Set 8: Central Ideas
Explanation
PASSAGE
The following text discusses an art movement. Impressionism is a 19th-century art movement characterized by relatively small, thin, yet visible brush strokes, open composition, emphasis on accurate depiction of light in its changing qualities (often accentuating the effects of the passage of time), ordinary subject matter, inclusion of movement as a crucial element of human perception and experience, and unusual visual angles. Impressionism originated with a group of Paris-based artists whose independent exhibitions brought them to prominence during the 1870s and 1880s.
Which feature is NOT characteristic of Impressionism according to the text?
Detailed Explanation
This question asks you to identify the main point of the passage. Choice D is the best answer. The text lists characteristics such as 'visible brush strokes,' 'emphasis on accurate depiction of light,' and 'ordinary subject matter.' It does not mention religious or mythological subjects, and in fact, 'ordinary subject matter' implies the opposite. Therefore, C is the feature NOT characteristic of the movement.
Choice C is mentioned ('visible brush strokes').
Choice A is mentioned ('emphasis on accurate depiction of light').
Choice B is mentioned ('inclusion of movement'). Remember that supporting details help prove the central idea but are not the main point themselves. The author's central idea should be broad enough to encompass the entire passage while still being specific enough to be meaningful. Ask yourself what the author most wants you to understand.
Key Evidence:
• "ordinary subject matter"
• "visible brush strokes"
• "accurate depiction of light"
Why others are wrong: C (Incorrect - is a characteristic), A (Incorrect - is a characteristic), B (Incorrect - is a characteristic).
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