A.I. Explanation:

Correct answer: gained

Explanation: The word 'gained' is the past participle form of the verb 'gain,' which fits grammatically in the context of the sentence as it describes the action that occurred over the six-month period. The sentence structure requires a verb that indicates a change in weight, and 'gained' appropriately conveys that meaning.

Meaning: 'Gained' means to increase in weight or amount.

Wrong options:

• gains: 'Gains' is the present tense form of the verb, which does not fit the past context of the study's findings.
• grown: 'Grown' is the past participle of 'grow,' which does not relate to weight change in this context and is grammatically incorrect here.
• feed: 'Feed' is a verb that does not fit the context of weight change and is not in the correct tense for this sentence.
• counter: 'Counter' is a noun or verb that does not relate to the action of gaining weight and does not fit grammatically.

Correct answer: growing

Explanation: The term 'growing' is a present participle that describes the increasing amount of time children spend in front of screens. It fits grammatically as it modifies 'amount' and aligns with the ongoing concern expressed by experts.

Meaning: 'Growing' refers to something that is increasing or expanding over time.

Wrong options:

• gained: 'Gained' is the past participle form of 'gain,' which does not describe the ongoing increase in time spent in front of screens.
• grown: 'Grown' is the past participle of 'grow,' which does not fit as it does not convey the current action of increasing time.
• gains: 'Gains' is the present tense form of 'gain,' which does not fit the context of describing an amount that is currently increasing.
• feed: 'Feed' is a verb that does not relate to the description of time and is not appropriate in this context.
• counter: 'Counter' is a noun or verb that does not describe an increasing amount and does not fit grammatically.

Correct answer: feed

Explanation: The word 'feed' is a verb that indicates the action of contributing to or causing something to happen. In this context, it logically connects the increasing screen time to the epidemic of childhood obesity, suggesting that more screen time contributes to the problem.

Meaning: 'Feed' means to supply or contribute to something, in this case, the epidemic of obesity.

Wrong options:

• gained: 'Gained' is the past participle of 'gain,' which does not fit the context of contributing to an epidemic and is grammatically incorrect here.
• grown: 'Grown' is the past participle of 'grow,' which does not convey the action of contributing to obesity and is not appropriate in this context.
• gains: 'Gains' is the present tense form of 'gain,' which does not fit the context of contributing to an epidemic and is grammatically incorrect.
• growing: 'Growing' is a present participle that does not fit as it does not convey the action of contributing to the epidemic.
• counter: 'Counter' is a noun or verb that does not relate to the action of contributing to obesity and does not fit grammatically.