A.I. Explanation:

Correct answer: examine

Explanation: The word 'examine' fits grammatically as it is a verb in the present tense that indicates a detailed inspection or analysis, which aligns with the context of tracing history. It suggests a thorough investigation into how society has developed, making it the most appropriate choice.

Meaning: 'Examine' means to inspect or study something closely to understand it better.

Wrong options:

• probe: While 'probe' implies investigation, it often suggests a more intrusive or physical examination, which does not fit the context of tracing history.
• scan: The term 'scan' implies a quick or superficial look, which does not convey the depth of analysis intended in this context.
• analyse: Although 'analyse' is similar to 'examine', it is less commonly used in this context and does not fit as smoothly with the surrounding text.

Correct answer: emerged

Explanation: The verb 'emerged' is in the past tense, indicating that the society has developed over time. It fits contextually as it describes the process of coming into existence or becoming visible, which is appropriate for discussing the evolution of society.

Meaning: 'Emerged' means to come into view or existence, particularly after a period of development or change.

Wrong options:

• show up: 'Show up' is informal and implies appearance rather than development, making it unsuitable for the context of societal evolution.
• occurred: The word 'occurred' suggests an event happening but does not convey the gradual development of society, which is the focus here.
• become: 'Become' indicates a change in state but lacks the nuance of development over time that 'emerged' provides.

Correct answer: settlements

Explanation: The term 'settlements' refers to established communities, which is contextually accurate as it describes the early British presence in Australia. It is a plural noun that aligns with the historical context of colonization.

Meaning: 'Settlements' means places where people establish a community, particularly in a new territory.

Wrong options:

• contract: 'Contract' refers to a formal agreement and does not relate to the establishment of communities, making it irrelevant in this context.
• out post: An 'out post' refers to a remote part of a military or other organization, which does not accurately describe the early British presence in Australia as a community.
• colonies: While 'colonies' could fit, it is a broader term that does not specifically convey the idea of established communities as effectively as 'settlements'.

Correct answer: retains

Explanation: The verb 'retains' is in the present tense and indicates that the society continues to hold onto its links with the colonial past. This fits grammatically and contextually, as it describes an ongoing relationship with history.

Meaning: 'Retains' means to keep possession of something, in this case, the strong links with the colonial past.

Wrong options:

• protecting: 'Protecting' implies safeguarding rather than holding onto, which does not fit the context of maintaining historical links.
• reserve: The term 'reserve' suggests setting something aside, which does not align with the idea of continuing to have strong connections to the past.
• maintained: While 'maintained' is similar, it implies effort and does not convey the ongoing nature of the relationship as effectively as 'retains'.