Answer:
The word could substitute “demands,” if the author wanted to express a neutral viewpoint is asks
Step-by-step explanation:
The sentence "The teacher demands that the students circle their answers" has a strict and serious mood, this kind of mood is opposite to a neutral viewpoint, In order to achieve this, the best option is the word "ask" these words give a more neutral and relaxed tone. By using the word "ask". the teacher gives an instruction that does not feel as strong as the original one.