.