Best Transition Word for Sentence Combination

Question:

The school board needs to represent a more diverse population. A student member should be elected to represent local youth.

Which transition should be used to combine these sentences?

A) however

B) therefore

C) nevertheless

D) because

Answer Description:

To combine these sentences logically, you need to choose a transition word that shows the correct relationship between the ideas presented. The two sentences are:

1. “The school board needs to represent a more diverse population.”
2. “A student member should be elected to represent local youth.”

These sentences suggest a cause-and-effect relationship: because the school board needs to represent a more diverse population, a student member should be elected to represent local youth.

Let’s analyze each transition option to find the most appropriate one:

1. however
   • Meaning: Used to introduce a contrasting statement.
   • Not Suitable: There is no contrast between the two sentences; they logically follow one another.
2. therefore
   • Meaning: Used to introduce a conclusion based on the previous statement.
   • Suitable: This transition correctly shows a cause-and-effect relationship between the need for diversity on the school board and the suggestion to elect a student member.
3. nevertheless
   • Meaning: Used to introduce a statement that contrasts with something that has just been said.
   • Not Suitable: The sentences are not in contrast; they are in agreement.
4. because
   • Meaning: Used to indicate a reason.
   • Not Suitable: While this word could technically connect the sentences, it would require a change in structure (“because” would imply the first sentence is the reason for the second, which doesn’t directly fit the sentence flow).

Correct Answer: “therefore”

• This transition word effectively combines the sentences by showing that the need for a more diverse representation logically leads to the suggestion of electing a student member.