Question

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Explanation:

Analyze the context clues

The sentence describes artisans of the Igue Festival in Benin City, Nigeria, who typically ________ the famous brass-casting techniques passed down through families since the thirteenth century.

Identify the contrast

Using the Textual Contrast concept, we look for transition words. The sentence continues: "but they don't strictly observe every tradition; for example, gold-smiths now use air-conditioning..."

The conjunction "but" signals a contrast between the first part of the sentence and the second part. Since the second part states they "don't strictly observe every tradition," the first part must state that they typically do follow or stick to the traditional techniques.

Evaluate the choices

Using the Contextual Vocabulary concept, we test the options to find which word means to follow, stick to, or maintain a practice:

• (A) "experiment with" suggests trying new things, which contradicts the contrast introduced by "but they don't strictly observe..."
• (B) "adhere to" means to stick fast to, follow, or maintain a practice, which perfectly fits the contrast.
• (C) "improve on" suggests changing or making better, which does not contrast with "not strictly observing."
• (D) "grapple with" means to struggle with, which does not fit the context of following a tradition.

Select the best option

"Adhere to" is the most logical and precise word because it directly contrasts with "don't strictly observe."

Answer:

• (A) experiment with
• (B) adhere to (Correct answer)
• (C) improve on
• (D) grapple with