Set 1: Inferences (Advanced)
Explanation
PASSAGE
Epigenetic research has revealed that environmental factors can alter gene expression without changing DNA sequences. Some studies suggest trauma experienced by parents may affect children's stress responses through epigenetic mechanisms—a finding that challenges the strict separation between inherited traits and acquired characteristics central to traditional genetics.
What conceptual boundary does epigenetics blur?
Detailed Explanation
This question asks you to draw a logical conclusion from the text. 'Challenges the strict separation between inherited traits and acquired characteristics' = blurring that divide. A valid inference must be supported by evidence in the passage, even if not stated directly. Look for clues in the text that strongly suggest the answer. Avoid conclusions that require assumptions beyond what's written. Valid inferences are strongly supported by multiple pieces of evidence in the text. Be cautious of choices that go too far beyond what the passage actually states. The best inference is the one most directly supported by textual evidence.
Key Evidence:
• "challenges the strict separation between inherited and acquired"
Why others are wrong: A (Environment affects expression—not genes alone.), B (Parents' trauma may affect children's responses.), C (DNA/RNA distinction isn't the focus.).