Question

read the sentence from a student’s critical analysis essay.
in the declaration of independence, thomas jefferson talks about independence through his use of big words and fancy argument skills.
which is the best revision to the sentence?
○ thomas jefferson put difficult words and strong argumentative abilities to work when he wrote the declaration of independence.
○ in the declaration of independence, thomas jefferson uses his command of the english language to make a powerful argument for american independence.
○ thomas jefferson uses fanciful words and great arguments to make a case for american independence in the declaration of independence.
○ in the declaration of independence, thomas jefferson talks using sophisticated words to make a good case so that britain will give americans their independence.

Explanation:

The original sentence has vague and unacademic phrasing ("big words", "fancy argument skills"). The second option uses precise and academic language ("command of the English language", "powerful argument") to accurately convey Jefferson's use of language to argue for independence, which is a better revision. Other options either retain awkward phrasing ("difficult words", "fanciful words") or misinterpret the purpose (e.g., the last option implies appealing to Britain, while the Declaration argues for independence from Britain, not asking for it).

Answer:

B. In the Declaration of Independence, Thomas Jefferson uses his command of the English language to make a powerful argument for American independence.