Collective Nouns:
Collective nouns are words that refer to a group of individuals or things. They are singular in form but represent a collection of people or objects.
Options:
The given options for filling in the blank with a collective noun are:
A. Panel
B. Gang
C. Army
D. Crew
Explanation:
To choose the correct option, we need to understand the meaning and usage of each collective noun.
1. Panel:
- A panel refers to a group of people who are selected to discuss, investigate, or judge a particular matter.
- It is commonly used to refer to a group of experts who evaluate or judge something.
- Example: The competition will be judged by a panel of experts.
2. Gang:
- A gang refers to a group of people, especially young people, who associate closely, often for criminal activity.
- It is not suitable in the given context as it carries a negative connotation.
- Example: The police arrested a gang of thieves.
3. Army:
- An army refers to a large organized group of military personnel who are trained for warfare.
- It is not appropriate in the given context as it is specific to military forces.
- Example: The army conducted a military operation.
4. Crew:
- A crew refers to a group of people who work together, especially as a team on a ship, aircraft, or in a theater.
- It can also be used to refer to a group of people involved in a particular activity or task.
- Example: The crew worked together to complete the construction project.
Conclusion:
Based on the meanings and usage of the collective nouns, the correct option to fill in the blank is A. Panel, as it accurately represents a group of experts who will judge the competition.

Explanation:

Collective Nouns:
- Collective nouns are used to refer to a group of people, animals, or things.
- They are singular in form but refer to multiple individuals or items.

Correct Answer Justification:
- The correct option to fill in the blank is "panel."
- A "panel" is a group of experts who come together to judge or discuss a particular topic.
- In this context, the experts collectively form a panel, making it a suitable collective noun to use in the sentence.

Incorrect Options:
- Gang, army, and crew do not represent a group of experts specifically gathered to judge a competition.
- These options do not convey the same meaning as a panel of experts coming together for a specific purpose.
Therefore, the correct option to fill in the blank with a collective noun is "panel."