The following paragraphs are from an essay about the discovery of the coelacanth. In what order should these paragraphs be arranged to create the most logical and cohesive transition of ideas?
- 1For generations, scientists believed that the coelacanth, a primitive deep-sea fish, had gone extinct approximately 66 million years ago. Its existence was recorded only in ancient rock strata, where fossilized remains showed its distinctive lobed fins.
- 2This long-held assumption was shattered in December 1938, when a local fishing trawler off the coast of South Africa hauled up a strange, bright blue fish. Sensing its scientific value, a museum curator saved the specimen and contacted a local scientist.
- 3Upon examining the specimen, the scientist confirmed that it was indeed a living coelacanth. The discovery made headlines worldwide, prompting researchers to search the Indian Ocean for more survivors of this ancient lineage.
Answer
The correct sequence is to start with the paragraph establishing the coelacanth's presumed extinction, followed by the paragraph describing the 1938 trawler catch, and ending with the paragraph detailing the scientific identification of the specimen.
The correct order establishes a logical chronological and conceptual progression. The first paragraph sets up the baseline belief that the coelacanth was extinct. The second paragraph transitions using 'This long-held assumption' to describe the surprise catch of a live specimen. The final paragraph concludes the sequence by describing the examination and identification of that same specimen by the scientist mentioned at the end of the second paragraph.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Paragraph-Level Transitions
Estimated Time:1m 0s