Multiple choice

Directions: The following sentences test correctness and effectiveness of expression. Part of each sentence or the entire sentence is underlined; beneath each sentence are five ways of phrasing the underlined material. Choice A repeats the original phrasing; the other four choices are different. If you think the original phrasing produces a better sentence than any of the alternatives, select choice A. If not, select one of the other choices.

In making your selection, follow the requirements of standard written English; that is pay attention to grammar, choice of words, sentence construction, and punctuation. Your selection should result in the most effective sentence - clear and precise, without awkwardness or ambiguity.

The rules that should govern them are laid; the absence of children and their excessive numbers are both mentioned.

  1. The rules that should govern them are laid

  2. The rules that govern them should be laid down

  3. The rules which should govern them are laid

  4. The rules which should govern them were laid down

  5. The rules that should govern them are laid down
Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
E Correct answer
Explanation

Rules are laid 'down'. This option rectifies the error by inserting 'down' after laid.

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