Which of the following would belong in a formal speech?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Option B is the correct answer as it uses formal language, appropriate structure, and organized transitions like 'Ideally,' 'Secondly,' and 'Then,' which are essential for a formal speech. The tone is professional and clear, with well-constructed sentences that effectively convey the necessary information. Options A, C, and D either use informal language, lack the organized flow needed in a formal setting, or have less professional tone. Therefore, Option B stands out as the best fit for a formal speech.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In academic writing, transition sentences are used to connect ideas within a paragraph. Phrases like 'In the same way,' 'Another reason for this is,' and 'As a result' are commonly used to transition between different points. However, 'Research proves that' is more indicative of a factual statement rather than a transitional phrase. It presents information rather than smoothly transitioning between ideas, making it the correct choice as it does not fit the typical structure and function of a transition sentence.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because when referencing a specific report, publication, or statistic like 'gas prices are up 11% from last month,' a citation is necessary to provide credibility and allow readers to verify the information. Choice A is a general statement about gasoline prices and does not require a citation as it is commonly known information. Choice B is a personal observation and not a direct reference to a specific source that would require a citation. Choice D is an anecdotal experience and does not present verifiable data that necessitates a citation.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. This choice effectively combines the two sentences with the use of a comma before 'and' to connect the two related but independent clauses. The comma helps to separate the contrasting information about German cuisine and the Sunday dinner, maintaining a clear and coherent structure. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because they either lack the necessary punctuation or use 'but' instead of 'and,' which disrupts the flow of the combined sentence and fails to convey the intended relationship between the two ideas.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: During the revising, editing, and proofreading steps of the writing process, the focus is on refining the existing content rather than creating new material. Improving word choice, replacing irrelevant or weak sentences, and identifying sentences that require citations are tasks that fall within these steps to enhance the overall quality and clarity of the writing. Determining the argument the composition will defend is a task that belongs to the drafting stage, where the main ideas and arguments are formulated. Therefore, deciding on the argument is not a step that should take place during revising, editing, and proofreading.