Analyzing the Passage and the Blank

The passage describes the Great Fire of London in 1666. We are asked to fill in the third blank, which is in the sentence: "It (3) ________ through the crowded streets and wooden houses." This sentence describes how the fire moved.

We need to choose a word that accurately reflects the rapid and destructive movement of a large fire through a city.

Examining the Options for Blank 3

Let's look at the options provided for blank number 3:

1. glided
2. carried
3. swept
4. pulled

Now, let's consider what each word means and whether it fits the context of a fire spreading:

• Glided: This word suggests smooth, quiet, and effortless movement. A fire, especially a large and destructive one, moves forcefully and is anything but gentle or quiet. So, "glided" is not appropriate.
• Carried: This word typically means to transport something from one place to another. While wind might carry embers, the fire itself isn't usually described as being "carried through" streets and houses in this way. It doesn't fit the active spread of the fire itself.
• Swept: This word means to move rapidly and forcefully, often covering a wide area or removing things in its path. Phrases like "a fire swept through the town" are very common and accurately describe the quick, destructive spread of a fire. This seems like a strong candidate.
• Pulled: This word means to exert force on something to move it towards oneself. Fire doesn't "pull" through streets and houses; it spreads or moves through them. So, "pulled" is not appropriate.

Selecting the Most Appropriate Word

Comparing the meanings and common usage of the words, "swept" is the most fitting choice to describe how the Great Fire moved through the crowded streets and wooden houses of London. It conveys the speed and destructive power of the fire's progression.

Conclusion for Blank 3

Based on the analysis, the most appropriate word to fill in blank number 3 is "swept". The sentence then reads: "It swept through the crowded streets and wooden houses."

Revision Table: Word Meanings

Additional Information: The Great Fire of London

The Great Fire of London is a significant historical event. It started on September 2, 1666, in a baker's shop on Pudding Lane. The fire spread rapidly because most buildings were made of timber and the streets were narrow, allowing the flames to jump easily. Strong winds also contributed to its spread. While devastating, the fire led to significant rebuilding efforts in London, resulting in wider streets, brick buildings, and improved urban planning, which helped prevent similar large-scale fires in the future.

Understanding the context of the passage, such as the nature of a large fire and the structure of 17th-century London, helps in choosing the most appropriate vocabulary word like "swept" to describe the event.