Question+38


 * 38.) On the whole, the tone of the author is best described as...**

This is a tone question that asks the reader to analyze the passage as a whole. Answering this question requires prior knowledge on tone words, as well as an understanding of the way in which certain tones are normally conveyed. Procedurally, it is important to look for key words or phrases that the author chooses to use in order to convey his or her overall message. The reader should skim the passage and try to identify the tone for themselves before selecting an answer that best matches their guess.

A. Puzzled This answer is wrong. To be "puzzled" is to be confused or perplexed. This author is very matter-of-fact throughout the passage, and does nothing to indicate any form of disillusionment. Passages that intend to convey confusion are likely to pose questions, which the author does not do. B. Objective This is the correct answer. "Objective" passages are straightforward and uninfluenced by personal feelings. The passage is composed almost entirely of biographical or statistical information, to which the author does not include a personal reaction. C. Skeptical This answer is wrong. Those who are "skeptical" are dubious toward or unpersuaded by a certain idea. The passage expresses no doubts or concerns; in fact, it includes quotes to support many of the ideas introduced in the passage. D. Confrontational This answer is wrong. "Confrontational" means "hostile" or "argumentative," neither of which the author tries to be. This is an extreme answer choice, and extreme answer choices are usually incorrect. E. Condescending This answer is wrong. To be "condescending" is to convey a sense of superiority over others. The author does not criticize the reader for not knowing the information stated in the passage, nor does he/she talk with the reader in a snobbish manner. This is also an extreme tone word, which, as aforementioned, is likely to be eliminated from the outset.