rained or was raining

[Soe Moe Win]

Dear Teachers,
We are discussing about this sentence;
Two hours ago, it (rains, raining, rained, was raining, has rained) but now it has stopped.
The correct answer is ''rained''.
Why isn't it ''was raining''?
I think it should be: Two hours ago, it was raining but now it has stopped.
So could you explain me please?
Thank you in advance for your kindness.

 

[Rover_KE]

Welcome to the forum, winhknu.

We are discussing [STRIKE]about[/STRIKE] this sentence:

"Two hours ago, it (rains, raining, rained, was raining, has rained) but now it has stopped."

The correct answer is ''rained''. Why isn't it ''was raining''?

Both answers are acceptable – in fact, I prefer "was raining".

What is the source of this exercise? It's not a good question when more than one answer is correct.

 

[Soe Moe Win]

Thank you very much.
It is from Grade 8.

 

[Rover_KE]

Grade 8 of what publication? Who is the author?

 

[Tdol]

If the rain started two hours ago then rained makes sense. If the rain started earlier and carried on after the time, then the past progressive works better for me.

 

[Soe Moe Win]

In Myanmar, the English text book of Grade 8 is in Basic Education Middle School. The author is not mentioned.
Thank you so much.