16Hit1600
Craft and StructureVery hardStructure of a passage on a failed prediction

Craft and Structure practice question

In 1970 a widely read report predicted that the world would run out of several metals within thirty years. The prediction rested on dividing known reserves by the rate of use. It ignored two things: that rising prices prompt exploration, which finds new reserves, and that they prompt substitution, which cuts demand. By 2000 the reserves of every metal named were larger than in 1970. The report was not dishonest; it was static, in a world that adjusts.

Which choice best describes the overall structure of the text?

  1. A. It presents a prediction, explains the reasoning behind it, identifies what that reasoning omitted, and reports the outcome.Correct
  2. B. It argues that metal reserves will soon run out.
  3. C. It lists several metals and their uses.
  4. D. It defends the report against its critics.

Answer: A. It presents a prediction, explains the reasoning behind it, identifies what that reasoning omitted, and reports the outcome.

Prediction, method, omission, outcome, verdict.

Why the other answers are wrong

B. It argues that metal reserves will soon run out.
The passage reports the opposite.
C. It lists several metals and their uses.
No metals are named or described.
D. It defends the report against its critics.
The passage explains why the report was wrong.

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