DSAT R&W Practice Question-Expression of Ideas-Transitions- Hard
DSAT R&W Practice Question-Expression of Ideas-Transitions- Hard
DSAT R&W Practice Question-Expression of Ideas-Transitions- Hard is part of Expression of Ideas : This section assesses the ability to revise and enhance written material for its intended purpose. Instead of rewriting passages, students will address grammatical and vocabulary issues through multiple-choice questions. For instance, students may need to choose the best edit to make a passage more persuasive or informative based on the provided rhetorical (persuasive writing) goals
Weightage : 20%
Subtopic: Expression of Ideas
Question
In a heated debate in biogeography, the field is divided between dispersalists and vicariancists. ______ there are those who argue that dispersal is the most crucial determining factor in a species’ distribution, and those who insist that vicariance (separation due to geographic barriers) is. Biogeographer Isabel Sanmartín counts herself among neither.
Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?
A. Furthermore,
B. By contrast,
C. Similarly,
D. That is,
▶️Answer/Explanation
Ans. D
Correct Answer: D
Rationale
Choice D is the best answer. “That is” logically signals that this sentence clarifies the terms of the scientific debate introduced in the previous sentence by explaining the difference between dispersalists and vicariancists.
Choice A is incorrect because “furthermore” illogically signals that the information in this sentence is merely additional to (and separate from) the information in the previous sentence about the scientific debate. Instead, the information about dispersalists and vicariancists clarifies the terms of that debate. Choice B is incorrect because “by contrast” illogically signals that the information in this sentence contrasts with the information in the previous sentence about the scientific debate. Instead, the information about dispersalists and vicariancists clarifies the terms of that debate. Choice C is incorrect because “similarly” illogically signals that the information in this sentence is merely similar to the information in the previous sentence about the scientific debate. Instead, the information about dispersalists and vicariancists clarifies the terms of that debate.
Question
In 1815, while in exile in Jamaica, Venezuelan revolutionary Simón Bolívar penned a letter praising England’s republican government and expressing hope that Latin American nations seeking independence from Spain might achieve something similar. The letter was addressed to a local merchant, Henry Cullen; ______ though, Bolívar’s goal was to persuade political leaders from England and Europe to support his cause.
Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?
A. additionally,
B. ultimately,
C. accordingly,
D. consequently,
▶️Answer/Explanation
Ans. B
Correct Answer: B
Rationale
Choice B is the best answer. “Ultimately” means “in the long run” or “at the highest level.” Although Bolívar wrote to a local merchant, his ultimate goal was to send a message to political leaders in Europe. Therefore, “ultimately” fits perfectly in this context.
Choice A is incorrect. This choice uses a transition that indicates the addition of an agreeing idea. However, the second part of the sentence actually disagrees with the first part. Bolívar addressed the letter to Cullen, but he was really sending a message to someone else. Notice how the contrast word “though” also acts as a transition between these ideas. Choice C is incorrect. This choice uses a cause-and-effect transition. Bolívar’s writing of the letter to Cullen would not cause him to have a goal of persuading European powers to support him. Choice D is incorrect. This choice uses a cause-and-effect transition. Bolívar’s writing of the letter to Cullen would not cause him to have a goal of persuading European powers to support him.