Set 3: Inferences (Intermediate)
Explanation
PASSAGE
A study of jury decision-making found that juries who took an early vote immediately after hearing evidence were more likely to reach quick unanimous verdicts. However, juries who discussed the case before voting showed more thorough consideration of minority viewpoints and alternative interpretations.
What can be inferred about jury deliberation processes?
Detailed Explanation
This question asks you to draw a logical conclusion from the text. Early vote = quick unanimity (efficiency); discussion first = thorough minority considerationâdifferent tradeoffs. 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:
⢠"quick unanimous verdicts"
⢠"more thorough consideration of minority viewpoints"
Why others are wrong: A (Thoroughness also matters.), C (Discussion groups considered minorities 'more thoroughly.'), D (Only early-vote juries were 'more likely' to reach unanimity.).