Question

which revision best combines the following sentences by including an opener that adds clarity to the intended meaning?
planting trees reduces air pollution. it also provides shade in urban areas.
a because planting trees reduces air pollution, it also provides shade in urban areas.
b in addition to reducing air pollution, planting trees provides shade in urban areas.
c planting trees reduces air pollution, so it also provides shade in urban areas.
d although planting trees reduces air pollution, it also provides shade in urban areas.

Explanation:

• Option A: “Because” implies a cause - effect relationship. But reducing air pollution is not the cause of providing shade. So this option is incorrect.
• Option B: “In addition to” is an appropriate opener. It shows that planting trees has two positive aspects (reducing air pollution and providing shade) in addition to each other.
• Option C: “So” implies a cause - effect. Reducing air pollution does not cause providing shade. So this option is wrong.
• Option D: “Although” implies a contrast. There is no contrast between reducing air pollution and providing shade. So this option is incorrect.

Answer:

B. In addition to reducing air pollution, planting trees provides shade in urban areas.