Read the following text. Many schools have allowed students to advance to the next grade even if they are not reading at grade level. However, more states are now considering policies that require students to repeat a grade if they fail reading tests. Currently, 26 states have such policies, up from 18 Which of the following best completes the blank number 9 ? A stricter focus on standardized test preparatio can ensure students meet academic benchmark more effectively. Limited classroom resources make it difficult fo teachers to provide personalized attention to ev student. Enhanced teacher training can help educators better understand and address students' needs. Organized after-school tutoring programs can reinforce what students learn during regular school hours. Additional homework assignments can push students to improve their reading skills more quickly.

'A stricter focus on standardized test preparation can ensure students meet academic benchmarks more effectively.'

## Step 1The problem is a reading comprehension question, which requires us to infer the most likely reason behind the policy change in schools, specifically the increase in the number of states requiring students to repeat a grade if they fail reading tests.## Step 2The text discusses the issue of students advancing to the next grade even if they are not reading at grade level. The policy change, however, requires students to repeat a grade if they fail reading tests. This suggests that the states are focusing more on the students' reading skills and their understanding of the material.## Step 3Looking at the options, we need to choose the one that best fits the context of the text and the policy change. The option that stands out is "A stricter focus on standardized test preparation can ensure students meet academic benchmarks more effectively." This option aligns with the policy change as it suggests a more rigorous approach to ensuring students meet academic standards, which is consistent with the text's discussion of the policy change.## Step 4The other options, while they may be valid in certain contexts, do not directly address the policy change discussed in the text. Therefore, the best answer is option A.