SAT OwlQuestion bank / Form, Structure, and Sense
The ginkgo is one of the oldest tree species on Earth, with fossils dating back more than 200 million years. Its fan-shaped leaves ______ a bright golden yellow every autumn.
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
turns
has turned
is turning
turn
Show answer and explanation
Answer: D
The subject is "leaves," which is plural, so the verb must be plural. "Every autumn" describes a repeated event, which calls for the simple present. "Turn" is both plural and simple present.
Choice A is the simple present, but it is singular and doesn't agree with the plural "leaves."
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