The following text discusses the printing press.
Johannes Gutenberg's printing press, invented around 1440, transformed the spread of information. Before this invention, books were copied by hand, making them rare and expensive. The press enabled mass production of texts, dramatically reducing costs. Books became accessible to middle-class readers, contributing to increased literacy rates across Europe.
What is the primary purpose of the text?
To provide step-by-step instructions for operating a printing press
To compare Gutenberg to other inventors of his era
To describe the impact of the printing press on society
To argue that modern printing is inferior to Gutenberg's method
Correct Answer: C
Choice C is the best answer. The text describes how the printing press transformed information spread, made books accessible, and increased literacy—its societal impact.
- Evidence: The text states it "transformed the spread of information," "enabled mass production," and "contributed to increased literacy rates."
- Reasoning: All these points highlight the broad effects of the invention on society.
- Conclusion: The purpose is to describe this impact.
đź’ˇ Strategy: Focus on the results described: mass production, lower costs, literacy -> Impact.
Choice A is incorrect because no operating instructions are given. Choice B is incorrect because other inventors aren't compared. Choice D is incorrect because modern printing isn't criticized.