Question 16

Replacing 'They say' with 'Researchers assert that' is the best choice for sentence 9.

This change enhances the credibility of the statement by attributing the claim to researchers rather than a vague pronoun, thereby strengthening the message about energy savings associated with reducing food waste.

A) Replace 'They say' with 'Researchers assert that'

This option is correct as it provides a more authoritative source for the statement, making it clear that the assertion about saving energy comes from a research-backed perspective. This enhances the overall reliability of the claim regarding food waste and energy savings.

B) Insert 'probably' before 'save'

Inserting 'probably' would introduce uncertainty into the statement, weakening its impact. The assertion about energy savings should be presented confidently to emphasize the significance of addressing food waste, making this option less effective.

C) Replace 'by addressing' with 'if we would address'

This modification alters the meaning of the sentence from a definitive action to a conditional statement, which reduces the urgency of the claim. The original phrasing emphasizes the direct action of addressing food waste, which is crucial for the message being conveyed.

D) Replace 'problem' with 'problems'

While this change could imply a broader scope of issues related to food waste, it does not enhance the clarity or strength of the statement. The singular 'problem' effectively encapsulates the critical issue of food waste, making this option less preferable.

Conclusion

Replacing 'They say' with 'Researchers assert that' is the most effective choice as it lends authority to the statement and emphasizes the importance of addressing food waste to save energy. The other options either dilute the message or alter its meaning, ultimately failing to convey the urgency and significance of the issue at hand.