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Set 12: Rhetorical Synthesis (Intermediate)

Explanation

Answer: B

PASSAGE

A student is writing about the gut-brain axis. The student wants to synthesize evidence showing bidirectional communication between gut microbes and the brain. Notes: - Gut bacteria produce neurotransmitters like serotonin and GABA. - The vagus nerve transmits signals between gut and brain. - Stress and emotions affect gut microbial composition. - Probiotic supplements have shown effects on mood in some studies.

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

A. The vagus nerve serves as a communication pathway between the digestive system and the brain.
B. Evidence reveals bidirectional gut-brain communication: gut bacteria produce neurotransmitters affecting the brain via the vagus nerve, while stress and emotions reciprocally alter gut microbial composition—a connection supported by probiotics' mood effects.✓ Correct
C. Serotonin, a mood-regulating neurotransmitter, is largely produced in the gut.
D. Research into the gut microbiome has expanded rapidly in recent years.

Detailed Answer Explanation

This question asks you to effectively combine information to achieve a goal. The goal is BIDIRECTIONAL communication. Gut → brain (neurotransmitters via vagus) AND brain → gut (stress affecting microbes) shows two-way flow. 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:

• "synthesize evidence showing bidirectional communication"

• "produce neurotransmitters"

• "vagus nerve transmits signals"

• "Stress and emotions affect gut microbial composition"

Why others are wrong: D (Not in notes; discusses research growth, not bidirectional evidence.), C (Shows one direction (gut → brain) only.), A (Describes pathway but not bidirectional nature.).

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