Question 231·Hard·Transitions
Many conservationists advocate reintroducing apex predators such as wolves into ecosystems where they were once eradicated. Extensive studies show that these large carnivores regulate herbivore populations, indirectly promoting greater plant biodiversity. The practice, ______, has encountered strong opposition from local ranchers concerned about livestock safety and economic loss.
Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?
For transition questions, always ignore the answer choices at first and focus on the ideas immediately before and after the blank. Decide the relationship in your own words—such as contrast, cause-and-effect, addition, or example—then look at the options and eliminate any that signal the wrong type of connection. This approach is faster and more reliable than trying to “feel” which word sounds best.
Hints
Check the ideas before and after the blank
Reread the sentences before and after the blank. Are the ideas similar, opposite, or in a cause-and-effect relationship?
Determine the tone shift
The first two sentences describe benefits of reintroducing apex predators. Does the final sentence continue to praise the practice, or does it introduce a problem or complication?
Match the relationship to a transition type
Once you know whether the relationship is contrast, addition, cause, or example, eliminate the choices that signal the wrong type of connection.
Step-by-step Explanation
Understand what the passage is saying
First, summarize each part in your own words:
- Sentence 1: Conservationists support bringing back apex predators.
- Sentence 2: Studies show these predators help ecosystems by increasing plant biodiversity.
- Final sentence (after the blank): Despite these points, local ranchers strongly oppose the practice because they worry about livestock and money.
Notice that the first two ideas are positive about the practice, and the last idea introduces a problem or pushback.
Decide the logical relationship
Ask: How does the opposition from ranchers relate to the benefits described earlier?
The benefits (ecological regulation and biodiversity) are positive reasons in favor of reintroduction, while ranchers’ concerns are a negative reaction against it. This means the final sentence contrasts with, rather than continues or supports, the earlier ideas.
Classify each transition type
Now think about what kind of relationship each answer choice signals, without picking one yet:
- "for this reason" signals cause-and-effect (because X, therefore Y).
- "in addition" adds a similar or supporting point.
- "for example" introduces a specific instance of what was just mentioned.
- One remaining choice signals contrast between two opposing ideas.
Because the passage shifts from benefits to opposition, you need the contrast-type transition.
Match the contrast relationship to the correct choice
Only choice A, "however," clearly shows a contrast between the positive ecological benefits and the strong opposition from ranchers. The other options express addition, cause, or example, which do not fit this shift.
Therefore, the correct answer is A) however.