16Hit1600
Expression of IdeasEasy–MediumEmphasising a numerical scale

Expression of Ideas practice question

While researching a topic, a student has taken the following notes: - The Amazon river discharges about 209,000 cubic metres of water per second into the Atlantic. - This is more than the next seven largest rivers combined. - The fresh water dilutes the sea for about 160 kilometres offshore. - Early sailors could drink from the ocean before sighting land.

The student wants to emphasise the scale of the Amazon's discharge. Which choice most effectively uses relevant information from the notes to accomplish this goal?

  1. A. The Amazon pours about 209,000 cubic metres of water per second into the Atlantic — more than the next seven largest rivers combined.Correct
  2. B. The Amazon flows into the Atlantic Ocean.
  3. C. Sailors once drank sea water near the Amazon.
  4. D. Rivers vary greatly in how much water they carry.

Answer: A. The Amazon pours about 209,000 cubic metres of water per second into the Atlantic — more than the next seven largest rivers combined.

The figure plus a comparison to seven rivers together: that is scale.

Why the other answers are wrong

B. The Amazon flows into the Atlantic Ocean.
States the destination, not the scale.
C. Sailors once drank sea water near the Amazon.
Mentions the effect without the numbers or comparison.
D. Rivers vary greatly in how much water they carry.
A generality that never mentions the Amazon.

More Expression of Ideas questions

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