Which sentence has the most negative connotation? a.) after a long trip, we were stunned by the sights and smells of our new city. b.) after an exhausting journey, we stumbled into a loud, hectic city. c.) after a relaxing journey, we arrived in a vibrant city full of different sights. d.) after traveling for 12 hours, we arrived at our destination.

The sentence with the most negative connotation follows:  B.) After an exhausting journey, we stumbled into a loud, hectic city.

When looking for the tone/mood of text, you’ll want to be aware of verbs, adjectives, and adverbs.  Words that convey negativity don’t necessarily need to be negative words such as “no,” “don’t,” or “bad,” for instance.   They can be, too, words that can be attributed to negative things.  For instance, the idea of being so exhausted that one stumbles (instead of walks, for instance) somewhere provides the image of one who is tired and disheveled or not physically coordinated enough that he or she is not able to walk normally without tripping over things.  Further, “hectic” is a less than positive way to communicate “busy” or “bustling” because it indicates the state of being annoyed or agitated by the state of something.   

B. After an exhausting journey, we stumbled into a loud, hectic city.

Explanation:

the following key ideas correctly express the key sentence.

restate key idea: most people can learn to swim in ten short lessons.

restate key idea: the majority of water-accident victims require mouth-to-mouth breathing.

restate key idea: an empty, tightly closed gallon jug will support a tired swimmer.  

restate key idea: first aid is to prevent accidents as well as assist in rescue.

explanation: the key idea needs to have the same topic as the key sentence (drowning and safety).