16Hit1600
Craft and StructureVery hardOverall structure: assumption, test, refined view

Craft and Structure practice question

It was assumed that the village's oldest houses were the stone ones, since stone lasts. Tree-ring dating of their roof beams told a different story: the stone houses were built in the 1700s, while three timber-framed cottages, dismissed as later additions, had beams felled in the 1520s. Stone lasts; but so, it turns out, does oak, if the roof is kept on.

Which choice best describes the overall structure of the text?

  1. A. It states an assumption, presents dating evidence that reverses it, and closes with a qualified version of the original idea.Correct
  2. B. It argues that stone houses should be demolished.
  3. C. It describes how tree-ring dating works.
  4. D. It lists the village's houses by age.

Answer: A. It states an assumption, presents dating evidence that reverses it, and closes with a qualified version of the original idea.

Assumption, tree-ring reversal, and a wry qualification.

Why the other answers are wrong

B. It argues that stone houses should be demolished.
No such argument.
C. It describes how tree-ring dating works.
The method is named, not explained.
D. It lists the village's houses by age.
Only two groups are mentioned.

More Craft and Structure questions

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