Set 5: Inferences (Intermediate)
Explanation
PASSAGE
A longitudinal study tracking individuals over four decades found that childhood self-control was a stronger predictor of adult health, wealth, and criminal history than either IQ or socioeconomic background. Critics note, however, that self-control itself may be shaped by early environment, complicating claims about its independent predictive power.
What complexity does the critics' point add to interpreting the study?
Detailed Explanation
This question asks you to draw a logical conclusion from the text. If self-control is shaped by environment, it's not independent of socioeconomic background—factors are interrelated. 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:
• "self-control may be shaped by early environment"
• "complicating claims about independent predictive power"
Why others are wrong: A (IQ was a predictor, just weaker.), B (Environment 'shapes' self-control.), D (Critics suggest environment shapes it.).