3

Set 8: Text Structure (Intermediate)

Explanation

Answer: C

PASSAGE

The narrative of 'Manifest Destiny' framed expansion as a divine right. This ideology provided a moral justification for territorial acquisition, effectively masking the political and economic aggression involved.

Which choice best describes the function of the ideology?

A. It was a law passed by Congress.
B. It proved that God wanted them to expand.
C. It acted as a rhetorical cover to legitimize conquest.✓ Correct
D. It is a map of the West.

Detailed Answer Explanation

This question tests your understanding of how the text is organized. Ideology: Divine right. Function: Moral justification/Masking aggression (Rhetorical cover/Legitimize). Authors structure their writing purposefully to guide readers through their ideas. Identify the organizational pattern (cause-effect, compare-contrast, problem-solution) and how each part contributes to the whole. Authors choose organizational patterns deliberately to enhance their message. Recognizing whether a text uses chronological order, cause-effect, compare-contrast, or problem-solution helps you understand the author's purpose and follow the logic.

Key Evidence:

• "framed ... as divine right"

• "moral justification"

• "masking"

Why others are wrong: B (Describes the frame, doesn't validate it.), D (Concept.), A (Ideology.).

🎯 Keep Practicing!

Master all sections for your best SAT score