Set 5: Inferences (Intermediate)
Explanation
PASSAGE
The novel is narrated by an unreliable narrator who later admits to having lied throughout the story. This revelation forces readers to reconsider everything they've been told, questioning which events actually occurred and which were fabricated. The book thus becomes as much about the nature of truth-telling as about its ostensible plot.
What does the narrative technique achieve?
Detailed Explanation
This question asks you to draw a logical conclusion from the text. 'Forces readers to reconsider' + 'questioning which events occurred' = active interpretation required. 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:
• "forces readers to reconsider"
• "questioning which events actually occurred"
Why others are wrong: A (The narrator lied—accuracy is uncertain.), C ('Unreliable narrator' = don't trust.), D (Lies require reconsidering everything.).