Passage: The Local Library
The Local Library
According to a 2015 survey, more than two-thirds of Americans own a smartphone, which means that obtaining information or communicating with people is easier than ever before. (2) With the swipe of a finger, the tap of an icon, or a verbal command, people have instant access to articles, blogs, news, and social networking websites. (3) Even with all these immediately available sources of information, one of the best resources for many members of the community also happens to be one of the oldest. (4) The public library is a great place for people to get information.
(5) The public library serves a truly critical role in promoting community. (6) With the explosion of digital media in recent years, people in different locations can now communicate almost instantaneously. (7) And yet many people complain of feeling more isolated and alone than ever before. (8) The library stands in a rare position to help community members meet this universal need for human connection and companionship.
(9) Furthermore, libraries provide certain amenities, such as access to the Internet, for free to all people. (10) A student who does not have a computer at home can research and type a paper for school. (11) Similarly, an unemployed adult without access to the Internet can make use of library resources to find job opportunities. (12) The free items that are found at the library can help people get a lot done.
(13) Public libraries also offer a variety of resources to community members. (14) One important resource is the local librarian, who does far more than check out books and collect fines. (15) Other library resources include free or low-cost tutoring and training programs. (16) Additionally, lectures, book groups, and town meetings promote critical thinking and community engagement. (17) A typical librarian holds a master’s degree and can help library patrons navigate through the flood of information available in print and on the Internet.
(18)The hallmark of a public library is that its materials and services are accessible to all. (19) The library connects people to a network of information and resources and is an important part of a community.
Which revision of sentence 12 best maintains the formal style established in the passage?
- AThe free resources available at the library can help people accomplish many tasks.
- BAll the free materials you can get at the library can help you do many different tasks.
- CEverything that is free at the library can help people work on a lot of different things.
- DThe free resources you can find at the library can help you do whatever you need to do
Show the answer
Correct answer: A
The question asks for the revision of sentence 12 that best maintains the formal style established in the passage.
Option A correctly maintains the formal style by using “people” instead of “you” and the more formal language “resources available” and “accomplish many tasks.”
Option B is incorrect because it uses second person, directly addressing the reader, which is informal.
Option C is incorrect because, even though it does not use second person, it uses informal language like “work on” and “things.”
Option D is incorrect because it uses the informal phrase “whatever you need to do” in addition to informally addressing the reader through the use of second person.