4

Set 3: Command of Evidence (Intermediate)

Explanation

Answer: A

PASSAGE

Social mobility—the ability to move between economic classes—varies significantly by country. Studies show that in Scandinavian countries, a child's future income is less correlated with their parents' income than in the United States. This suggests that factors like access to education and healthcare play a role in equalizing opportunity.

What does the comparison between Scandinavia and the U.S. suggest?

A. The U.S. has higher social mobility than Scandinavia.✓ Correct
B. Social policies may influence how much parental wealth determines a child's future.
C. Parental income has no effect in any country.
D. Education is less important in Scandinavia.

Detailed Explanation

This question requires you to identify evidence that supports a claim. The text notes Scandinavian children's income is 'less correlated' with parents' and attributes this to 'access to education and healthcare' (social policies). The best evidence directly and explicitly supports the stated claim without requiring assumptions. Match specific textual details or data points to the claim being made. The correct answer provides clear, direct support. Strong evidence directly addresses the claim without requiring additional interpretation. When evaluating options, look for quotes or data that explicitly support the statement. Weak evidence may be tangentially related but doesn't provide direct proof.

Key Evidence:

• "less correlated with their parents' income"

• "education and healthcare play a role"

Why others are wrong: B (This option is incorrect.), C (There IS correlation, just less in Scandinavia.), D (Education is cited as a key factor in Scandinavia's higher mobility.).