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294 questions
Question 21Question →
Arrange the following sentence fragments in the correct order to construct a grammatically correct sentence that maintains a parallel structure.
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Answer
To launch the new software application, the development team must first write the core source code, then test the system for critical bugs, and finally deploy the release version to the servers.
The correct order constructs a coherent sentence where the modal verb 'must' is followed by a parallel series of base-form verbs: 'write', 'test', and 'deploy'. The transition words 'first', 'then', and 'finally' establish a clear chronological order that locks the sequence of these parallel elements.
Step-by-Step Solution
1
Identify the main clause and the governing verb.
The main clause is 'To launch the new software application, the development team must', which ends with the modal verb 'must'. This modal verb requires a base-form verb (bare infinitive) to follow it.
Establishing the main clause is necessary to determine the grammatical constraints for the rest of the sentence.
2
Identify the parallel elements and their grammatical form.
The other fragments contain actions: 'first write the core source code' (verb: 'write'), 'then test the system for critical bugs' (verb: 'test'), and 'and finally deploy the release version to the servers' (verb: 'deploy'). All three verbs are in the base form, which satisfies the parallel structure required after the modal verb 'must'.
Ensuring all items in the series share the same grammatical form (base verbs) is the core rule of parallel structure.
3
Use chronological and transitional markers to determine the correct order.
The adverbs 'first', 'then', and 'finally' indicate a chronological sequence. Therefore, 'first write...' must precede 'then test...', which must precede 'and finally deploy...'.
Transition words and logical sequencing determine the exact order of the parallel elements.
Key Concept
Parallel Structure in Compound Predicates
Question 22Question →
A biographer is drafting a sentence to describe the life of a famous sculptor:
"The biography traces the subject's life ________."
To complete the sentence in a chronologically logical sequence while maintaining strict parallel structure, in what order should the following grammatical segments be arranged?
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Answer
The correct sequence of segments is: 'from a childhood of extreme poverty,' followed by 'through a youth of academic dedication,' and concluding with 'to an adulthood of international acclaim.'
The correct sequence arranges the segments chronologically ('childhood' to 'youth' to 'adulthood') and matches them to the prepositional structure 'from... through... to...' to establish a parallel and logical progression.
Step-by-Step Solution
1
Identify the chronological stages of life represented in the segments.
The stages are childhood, youth, and adulthood.
This establishes a logical time progression for the biography description.
2
Align the prepositions that coordinate with these stages to show progression.
The prepositions 'from', 'through', and 'to' must match the stages 'childhood', 'youth', and 'adulthood' respectively.
The prepositional framework 'from... through... to...' idiomatic to show progress aligns with the chronological order.
3
Verify that parallel grammatical structure is maintained across all three segments.
Each segment consists of a preposition, a singular noun for the life stage, the preposition 'of', and an adjective-noun pair describing the stage.
Parallel structure requires that all items in a series share the same grammatical form.
Key Concept
Parallel structure requires that parts of a sentence that are work-sharing or series-based must be expressed in the same grammatical form.
Question 23Question →
Arrange the sentence segments in the correct order to construct a grammatically correct sentence that maintains parallel structure.
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Answer
The correct sequence of segments to form a grammatically correct and parallel sentence is: 'The research team's primary objectives were not only to gather baseline soil samples from the volcanic crater, to monitor local seismic patterns using advanced sensors, and to analyze the gas emissions for signs of geothermal activity, but also to publish their findings in a peer-reviewed journal.'
The correct order constructs a coherent sentence where all listed objectives are expressed as parallel infinitive phrases ('to gather', 'to monitor', 'to analyze', and 'to publish'). The correlative conjunction 'not only... but also' is properly balanced, with 'not only' introducing a parallel three-part list of infinitives and 'but also' introducing the final parallel infinitive.
Step-by-Step Solution
1
Identify the independent clause's subject and verb.
The segment starting with 'The research team's primary objectives' acts as the sentence's grammatical foundation.
Every complete sentence requires a subject and a verb to initiate the main clause before listing coordinate or subordinate elements.
2
Determine the placement of the correlative conjunction's first part.
The segment starting with 'not only to gather' must immediately follow the linking verb 'were'.
This establishes the first element of the correlative 'not only... but also' structure and introduces the first infinitive phrase in the parallel series.
3
Order the elements of the internal list in a parallel fashion.
The segment starting with 'to monitor' must follow the first infinitive phrase, and the segment starting with 'and to analyze' must follow it to complete the list of three internal items.
Parallel structure requires that all items in a list share the same grammatical form (infinitives: 'to gather', 'to monitor', 'to analyze') and the coordinating conjunction 'and' must precede the final item in this internal sequence.
4
Complete the correlative structure with the matching conjunction and parallel element.
The segment starting with 'but also to publish' must be placed at the end.
This completes the 'not only... but also' correlative pair with a parallel infinitive ('to publish') and ends the sentence with the terminal period.
Key Concept
Parallel Structure
Question 24Question →
A writer wants to construct a logically ordered sentence about a committee's project steps while maintaining parallel grammatical structure. Order the following sentence segments to build this sentence, starting with the introductory clause.
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Answer
The sentence segments must be ordered: 'Before starting the initiative, the committee focused on', followed by 'drafting the initial proposal,', then 'securing the necessary funding,', and finally 'and executing the project plan.'
The correct order begins with the main clause 'Before starting the initiative, the committee focused on' to establish the grammatical structure. It is followed by the parallel gerund phrases in chronological order: 'drafting the initial proposal,' then 'securing the necessary funding,' and ending with 'and executing the project plan.'
Step-by-Step Solution
1
Identify the segment that contains the main subject and verb to introduce the sentence.
'Before starting the initiative, the committee focused on' must come first because it provides the introductory main clause and ends with the preposition 'on'.
This sets up the grammatical frame for the subsequent list of parallel activities that will follow the preposition.
2
Arrange the remaining gerund phrases in a logical chronological sequence.
The logical progression of a project is first drafting the proposal, then securing funding, and finally executing the plan.
Chronological and logical flow dictates that a proposal must be written before funding is secured, and funding must be secured before the plan is executed.
3
Verify that all items in the list maintain parallel grammatical structure.
The sequence 'drafting...', 'securing...', and 'executing...' consists entirely of parallel gerund phrases.
This satisfies the rules of parallel structure by using the same grammatical form (-ing verbs) for all items in the series.
Key Concept
Parallel structure requires that items in a series or list follow the same grammatical form (e.g., all gerunds, all infinitives, or all clauses) to maintain clarity and rhythm.
Question 25Question →
The following segments describe the sequential steps in restoring an artwork. How should these segments be ordered to complete the sentence in a grammatically correct sequence that maintains parallel structure and presents the steps chronologically?
'To restore the historic painting, the conservator focused on ________, ________, and ________.'
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Answer
The correct chronological and parallel order is: cleaning the surface grime, repairing the torn canvas, and varnishing the completed work.
The correct order follows the logical timeline of art restoration (cleaning first, repairing second, and varnishing last) while maintaining parallel structure by using three gerund phrases ('cleaning', 'repairing', 'varnishing') that all correctly follow the preposition 'on'.
Step-by-Step Solution
1
Identify the grammatical constraint set by the sentence introduction.
The preposition 'on' requires a list of parallel gerund phrases ('cleaning', 'repairing', 'varnishing') to function as objects of the preposition.
This ensures the sentence maintains a consistent and parallel grammatical structure.
2
Determine the logical and chronological sequence of the art restoration process.
Surface cleaning must happen first, followed by structural repairs to the canvas, and finally the protective varnishing.
Varnishing cannot occur before repairing, and repairing cannot occur before cleaning the surface.
3
Assemble the segments in the determined order and verify the conjunction placement.
The resulting sentence is: 'To restore the historic painting, the conservator focused on cleaning the surface grime, repairing the torn canvas, and varnishing the completed work.'
This order places the conjunction 'and' before the final element, satisfying both chronological logic and parallel syntax.
Key Concept
Parallel Structure
Estimated Time:1m 0s
Question 26Question →
An urban planner drafts a statement detailing a strategy to reduce municipal carbon emissions. How should the following phrases be sequenced to form a grammatically parallel and logically organized sentence?
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Answer
The correct sequence is: 'not only by expanding public transit networks,' followed by 'but also by transitioning municipal vehicles to electric power,' and ending with 'and ultimately by upgrading building efficiency standards.'
The correct order establishes a parallel correlative structure ('not only... but also...') followed by a final list element ('and ultimately...'). Each segment uses the parallel prepositional-gerund form ('by expanding...', 'by transitioning...', 'by upgrading...').
Step-by-Step Solution
1
Identify the correlative conjunctions and list elements.
The phrases contain the correlative conjunction pair 'not only' and 'but also', as well as the concluding conjunction 'and ultimately'.
This helps determine the logical sequence of the conjunctions, establishing that 'not only' must precede 'but also', which in turn must precede the final list element 'and ultimately'.
2
Verify the parallel grammatical form of each segment.
Each segment is structured as 'by' + gerund phrase: 'by expanding...', 'by transitioning...', and 'by upgrading...'.
Ensuring that each list item uses the exact same grammatical structure maintains parallel structure throughout the sentence.
3
Assemble the segments in the correct order.
The correct order is 'not only by expanding public transit networks,', 'but also by transitioning municipal vehicles to electric power,', and 'and ultimately by upgrading building efficiency standards.'.
This sequence satisfies both the logical order of the correlative conjunctions and the parallel grammatical structure.
Key Concept
Parallel structure with correlative conjunctions and list elements
Estimated Time:1m 30s
Question 27Question →
The following segments are part of a sentence that requires parallel structure. Arrange the segments in the correct order to form a logically coherent and grammatically correct sentence.
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Answer
The regional director proposed a strategy focused first on streamlining internal communication, next on reducing operational expenses, and finally on expanding the customer service team.
The correct ordering places the independent clause first to establish the subject and main verb. The following list maintains parallel structure by using the same grammatical pattern—the preposition 'on' followed by a gerund ('streamlining', 'reducing', 'expanding')—for all three list items. Additionally, the transition words 'first', 'next', and 'and finally' dictate a clear, logical sequence that cannot be rearranged without creating a logical contradiction.
Step-by-Step Solution
1
Identify the main clause of the sentence.
The main clause is 'The regional director proposed a strategy focused'.
Every complete sentence requires a subject and a verb to establish the main thought before listing supporting details.
2
Identify the parallel elements and their logical sequence markers.
The parallel elements are prepositional phrases: 'on streamlining...', 'on reducing...', and 'on expanding...'. The markers are 'first', 'next', and 'and finally'.
To maintain parallel structure, each item in the list must use the same grammatical form (preposition 'on' followed by a gerund). The transition words indicate a chronological sequence.
3
Arrange the segments using the logical markers and grammatical structures.
The sequence must start with the main clause, followed by 'first', then 'next', and end with the conjunction 'and finally'.
This sequence satisfies both the logical order of transitions and the grammatical requirements of parallel structure.
Key Concept
Parallel structure requires that items in a series or list follow the same grammatical pattern. In this sentence, each item in the list must be formatted as a prepositional phrase starting with the preposition 'on' followed by a gerund (verb ending in -ing).
Question 28Question →
A geneticist outlines the protocol for analyzing a prehistoric specimen. Arrange the following steps of the laboratory procedure in the correct chronological order, ensuring the sequence maintains parallel structure throughout the list.
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Answer
The correct sequence of steps in the laboratory procedure is first extracting the DNA, then amplifying the fragments, and finally sequencing the genetic data.
The correct order follows the chronological progression of a scientific workflow: first, isolating the DNA ('to extract'); second, multiplying the sample ('to amplify'); and third, analyzing the genetic sequence ('to sequence'). Each action is phrased using an infinitive, satisfying the requirements of parallel structure.
Step-by-Step Solution
1
Determine the chronological sequence of the experiment.
DNA extraction must occur before amplification, and amplification must occur before sequencing.
You cannot replicate or sequence genetic material that has not yet been isolated.
2
Check the grammatical parallel structure of the items.
Each phase starts with an infinitive: 'to extract', 'to amplify', and 'to sequence'.
Maintaining the same grammatical form across all items in a list or sequence is required for parallel structure.
3
Combine the ordered steps into a final parallel sequence.
The final order is extraction, followed by amplification, and ending with sequencing.
This configuration satisfies both chronological logic and grammatical parallelism.
Key Concept
Parallel structure requires that all items in a list or sequential process use the same grammatical form (such as infinitives, gerunds, or clauses) to maintain clarity and rhythm.
Estimated Time:1m 15s
Question 29Question →
The following sentences, when ordered logically, form a paragraph discussing the development of the Cherokee writing system. Arrange the sentences to ensure that the central claim is logically introduced and immediately supported by appropriate evidence and specific details.
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Answer
The correct logical order begins with the sentence introducing Sequoyah's isolation and effort, followed by the sentence defining his breakthrough syllabary, then the sentence claiming that this system caused a rapid surge in literacy, followed by the sentence providing general quantitative evidence of the surge in 1821, and ending with the sentence providing the specific example of the bilingual newspaper in 1828.
The correct paragraph structure follows a logical progression: it first establishes the context of Sequoyah's isolated work, defines his breakthrough syllabary, presents the central claim that the system sparked a rapid literacy surge, supports this claim with general quantitative timeline data (thousands of readers within months of 1821), and finally illustrates the claim with a concrete, specific detail (the establishment of the *Cherokee Phoenix* in 1828).
Step-by-Step Solution
1
Establish the background context.
Place the sentence describing Sequoyah working in isolation at the beginning.
It introduces the topic and the struggle before any breakthrough or writing system is defined.
2
Introduce the specific creation.
Place the sentence defining the eighty-five-character syllabary second.
It resolves the struggle introduced in the first sentence by defining 'His breakthrough' and naming the writing system.
3
Identify the central claim.
Place the sentence asserting that the writing system was intuitive and sparked a rapid surge in literacy third.
This establishes the claim regarding the system's impact, which the remaining sentences must support with evidence.
4
Add general evidence.
Place the sentence showing that thousands learned to read and write within months of the 1821 adoption fourth.
It provides immediate quantitative and chronological support for the claim of a 'rapid surge' made in the third sentence.
5
Provide specific concrete details.
Place the sentence about the 1828 bilingual newspaper last.
Introduced by 'For example,' it offers a highly specific, concrete detail that illustrates the practical application of the literacy surge, completing the logical flow from abstract claim to concrete proof.
Key Concept
Supporting Claims with Evidence and Details
Question 30Question →
The following sentences, when ordered logically, form a paragraph about desert plant adaptations. Arrange the sentences so that the general claim about water conservation is logically followed by specific supporting evidence and details.
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Answer
The correct order begins with the general claim about desert plant features, followed by the specific evidence of the saguaro cactus's pleated stem, and concludes with the detail explaining how this adaptation supports survival.
The paragraph is logically organized starting with the general claim about desert plant adaptations, followed by the specific evidence of the saguaro cactus's pleated stem (introduced by 'For instance'), and ending with the explanation of how this adaptation helps the plant survive.
Step-by-Step Solution
1
Identify the central claim of the paragraph.
The sentence stating that many desert plants have developed remarkable physical features to conserve water serves as the general claim.
Paragraphs typically begin with a broad assertion or topic sentence that establishes the main idea before presenting specific details.
2
Locate the specific evidence that supports the claim.
The sentence describing the saguaro cactus's pleated stem is the evidence.
The transition 'For instance' directly signals that this sentence is a concrete example supporting the general claim about physical features.
3
Find the concluding explanation or detail that elaborates on the evidence.
The sentence beginning with 'This anatomical adaptation' is the final detail.
The phrase 'This anatomical adaptation' refers back to the 'pleated stem' mentioned in the evidence sentence, explaining the survival benefit of that feature and bringing the paragraph to a logical conclusion.
Key Concept
Supporting Claims with Evidence and Details
Estimated Time:1m 0s
Question 31Question →
The following sentences are from a draft of an essay about the Venus flytrap. To ensure that the paragraph's claim is logically supported by evidence in a step-by-step manner, what is the most logical order for these sentences?
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Answer
The most logical order is: first the introduction of the counting mechanism, followed by the description of the initial trap closure, then the subsequent stimulation for digestion, and finally the explanation of how this multi-stage requirement prevents resource waste.
The correct order follows a clear logical and chronological path. It begins with the general claim that the plant uses a counting mechanism to conserve energy. It then explains the first stage of this mechanism (the two touches needed for closure) followed by the second stage (the subsequent touches needed for digestion). Finally, it concludes by explaining how this multi-stage system supports the central claim of resource conservation.
Step-by-Step Solution
1
Identify the main claim of the paragraph.
The sentence introducing the Venus flytrap's counting mechanism to prevent energy waste sets the stage as the topic sentence.
A logical paragraph must begin by stating the central claim before providing supporting evidence.
2
Arrange the evidence chronologically or sequentially.
The sentence describing the first two touches required for closure must precede the sentence describing the three additional touches required for digestion.
The trap must close before digestion can begin, making the physical sequence of events the logical order.
3
Place the concluding summary sentence.
The sentence clarifying the benefit of multiple signals at 'each stage' is placed at the end.
This sentence refers back to the stages described in the previous sentences and concludes the paragraph by reinforcing the main claim of resource conservation.
Key Concept
Supporting Claims with Evidence and Details
Estimated Time:1m 30s
Question 32Question →
The following five sentences are taken from a draft of an essay about cosmological discoveries. To construct a paragraph that logically develops the claim that the discovery of the Cosmic Microwave Background (CMB) radiation supported the Big Bang theory by systematically eliminating alternative explanations and aligning empirical data with theoretical predictions, in what order should the sentences be arranged?
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Answer
The correct sequence begins with the introduction of Penzias and Wilson's research and the unexpected noise (sentence_II), followed by the sentence describing the efforts to clean the antenna (sentence_IV), followed by the sentence stating that the noise persisted at 3.5 Kelvin (sentence_I), followed by the sentence linking this temperature to the Big Bang model (sentence_V), and ending with the sentence concluding that this evidence disproved the steady-state model (sentence_III).
The correct sequence begins with the sentence introducing Penzias and Wilson's research and the unexpected noise. It logically proceeds to the systematic efforts to eliminate local noise, followed by the observation that the noise persisted uniformly at a specific temperature. This temperature is then connected to the Big Bang theory's predictions, concluding with the historical impact of this evidence on cosmological models.
Step-by-Step Solution
1
Identify the introductory sentence that establishes the setting and the primary problem.
The sentence introducing the 1964 research by Penzias and Wilson and the unexpected background noise must come first to establish context.
A logical paragraph must define the subject and initial conflict before describing investigations or conclusions.
2
Trace pronoun and determinative references that follow the initial problem.
The sentence starting with 'To eliminate potential local sources of this persistent hiss' must follow, as 'this persistent hiss' refers directly back to the 'constant background noise' in the introduction.
This establishes the logical progression of the scientific method where researchers first try to rule out local interference.
3
Connect the outcome of the troubleshooting steps to the subsequent observation.
The sentence starting with 'Despite these efforts' must follow, as 'these efforts' refers directly to the cleaning and interference checks.
This sentence introduces the critical empirical observation that the noise remained isotropic at 3.5 Kelvin, which serves as the core evidence.
4
Link the empirical observation to the theoretical framework.
The sentence starting with 'This constant temperature' must follow the 3.5 Kelvin observation.
The phrase 'this constant temperature' relies on the prior mention of the 3.5 Kelvin value to make sense, connecting the data to the Big Bang theory's predictions.
5
Determine the concluding statement summarizing the impact of the evidence.
The sentence starting with 'By confirming this omnipresent radiation echo' must come last.
It functions as the rhetorical conclusion of the paragraph, explaining the historical impact of the evidence on the debate between the Big Bang and steady-state models.
Key Concept
Supporting Claims with Evidence and Details
Question 33Question →
The following sentences, when ordered logically, form a cohesive paragraph discussing the ancient Maya water management system in Tikal. What is the most logical sequence of these sentences to support the claim with clear functional evidence?
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Answer
The correct sequence of sentences is: 'To sustain a population of tens of thousands, the ancient Maya city of Tikal relied on a sophisticated system of human-made reservoirs to survive the region's intense dry seasons.', followed by 'These paved basins, constructed by plastering natural depressions and quarry pits, were designed to collect and store millions of gallons of rainwater during the wet months.', then 'During the subsequent months of drought, this stored water was released through a network of canals to irrigate agricultural fields and supply the city's residents.', and finally 'Archaeological excavations have confirmed that this system maintained clean drinking water by utilizing sand filters at the entry points of the main reservoirs.'
The correct ordering begins with the central claim that Tikal relied on human-made reservoirs to survive dry seasons. Next, the sentence defining these reservoirs as 'paved basins' that collect rainwater must follow because it defines the infrastructure. Then, the sentence describing how 'this stored water' is distributed during the drought follows to complete the system's functional timeline. Finally, the archaeological evidence of sand filtration concludes the paragraph by verifying the functionality and cleanliness of the system.
Step-by-Step Solution
1
Identify the introductory claim that sets the topic for the paragraph.
The sentence introducing Tikal's reliance on reservoirs to survive dry seasons.
It introduces the central claim about Tikal's water management without requiring external context.
2
Identify the sentence that defines or elaborates on the reservoirs mentioned in the introduction.
The sentence beginning with 'These paved basins'.
The demonstrative pronoun 'These' links 'paved basins' directly to the 'human-made reservoirs' in the first sentence.
3
Trace the chronological and functional flow of the water storage system.
The sentence describing the release of water during the dry months.
After describing how the basins collected water in the wet months, the text must transition to how 'this stored water' was distributed during the drought.
4
Place the validating scientific evidence that supports the claim of viability.
The sentence discussing archaeological excavations and sand filtration.
It offers concrete scientific verification for the effectiveness of the system described in the previous sentences.
Key Concept
Supporting Claims with Evidence and Details
Question 34Question →
The following sentences are from a draft of a paragraph about the farming behaviors of leafcutter ants. In what order should these sentences be arranged so that the paragraph's central claim is supported by a logical sequence of evidence and details?
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Answer
The paragraph should begin with the claim that leafcutter ants operate underground farms, followed by the sentence describing the transport of cut leaves into their nests, then the sentence explaining how the leaves serve as fertilizer in these chambers, and end with the sentence describing how the colony feeds on the cultivated fungus.
The paragraph is structured logically by starting with the general claim that leafcutter ants operate underground farms. The subsequent sentences follow the process in order: harvesting leaves, decomposing them in chambers to grow fungus, and consuming the resulting crop.
Step-by-Step Solution
1
Identify the paragraph's central claim.
The sentence introducing the underground farms and cultivation of food is the topic sentence.
A logical paragraph starts with a general claim before supporting it with details.
2
Identify the next sentence in the sequence using transitional references.
The sentence beginning with 'To start this process...' is placed second.
The phrase 'this process' refers directly to the cultivation process established in the first sentence.
3
Determine the third sentence using spatial references.
The sentence beginning with 'In these chambers...' is placed third.
The phrase 'these chambers' refers back to the 'subterranean nests' mentioned in the second sentence.
4
Identify the concluding detail.
The sentence beginning with 'Finally...' is placed last.
The transition 'Finally' indicates the final outcome of the farming process, showing how the colony feeds on the fungus.
Key Concept
Supporting Claims with Evidence and Details
Estimated Time:1m 0s
Question 35Question →
The following sentences are from a draft of an essay about ancient Roman engineering. To ensure that the paragraph is organized logically and that each claim is supported by immediate, relevant evidence and details, in what order should the sentences be placed?
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Answer
The sentences should be arranged in the order: introduction of gravity-fed aqueducts, explanation of the gradient requirement, introduction of the chorobates leveling tool, and detail of the specific gradient measurements achieved.
The correct logical order begins with the introductory statement about gravity-fed aqueducts, followed by the requirement of a precise downward gradient. Next, the tool (chorobates) used to achieve this precision is introduced. Finally, the specific gradient measurements achieved with this tool are detailed.
Step-by-Step Solution
1
Identify the sentence that introduces the main topic of the paragraph.
The sentence discussing Roman aqueducts relying on gravity to transport water is identified as the opening sentence because it provides the essential context.
A logical paragraph must start with a general statement that establishes the subject before diving into technical details.
2
Find the sentence that transitions from the general concept of gravity-driven transport to a specific technical challenge.
The sentence stating that engineers had to maintain a precise downward gradient follows the introduction.
It explains the prerequisite for using gravity to transport water, linking the broad concept of gravity to the specific need for gradient precision.
3
Look for the sentence explaining how the engineers solved the technical challenge of maintaining a precise gradient.
The sentence introducing the chorobates as the leveling device used to achieve this precision is placed third.
The pronoun 'They' refers to 'engineers' in the prior sentence, and the phrase 'this precision' directly references the 'precise and consistent downward gradient' established in the previous step.
4
Connect the specific tool to the resulting quantitative evidence or details of its application.
The sentence detailing the exact slope measurements achieved (one foot of drop per several thousand feet) with this tool is placed last.
The transition 'With this tool' requires the tool (the chorobates) to be introduced first, and the specific gradient details serve as the final supporting evidence for the paragraph's claim about precise engineering.
Key Concept
Supporting Claims with Evidence and Details
Question 36Question →
The following sentences are from a draft of an essay about seismologist Inge Lehmann. To ensure that the paragraph develops its claim logically, in what order should these sentences be arranged?
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Answer
The paragraph should start with the sentence proposing the solid inner core, followed by the sentence explaining the earthquake data source, then the sentence detailing the specific P-wave observations, and conclude with the sentence explaining how these wave paths prove the solid boundary.
The correct order begins by stating the main claim (Lehmann's proposal of a solid inner core). It then transitions to the source of her data ('this proposal' based on the New Zealand earthquake), details the specific evidence observed in that data (P-waves passing through the center), and concludes by explaining why this wave behavior proves the solid core.
Step-by-Step Solution
1
Identify the topic sentence that introduces the main claim.
The sentence starting 'In 1936, seismologist Inge Lehmann...' introduces the main claim that the Earth has a solid inner core.
A logical paragraph must establish its primary claim before presenting the evidence or data that supports it.
2
Link the claim to the source of the supporting evidence.
The sentence starting 'She based this proposal...' directly connects to the previous sentence by referring back to 'this proposal' and introducing the earthquake data.
This transition provides the context for the specific evidence that will follow.
3
Present the specific scientific evidence gathered from the data.
The sentence starting 'Lehmann observed that certain P-waves...' provides the specific details of the seismic waves observed in the earthquake data.
Specific evidence must follow the introduction of the data source to show how the data supports the claim.
4
Connect the evidence to the final conclusion that validates the initial claim.
The sentence starting 'The path of these waves...' connects back to the P-waves and concludes the paragraph.
This sentence explains how the observed wave behavior directly proves the initial claim of a solid inner core, wrapping up the paragraph logically.
Key Concept
Supporting Claims with Evidence and Details
Estimated Time:1m 0s
Question 37Question →
The following sentences are from a draft of an essay about geologist Marie Tharp. To ensure the paragraph logically builds its claim that scientific data supported Tharp's hypothesis of a seafloor rift valley, in what order should the sentences be arranged?
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Answer
The sentences should be ordered: Geologist Marie Tharp was convinced that a continuous rift valley ran down the center of the Atlantic Ocean...; To prove her hypothesis, Tharp meticulously plotted thousands of sonar soundings...; Her resulting maps revealed a distinct, V-shaped cleft...; Confronted with this precise correlation...
The correct paragraph structure starts by introducing Marie Tharp's hypothesis about the Mid-Atlantic Ridge rift valley. It then logically transitions to her methodology of plotting sonar soundings to prove her claim. Next, it introduces the specific details of the maps she produced, specifically the V-shaped cleft that correlated with earthquake data. Finally, it shows how this evidence resolved the conflict and convinced her colleague, validating plate tectonics.
Step-by-Step Solution
1
Identify the introductory sentence that establishes the claim.
The sentence introducing Marie Tharp's conviction about a continuous rift valley and her colleague's dismissal serves as the logical starting point.
A paragraph must first state the claim or hypothesis being investigated before detailing the evidence gathered to support it.
2
Determine the methodology or action taken to find evidence.
The sentence describing Tharp plotting thousands of sonar soundings must follow the introduction.
This establishes how she gathered the data necessary to prove her hypothesis.
3
Locate the specific supporting evidence derived from the methodology.
The sentence detailing the V-shaped cleft on the maps and its correlation with earthquake epicenters is placed next.
This provides the concrete details and evidence that resulted directly from the plotting process described in the previous step.
4
Find the concluding sentence that shows the impact of the evidence.
The sentence showing Heezen's acceptance of the rift valley when confronted with this correlation completes the paragraph.
This resolves the initial conflict introduced in the first sentence by demonstrating how the evidence supported and proved the claim.
Key Concept
Supporting Claims with Evidence and Details
Estimated Time:1m 30s
Question 38Question →
The following five sentences are taken from a draft of an essay about the decipherment of Bronze Age scripts. Arrange these sentences in the most logical sequence so that each claim is immediately followed by its supporting evidence or details.
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Answer
The sentences should be ordered: (1) introduction of the traditional view of Linear B, (2) explanation of the pictographic basis for this consensus, (3) presentation of Michael Ventris's counter-hypothesis, (4) description of the specific geographical evidence validating his theory, and (5) the conclusion regarding the historical impact of this geographical link.
The paragraph begins with the traditional claim about Linear B, followed by the evidence supporting that view. It then introduces Ventris's counter-claim, followed by the specific evidence validating his claim, and concludes with the overall impact of that evidence.
Step-by-Step Solution
1
Identify the introductory sentence.
The sentence introducing Linear B and the initial assumption that it was non-Greek must start the paragraph.
It sets the context and defines the main subject of the paragraph.
2
Locate the evidence supporting the initial assumption.
The sentence starting with 'This consensus' logically follows the introduction.
It provides the specific evidence (pictographic characters not resembling Greek) that supports the initial claim of a non-Greek origin.
3
Identify the transition to the counter-hypothesis.
The sentence starting with 'However' introducing Ventris's hypothesis comes next.
It contrasts with the traditional consensus and introduces a new claim.
4
Find the evidence supporting the counter-hypothesis.
The sentence explaining how Ventris 'validated this controversial theory' follows the hypothesis.
It directly supports Ventris's claim with specific details (matching syllables to towns like Knossos and Amnisos).
5
Determine the concluding sentence.
The sentence starting with 'This geographical link' ends the paragraph.
It references the 'geographical link' established in the previous sentence and sums up the significance of the decipherment.
Key Concept
Supporting Claims with Evidence and Details
Question 39Question →
The following sentences are from a draft of an essay about mathematician Gladys West. To ensure the paragraph logically builds its claim with supporting evidence, arrange the sentences in the most logical order.
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Answer
The logical order of the sentences begins with the statement that Gladys West performed the essential mathematical modeling for GPS technology, followed by the explanation that she programmed computers to calculate a highly detailed model of the Earth's shape, and ends with the detail that this precise model incorporated gravitational and tidal forces to allow satellites to determine locations.
The paragraph is structured logically starting with the general claim that Gladys West's mathematical modeling enabled GPS technology. The next sentence supports this claim by explaining how she achieved this: programming computers to model the Earth's shape. The final sentence provides the specific, concrete details of this model (incorporating gravity and tides) and connects it back to the functionality of GPS satellites.
Step-by-Step Solution
1
Identify the central claim of the paragraph.
The sentence introducing Gladys West's mathematical modeling for GPS serves as the primary claim.
Paragraphs in essays typically begin with a clear topic sentence that introduces the main argument or claim.
2
Find the evidence that directly supports the claim.
The sentence about programming computers to calculate a detailed model of the Earth's shape provides the general evidence.
Evidence should follow the claim immediately to establish how the claim was achieved.
3
Determine the supporting details that elaborate on the evidence.
The sentence explaining that the model incorporated gravity and tidal forces to allow satellites to function provides the specific detail.
Specific technical details and applications logically succeed general descriptions.
Key Concept
Supporting claims with logical evidence and details requires introducing a central claim, presenting general evidence, and then providing specific details or explanation.
Estimated Time:45s
Question 40Question →
The following sentences are from a draft of an essay about the discovery of the cosmic microwave background radiation. To ensure the paragraph logically builds its claim that scientific discovery relies on systematically ruling out alternative explanations before accepting a cosmological conclusion, what is the most logical order of the sentences?
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Answer
The logical order of the sentences starts with the sentence establishing the central claim, followed by the sentence introducing the hum and initial assumption, then the sentence describing the troubleshooting process, followed by the sentence concluding the source was extraterrestrial after cleaning failed, and finally the sentence identifying the signal as cosmic microwave background radiation.
The correct sequence begins with the overarching claim that the discovery resulted from ruling out mundane explanations. It then introduces the initial detection of the hum and the assumption of terrestrial interference, followed by the specific details of troubleshooting (cleaning the antenna). Next, it notes the failure of the cleaning to solve the problem and the subsequent conclusion that the signal was extraterrestrial, ending with the identification of the signal as the cosmic microwave background radiation.
Step-by-Step Solution
1
Identify the main claim or topic sentence of the paragraph.
The sentence starting with 'The discovery of the Big Bang's echo' serves as the topic sentence because it states the central claim that the discovery was the result of ruling out mundane explanations.
Supporting paragraphs should begin with a clear claim that establishes the framework for the evidence that follows.
2
Find the sentence that introduces the primary evidence or starting point of the historical event.
The sentence starting with 'When physicists Arno Penzias and Robert Wilson' introduces the low-frequency hum in 1964.
This provides the necessary context and introduces the characters and the initial observation.
3
Trace the logical progression of troubleshooting and ruling out alternative explanations.
The sentence starting with 'They spent months troubleshooting' logically follows because it details the troubleshooting steps (cleaning the antenna) to address the interference.
This provides the specific details and evidence supporting the claim of systematically ruling out mundane sources.
4
Identify the transition that shows the results of the troubleshooting.
The sentence starting with 'Only after this thorough cleaning' must follow the cleaning details.
The phrase 'this thorough cleaning' is a transition that directly links back to the cleaning mentioned in the third sentence.
5
Confirm the final sentence that wraps up the paragraph by identifying the signal.
The sentence starting with 'This persistent signal' identifies the hum as the cosmic microwave background radiation.
This provides the resolution to the narrative and connects back to the 'Big Bang's echo' mentioned in the opening claim.
Key Concept
Supporting Claims with Evidence and Details
Estimated Time:1m 30s