Organization practice questions

Organization questions

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1. 1OrganizationFoundation

   A short report will discuss a local theater's history, its current youth program, and plans for a renovated stage. Which order would be most logical?A short report will discuss a local theater's history, its current youth program, and plans for a renovated stage. Which order would be most logical?

   • ACurrent program, future plans, historyCurrent program, future plans, history
   • BFuture plans, current program, historyFuture plans, current program, history
   • CCurrent program, history, future plansCurrent program, history, future plans
   • DHistory, current program, future plansHistory, current program, future plans
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   Answer: History, current program, future plansHistory, current program, future plans

   Moving from past to present to future gives readers a clear chronological structure.Moving from past to present to future gives readers a clear chronological structure.

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2. 2OrganizationStandard

   A paragraph explains how a farmer collects rainwater, filters it, and uses it to irrigate seedlings. Where should the sentence "The collected water then flows through a simple filter" be placed?A paragraph explains how a farmer collects rainwater, filters it, and uses it to irrigate seedlings. Where should the sentence "The collected water then flows through a simple filter" be placed?

   • AAt the beginning of a paragraph about crop prices.At the beginning of a paragraph about crop prices.
   • BBefore the sentence describing collection.Before the sentence describing collection.
   • CAfter the final sentence as an unrelated conclusion.After the final sentence as an unrelated conclusion.
   • DAfter the sentence describing collection and before the sentence describing irrigation.After the sentence describing collection and before the sentence describing irrigation.
   Show the answer and explanationHide the explanation

   Answer: After the sentence describing collection and before the sentence describing irrigation.After the sentence describing collection and before the sentence describing irrigation.

   The sentence describes the middle step in the stated sequence: collection, filtering, then irrigation.The sentence describes the middle step in the stated sequence: collection, filtering, then irrigation.

   How did you do?Got itMissed it
3. 3OrganizationStandard

   A writer is introducing a paragraph about a new farmers' market. Which opening sentence best prepares readers for details about vendors, payment options, and weekly schedules?A writer is introducing a paragraph about a new farmers' market. Which opening sentence best prepares readers for details about vendors, payment options, and weekly schedules?

   • AThe writer once visited a market while traveling abroad.The writer once visited a market while traveling abroad.
   • BFarmers have grown food for thousands of years.Farmers have grown food for thousands of years.
   • CMarkets are always more popular than grocery stores.Markets are always more popular than grocery stores.
   • DThe market offers practical information for shoppers planning a visit.The market offers practical information for shoppers planning a visit.
   Show the answer and explanationHide the explanation

   Answer: The market offers practical information for shoppers planning a visit.The market offers practical information for shoppers planning a visit.

   The sentence forecasts the paragraph's practical details. The other choices are too broad, off-topic, or unsupported.The sentence forecasts the paragraph's practical details. The other choices are too broad, off-topic, or unsupported.

   How did you do?Got itMissed it
4. 4OrganizationStandard

   A paragraph explains that a printmaker mixes the ink, inks the plate, presses the paper, and then pulls the print. Where in the paragraph does a sentence describing how the finished print is hung to dry belong?A paragraph explains that a printmaker mixes the ink, inks the plate, presses the paper, and then pulls the print. Where in the paragraph does a sentence describing how the finished print is hung to dry belong?

   • ABetween mixing the ink and inking the plate.Between mixing the ink and inking the plate.
   • BAt the beginning, before the ink is mixed.At the beginning, before the ink is mixed.
   • CAt the end, after the print is pulled.At the end, after the print is pulled.
   • DBetween inking the plate and pressing the paper.Between inking the plate and pressing the paper.
   Show the answer and explanationHide the explanation

   Answer: At the end, after the print is pulled.At the end, after the print is pulled.

   The paragraph follows the order of the process, and drying can only happen once a print exists. Any earlier position would break the sequence.The paragraph follows the order of the process, and drying can only happen once a print exists. Any earlier position would break the sequence.

   How did you do?Got itMissed it
5. 5OrganizationStandard

   A writer is concluding a paragraph about the growth of a volunteer tutoring program. Which choice most effectively concludes the paragraph?A writer is concluding a paragraph about the growth of a volunteer tutoring program. Which choice most effectively concludes the paragraph?

   • AThe program's founder studied education before moving to the district.The program's founder studied education before moving to the district.
   • BWhat began with four tutors in one classroom now reaches six schools across the district.What began with four tutors in one classroom now reaches six schools across the district.
   • CTutoring is one of many volunteer activities available in the area.Tutoring is one of many volunteer activities available in the area.
   • DVolunteers are asked to complete a short training session.Volunteers are asked to complete a short training session.
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   Answer: What began with four tutors in one classroom now reaches six schools across the district.What began with four tutors in one classroom now reaches six schools across the district.

   A conclusion about growth should close the arc it describes, which this choice does by placing the beginning next to the present scale. The others introduce unrelated background.A conclusion about growth should close the arc it describes, which this choice does by placing the beginning next to the present scale. The others introduce unrelated background.

   How did you do?Got itMissed it
6. 6OrganizationStandard

   A short report will cover a bakery's founding, the staff who work there now, and a plan to open a second location. Which order of these three topics is most logical?A short report will cover a bakery's founding, the staff who work there now, and a plan to open a second location. Which order of these three topics is most logical?

   • AThe founding, the current staff, then the planned second location.The founding, the current staff, then the planned second location.
   • BThe planned second location, the current staff, then the founding.The planned second location, the current staff, then the founding.
   • CThe planned second location, the founding, then the current staff.The planned second location, the founding, then the current staff.
   • DThe current staff, the planned second location, then the founding.The current staff, the planned second location, then the founding.
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   Answer: The founding, the current staff, then the planned second location.The founding, the current staff, then the planned second location.

   The three topics fall naturally into past, present, and future, and a report that follows that order lets each section build on the one before it.The three topics fall naturally into past, present, and future, and a report that follows that order lets each section build on the one before it.

   How did you do?Got itMissed it
7. 7OrganizationStandard

   A writer is beginning a paragraph that will explain three causes of a local river's improved water quality. Which choice most effectively introduces the paragraph?A writer is beginning a paragraph that will explain three causes of a local river's improved water quality. Which choice most effectively introduces the paragraph?

   • AWater quality is measured in several different ways.Water quality is measured in several different ways.
   • BThree changes over the past decade account for most of the river's recovery.Three changes over the past decade account for most of the river's recovery.
   • CThe river runs for eleven miles before reaching the estuary.The river runs for eleven miles before reaching the estuary.
   • DMany rivers in the region have been studied by ecologists.Many rivers in the region have been studied by ecologists.
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   Answer: Three changes over the past decade account for most of the river's recovery.Three changes over the past decade account for most of the river's recovery.

   An introduction should name what the paragraph will do, and this choice announces both the number of causes and the outcome they explain. The others open topics the paragraph does not pursue.An introduction should name what the paragraph will do, and this choice announces both the number of causes and the outcome they explain. The others open topics the paragraph does not pursue.

   How did you do?Got itMissed it
8. 8OrganizationStandard

   A writer has described a printing press's mechanism in detail and now wants to move to its effect on local publishing. Which sentence best makes that transition?A writer has described a printing press's mechanism in detail and now wants to move to its effect on local publishing. Which sentence best makes that transition?

   • AWhat this mechanism made possible was a change in who could afford to publish.What this mechanism made possible was a change in who could afford to publish.
   • BThe press was operated by a lever and a screw.The press was operated by a lever and a screw.
   • CPrinting presses were used across Europe by this period.Printing presses were used across Europe by this period.
   • DThe publisher's family had lived in the town for generations.The publisher's family had lived in the town for generations.
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   Answer: What this mechanism made possible was a change in who could afford to publish.What this mechanism made possible was a change in who could afford to publish.

   A transition should carry the reader from the old subject to the new one, and this sentence names both. The others repeat mechanism detail or introduce unrelated background.A transition should carry the reader from the old subject to the new one, and this sentence names both. The others repeat mechanism detail or introduce unrelated background.

   How did you do?Got itMissed it
9. 9OrganizationStandard

   A paragraph argues that a policy succeeded. Where does a sentence acknowledging one district where it did not work belong?A paragraph argues that a policy succeeded. Where does a sentence acknowledging one district where it did not work belong?

   • AImmediately after the topic sentence, before any evidence.Immediately after the topic sentence, before any evidence.
   • BIt does not belong in a paragraph arguing that the policy succeeded.It does not belong in a paragraph arguing that the policy succeeded.
   • CAs the paragraph's first sentence, before any evidence.As the paragraph's first sentence, before any evidence.
   • DAfter the supporting evidence, so the exception qualifies an established case.After the supporting evidence, so the exception qualifies an established case.
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   Answer: After the supporting evidence, so the exception qualifies an established case.After the supporting evidence, so the exception qualifies an established case.

   An exception placed before the evidence undercuts an argument that has not yet been made. Placed after it, the same sentence makes the case more credible rather than less.An exception placed before the evidence undercuts an argument that has not yet been made. Placed after it, the same sentence makes the case more credible rather than less.

   How did you do?Got itMissed it
10. 10OrganizationStandard

    A paragraph will explain how a bell is cast: preparing the mold, melting the metal, pouring, cooling, and tuning. Where does a sentence about testing the finished pitch belong?A paragraph will explain how a bell is cast: preparing the mold, melting the metal, pouring, cooling, and tuning. Where does a sentence about testing the finished pitch belong?

    • ABetween pouring and cooling.Between pouring and cooling.
    • BBetween melting and pouring.Between melting and pouring.
    • CAt the beginning, with mold preparation.At the beginning, with mold preparation.
    • DAt the end, with tuning.At the end, with tuning.
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    Answer: At the end, with tuning.At the end, with tuning.

    The paragraph follows the order of the process, and a pitch can only be tested once the bell exists and is being tuned.The paragraph follows the order of the process, and a pitch can only be tested once the bell exists and is being tuned.

    How did you do?Got itMissed it
11. 11OrganizationStandard

    A writer is concluding a paragraph about a village shop that reopened under community ownership. Which choice most effectively concludes the paragraph?A writer is concluding a paragraph about a village shop that reopened under community ownership. Which choice most effectively concludes the paragraph?

    • AThe shop sells newspapers, bread and tinned goods.The shop sells newspapers, bread and tinned goods.
    • BCommunity ownership is one of several models for rural retail.Community ownership is one of several models for rural retail.
    • CThe previous owner had run the shop for thirty years.The previous owner had run the shop for thirty years.
    • DWhat had closed as a private business now opens six days a week, run by forty volunteers.What had closed as a private business now opens six days a week, run by forty volunteers.
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    Answer: What had closed as a private business now opens six days a week, run by forty volunteers.What had closed as a private business now opens six days a week, run by forty volunteers.

    A conclusion should close the arc the paragraph describes, and this places the closure next to the present arrangement. The others introduce background or a general category.A conclusion should close the arc the paragraph describes, and this places the closure next to the present arrangement. The others introduce background or a general category.

    How did you do?Got itMissed it
12. 12OrganizationStandard

    A paragraph describes how a violin is set up: fitting the soundpost, adjusting the bridge, stringing, and tuning. Where does a sentence about checking the instrument's tone belong?A paragraph describes how a violin is set up: fitting the soundpost, adjusting the bridge, stringing, and tuning. Where does a sentence about checking the instrument's tone belong?

    • ABetween the soundpost and the bridge.Between the soundpost and the bridge.
    • BAt the end, after tuning.At the end, after tuning.
    • CBetween the bridge and stringing.Between the bridge and stringing.
    • DAt the beginning, before the soundpost.At the beginning, before the soundpost.
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    Answer: At the end, after tuning.At the end, after tuning.

    The paragraph follows the order of the process, and tone can only be judged once the instrument is strung and tuned.The paragraph follows the order of the process, and tone can only be judged once the instrument is strung and tuned.

    How did you do?Got itMissed it
13. 13OrganizationStandard

    A writer is concluding a paragraph about a canal towpath reopened after twenty years. Which choice most effectively concludes the paragraph?A writer is concluding a paragraph about a canal towpath reopened after twenty years. Which choice most effectively concludes the paragraph?

    • AThe towpath is surfaced with compacted gravel.The towpath is surfaced with compacted gravel.
    • BCanals were once the principal means of moving freight in the region.Canals were once the principal means of moving freight in the region.
    • CA route that had been impassable since 2004 now carries walkers between the two locks again.A route that had been impassable since 2004 now carries walkers between the two locks again.
    • DRestoration work of this kind is funded in several different ways.Restoration work of this kind is funded in several different ways.
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    Answer: A route that had been impassable since 2004 now carries walkers between the two locks again.A route that had been impassable since 2004 now carries walkers between the two locks again.

    A conclusion should close the arc the paragraph describes, placing the closure beside the present use. The others introduce background or generalise away from the towpath.A conclusion should close the arc the paragraph describes, placing the closure beside the present use. The others introduce background or generalise away from the towpath.

    How did you do?Got itMissed it
14. 14OrganizationStandard

    A paragraph describes how a photograph is developed: mixing the chemicals, exposing the paper, developing, fixing, and washing. Where does a sentence about hanging the print to dry belong?A paragraph describes how a photograph is developed: mixing the chemicals, exposing the paper, developing, fixing, and washing. Where does a sentence about hanging the print to dry belong?

    • ABetween exposing and developing.Between exposing and developing.
    • BAt the beginning, before mixing.At the beginning, before mixing.
    • CAt the end, after washing.At the end, after washing.
    • DBetween developing and fixing.Between developing and fixing.
    Show the answer and explanationHide the explanation

    Answer: At the end, after washing.At the end, after washing.

    The paragraph follows the order of the process, and drying can only follow the final wet stage.The paragraph follows the order of the process, and drying can only follow the final wet stage.

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15. 15OrganizationStandard

    A writer is concluding a paragraph about a bus route restored after being cut. Which choice most effectively concludes the paragraph?A writer is concluding a paragraph about a bus route restored after being cut. Which choice most effectively concludes the paragraph?

    • AThe route passes three schools and a hospital.The route passes three schools and a hospital.
    • BA route withdrawn in 2019 now carries more passengers than it did before it was cut.A route withdrawn in 2019 now carries more passengers than it did before it was cut.
    • CSeveral other routes in the county were also withdrawn.Several other routes in the county were also withdrawn.
    • DBus services are funded through a mix of fares and subsidy.Bus services are funded through a mix of fares and subsidy.
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    Answer: A route withdrawn in 2019 now carries more passengers than it did before it was cut.A route withdrawn in 2019 now carries more passengers than it did before it was cut.

    A conclusion should close the arc the paragraph describes, placing the withdrawal beside the present position. The others introduce background or widen to other routes.A conclusion should close the arc the paragraph describes, placing the withdrawal beside the present position. The others introduce background or widen to other routes.

    How did you do?Got itMissed it
16. 16OrganizationStandard

    A paragraph currently reads:(1) The first pillar boxes appeared in Jersey in 1852. (2) They were painted green. (3) Anthony Trollope, then a Post Office surveyor, had proposed them after seeing similar boxes in France. (4) Red was adopted in 1874 because the green boxes proved hard to see.Where should sentence 3 be placed?A paragraph currently reads: (1) The first pillar boxes appeared in Jersey in 1852. (2) They were painted green. (3) Anthony Trollope, then a Post Office surveyor, had proposed them after seeing similar boxes in France. (4) Red was adopted in 1874 because the green boxes proved hard to see. Where should sentence 3 be placed?

    • AWhere it is nowWhere it is now
    • BBefore sentence 1Before sentence 1
    • CAfter sentence 4After sentence 4
    • DBetween sentences 1 and 2Between sentences 1 and 2
    Show the answer and explanationHide the explanation

    Answer: Between sentences 1 and 2Between sentences 1 and 2

    Sentences 2 and 4 are one thread about color and should run together, so sentence 3 has to come before them rather than between them. It cannot open the paragraph either: "them" would then have nothing to refer back to.Sentences 2 and 4 are one thread about color and should run together, so sentence 3 has to come before them rather than between them. It cannot open the paragraph either: "them" would then have nothing to refer back to.

    How did you do?Got itMissed it
17. 17OrganizationStandard

    A paragraph currently reads:(1) Cochineal dye comes from an insect that feeds on prickly pear. (2) Spanish traders kept its source secret for more than two centuries. (3) It produces a red that no European plant could match. (4) The secret held until a French botanist smuggled live insects out of Oaxaca in 1777.Where should sentence 3 be placed?A paragraph currently reads: (1) Cochineal dye comes from an insect that feeds on prickly pear. (2) Spanish traders kept its source secret for more than two centuries. (3) It produces a red that no European plant could match. (4) The secret held until a French botanist smuggled live insects out of Oaxaca in 1777. Where should sentence 3 be placed?

    • AWhere it is nowWhere it is now
    • BBetween sentences 1 and 2Between sentences 1 and 2
    • CAfter sentence 4After sentence 4
    • DBefore sentence 1Before sentence 1
    Show the answer and explanationHide the explanation

    Answer: Between sentences 1 and 2Between sentences 1 and 2

    Sentence 3 explains why the source was worth keeping secret, so it has to arrive before the secrecy rather than in the middle of it. It cannot open the paragraph either: "It produces" would have nothing to refer back to.Sentence 3 explains why the source was worth keeping secret, so it has to arrive before the secrecy rather than in the middle of it. It cannot open the paragraph either: "It produces" would have nothing to refer back to.

    How did you do?Got itMissed it
18. 18OrganizationStandard

    A paragraph currently reads:(1) The lock was built in 1810. (2) It could raise a barge nine feet. (3) Its gates were replaced in oak in 1972. (4) The original gates were elm.Where should sentence 4 be placed?A paragraph currently reads: (1) The lock was built in 1810. (2) It could raise a barge nine feet. (3) Its gates were replaced in oak in 1972. (4) The original gates were elm. Where should sentence 4 be placed?

    • AWhere it is nowWhere it is now
    • BBetween sentences 2 and 3Between sentences 2 and 3
    • CBefore sentence 1Before sentence 1
    • DIt should be deletedIt should be deleted
    Show the answer and explanationHide the explanation

    Answer: Between sentences 2 and 3Between sentences 2 and 3

    What was there originally has to come before what replaced it, or sentence 3 introduces a replacement for something the reader has not met. The detail is not redundant: without it, the change of timber in 1972 says nothing.What was there originally has to come before what replaced it, or sentence 3 introduces a replacement for something the reader has not met. The detail is not redundant: without it, the change of timber in 1972 says nothing.

    How did you do?Got itMissed it
19. 19OrganizationStandard

    A paragraph about a bakery runs in this order: (1) how the sourdough starter is fed, (2) the bakery's opening hours, (3) how long the dough is left to prove, (4) the temperature of the oven.Which revision most improves the paragraph?A paragraph about a bakery runs in this order: (1) how the sourdough starter is fed, (2) the bakery's opening hours, (3) how long the dough is left to prove, (4) the temperature of the oven. Which revision most improves the paragraph?

    • ADelete sentence 1.Delete sentence 1.
    • BMove sentence 1 to the end.Move sentence 1 to the end.
    • CMove sentence 4 to the beginning.Move sentence 4 to the beginning.
    • DMove sentence 2 out of the sequence, so the three stages of baking run together.Move sentence 2 out of the sequence, so the three stages of baking run together.
    Show the answer and explanationHide the explanation

    Answer: Move sentence 2 out of the sequence, so the three stages of baking run together.Move sentence 2 out of the sequence, so the three stages of baking run together.

    Sentences 1, 3 and 4 are one process in order, and the opening hours interrupt it. The fix is to move the interruption rather than to rearrange the process, which is already in the right sequence.Sentences 1, 3 and 4 are one process in order, and the opening hours interrupt it. The fix is to move the interruption rather than to rearrange the process, which is already in the right sequence.

    How did you do?Got itMissed it
20. 20OrganizationStandard

    A paragraph currently reads:(1) The vaccine reached the village in June. (2) Cases fell from 40 a week to under 5. (3) The nearest clinic was 60 km away. (4) A refrigerated van was borrowed from a dairy.Where should sentence 3 be placed?A paragraph currently reads: (1) The vaccine reached the village in June. (2) Cases fell from 40 a week to under 5. (3) The nearest clinic was 60 km away. (4) A refrigerated van was borrowed from a dairy. Where should sentence 3 be placed?

    • AWhere it is nowWhere it is now
    • BAfter sentence 4After sentence 4
    • CBefore sentence 1Before sentence 1
    • DIt should be deletedIt should be deleted
    Show the answer and explanationHide the explanation

    Answer: Before sentence 1Before sentence 1

    Sentence 3 is the obstacle that explains why a van had to be borrowed and why the arrival in June was notable. Placed where it is, it interrupts the result with a fact that belongs to the setup.Sentence 3 is the obstacle that explains why a van had to be borrowed and why the arrival in June was notable. Placed where it is, it interrupts the result with a fact that belongs to the setup.

    How did you do?Got itMissed it
21. 21OrganizationStandard

    A paragraph about a canal contains: (1) the canal's length, (2) the cargo it carried, (3) why it was built, (4) the year it closed.Which order best suits a paragraph explaining the canal's purpose?A paragraph about a canal contains: (1) the canal's length, (2) the cargo it carried, (3) why it was built, (4) the year it closed. Which order best suits a paragraph explaining the canal's purpose?

    • A1, 2, 3, 41, 2, 3, 4
    • B4, 3, 2, 14, 3, 2, 1
    • C2, 1, 3, 42, 1, 3, 4
    • D3, 1, 2, 43, 1, 2, 4
    Show the answer and explanationHide the explanation

    Answer: 3, 1, 2, 43, 1, 2, 4

    A paragraph about purpose opens with the purpose, and the length and cargo then show how that purpose was served. Leaving the reason until third makes the reader hold two facts without knowing why either matters.A paragraph about purpose opens with the purpose, and the length and cargo then show how that purpose was served. Leaving the reason until third makes the reader hold two facts without knowing why either matters.

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22. 22OrganizationStandard

    A paragraph currently reads:(1) The reservoir was drained for repairs in 2018. (2) The remains of a village flooded in 1936 became visible. (3) Photographs taken that summer are the only detailed record of the site. (4) The dam had developed a leak along its eastern face.Where should sentence 4 be placed?A paragraph currently reads: (1) The reservoir was drained for repairs in 2018. (2) The remains of a village flooded in 1936 became visible. (3) Photographs taken that summer are the only detailed record of the site. (4) The dam had developed a leak along its eastern face. Where should sentence 4 be placed?

    • AWhere it is nowWhere it is now
    • BBetween sentences 1 and 2Between sentences 1 and 2
    • CIt should be deletedIt should be deleted
    • DBefore sentence 1Before sentence 1
    Show the answer and explanationHide the explanation

    Answer: Before sentence 1Before sentence 1

    Sentence 4 is the reason for the draining, so it belongs before the draining rather than three sentences after it. Left at the end, it interrupts a paragraph that has moved on to the village and the photographs.Sentence 4 is the reason for the draining, so it belongs before the draining rather than three sentences after it. Left at the end, it interrupts a paragraph that has moved on to the village and the photographs.

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23. 23OrganizationStandard

    A paragraph currently reads:(1) The lighthouse was automated in 1989. (2) Its lens floats on a bath of mercury. (3) The last keepers left that October. (4) The lens still turns on the original mechanism.Where should sentence 2 be placed?A paragraph currently reads: (1) The lighthouse was automated in 1989. (2) Its lens floats on a bath of mercury. (3) The last keepers left that October. (4) The lens still turns on the original mechanism. Where should sentence 2 be placed?

    • AWhere it is nowWhere it is now
    • BAfter sentence 4After sentence 4
    • CBefore sentence 1Before sentence 1
    • DBetween sentences 3 and 4Between sentences 3 and 4
    Show the answer and explanationHide the explanation

    Answer: Between sentences 3 and 4Between sentences 3 and 4

    Sentences 1 and 3 are one thread about automation and sentences 2 and 4 are another about the lens. Sentence 2 currently splits the first thread; moving it beside sentence 4 keeps both threads whole.Sentences 1 and 3 are one thread about automation and sentences 2 and 4 are another about the lens. Sentence 2 currently splits the first thread; moving it beside sentence 4 keeps both threads whole.

    How did you do?Got itMissed it
24. 24OrganizationStandard

    A paragraph currently reads:(1) The kiln was rediscovered in 1974. (2) It had been buried when the field was plowed in the 1950s. (3) Its floor is intact. (4) Only two kilns of this type survive anywhere.Where should sentence 4 be placed?A paragraph currently reads: (1) The kiln was rediscovered in 1974. (2) It had been buried when the field was plowed in the 1950s. (3) Its floor is intact. (4) Only two kilns of this type survive anywhere. Where should sentence 4 be placed?

    • AWhere it is nowWhere it is now
    • BBetween sentences 1 and 2Between sentences 1 and 2
    • CIt should be deletedIt should be deleted
    • DBefore sentence 1Before sentence 1
    Show the answer and explanationHide the explanation

    Answer: Before sentence 1Before sentence 1

    Sentence 4 says why any of this matters, and a reader who meets it first understands the rediscovery as significant rather than merely local. At the end it arrives after the reader has already decided how much to care.Sentence 4 says why any of this matters, and a reader who meets it first understands the rediscovery as significant rather than merely local. At the end it arrives after the reader has already decided how much to care.

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25. 25OrganizationChallenge

    A paragraph argues that a museum's late-opening evenings succeeded. Where does a sentence noting that attendance fell in the first two months belong?A paragraph argues that a museum's late-opening evenings succeeded. Where does a sentence noting that attendance fell in the first two months belong?

    • AEarly, so the later evidence answers it.Early, so the later evidence answers it.
    • BIt does not belong in a paragraph arguing the evenings succeeded.It does not belong in a paragraph arguing the evenings succeeded.
    • CImmediately after the concluding sentence.Immediately after the concluding sentence.
    • DAt the very end, as the paragraph's conclusion.At the very end, as the paragraph's conclusion.
    Show the answer and explanationHide the explanation

    Answer: Early, so the later evidence answers it.Early, so the later evidence answers it.

    A difficulty raised early and then answered strengthens an argument; the same sentence placed at the end undoes the case the paragraph just made.A difficulty raised early and then answered strengthens an argument; the same sentence placed at the end undoes the case the paragraph just made.

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26. 26OrganizationChallenge

    A paragraph argues that a new bus route succeeded. Where does a sentence noting that the route runs at a financial loss belong?A paragraph argues that a new bus route succeeded. Where does a sentence noting that the route runs at a financial loss belong?

    • AAs the paragraph's first sentence.As the paragraph's first sentence.
    • BIt should be omitted from a paragraph about success.It should be omitted from a paragraph about success.
    • CAfter the evidence of success, where it qualifies rather than contradicts.After the evidence of success, where it qualifies rather than contradicts.
    • DAs the paragraph's final sentence.As the paragraph's final sentence.
    Show the answer and explanationHide the explanation

    Answer: After the evidence of success, where it qualifies rather than contradicts.After the evidence of success, where it qualifies rather than contradicts.

    A cost placed after the case has been made narrows it; placed first it pre-empts the case, and placed last it leaves the loss as the reader's final impression. Omitting a true and relevant fact is not an option an honest paragraph has.A cost placed after the case has been made narrows it; placed first it pre-empts the case, and placed last it leaves the loss as the reader's final impression. Omitting a true and relevant fact is not an option an honest paragraph has.

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27. 27OrganizationChallenge

    A paragraph argues that a new footbridge was worth building. Where does a sentence noting that it opened a year late belong?A paragraph argues that a new footbridge was worth building. Where does a sentence noting that it opened a year late belong?

    • AAs the paragraph's final sentence.As the paragraph's final sentence.
    • BImmediately before the topic sentence.Immediately before the topic sentence.
    • CIt should be left out of a paragraph arguing the bridge was worthwhile.It should be left out of a paragraph arguing the bridge was worthwhile.
    • DEarly, so the evidence that follows answers it.Early, so the evidence that follows answers it.
    Show the answer and explanationHide the explanation

    Answer: Early, so the evidence that follows answers it.Early, so the evidence that follows answers it.

    A difficulty raised early and then answered strengthens the case; the same sentence at the end leaves the delay as the reader's final impression, and omitting a true fact is not an honest option.A difficulty raised early and then answered strengthens the case; the same sentence at the end leaves the delay as the reader's final impression, and omitting a true fact is not an honest option.

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28. 28OrganizationChallenge

    A restaurant review opens on the noise of the room, spends its middle on three dishes, and closes by returning to the noise to say it made conversation impossible. A reader objects that the closing paragraph merely repeats the opening.Which response best defends the review's structure?A restaurant review opens on the noise of the room, spends its middle on three dishes, and closes by returning to the noise to say it made conversation impossible. A reader objects that the closing paragraph merely repeats the opening. Which response best defends the review's structure?

    • AThe repetition is accidental, and the closing paragraph should be cut.The repetition is accidental, and the closing paragraph should be cut.
    • BThe opening raises the noise as an observation and the close turns it into a judgment, which is not repetition.The opening raises the noise as an observation and the close turns it into a judgment, which is not repetition.
    • CReviews conventionally end where they began.Reviews conventionally end where they began.
    • DThe three dishes are the review's real subject, so the frame around them hardly matters.The three dishes are the review's real subject, so the frame around them hardly matters.
    Show the answer and explanationHide the explanation

    Answer: The opening raises the noise as an observation and the close turns it into a judgment, which is not repetition.The opening raises the noise as an observation and the close turns it into a judgment, which is not repetition.

    A defense has to say what the second mention does that the first did not, and the shift from noticing the noise to weighing it is exactly that. Appealing to convention defends the shape without defending this use of it.A defense has to say what the second mention does that the first did not, and the shift from noticing the noise to weighing it is exactly that. Appealing to convention defends the shape without defending this use of it.

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29. 29OrganizationChallenge

    A profile of a violin maker is arranged chronologically: the apprenticeship, the first workshop, the years of obscurity, and the late recognition. The writer is considering opening with the recognition instead and then going back.Which is the strongest reason to make that change?A profile of a violin maker is arranged chronologically: the apprenticeship, the first workshop, the years of obscurity, and the late recognition. The writer is considering opening with the recognition instead and then going back. Which is the strongest reason to make that change?

    • AIt gives the reader a reason to care about the obscure years before reading them.It gives the reader a reason to care about the obscure years before reading them.
    • BChronological order is always a weaker arrangement than the alternatives.Chronological order is always a weaker arrangement than the alternatives.
    • CIt makes the profile shorter.It makes the profile shorter.
    • DIt removes the need to mention the apprenticeship.It removes the need to mention the apprenticeship.
    Show the answer and explanationHide the explanation

    Answer: It gives the reader a reason to care about the obscure years before reading them.It gives the reader a reason to care about the obscure years before reading them.

    Moving the recognition forward tells the reader where the obscurity leads, which is what makes it worth following. Rearranging cuts nothing and omits nothing, and no order is better in every case.Moving the recognition forward tells the reader where the obscurity leads, which is what makes it worth following. Rearranging cuts nothing and omits nothing, and no order is better in every case.

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30. 30OrganizationChallenge

    A paragraph explaining a change in the law runs in this order: (1) the problem the old rule caused, (2) the wording of the new rule, (3) an example of the old rule going wrong, (4) the date the change took effect.Which revision most improves the paragraph?A paragraph explaining a change in the law runs in this order: (1) the problem the old rule caused, (2) the wording of the new rule, (3) an example of the old rule going wrong, (4) the date the change took effect. Which revision most improves the paragraph?

    • AMove sentence 4 to the beginning.Move sentence 4 to the beginning.
    • BDelete sentence 3, which repeats sentence 1.Delete sentence 3, which repeats sentence 1.
    • CMove sentence 2 to the end.Move sentence 2 to the end.
    • DMove sentence 3 to follow sentence 1, so that the problem and its illustration stay together.Move sentence 3 to follow sentence 1, so that the problem and its illustration stay together.
    Show the answer and explanationHide the explanation

    Answer: Move sentence 3 to follow sentence 1, so that the problem and its illustration stay together.Move sentence 3 to follow sentence 1, so that the problem and its illustration stay together.

    As written, the new rule interrupts the account of the old one. An example is not a repetition of the claim it illustrates, so deleting it loses the evidence, and neither the date nor the wording is the paragraph's organizing idea.As written, the new rule interrupts the account of the old one. An example is not a repetition of the claim it illustrates, so deleting it loses the evidence, and neither the date nor the wording is the paragraph's organizing idea.

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31. 31OrganizationChallenge

    An essay argues that a law had consequences nobody intended. Its material is: (1) the law's stated aim, (2) the consequences that followed, (3) the text of the law itself, (4) what the law's supporters predicted.Which order best serves that argument?An essay argues that a law had consequences nobody intended. Its material is: (1) the law's stated aim, (2) the consequences that followed, (3) the text of the law itself, (4) what the law's supporters predicted. Which order best serves that argument?

    • A1, 3, 2, 41, 3, 2, 4
    • B2, 4, 1, 32, 4, 1, 3
    • C3, 2, 1, 43, 2, 1, 4
    • D1, 4, 3, 21, 4, 3, 2
    Show the answer and explanationHide the explanation

    Answer: 1, 4, 3, 21, 4, 3, 2

    An unintended consequence is only visible against an intention, so the aim and the prediction come first; the text then shows what was actually enacted; and the consequences land last, where the gap the essay is arguing for is at its widest. Ending on the prediction would leave the argument unfinished.An unintended consequence is only visible against an intention, so the aim and the prediction come first; the text then shows what was actually enacted; and the consequences land last, where the gap the essay is arguing for is at its widest. Ending on the prediction would leave the argument unfinished.

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32. 32OrganizationChallenge

    An article about a museum reopening is arranged as: (1) the closure, (2) the fundraising, (3) the rehang, (4) the opening night. The editor wants a reader who gets no further than the first paragraph to know the museum has reopened.Which change best achieves that?An article about a museum reopening is arranged as: (1) the closure, (2) the fundraising, (3) the rehang, (4) the opening night. The editor wants a reader who gets no further than the first paragraph to know the museum has reopened. Which change best achieves that?

    • ADelete sentences 1 and 2.Delete sentences 1 and 2.
    • BOpen with the reopening, then tell the story that led to it.Open with the reopening, then tell the story that led to it.
    • CMove the fundraising to the end.Move the fundraising to the end.
    • DMerge the rehang and the opening night.Merge the rehang and the opening night.
    Show the answer and explanationHide the explanation

    Answer: Open with the reopening, then tell the story that led to it.Open with the reopening, then tell the story that led to it.

    The requirement is about what the first paragraph carries, so the news has to move to the front. Deleting the closure and the fundraising would meet the requirement by destroying the article, and the other two changes leave the opening untouched.The requirement is about what the first paragraph carries, so the news has to move to the front. Deleting the closure and the fundraising would meet the requirement by destroying the article, and the other two changes leave the opening untouched.

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33. 33OrganizationChallenge

    An obituary is arranged: (1) the subject's childhood, (2) her first published paper, (3) the discovery she is known for, (4) her decades of teaching. A reader objects that the discovery arrives too late for anyone who stops reading early.Which response best defends the arrangement?An obituary is arranged: (1) the subject's childhood, (2) her first published paper, (3) the discovery she is known for, (4) her decades of teaching. A reader objects that the discovery arrives too late for anyone who stops reading early. Which response best defends the arrangement?

    • AObituaries are conventionally chronological.Obituaries are conventionally chronological.
    • BThe discovery is less important than the teaching.The discovery is less important than the teaching.
    • CThe chronological order shows how long the discovery took to arrive, which is part of what it is.The chronological order shows how long the discovery took to arrive, which is part of what it is.
    • DReaders who stop early are not the intended audience.Readers who stop early are not the intended audience.
    Show the answer and explanationHide the explanation

    Answer: The chronological order shows how long the discovery took to arrive, which is part of what it is.The chronological order shows how long the discovery took to arrive, which is part of what it is.

    A defense has to say what the order accomplishes that another would not, and only one choice does. Appealing to convention explains the shape without justifying it here, and the other two answer the objection by dismissing it.A defense has to say what the order accomplishes that another would not, and only one choice does. Appealing to convention explains the shape without justifying it here, and the other two answer the objection by dismissing it.

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34. 34OrganizationChallenge

    A report on a factory closure is arranged: (1) the announcement, (2) the redundancy terms, (3) the town's dependence on the plant, (4) what happens to the site. An editor wants readers to understand the closure's significance before its details.Which change best achieves that?A report on a factory closure is arranged: (1) the announcement, (2) the redundancy terms, (3) the town's dependence on the plant, (4) what happens to the site. An editor wants readers to understand the closure's significance before its details. Which change best achieves that?

    • ADelete sentence 2.Delete sentence 2.
    • BMove sentence 4 to the beginning.Move sentence 4 to the beginning.
    • CMove sentence 3 to the beginning.Move sentence 3 to the beginning.
    • DMove sentence 1 to the end.Move sentence 1 to the end.
    Show the answer and explanationHide the explanation

    Answer: Move sentence 3 to the beginning.Move sentence 3 to the beginning.

    Significance is what the town stands to lose, so the dependence has to come before the terms and the site. Opening on the site or ending on the announcement both bury the news rather than framing it.Significance is what the town stands to lose, so the dependence has to come before the terms and the site. Opening on the site or ending on the announcement both bury the news rather than framing it.

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35. 35OrganizationChallenge

    An article about a hospital closure contains: (1) what the hospital treated, (2) the distance to the nearest alternative, (3) the closure date, (4) the consultation that preceded it. A reader complains that the article reads as neutral reporting when it is plainly an argument.Which response best defends the article?An article about a hospital closure contains: (1) what the hospital treated, (2) the distance to the nearest alternative, (3) the closure date, (4) the consultation that preceded it. A reader complains that the article reads as neutral reporting when it is plainly an argument. Which response best defends the article?

    • AThe order is chronological, which is standard practice.The order is chronological, which is standard practice.
    • BThe consultation is included, so both sides are represented.The consultation is included, so both sides are represented.
    • CSetting out what was treated and how far the alternative is lets a reader draw the conclusion, which is different from asserting it.Setting out what was treated and how far the alternative is lets a reader draw the conclusion, which is different from asserting it.
    • DNeutral reporting is impossible, so the objection has no force.Neutral reporting is impossible, so the objection has no force.
    Show the answer and explanationHide the explanation

    Answer: Setting out what was treated and how far the alternative is lets a reader draw the conclusion, which is different from asserting it.Setting out what was treated and how far the alternative is lets a reader draw the conclusion, which is different from asserting it.

    A defense has to explain what the arrangement does. Facts ordered so that an inference is available are not the same as an assertion, and the other choices appeal to convention, to balance, or to a general claim that would excuse anything.A defense has to explain what the arrangement does. Facts ordered so that an inference is available are not the same as an assertion, and the other choices appeal to convention, to balance, or to a general claim that would excuse anything.

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