Postsecondary Education Readiness Test (PERT) Practice Test

The correct use of a subordinating conjunction is found in the statement that highlights a contrast between two ideas. In this case, "Although he had money, he didn't spend it," effectively illustrates how the subordinating conjunction "Although" introduces the idea that having money does not necessarily lead to the action of spending it. This creates a complex sentence structure where the first clause provides a condition or context, and the second clause presents a surprising outcome, enhancing the meaning of the sentence.

Subordinating conjunctions such as "although," "because," and "even though" are used to connect dependent clauses to independent clauses. They signal relationships such as contrast, reason, or condition. In this instance, the use of "although" sets up an expectation that is contradicted by the main clause, thereby refining the meaning.

In contrast, the other options do not provide a complete thought or logical connection between clauses. "Unlike the rest of my family" lacks a main clause, while "Because she was already there" and "Even though the store was closed" also do not include the necessary independent clauses to form complete sentences. Hence, choice D stands out as the only option that correctly demonstrates the use of a subordinating conjunction to establish a coherent and meaningful