Text 1: Music educator Dr. Sarah Johnson advocates for learning instruments. "Instrumental training develops cognitive skills and discipline," Johnson writes. "Students show improved mathematical reasoning. Music education should be mandatory."
Text 2: Education analyst Dr. Robert Kim questions mandatory music requirements. "Limited school time forces tradeoffs," Kim observes. "Students may prefer visual arts or theater. Schools should offer diverse arts options instead."
What assumption does Johnson make that Kim's argument calls into question?
That cognitive benefits can result from educational activities
That instrumental music is the best use of limited arts education time
That schools have any responsibility for arts education
That students can learn to play instruments at all
Correct Answer: B
Choice B is the correct answer. Johnson assumes instrumental music deserves mandatory status. Kim questions this by noting students may prefer other arts.
- Evidence: Kim advocates "diverse arts options" rather than mandating one.
- Reasoning: He challenges instrumental music's privileged position.
- Conclusion: Kim questions whether instruments merit mandates over other arts.
Choice A is incorrect because Kim doesn't dispute cognitive benefits. Choice C is incorrect because Kim supports arts education—just diverse options. Choice D is incorrect because learning ability isn't disputed.