Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A
These
B
That
C
Each
D
This
Explanation
Correct answer: A.
Choice A is the best answer. The convention being tested is the use of determiners. The plural demonstrative determiner “these” agrees in number with the plural noun “plants” that it modifies. This choice clearly indicates that the plants, referring to cycads from the previous sentence, were abundant throughout the Mesozoic Era.
Why the other choices are wrong
Choice B
Choice B is incorrect because the singular demonstrative determiner “that” doesn’t agree in number with the plural noun “plants.”
Choice C
Choice C is incorrect because the singular determiner “each” doesn’t agree in number with the plural noun “plants.”
Choice D
Choice D is incorrect because the singular demonstrative determiner “this” doesn’t agree in number with the plural noun “plants.”