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Expression of IdeasVery hardSynthesis: why a manuscript date is suspect

Expression of Ideas practice question

While researching a topic, a student has taken the following notes: - The poem was first printed in 1798. - A manuscript copy is dated 1795 in the poet's own hand. - The date is written in a different ink from the poem. - Analysis shows the date's ink was not sold until 1801.

The student wants to explain why the manuscript's date should not be trusted. Which choice most effectively uses relevant information from the notes to accomplish this goal?

  1. A. Although the manuscript is dated 1795 in the poet's own hand, the date is written in an ink that was not sold until 1801, so it must have been added later.Correct
  2. B. The manuscript is dated 1795 in the poet's own hand.
  3. C. The poem was first printed in 1798.
  4. D. The poet used two inks.

Answer: A. Although the manuscript is dated 1795 in the poet's own hand, the date is written in an ink that was not sold until 1801, so it must have been added later.

The date's ink came after the date.

Why the other answers are wrong

B. The manuscript is dated 1795 in the poet's own hand.
Supports trusting the date.
C. The poem was first printed in 1798.
Printing date, no argument.
D. The poet used two inks.
True, but not the reason.

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