Question+36

Ananya Subramaniam

36) This is a structure question that functions to analyze the composition and direct function of a paragraph in the text. This questions specifically asks the reader to consider the role of the second and third paragraphs and what writing styles are used to develop them. The declarative knowledge required for this task would be an understanding of the meaning of all the answer choices: definition, argument, persuasion, comparison and contrast, and narration and analysis. The procedural knowledge necessary to answer this question would be comprehension of the passage at large and an understanding of the way the paragraphs are written. The reader must be able to notice the fact that the author tells brief stories and then analyzes them, relating them to his main points, thus using narration and analysis, answer choice E.

Choice A-This is the wrong answer, because although definitions are provided in the two paragraphs, such as that of the four color map theorem, these definitions are not instrumental in the development of the paragraphs, as much as they are a part of the introduction. Therefore, definition, answer choice A, is incorrect. Choice B-This is the distractor option, because the paragraphs do tell an extended story, which may appear to be a solid argument. However, there is no real argument, only a retelling of investigations into the four color map theorem; therefore, argument, answer choice B is the incorrect distractor option. Choice C-This is the wrong answer, because the author tells a story in these paragraphs, but never attempts to convince the reader of anything specific. Thus persuasion, answer choice C, is incorrect. Choice D-This is the wrong answer, because there is no comparison and contrast used in paragraphs two and three at all, as only the story of the uncovering of the four color map theorem is recounted. Thus, comparison and contrast, answer choice D, is incorrect. Choice E-This is the correct answer, because the author recounts stories to the reader about the “Four Color Math Theorem” and “Moore”, then proceeds to analyze the stories told, as in “a proof should ideally provide...”. This is narration and analysis, and thus, answer choice E is the correct option.