has been developed vs. has been developing

English as a Second Language English Teacher Explanations (ESL Tests)
1

English Language Tests, Intermediate level

ESL/EFL Test #883 [color=blue]“The History of Coffee”, question 10

Coffee is grown in more than 50 countries; the flavor varies because of the particular soil characteristics. From Hawaii’s rich volcanic soil, Mexico’s mountainous region, Puerto Rico’s acidic soil, or the slightly sweet soil of Columbia, a coffee has been … to suit everyone’s taste.

(a) developing
(b) develops
(c) developer
(d) developed

English Language Tests, Intermediate level

ESL/EFL Test #883 [color=blue]“The History of Coffee”, answer 10

Coffee is grown in more than 50 countries; the flavor varies because of the particular soil characteristics. From Hawaii’s rich volcanic soil, Mexico’s mountainous region, Puerto Rico’s acidic soil, or the slightly sweet soil of Columbia, a coffee has been developed to suit everyone’s taste.

Correct answer: (d) developed

Your answer was: [color=red]incorrect
Coffee is grown in more than 50 countries; the flavor varies because of the particular soil characteristics. From Hawaii’s rich volcanic soil, Mexico’s mountainous region, Puerto Rico’s acidic soil, or the slightly sweet soil of Columbia, a coffee has been developing to suit everyone’s taste.
[size=200]_________________________[/size]

Please could you explain to me why developing is incorrect.

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2

Coffee does not develop itself; people must develop it. Therefore, coffee cannot ‘be developing’; it is either ‘being developed’ or in this case it ‘has been developed’ (passive voice).

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3

Thank your for your prompt response.

Maddy

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4

Where exactly is “Columbia” located?

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5

Have you tried a map, Joao, or is this your way of pointing out that the spelling in this case should probably be ‘Colombia’ (the South American state) rather than ‘Columbia’ (in North America)?

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6

hahahahhahahahahahahahahaha Joao, try in south america Bro. But I must insist, Brazil has the best caramel coffee one have ever tried, it’s a must!!

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