A longitudinal study tracked 500 students who participated in music education programs from elementary through high school. Compared to non-participants, these students showed markedly higher rates of college enrollment, even when controlling for socioeconomic background. Researchers noted that music students developed stronger time management and collaborative skills.
Based on the passage, it can be inferred that
music education directly causes college enrollment
students from wealthy families benefit most from music programs
skills developed through music education may contribute to academic success
only students with natural musical talent should pursue music education
Correct Answer: C
Choice C is the best answer. The study connects music education skills to academic outcomes.
- Context clues: Music students had higher college enrollment and "stronger time management and collaborative skills."
- Meaning: These transferable skills could explain the academic success pattern.
- Verify: The correlation between skill development and enrollment suggests a contributing relationship.
💡 Strategy: Look for connections between described outcomes and potential causes in the text.
Choice A is incorrect because correlation doesn't prove direct causation. Choice B is incorrect because the study controlled for socioeconomic background. Choice D is incorrect because the text doesn't mention natural talent.