Correct Answer: A

Rationale:
Choice A demonstrates correct punctuation. The sentence uses a colon to introduce a list, which is the most appropriate punctuation in this context. A colon is typically used to signal that a list or explanation follows, making it the suitable choice here.

Choices B, C, and D either use a comma, semi-colon, or dash incorrectly to introduce the list, deviating from the standard punctuation rule for listing items.
Therefore, they are incorrect in the context of this sentence.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. The sentence should be corrected by removing the period and joining the clauses to avoid a sentence fragment. Option A is incorrect because it incorrectly separates the clauses with a comma. Option B is incorrect as it incorrectly uses a comma after 'Protesters' and lacks proper structure. Option C is incorrect as it places the subordinate clause at the beginning, which disrupts the flow of the sentence.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Option C correctly punctuates the sentence by placing commas after 'Chicago' and 'Illinois' to separate the location details and inserting a comma before 'in 1948' to separate the location from the date. This creates a clear and grammatically correct sentence.

Choices A, B, and D incorrectly place the commas, leading to confusion or incorrect grouping of the location and date information.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale:
Choice B is the best supporting detail to follow Maria's topic sentence as it describes the initial planning stages of the holiday celebrations, which aligns with the concept of throwing elaborate holiday celebrations. It sets the stage for the organization and preparation involved in these events, making it a logical progression from the main idea.
Choice A is incorrect as it presents a contrasting opinion about holidays that does not support the idea of elaborate celebrations.
Choice C provides information about family size but does not directly relate to the process of throwing elaborate holiday celebrations.
Choice D talks about post-celebration activities and does not directly support the initial statement about the elaborate celebrations themselves.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Option C is the best revision as it provides clarity and context to the sentence. It conveys the idea that the individuals rejoiced after successfully finding a creative solution to a persistent technological issue.
Choice A is incorrect as it leaves the sentence unchanged without adding any context.
Choice B introduces the phrase 'nagging technology problem,' which alters the original meaning and is not as concise as the correct answer.
Choice D alters the sentence structure and does not effectively convey the intended meaning of rejoicing after finding a solution.