16. In context, which is the best way to revise the 'it' in sentence 8? 'A 2010 report by the Office of the State Comptroller of New York found that it can lessen the need for increased property taxes.'
Answer: D
The best way to revise 'it' in sentence 8 is to refer to environmental benefits.
Revising 'it' to 'environmental benefits' clarifies the subject of the sentence, making it evident that the report discusses how these benefits can reduce the need for increased property taxes.
A) a community
This option is incorrect because 'a community' does not align with the context of the sentence. The focus is on how certain benefits affect property taxes, rather than on a community itself.
B) open lands
While 'open lands' may be relevant in discussions of property taxes, it does not specifically capture the broader concept implied in the original sentence. The phrase fails to encapsulate the overall benefits being discussed.
C) the state of New York
This option is incorrect as it shifts the focus to a geographical entity rather than the subject matter of the report. The report emphasizes benefits rather than the state as a subject.
D) environmental benefits
This is the correct answer as it accurately identifies what 'it' refers to in the context of the sentence. The environmental benefits mentioned in the report clearly have implications for property taxes, making this revision the most appropriate.
Conclusion
The revision to 'environmental benefits' effectively clarifies the subject of the sentence, linking the reduction of property taxes directly to these benefits. In contrast, the other options misinterpret the focus of the report, failing to convey the intended meaning and context. Thus, option D is the definitive choice for clarity and accuracy.