While researching the Rosetta Stone, a student has taken the following notes:
• The Rosetta Stone is a granodiorite stele dating to 196 BCE • It was discovered by French soldiers in Egypt in 1799 • The stone features the same text in three scripts: hieroglyphic, demotic, and Greek • Jean-François Champollion used the stone to decode Egyptian hieroglyphics in 1822 • The Rosetta Stone has been displayed at the British Museum since 1802
The student wants to explain the Rosetta Stone's importance in understanding ancient Egypt. Which choice most effectively uses relevant information from the notes to accomplish this goal?
The Rosetta Stone, a granodiorite stele created in 196 BCE, has been displayed at the British Museum since 1802 after being discovered by French soldiers in Egypt.
French soldiers discovered the Rosetta Stone in Egypt in 1799, leading to its eventual display at the British Museum beginning in 1802.
Featuring three different scripts, the Rosetta Stone is an ancient granodiorite stele that was discovered in Egypt in 1799.
The Rosetta Stone's three parallel scripts enabled Jean-François Champollion to decode Egyptian hieroglyphics in 1822, unlocking the mysteries of ancient Egyptian writing.
Correct Answer: D
Choice D is the best answer. The goal is to explain importance in understanding ancient Egypt.
- Context clues: The goal asks for "importance in understanding ancient Egypt."
- Meaning: Three scripts enabled decoding hieroglyphics—this is the key to understanding.
- Verify: Choice D connects the stone's features to the decipherment breakthrough.
💡 Strategy: When asked about significance or importance, look for impact or consequences, not just descriptive facts.
Choice A is incorrect because it focuses on physical description and location. Choice B is incorrect because it only discusses discovery and museum history. Choice C is incorrect because it describes features without explaining their importance.