Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A
is
B
was
C
has been
D
were
Explanation
Correct answer: D.
Choice D is the best answer. The convention being tested is subject-verb agreement. The plural verb "were" agrees in number with the plural subject "ayllus," which are described as plural "family clans."
Why the other choices are wrong
Choice A
Choice A is incorrect because the singular verb "is" doesn’t agree in number with the plural subject "ayllus."
Choice B
Choice B is incorrect because the singular verb "was" doesn’t agree in number with the plural subject "ayllus."
Choice C
Choice C is incorrect because the singular verb "has been" doesn’t agree in number with the plural subject "ayllus."