16Hit1600
Craft and StructureVery hardDistinguishing the tool from its use

Craft and Structure practice question

Text 1 A geographer claims that as online maps replace paper ones, people are losing the ability to find their way. Text 2 A cognitive scientist notes that people who follow turn-by-turn directions do form weaker mental maps of a place. But people who use an online map to study an area beforehand form mental maps as strong as those of paper-map users. The tool, she argues, matters less than how it is used.

Based on the texts, how would the cognitive scientist in Text 2 most likely respond to the geographer's claim?

  1. A. By accepting part of the claim while arguing that the loss depends on how online maps are used rather than on the maps themselves.Correct
  2. B. By denying that mental maps matter for finding one's way.
  3. C. By arguing that paper maps should be brought back.
  4. D. By agreeing that online maps always weaken navigation.

Answer: A. By accepting part of the claim while arguing that the loss depends on how online maps are used rather than on the maps themselves.

Text 2 grants that turn-by-turn use weakens mental maps, then shows another use that doesn't — and locates the difference in the use, not the tool.

Why the other answers are wrong

B. By denying that mental maps matter for finding one's way.
Text 2 treats mental maps as the measure of navigation ability.
C. By arguing that paper maps should be brought back.
No recommendation about paper maps is made.
D. By agreeing that online maps always weaken navigation.
Text 2 gives a case where online maps work as well as paper.

More Craft and Structure questions

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