Question

Coral reefs are fragile, and people should be careful around them. 1\. NO CHANGE 2\. and 3\. but 4\. so

Short answer

The correct answer is 'so.'

Step-by-step solution

Understand the Sentence

Read the sentence: 'Coral reefs are fragile, and people should be careful around them.' Identify the relationship between the two clauses.

Identify the Coordinating Conjunction

The sentence has two independent clauses: 'Coral reefs are fragile' and 'people should be careful around them.' The correct conjunction should properly link these clauses.

Analyze Each Option

Evaluate each conjunction: Option 1: NO CHANGE Option 2: and Option 3: but Option 4: so

Select the Best Fit

'NO CHANGE' uses 'and,' which suggests adding information without contradiction or cause-effect. 'BUT' introduces a contrast, which is not fitting here. 'SO' introduces a cause-effect relationship and fits best: 'Coral reefs are fragile, so people should be careful around them.'

Proper Conjunction

The proper conjunction to use is 'so.' This explains that because coral reefs are fragile, the result is that people should be careful around them.

Key concepts

Grammar

Grammar forms the backbone of any written text in the English language. It includes a set of rules to form words, phrases, sentences, and paragraphs. Proper grammar ensures that the message is clear and easily understood by the reader. Key grammar aspects include:

• Nouns and Pronouns: Identify people, places, things, or ideas.
• Verbs: Capture actions or states of being.
• Adjectives and Adverbs: Modify nouns and verbs to provide more detail.
• Punctuation: Marks like periods, commas, and question marks that clarify sentence structure and meaning.
• Conjunctions: Words that connect clauses and sentences.

Good grammar allows writers to communicate effectively, which is particularly important in standardized tests like the SAT. A solid grasp of grammar can help students answer questions more accurately and efficiently.

Conjunctions

Conjunctions are essential words used to link different parts of a sentence, such as words, phrases, or clauses. There are different types of conjunctions:

• Coordinating Conjunctions: These link clauses of equal importance. Examples include 'and,' 'but,' 'so,' 'or,' 'for,' 'nor,' and 'yet.' For example, in the sentence 'Coral reefs are fragile, so people should be careful around them,' the word 'so' connects two independent clauses.
• Subordinating Conjunctions: These connect an independent clause with a dependent clause. Examples are 'because,' 'since,' 'although,' 'if,' and 'when.'
• Correlative Conjunctions: These pairs work together, like 'either/or,' 'neither/nor,' and 'not only/but also.'

Choosing the correct conjunction is vital. It defines the relationship between clauses and helps convey the intended meaning.

Sentence Structure

Sentence structure refers to the arrangement of words, phrases, and clauses in a sentence to show their relationships. There are four main types of sentences:

• Simple Sentences: Contain one independent clause. E.g., 'Coral reefs are fragile.'
• Compound Sentences: Contain two or more independent clauses, often joined by a coordinating conjunction. E.g., 'Coral reefs are fragile, and people should be careful around them.'
• Complex Sentences: Contain one independent clause and one or more dependent clauses. E.g., 'Because coral reefs are fragile, people should be careful around them.'
• Compound-Complex Sentences: Combine elements of compound and complex sentences.

Understanding sentence structure helps in constructing clear and grammatically correct sentences, which is crucial for English language exams and real-world communication.

English Language Skills

Mastering English language skills involves a comprehensive understanding of vocabulary, grammar, punctuation, reading comprehension, and writing. Here are some strategies to enhance these skills:

• Reading Regularly: Read a variety of texts like books, articles, and essays to expand vocabulary and understand different writing styles.
• Writing Practice: Write essays, journal entries, and stories to improve writing coherence and style.
• Grammar Exercises: Practice exercises that focus on grammar rules and sentence structure.
• Vocabulary Building: Learn new words daily and use them in sentences.
• Feedback and Revision: Seek feedback on your writing and revise accordingly.

These skills are integral for success in standardized tests like the SAT and are essential for effective communication in academic and professional settings.