The following text is from a media studies article.
Podcasting has democratized audio content creation, lowering barriers that once restricted broadcasting to major corporations. Anyone with basic equipment can now reach global audiences without gatekeepers. This accessibility has enabled diverse voices historically excluded from mainstream media. However, discoverability remains challenging in a marketplace with millions of competing programs.
Which choice best describes the function of the last sentence?
It introduces a challenge that qualifies the benefits discussed.
It provides statistics about podcast listening habits.
It contradicts the claim that podcasting is accessible.
It argues that traditional broadcasting was better.
Correct Answer: A
Choice A is the best answer. The last sentence notes discoverability as a challenge, qualifying the accessibility benefits discussed earlier.
- Evidence: The text praises accessibility: "democratized audio content," "reach global audiences." It ends with a challenge: "However, discoverability remains challenging."
- Reasoning: The final sentence puts a damper on the positive tone by introducing a significant hurdle.
- Conclusion: The function is to introduce a challenge/qualification.
💡 Strategy: Look for the pivot word "However" which introduces the downside.
Choice B is incorrect because no statistics are provided. Choice C is incorrect because accessibility remains valid despite challenges. Choice D is incorrect because traditional broadcasting isn't preferred.