Meaning: 'This' is used to indicate a specific thing or idea that is close in context, in this case, the way of writing being referred to.

Wrong options:

• the: 'The' is a definite article that does not specify the way of writing and is too general for this context.
• of: 'Of' is a preposition that indicates belonging or association but does not fit grammatically as a subject in this sentence.
• which: 'Which' is a relative pronoun that introduces a clause but does not serve as a suitable subject in this context.

Correct answer: presented

Explanation: The verb 'presented' fits grammatically as it indicates the action of explaining ideas, aligning with the context of how complex ideas are conveyed. It is the correct form to describe the act of showing or explaining something.

Meaning: 'Presented' means to show or explain something formally, particularly in a way that is understandable to others.

Wrong options:

• improvised: 'Improvised' suggests something done without preparation, which contradicts the idea of explaining complex ideas clearly.
• grounded: 'Grounded' implies being based on something, but it does not fit the context of explaining ideas in a presentation.
• hounded: 'Hounded' means to be pursued or harassed, which is irrelevant and does not fit the context of presenting ideas.

Correct answer: referred

Explanation: The verb 'referred' is appropriate as it indicates that higher-order thinking skills are commonly mentioned or identified in discussions. It fits grammatically and contextually, as it describes how these skills are acknowledged in academic writing.

Meaning: 'Referred' means to mention or allude to something, particularly in a formal context.

Wrong options:

• preferred: 'Preferred' suggests a choice or liking, which does not fit the context of discussing how skills are mentioned.
• stagnated: 'Stagnated' means to stop developing or progressing, which is contrary to the idea of discussing skills.
• procuring: 'Procuring' means obtaining something, which does not relate to the context of mentioning or discussing skills.

Correct answer: in

Explanation: The preposition 'in' fits grammatically as it indicates the role taken by the writer, aligning with the context of assuming a position or function. It is commonly used to express involvement in a role.

Meaning: 'In' indicates being part of or involved in something, in this case, taking on the role of a teacher.

Wrong options:

• out: 'Out' suggests exclusion, which contradicts the idea of taking on a role.
• up: 'Up' does not convey the correct relationship of assuming a role in this context.
• by: 'By' indicates a means or method, which does not fit the context of taking on a role.

Correct answer: contribute

Explanation: The verb 'contribute' fits grammatically as it indicates the action of adding to the understanding of a research problem. It aligns contextually with the sentence, emphasizing the role of the synthesis in enhancing comprehension.

Meaning: 'Contribute' means to add to or help improve something, particularly in a collaborative context.

Wrong options:

• makeup: 'Makeup' refers to the composition of something, which does not fit the context of enhancing understanding.
• leads: 'Leads' implies guiding or directing, which does not accurately describe the action of adding to understanding in this context.
• barring: 'Barring' means excluding or preventing, which is contrary to the idea of enhancing understanding.