3

Set 6: Rhetorical Synthesis

Explanation

Answer: D

PASSAGE

A student is writing about minimum wage debates. The student wants to present the main argument of those who oppose increases. Notes: - Higher wages increase costs for businesses. - Some economists predict job losses from wage increases. - Workers in low-wage jobs struggle to afford basic needs. - Some studies show minimal employment effects from increases.

Which choice most effectively uses information from the notes to accomplish the student's goal?

A. Workers in low-wage jobs often struggle to afford basic necessities like housing and food.
B. The minimum wage debate continues to divide economists and policymakers.
C. Some studies have found minimal effects on employment from minimum wage increases.
D. Opponents of minimum wage increases argue that higher labor costs for businesses could lead to job losses, hurting the workers the policy aims to help.✓ Correct

Detailed Answer Explanation

This question asks you to effectively combine information to achieve a goal. The goal is the main argument of OPPONENTS. Business costs and predicted job losses are opponent arguments. The correct synthesis will use relevant details from the notes in a logical, purposeful way. Focus on what the question asks you to accomplish, then choose the answer that best achieves that goal using the provided information. Effective synthesis requires selecting and combining the most relevant information to achieve a specific purpose. Not all provided notes may be equally useful. Focus on what best accomplishes the stated goal while maintaining logical coherence.

Key Evidence:

• "main argument of those who oppose increases"

• "increase costs for businesses"

• "predict job losses"

Why others are wrong: C (This counters opponent claims; it's evidence used by supporters.), B (States debate exists but doesn't present opponent argument.), A (This is a SUPPORTER argument (workers struggling).).

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