Final answer:
The correct word to complete the sentence is 'said.' Matt said yesterday that he would visit us. This choice is based on the context of the question and the temporal indicator 'yesterday' implying past tense usage.
Step-by-step explanation:
In answering the student's question, Matt _____ yesterday that he would visit us, it's essential to choose a verb tense that correctly fits the context provided by the sentences you shared from a reference text. In this particular sentence, the most appropriate verb tense to use is the simple past tense due to the word 'yesterday' signaling past time. Therefore, the correct word to fill in the blank would be 'said.' The completed sentence should read: Matt said yesterday that he would visit us.
From the excerpts, it is clear that the characters often communicate their intentions or plans. For instance, Marcus informs McTeague that Trina would be coming round to see him about her tooth, suggesting a future visit similar to the one mentioned in the student's question. It's through understanding the sequence of events and dialogue within the excerpts that we determine the correct verb tense to use.
Moreover, when filling in missing words from sentences, it's always crucial to consider the context provided and the time frame. This conveys the proper temporal relationship between events, ensuring that the story maintains its logical flow and consistency. In narratives, especially those with dynamic interactions between characters, the correct use of verb tenses is fundamental to accurately reflecting changes and developments in the storyline.