Question

read the paragraph.

when edgewood middle school adopted a school recycling program, nearly 20% of the students brought in recyclables from home. ________ the recycling program was successful.

which transition is the strongest in the final sentence?

this is an example
this proves
this implies
this means

Explanation:

Analyze the relationship between the clauses

The first clause presents a factual piece of evidence: "nearly 20% of the students brought in recyclables from home." The second clause presents a definitive conclusion drawn from this fact: "the recycling program was successful."

Evaluate the strength of each transition option

• "This is an example" suggests illustration rather than a logical conclusion.
• "This proves" establishes a direct, strong, and definitive causal link showing that the 20% participation rate is solid evidence of success.
• "This implies" and "This means" are weaker, more tentative ways to connect a premise to a conclusion.

Answer:

• This is an example
• This proves (Correct answer)
• This implies
• This means