OpenSAT

Question #N413

The author of this passage is making a case for the importance of learning a second language.

Which choice best completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?

A. For instance, the ability to communicate in a second language can open doors to new career opportunities.

B. For instance, the ability to communicate in a second language can open doors to new career opportunities, and it can also help people to understand different cultures.

C. For instance, the ability to communicate in a second language can open doors to new career opportunities; it can also help people to understand different cultures.

D. For instance the ability to communicate in a second language can open doors to new career opportunities it can also help people to understand different cultures.

Reveal Answer Go Back

Correct Answer is: A

The sentence is a simple example of a complex sentence. The phrase "for instance" introduces a specific example of how learning a second language can be beneficial, and the phrase "the ability to communicate in a second language" is the subject of the sentence. Choice B is incorrect because a comma and semicolon are used to join two independent clauses, but the semicolon should be followed by a conjunction. Choice C is incorrect because a semicolon is used to join two independent clauses, but the semicolon should be followed by a conjunction. Choice D is incorrect because no punctuation is needed between two independent clauses that are not joined by a conjunction.