16Hit1600
Craft and StructureMediumFunction of a sentence giving a counterexample

Craft and Structure practice question

It is often said that a language dies when its last speaker dies. Cornish, however, lost its last native speakers in the eighteenth century and is now spoken again by a few thousand people who learned it from books and recordings.

Which choice best describes the function of the second sentence?

  1. A. It presents a case that complicates the claim made in the first sentence.Correct
  2. B. It gives an example that confirms the first sentence.
  3. C. It explains why languages die.
  4. D. It argues that Cornish should be taught in schools.

Answer: A. It presents a case that complicates the claim made in the first sentence.

'However' and a language that revived after its last speakers: the claim is challenged.

Why the other answers are wrong

B. It gives an example that confirms the first sentence.
Cornish's revival goes against the saying.
C. It explains why languages die.
Causes of death are not discussed.
D. It argues that Cornish should be taught in schools.
No policy is proposed.

More Craft and Structure questions

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