Question

read the paragraph, then choose the word that best completes the sentence.
in 2011, nasa began retiring its space shuttles. the shuttles, which had been flying since 1981, were simply getting old. their technology and design were outdated. they were expensive to operate and maintain. their primary task of hauling heavy items to the international space station had been completed. nasa was under presidential direction to spread its wings beyond earths orbit. it had been ordered to use its money for other programs.
the shuttle program was ________.
a released
b canceled
c organized
d neglected

Explanation:

The paragraph states that NASA began retiring its space shuttles. "Retiring" implies that the program is being ended. "Canceled" means to stop or end something, which fits the context. "Released" means to set free, which is not relevant here. "Organized" means to arrange, which is the opposite of ending. "Neglected" means to ignore, but the text clearly states a reason for ending (outdated, expensive, task completed, money for other programs), not just ignoring.

Answer:

B. canceled