Question 223·Easy·Transitions
Robins typically migrate south before the first frost sets in. _____ some hardy individuals remain in northern regions throughout the winter, relying on backyard feeders and evergreen shelters.
Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?
For transition questions, first ignore the answer choices and read the sentences together, asking what the logical relationship is: same idea, contrast, cause/effect, example, sequence, or emphasis. Once you’ve named that relationship (here, contrast: typical behavior vs. exception), eliminate any choices that signal a different relationship, and select the one whose usual function in writing matches what the sentences are doing, rather than what simply “sounds good.”
Hints
Compare the two sentences
Ask yourself: Does the second sentence show the same behavior as the first, an exception to it, or a result of it?
Name the relationship
Decide whether the second sentence is giving an example, adding similar information, showing a cause/effect, or contrasting with what usually happens.
Match meaning to transition type
Think about what each transition word usually does: which one fits an exception or contrast between "typically migrate" and "some remain"?
Step-by-step Explanation
Understand the first sentence
Read the first sentence: "Robins typically migrate south before the first frost sets in." This tells us what robins usually do in cold weather.
Understand the second sentence idea
The second sentence says "some hardy individuals remain in northern regions throughout the winter, relying on backyard feeders and evergreen shelters." This describes robins that do not migrate south; they do something different from the typical behavior.
Identify the relationship between the two ideas
The first sentence states the usual pattern (most robins migrate south), while the second sentence gives an exception (some stay in the north). An exception contrasts with the usual pattern, so the relationship between the sentences is contrast, not example, extra similar information, or a result.
Classify each transition type
Now think about what each answer choice usually signals:
- "For instance," introduces an example of what was just mentioned.
- "Furthermore," adds more information in the same direction.
- "Consequently," shows a result or effect.
- One remaining option signals contrast between two ideas, which matches the "typical vs. exception" relationship here.
Match the correct transition to the contrast
Because the sentences contrast typical behavior with an exception, the transition must show contrast. The only choice that signals contrast is "However," so the correct answer is A) However,.