Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A
One
B
That
C
This
D
These
Explanation
Correct answer: D.
Choice D is the best answer. The convention being tested is the use of determiners in a sentence. The plural determiner "these" agrees in number with the plural noun "letters" that it modifies. This choice clearly indicates that the letters demonstrate Alcott’s business sense.
Why the other choices are wrong
Choice A
Choice A is incorrect because the singular determiner "one" doesn’t agree in number with the plural noun "letters."
Choice B
Choice B is incorrect because the singular determiner "that" doesn’t agree in number with the plural noun "letters."
Choice C
Choice C is incorrect because the singular determiner "this" doesn’t agree in number with the plural noun "letters."