Archaeologists once assumed that coastal settlements in the region were seasonal because storm surges would have made year-round living difficult. recent soil analyses found thick, continuous layers of domestic ash and food waste, evidence more consistent with permanent occupation than with brief, repeated visits.
Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?
- Conversely (correct answer)
- Accordingly
- Additionally
- Even so
Explanation: The logical relationship between the two sentences is one of contrast, where the second sentence reverses the initial assumption with new evidence. The first sentence states archaeologists 'once assumed' seasonal settlements due to storms, but the second opposes this with 'recent soil analyses found' continuous layers indicating permanent occupation, creating a direct reversal. Choice B, 'Accordingly,' incorrectly implies agreement or result, but the evidence contradicts the assumption; Choice D, 'Even so,' suggests concession despite agreement, which doesn't fit the oppositional shift. Choice C, 'Additionally,' would add supporting details, yet here the second sentence challenges rather than builds. In transition questions, watch for time markers like 'once' versus 'recent' that often signal a shift from old to new ideas, requiring contrast words.