16Hit 1600
Craft and StructureMediumOverall structure of a research text

Craft and Structure practice question

Textbooks long taught that sharks must swim continuously to push water over their gills, resting never. Then divers surveying Mexican caves found reef sharks lying motionless on the seafloor in groups, apparently asleep. The caves' upwelling currents, researchers realized, delivered oxygen-rich water to the resting animals — no swimming required.

Which choice best describes the overall structure of the text?

  1. A. A long-standing belief is described, then evidence against it is presented.Correct
  2. B. Two competing theories are introduced and both are confirmed.
  3. C. A discovery is announced, then its practical uses are listed.
  4. D. A problem is identified, then a solution is proposed and tested.

Answer: A. A long-standing belief is described, then evidence against it is presented.

The text first lays out the old belief (sharks must swim constantly) and then presents the observations that overturn it — belief, then counterevidence.

Why the other answers are wrong

B. Two competing theories are introduced and both are confirmed.
Only one belief is discussed, and it is undermined, not confirmed.
C. A discovery is announced, then its practical uses are listed.
No practical applications are mentioned.
D. A problem is identified, then a solution is proposed and tested.
The text corrects an idea; nothing is proposed or tested as a solution.

More Craft and Structure questions

Not affiliated with the College Board. SAT is a trademark of the College Board.