Question

A) NO CHANGE B) then C) than if D) than when

Short answer

The correct choice is option D) than when, as it provides a grammatically correct comparison within the context of the sentence. The final sentence is: "It's easier to learn how to swim in a pool, than when in open water."

Step-by-step solution

Read the sentence and identify the missing element

Read the given sentence and identify the element that is missing. In this case, we are choosing between conjunctions that correctly express a comparison within the context of the sentence.

Evaluate each choice

Go through each choice and evaluate how it fits within the sentence. Choose the best option based on context and grammar rules. A) NO CHANGE - This option would leave a blank space, making the sentence incomplete and grammatically incorrect. B) then - This option, when inserted, would make the sentence: "It's easier to learn how to swim in a pool, then in open water." This changes the meaning and doesn't allow for a proper comparison - it makes the two events sequential, not comparative. C) than if - This option, when inserted, would make the sentence: "It's easier to learn how to swim in a pool, than if in open water." This option is grammatically incorrect and doesn't allow for a proper comparison. D) than when - This option, when inserted, would make the sentence: "It's easier to learn how to swim in a pool, than when in open water." This option is grammatically correct and allows for a proper comparison.

Choose the correct option

Based on the evaluation of each choice, choose the best option. In this case, the correct choice is option D) than when. The final sentence would then be: "It's easier to learn how to swim in a pool, than when in open water."

Key concepts

Conjunctions

Conjunctions are words used to connect clauses or sentences, or to coordinate words in the same clause. They are essential for constructing clear and fluent sentences. Among the most commonly used are 'and,' 'but,' 'or,' 'so,' and 'yet.' However, when we are discussing comparisons, especially in SAT grammar practice, we often look at conjunctions such as 'than' or 'as.'

It's crucial to choose the appropriate conjunction to convey the precise meaning intended by the sentence. As in our example exercise, the choice between 'then' and 'than' can significantly change the meaning. 'Then' implies a sequence, as in 'first this, then that,' which is not suitable for comparisons. In contrast, 'than' is used explicitly for comparisons, necessary for the SAT writing and language section.

Comparative Structures

Comparative structures in English allow us to compare differences between two or more items. When constructing comparative sentences, there are certain grammatical patterns that we must follow. For example, we typically use the word 'than' to introduce the second part of the comparison. Comparative adjectives and adverbs are also used, usually with the suffix '-er' for short words (like 'taller') or with the word 'more' for longer words (like 'more beautiful').

In SAT grammar practice, understanding how to use comparative structures correctly is vital. Students should remember that the SAT often tests the ability to recognize when to use comparative words and phrases properly. Misusing them can create grammatically incorrect sentences or alter the intended meaning, as we have seen in our exercise example.

SAT Writing and Language Section

The SAT writing and language section assesses a student's ability to revise and edit the text for clarity, grammar, and effective language use. To excel in this section, one must have a strong grasp of English grammar rules, an understanding of sentence structure, and the ability to interpret text in context. This includes knowledge of punctuation, conjunctions, comparative structures, and various stylistic choices.

The example problem we've discussed involves choosing the correct conjunction to maintain grammatical integrity and convey the author's intended comparison. Regular practice with similar questions can help students become more familiar with the nuances of English grammar and improve their ability to spot and correct errors in a variety of contexts. Employing strategies such as eliminating obviously wrong answers and understanding the context of the sentence are key to tackling the SAT writing and language section.