Read the essay. Which sentence should be revised to improve grammar and style?
Paragraph 1: Plants grow through steps that happen in nature. Each step helps the plant survive. The process starts with a seed.
Paragraph 2: First the seed gets water and swells. Next a root grows down into soil. The root hold the plant in place.
Paragraph 3: Then a stem grows up toward the light. Leaves open and make food from sunlight. This helps the plant grow taller.
Paragraph 4: Later the plant may grow flowers and fruit. Flowers can lead to new seeds. This continues the plant life cycle.
Paragraph 5: In conclusion, plant growth follows an order. Water, soil, and sunlight support each step. Plants need these resources to thrive.
- First the seed gets water and swells.
- Next a root grows down into soil.
- The root hold the plant in place. (correct answer)
- Leaves open and make food from sunlight.
Explanation: This question tests ISEE Lower Level skills: revising for clarity, organization, and conventions in essay writing. Revising involves improving sentence clarity, ensuring ideas are logically organized, and correcting grammar and style. In this passage, specific sentences contain vague language and weak transitions that disrupt the flow. Choice C is correct because it has a subject-verb agreement error ('root hold' should be 'root holds'), requiring revision. Choice A is incorrect because it is grammatically correct and clear. To help students: Encourage them to read passages aloud to catch awkward phrasing, teach them to identify and fix vague language, and practice rearranging paragraphs for logical flow.