Aidan is writing a nonfiction narrative. Read the draft of his introduction and his notes, and then complete the task that follows.

Question

You Never Know

I wasn’t so sure when I knocked on the door. If I was being honest, my grandmother’s neighbor made me nervous. I waited a few seconds and was about to bolt when the door scraped opened.

“Ah, I, you’re here,” the shaky old voice said. The voice was attached to Mr. Jenkins, the most ancient person I knew, who had lived in the neighborhood since well before my parents had even met.

“Uh, hi, my dad said you needed some help in the yard,” I said.

“Yes, yes, indeed. My knees aren’t what they used to be—not much good for gardening any more. Won’t you come in?” Mr. Jenkins asked. Mr. Jenkins proceeded to explain to me where I could find everything I needed and exactly what my assignment was. That day, it was just mowing the lawn, but next time I could work on the flowers and bushes. I didn’t hesitate to get to work and was finished within an hour.

I rapped on the door to tell Mr. Jenkins I was leaving. “Thank you. See you on Wednesday,” waved Mr. Jenkins.

When Wednesday came, I dutifully showed up at the appointed time and Mr. Jenkins slowly shuffled out into the yard with me.

I was hoping to finish the trimming and be done. After I got to talking with Mr. Jenkins, I found it hard to tear myself away.

Aidan made these notes about his nonfiction narrative.

Mr. Jenkins has rose bushes over 50 years old—planted by late wife, Stella.

Oak tree in the backyard—planted when first child was born.

Mr. Jenkins:

Depressed that he can no longer work in his yard like he once did.

Has story for nearly every plant he has planted.

Working in his yard has taken on a whole new meaning for me.

Multiple Choice Question
Read these sentences, which appear underlined in the nonfiction narrative.
I was hoping to finish the trimming and be done. After I got to talking with Mr. Jenkins, I found it hard to tear myself away.
Which transition word or phrase could best be used with these sentences to show contrast?
A.
also
B.
however
C.
for example
D.
most of all

Answer 1

The best transition word or phrase to show contrast in this context is B. however.

The sentences describe a change in Aidan's initial intention (to finish quickly) contrasted with what actually happened (becoming engaged in conversation). Using "however" effectively highlights this shift.