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Expression of IdeasVery hardIntroducing a contrast between two studies

Expression of Ideas practice question

While researching a topic, a student has taken the following notes: - A 2015 study found that city cyclists who wore helmets were involved in fewer crashes than those who did not. - The study did not control for how cautiously the cyclists rode. - A 2021 study compared the same cyclists before and after they began wearing helmets. - It found no change in their crash rates. The student wants to explain why the 2021 study's finding differs from the 2015 study's.

Which choice most effectively uses relevant information from the notes to accomplish this goal?

  1. A. Because the 2021 study compared the same cyclists with and without helmets, it avoided the 2015 study's problem of cautious riders being more likely to wear helmets in the first place.Correct
  2. B. The 2015 study found that helmeted cyclists had fewer crashes.
  3. C. The 2021 study was published six years after the 2015 study.
  4. D. Both studies looked at city cyclists.

Answer: A. Because the 2021 study compared the same cyclists with and without helmets, it avoided the 2015 study's problem of cautious riders being more likely to wear helmets in the first place.

The design difference explains the different results.

Why the other answers are wrong

B. The 2015 study found that helmeted cyclists had fewer crashes.
States one result without explaining the difference.
C. The 2021 study was published six years after the 2015 study.
Timing does not explain the findings.
D. Both studies looked at city cyclists.
A similarity, not an explanation.

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