Correct Answer:
C. are
The correct answer is "are". This question focuses on subject-verb agreement, particularly with the phrase "A number of." Understanding how this phrase functions is crucial for correct grammar.
- "A number of": When "A number of" precedes a plural noun, it functions as a quantifier indicating "many" or "several." In this construction, the phrase "a number of" makes the subject plural, and therefore requires a plural verb. For example, "A number of students" implies many students, acting as a plural subject.
- "The number of": It's important to distinguish this from "The number of." When "The number of" is used, it refers to a specific quantity, which is singular, and thus takes a singular verb (e.g., "The number of students is increasing").
- Plural noun "students": The noun following "A number of" is "students," which is plural.
- Plural verb "are": Since "A number of students" acts as a plural subject, the plural verb "are" is required.
Thus, the grammatically correct sentence is: "A number of students are absent today."