Question

Which choice most effectively combines the underlined sentences? A) It may seem that genre conventions never change; because they never change, it probably seems like a Western today follows the same rules as a Western from 100 years ago. B) It may seem that genre conventions never change; because of it, it could be argued that a Western today follows the same set of rules as a Western from 100 years ago. C) It may seem that genre conventions never change: a Western today follows the same set of rules as a Western from 100 years ago. D) Because Westerns today follow the same set of rules as they did 100 years ago, it seems to most outside observers that genre conventions never change.

Short answer

Option C

Step-by-step solution

Option A

: Option A says, "It may seem that genre conventions never change; because they never change, it probably seems like a Western today follows the same rules as a Western from 100 years ago." Option A is repetitive. It uses "never change" and "seem" two times each. This option is also not concise because it uses additional words like "probably" without improving the clarity.

Option B

: Option B says, "It may seem that genre conventions never change; because of it, it could be argued that a Western today follows the same set of rules as a Western from 100 years ago." Option B is a better choice than A but uses two instances of "it" in a row, which can be confusing to the reader.

Option C

: Option C says, "It may seem that genre conventions never change: a Western today follows the same set of rules as a Western from 100 years ago." Option C uses a colon to separate the clauses, which is an appropriate way to combine the ideas. It is also concise and clearly conveys the relationship between the two sentences.

Option D

: Option D says, "Because Westerns today follow the same set of rules as they did 100 years ago, it seems to most outside observers that genre conventions never change." Option D is grammatically correct but changes the original meaning slightly, suggesting that only "outside observers" feel this way and adding unnecessary complexity to the sentence.

Conclusion

: Among the given options, the most effective one in combining the sentences is Option C. It is grammatically correct, concise, and clearly conveys the relationship between the two original sentences.

Key concepts

Sentence Structure

The structure of a sentence greatly affects how well the information is communicated. When constructing sentences, especially in an exam setting like the SAT Writing and Language Test, it's important to aim for clarity and simplicity.
In this exercise, each sentence combination uses different forms of punctuation to join two ideas. A semicolon in Option A is used incorrectly with repetitive phrasing. In contrast, Option C uses a colon, which is ideal for emphasizing or clarifying the second part of the sentence. Proper punctuation is essential for ensuring that the sentence structure aligns with the intended meaning.
When combining sentences, consider:

• Using punctuation like colons or semicolons to link related ideas.
• Avoiding repetitive phrases to keep sentences concise.
• Maintaining the logical flow to preserve the intended message.

Understanding these components helps improve overall sentence construction skills.

Grammar Rules

Grammar rules are the backbone of effective writing, providing the structure needed to create well-formed sentences. In this task, understanding how different grammar rules apply is crucial for selecting the best sentence combination.
Options utilize punctuation marks in various ways. For instance, Option C appropriately employs a colon to link a general statement to a specific example. Meanwhile, Option D modifies the meaning with a dependent clause, which may introduce unintended complexity.
Key grammar points to remember include:

• Using colons to introduce explanations or lists that follow a general statement.
• Avoiding ambiguity by ensuring pronouns have clear antecedents.
• Maintaining subject-verb agreement and logical parallelism in sentence flow.

By adhering to these rules, writers can improve both sentence correctness and reader comprehension.

Effective Writing

Effective writing combines clarity with interest, ensuring that the reader easily understands and remains engaged with the text. In the SAT Writing and Language section, this often means choosing concise and meaningful wording.
The options provided show varying degrees of effectiveness based on how they convey the sentences. Notice how Option C eliminates unnecessary repetition and uses precise language, which strengthens the writing.
To improve writing effectiveness, consider:

• Being concise by eliminating redundant or filler words.
• Choosing active voice over passive constructs when possible.
• Ensuring coherence in connecting related thoughts.

By focusing on these elements, you can produce writing that is both direct and compelling.

Sentence Clarity

Clarity in sentence construction ensures that the reader can immediately grasp the intended meaning without confusion. This is a key focus in standardized tests, where understanding the purpose and structure of sentences is essential.
In this example, Option C stands out for providing a straightforward connection between the concepts, enhancing clarity. Ambiguity is minimized, which helps in maintaining the reader's grasp of the discussed topic.
To achieve clarity in your writing:

• Use clear references for pronouns and avoid ambiguity.
• Ensure logical order of ideas to lead the reader smoothly from one point to the next.
• Be explicit in linking cause and effect relationships.

These practices will aid in crafting sentences that convey clear and precise meanings, leading to more effective communication.