Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A
are taking
B
have taken
C
take
D
takes
Explanation
Correct answer: D.
Choice D is the best answer. The convention being tested is subject-verb agreement. The singular verb "takes" agrees in number with the singular subject "a cycle of lunar phases."
Why the other choices are wrong
Choice A
Choice A is incorrect because the plural verb "are taking" doesn’t agree in number with the singular subject "a cycle of lunar phases."
Choice B
Choice B is incorrect because the plural verb "have taken" doesn’t agree in number with the singular subject "a cycle of lunar phases."
Choice C
Choice C is incorrect because the plural verb "take" doesn’t agree in number with the singular subject "a cycle of lunar phases."