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Difficulty: MediumPart-to-Whole Rhetorical Function

Roman dodecahedrons—small, hollow bronze objects with twelve pentagonal faces and circular holes of varying sizes—have puzzled archaeologists for centuries. Various hypotheses suggest they functioned as candle holders, surveying instruments, or even knitting tools. However, the discovery of a dodecahedron in a buried hoard alongside valuable coins and jewelry suggests that these objects held significant monetary or status value. This finding has led some researchers to propose that, regardless of their practical utility, dodecahedrons were prized possessions, possibly serving as symbols of wealth or prestige. Consequently, studies focusing solely on their mechanical utility may overlook the socio-economic context of their preservation.

Which choice best describes the function of the underlined sentence in the text as a whole?

  1. It introduces archaeological evidence that supports a shift in focus from the practical utility of the objects to their social or economic value.Answer
  2. B
    It presents a consensus among historical experts that resolves the debate over the primary mechanical utility of the objects.
  3. C
    It highlights a minor detail about the objects that the rest of the passage subsequently attempts to disprove.
  4. D
    It makes a speculative claim about the high cost of manufacturing the objects compared to other buried artifacts.

Answer

The option stating that the sentence introduces archaeological evidence supporting a shift from practical utility to social or economic value is correct.
The correct option correctly identifies that the underlined sentence introduces evidence (the discovery of a dodecahedron in a hoard with coins and jewelry) that redirects the focus of researchers from the physical functions of the objects to their socio-economic value.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the role of the sentences preceding the underlined sentence.
The first two sentences establish the mystery of Roman dodecahedrons and outline several functional hypotheses.
This establishes the initial context of the debate regarding their mechanical utility.
2
Analyze the underlined sentence itself.
The underlined sentence introduces new archaeological evidence (a dodecahedron found in a hoard of valuables) and suggests this points to monetary or status value.
This shifts the debate from physical function to social and economic status.
3
Analyze the sentences following the underlined sentence.
The remaining sentences explain how this evidence leads researchers to view the objects as prestigious possessions, criticizing studies that focus only on mechanical utility.
This shows that the rest of the text expands on the idea introduced by the underlined sentence, confirming its role as the catalyst for shifting the focus from utility to social value.

Key Concept

Identifying how a specific sentence develops an argument within a passage by introducing evidence that recontextualizes the subject.
Estimated Time:1m 15s
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Topics

Part-to-Whole Rhetorical Function

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