Question

for the sentences below, choose the revision that corrects the dependent clause fragments by attaching them to a sentence or by eliminating or replacing the subordinating word.
after a while, a type of currency developed. when traders began exchanging silver bars or rings.
multiple choice

• after a while, a type of currency developed, after traders began exchanging silver bars or rings.
• after a while, a type of currency developed. after traders began exchanging silver bars or rings.
• after a while, a type of currency developed, when traders began exchanging silver bars or rings.
• after a while, a type of currency developed. traders began exchanging silver bars or rings.

Explanation:

The original text has a dependent clause fragment: "When traders began exchanging silver bars or rings" (starts with subordinating word "When" but lacks a complete independent clause to attach to). We need to fix this by either attaching it properly or removing the subordinating word.

• Option 1 uses a semicolon with "after", which still leaves a fragment.
• Option 2 keeps "After" at the start of the second part, creating another dependent fragment.
• Option 3 uses a semicolon with "when", which does not resolve the fragment issue.
• Option 4 removes the subordinating word "When", turning the fragment into a complete independent sentence that can stand alone, fixing the error.

Answer:

D. After a while, a type of currency developed. Traders began exchanging silver bars or rings.