Set 8: Cross-Text Connections (Intermediate)
Explanation
PASSAGE
Text 1 The construction of the Transcontinental Railroad in the 1860s connected the East and West coasts of America. It revolutionized transport and commerce. Text 2 The railroad was built largely by Chinese and Irish immigrants who worked in brutal conditions for low pay. Their contribution was often overlooked in historical accounts of the achievement.
Which choice best synthesizes the historical perspective?
Detailed Answer Explanation
This question asks you to compare perspectives from two passages. Text 1: Triumph/Revolutionized. Text 2: Immigrants/Brutal conditions/Low pay (Exploitation). Synthesis: Triumph + Exploitation. Understanding how the authors relate to each other's views is essential. Identify whether they agree, disagree, or address different aspects of the topic. Focus on their specific claims and conclusions. When comparing texts, first identify each author's thesis or main argument. Then determine how these positions interact: do they complement each other, contradict each other, or address different aspects of the same issue? The relationship between texts reveals deeper meaning.
Key Evidence:
• "revolutionized transport"
• "brutal conditions"
• "low pay"
• "contribution ... overlooked"
Why others are wrong: B (Immigrants.), D (Revolutionized (improved).), C (Low pay.).
🎯 Keep Practicing!
Master all sections for your best SAT score