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Difficulty: MediumSupport and Cause-Effect Clues

Complete the passage below by filling in each blank with the word or phrase that best preserves the logical cause-and-effect and supporting relationships established by the structural clues.

Answer:Given that medieval master masons lacked modern analytical tools to calculate structural loads, vault failures were frequently 【precipitated by】 unforeseen lateral thrusts; consequently, the introduction of the flying buttress was celebrated as a milestone because it 【bolstered】 the stability of expansive Gothic naves.

Answer

The first blank requires a causal verb phrase such as 'precipitated by' to reflect how the lack of calculation tools led to structural failures caused by lateral thrusts. The second blank requires a positive support verb such as 'bolstered' to align with the continuation marker 'consequently' and the positive outcome of introducing flying buttresses.
The leading phrase 'Given that' sets up a causal premise linking the lack of calculation tools to vault failures resulting from unforeseen forces, making 'precipitated by' logically fitting for the first blank. The structural transition 'consequently' paired with the explanatory signal 'because' requires a verb in the second blank that denotes strengthening or reinforcing, such as 'bolstered', to complete the cause-and-effect progression.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the cause-and-effect relationship in the first clause introduced by 'Given that'.
The premise establishes a lack of structural analysis tools, which directly causes structural failures when unforeseen forces arise.
The initial dependent clause provides the causal foundation, requiring a phrase for the first blank that signifies causation or origin (e.g., 'precipitated by').
2
Identify the transition signal linking the two main clauses.
The word 'consequently' indicates that the second clause describes a direct result of addressing the issue mentioned in the first clause.
Because flying buttresses were introduced to solve vault failures, their effect on structural stability must be positive and supportive.
3
Determine the appropriate vocabulary fit for the second blank.
A verb denoting strengthening or supporting (e.g., 'bolstered', 'fortified', 'undergirded') logically completes the thought.
The word 'because' introduces an explanatory support clue affirming how the innovation brought about stability.

Key Concept

Support and Cause-Effect Clues
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Topics

Support and Cause-Effect Clues

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