PSAT Writing and Language Question 524: Answer and Explanation

Question: 524

Which of the following provides the best combination of the underlined sentences?

• A. Additionally to the Juan de Fuca plate is the following, a plate that comprises part of the Cascadia subduction zone.
• B. What is more, the Juan de Fuca tectonic plate is comprised with the Cascadia subduction zone.
• C. Furthermore, the Juan de Fuca tectonic plate is the major component which partially comprises the zone, known as the “Cascadia subduction” zone.
• D. Then there is the Juan de Fuca tectonic plate, which comprises part of the Cascadia subduction zone.

Correct Answer: D

Explanation:

(D) Choices (A), (B), and (C) all have some major flaw, and sometimes they have multiple flaws. There are grammatical issues with choice (A), too, but its largest flaw is that it treats Juan de Fuca and Cascadia as two separate things, whereas the former is actually part of the latter. In choice (B), the proper phrase is comprised of, not "comprised with." Choice (C) uses "which" where it should use "that"; it also places an unnecessary comma after "zone." Choice (D) is without flaw, and its use of "which" rather than that is perfect.