The correct answer is "learned," indicating a past action (learning a new language) that happened over a specific period (over the summer).

Understanding the Sentence Structure
In the sentence "She __________ a new language over the summer," the blank requires a verb that correctly fits the context and grammatical structure of the sentence.
Identifying the Correct Verb Form
- Option A: learn
- This is the base form of the verb. However, it is not suitable here because the sentence needs a past tense verb given the phrase "over the summer," indicating a completed action.
- Option B: learning
- This is the present participle form. It implies an ongoing action, which does not fit the context since the sentence refers to an action completed during the summer.
- Option C: learned
- This is the past tense form of the verb "learn." It correctly indicates that the action of learning a new language was completed over the summer.
- Option D: learns
- This is the present tense form. It suggests a habitual action, which doesn’t align with the context of a specific period in the past.
Conclusion: Why 'learned' is Correct
The correct answer is Option C: learned because:
- It matches the past tense required by the time reference "over the summer."
- It clearly conveys that the action has been completed.
This understanding of verb tenses and their appropriate usage is crucial for constructing grammatically correct sentences. Make sure to identify the time frame in sentences to select the correct verb form!