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2012 PSAT/NMSQT Answer Explanations
2012 The College Board. All Rights Reserved
Critical Reading: Section 1
Critical Reading Question 1
Choice (C) is correct. The structure of the sentence indicates
that the second part of the sentence relates to Rands being
indefatigable, or tireless or incapable of being fatigued. If Rands
can function well on very little sleeponly four hourshe certainly
would seem to be incapable of being fatigued. Choice (A) is
incorrect. The structure of the sentence indicates that the second
part of the sentence relates to Rands being indefatigable, or
tireless or incapable of being fatigued. It does not make sense to
say that Rands seems to be tireless because he can make do with
very little performance time, or time spent performing (his works,
presumably). Rather, it makes sense to say that he appears
indefatigable because he functions on very little sleep. Choice (B)
is incorrect. The structure of the sentence indicates that the
second part of the sentence relates to Rands being indefatigable,
or tireless or incapable of being fatigued. It does not make sense
to imply that Rands seems to be tireless because he can make do
with very little practice time, or time spent practicing (his
works, presumably). Rather, it makes sense to say that he appears
indefatigable because he functions on very little sleep. Choice (D)
is incorrect. The structure of the sentence indicates that the
second part of the sentence relates to Rands being indefatigable,
or tireless or incapable of being fatigued. It does not make sense
to imply that Rands seems tireless because he can make do with very
little exercise time; further, four hours might be considered a lot
of time to spend exercising. It makes more sense to say that Rands
appears indefatigable because he functions on very little sleep.
Choice (E) is incorrect. The structure of the sentence indicates
that the second part of the
sentence relates to Rands being indefatigable, or tireless or
incapable of being fatigued. It does
not make sense to say that Rands seems tireless because he
spends only four hours being
exhausted. In fact, if Rands appears incapable of being
fatigued, he would never seem to be
exhausted.
Critical Reading Question 2
Choice (C) is correct. Generous means willing to give or share
freely. To be unselfish is to be generous and not selfish. The
structure of the sentence indicates that the part of the sentence
after the comma elaborates on or explains the first part. If the
Dutts always act unselfishly, or generously, they certainly would
be described as wonderfully generous. Choice (A) is incorrect. In
this context, dedicated means committed to a cause. Feebly means
weakly or without strength. The structure of the sentence indicates
that the part of the sentence after the comma elaborates on or
explains the first part. If the Dutts are weak in their efforts to
promote the well-being of others, it is very unlikely that they
would be described as wonderfully dedicated. People who are very
dedicated to a cause probably would act vigorously to promote that
cause. Choice (B) is incorrect. Menacing means threatening.
Promptly means readily or quickly. The structure of the sentence
indicates that the part of the sentence after the comma elaborates
on or explains the first part. The term promptly might fit the
second blank; the Dutts might act quickly to promote the well-being
of others. However, there is no reason to suggest that people who
work to promote others well-being would be described as wonderfully
menacing, or very threatening.
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2012 PSAT/NMSQT Answer Explanations
2012 The College Board. All Rights Reserved
Choice (D) is incorrect. Cautious means careful and tentative.
Powerfully means with great power or influence. The structure of
the sentence indicates that the part of the sentence after the
comma elaborates on or explains the first part. The term powerfully
might fit the second blank; the Dutts might be influential and
might use their influence to help others. However, it is unlikely
that people who act powerfully would be described as wonderfully
cautious, or very careful and tentative. Choice (E) is incorrect.
Courteous means kindly or well-mannered. To be cruel is to inflict
pain
or suffering. The structure of the sentence indicates that the
part of the sentence after the comma
elaborates on or explains the first part. The Dutts could be
wonderfully courteous, or very kindly.
However, kindly people certainly would not act cruelly to
promote the well-being of others.
Indeed, it is illogical to suggest that people would inflict
pain or suffering to help others.
Critical Reading Question 3
Choice (A) is correct. Supporters are people who support or
adhere to something. In this context, critics are people who
harshly judge something. The sentence sets up a contrast: some
people hail, or enthusiastically approve of, the new legislative
initiative because they think it will solve a problem, while other
people argue that it will not be effective in a meaningful way. The
terms supporters and critics logically complete the sentence
because people who support the initiative would be expected to
approve of it and people who harshly judge the initiative would be
expected to argue against it. Choice (B) is incorrect. Advocates
are people that support or promote something. Proponents are people
who argue in favor of it. The sentence sets up a contrast: some
people hail, or enthusiastically approve of, the new legislative
initiative because they think it will solve a problem, while other
people argue that it will not be effective in a meaningful way. The
terms advocates and proponents do not support the necessary
contrast because both terms describe people who are in favor of
something. Further, proponents of the initiativepeople who are in
favor of the initiativecertainly would not argue that the
initiative will produce no meaningful results. Choice (C) is
incorrect. Detractors are people who belittle or speak ill of
something. Antagonists are people who oppose something. The
sentence sets up a contrast: some people hail, or enthusiastically
approve of, the new legislative initiative because they think it
will solve a problem, while other people argue that it will not be
effective in a meaningful way. The terms detractors and antagonists
do not support the necessary contrast because both terms describe
people who are against something. Further, detractors of the
initiative certainly would not enthusiastically approve of it.
Choice (D) is incorrect. Adversaries are people who oppose or
resist something. Observers are people who watch but do not
participate in something. The sentence sets up a contrast: some
people hail, or enthusiastically approve of, the new legislative
initiative because they think it will solve a problem, while other
people argue that it will not be effective in a meaningful way. The
terms adversaries and observers do not support the necessary
contrast; observers might oppose the new initiative even if they do
not participate in resisting it or preventing it. Further,
adversaries of the initiative certainly would not enthusiastically
approve of it. Choice (E) is incorrect. In this context, auditors
are listeners or observers. Creditors are
people to whom a debt is owed. The sentence sets up a contrast:
some people hail, or
enthusiastically approve of, the new legislative initiative
because they think it will solve a
problem, while other people argue that it will not be effective
in a meaningful way. The terms
auditors and creditors do not support the necessary contrast;
indeed, there is no direct
connection between listeners and people to whom a debt is owed.
Further, because the sentence
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2012 PSAT/NMSQT Answer Explanations
2012 The College Board. All Rights Reserved
does not indicate what the initiative has to do with, there is
no reason to assume that auditors
would approve of it and creditors would disapprove of it.
Critical Reading Question 4
Choice (A) is correct. In this context, recognition is formal
acknowledgement. Groundbreaking means markedly innovative. The
sentence indicates that Dr. Ho was honored by Time magazine and
that he worked with innovative drug therapies. To be named Man of
the Year is to receive formal acknowledgement of ones achievements,
so the term recognition fits the first blank. And because Dr. Ho
worked with innovative theories, it makes sense to describe his
work as groundbreaking. Choice (B) is incorrect. The sentence
indicates that Dr. Ho was honored by Time magazine and that he
worked with innovative drug therapies. There is no reason to
suggest that the work of a doctor whose innovative drug therapies
have been pivotal, or vitally important, and given hope to many
patients would need to be defended from anything. Further, it is
not clear how Time magazine would be offering a defense for Dr. Hos
work by naming Dr. Ho Man of the Year. Choice (C) is incorrect.
Appreciation is admiration, approval, or gratitude. Nave means
simplistic or uninformed. The sentence indicates that Dr. Ho was
honored by Time magazine and that he worked with innovative drug
therapies. The title Man of the Year is often given as a sign of
admiration and approval, so the term appreciation might fit the
first blank. However, the term nave does not logically complete the
sentence. It is unlikely that a doctor would receive an honor in
appreciation of simplistic or uninformed scientific work. Choice
(D) is incorrect. The sentence indicates that Dr. Ho was honored by
Time magazine and that he worked with innovative drug therapies.
There is no reason to suggest that the work of a doctor whose
innovative drug therapies have been monumental, or of outstanding
significance, would need to be protected from anything. Further, it
is not clear how Time magazine would be offering protection for Dr.
Hos work by naming Dr. Ho Man of the Year. Choice (E) is incorrect.
In this context, acknowledgement is recognition of an act or
achievement. Intangible means imperceptible or lacking
substance. The sentence indicates that
Dr. Ho was honored by Time magazine and that he worked with
innovative drug therapies. To
be named Man of the Year is to be recognized for ones
achievements, so the term
acknowledgment fits the first blank. However, the term
intangible does not logically complete
the sentence. It is unlikely that a doctor would receive an
honor in recognition of work that lacks
substance or has not made a perceptible difference.
Critical Reading Question 5
Choice (C) is correct. Commendable means worthy of confidence or
notice. To be an exemplary model is to be deserving of imitation or
to serve as a pattern. The sentence makes it clear that Frank and
Susan served as a certain type of model as a result of their
behavior. Because Frank and Susan provided excellent care for the
children, it makes sense to say that their behavior was
commendable. Further, people who behave commendably likely would be
considered exemplary models for othersthat is, they would be seen
as people whose behavior should be imitated. Choice (A) is
incorrect. Incorruptible means highly moral and incapable of being
corrupted. Pernicious means highly destructive or even deadly. The
sentence makes it clear that Frank and Susan served as a certain
type of model as a result of their behavior. Frank and Susan might
behave in a highly moral way, so the term incorruptible might fit
the first blank. However,
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2012 PSAT/NMSQT Answer Explanations
2012 The College Board. All Rights Reserved
the term pernicious does not logically complete the sentence. It
is illogical to suggest that highly moral people who provided
excellent care for children would be described as dangerous or
deadly models. Choice (B) is incorrect. Lamentable means deplorable
or deserving contempt. Flawed means imperfect or weak. The sentence
makes it clear that Frank and Susan served as a certain type of
model as a result of their behavior. People who behave in a
deplorable way likely would be considered imperfect models for
children. However, the sentence indicates that Frank and Susan took
excellent care of the children; therefore, it is illogical to
suggest that Frank and Susans behavior was lamentable and that
Frank and Susan were flawed models. Choice (D) is incorrect.
Erratic means inconsistent and unpredictable. Unimpeachable means
reliable beyond a doubt. The sentence makes it clear that Frank and
Susan served as a certain type of model as a result of their
behavior. It is illogical to suggest that Frank and Susan would be
considered unimpeachable models for the children as a result of
behaving inconsistently and unpredictably; people who behave
erratically would not be considered reliable beyond a doubt. Choice
(E) is incorrect. Reputable means of good reputation or held in
esteem. Imperfect
means not perfect or even defective. The sentence makes it clear
that Frank and Susan served
as a certain type of model as a result of their behavior. Frank
and Susan might have a good
reputation because of their behaviorespecially if they took
excellent care of the childrenso
the term reputable might fit the first blank. However, the term
imperfect does not logically
complete the sentence. If Frank and Susan are reputable and have
taken very good care of the
children, there is no reason to suggest that they would be
imperfect or defective models.
Critical Reading Question 6
Choice (D) is correct. In this context, profound means having
intellectual depth. The structure of the sentence indicates that
the part of the sentence after the comma comments on the first
part. Because Eliot is described as undermining superficial
positions in the quest for moral truth, it makes sense to say that
Eliots fiction demonstrated profound ethical inquiry. In other
words, Eliots fiction contained intellectually deep examination
that undercut superficial, or shallow, points. Choice (A) is
incorrect. Facile means shallow or simplistic. The structure of the
sentence indicates that the part of the sentence after the comma
comments on the first part. Because Eliot is described as
undermining superficial positionsthat is, undercutting or weakening
superficial or shallow pointsit does not make sense to say that
Eliots fiction demonstrated facile ethical inquiry, or contained
shallow or simplistic examinations. Choice (B) is incorrect. In
this context, affected means feigned or false. The structure of the
sentence indicates that the part of the sentence after the comma
comments on the first part. It does not make much sense to say that
Eliots fiction demonstrated affected ethical inquiry because it
undermine[d] superficial positions in the quest for moral truth.
Work that successfully undermined, or undercut, shallow points
would likely involve genuine questions. Further, it is not clear
how Eliot could have affected ethical inquiry, or somehow only
pretended to examine ethical issues. Choice (C) is incorrect.
Inadequate means insufficient. The structure of the sentence
indicates that the part of the sentence after the comma comments on
the first part. It does not make much sense to say that Eliots
fiction demonstrated inadequate ethical inquiry because it
undermine[d] superficial positions in the quest for moral truth.
Work that successfully undermined, or undercut, shallow points
would likely involve rigorous examination of ethical issues, not
inadequate or insufficient examination.
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2012 PSAT/NMSQT Answer Explanations
2012 The College Board. All Rights Reserved
Choice (E) is incorrect. Impulsive means hasty and without
forethought. The structure of the
sentence indicates that the part of the sentence after the comma
comments on the first part. It
does not make much sense to say that Eliots fiction demonstrated
impulsive ethical inquiry
because it undermine[d] superficial positions in the quest for
moral truth. Work that successfully
undermined, or undercut, shallow points would likely involve
thoughtful and rigorous examination
of ethical issues, not hastily conceived examination that is not
thought out.
Critical Reading Question 7
Choice (D) is correct. The terms that fit the blanks must
describe Esmereldas conflicting feelings; therefore, the terms that
fit the blank must conflict with one another. The term foreboding
refers to a feeling that evil or trouble is approaching; the term
elation refers to intense joy. These terms do conflict with one
another. Further, it makes sense to say that Esmerelda felt
troubled about leaving the security of the village but also joyful
about moving to a city full of excitement. Choice (A) is incorrect.
The terms that fit the blanks must describe Esmereldas conflicting
feelings; therefore, the terms that fit the blank must conflict
with one another. The term boredom refers to feeling weary and
disinterested; the term impassivity refers to feeling no emotion.
These terms do not logically complete the sentence because they do
not necessarily conflict with one another; in fact, boredom and
impassivity are somewhat synonymous. Further, it is unlikely that
Esmerelda would have felt bored as a result of moving to the
excitement of the city. Choice (B) is incorrect. The terms that fit
the blanks must describe Esmereldas conflicting feelings;
therefore, the terms that fit the blank must conflict with one
another. The term eagerness refers to enthusiastic interest; the
term optimism refers to a tendency to expect the best possible
outcome. These terms do not logically complete the sentence because
they do not necessarily conflict with one another; indeed, someone
who is eager might also be optimistic. Choice (C) is incorrect. The
terms that fit the blanks must describe Esmereldas conflicting
feelings; therefore, the terms that fit the blank must conflict
with one another. The term satisfaction refers to a feeling of
fulfillment and contentment; the term delight refers to great
satisfaction or joy. These terms do not logically complete the
sentence because they do not conflict with one another; in fact,
they describe different levels of the same feeling. Choice (E) is
incorrect. The terms that fit the blanks must describe Esmereldas
conflicting
feelings; therefore, the terms that fit the blank must conflict
with one another. The term
subjugation refers to feeling controlled or conquered; the term
anger refers to strong
displeasure. These terms do not logically complete the sentence
because they do not necessarily
conflict with one another; indeed, someone who feels conquered
might also feel angry.
Critical Reading Question 8
Choice (B) is correct. Placid means calm and serene. The
structure of the sentence indicates that the part of the sentence
following the colon will modify or elaborate on the first part. The
idea that the woman shrugged off, or minimized and ignored, things
that others would consider calamities, or disasters, elaborates on
the idea that the woman possessed a remarkably placid disposition,
or tended to be very calm and serene. Choice (A) is incorrect.
Enigmatic means mysterious. The structure of the sentence indicates
that the part of the sentence following the colon will modify or
elaborate on the first part. The idea that the woman shrugged off,
or minimized and ignored, things that others would consider
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2012 PSAT/NMSQT Answer Explanations
2012 The College Board. All Rights Reserved
disasters does not elaborate on the idea that the woman
possessed a remarkably enigmatic disposition. There is no direct
connection between ignoring certain things and being mysterious.
Choice (C) is incorrect. Humane means compassionate and
sympathetic. The structure of the sentence indicates that the part
of the sentence following the colon will modify or elaborate on the
first part. The idea that the woman shrugged off, or minimized and
ignored, things that others would consider disasters does not
elaborate on the idea that the woman possessed a remarkably humane
disposition. Someone who is compassionate might ignore certain
things, but there is no direct connection between shrugging things
off and being humane. Choice (D) is incorrect. Diffident means
hesitant and lacking self-confidence. The structure of the sentence
indicates that the part of the sentence following the colon will
modify or elaborate on the first part. The idea that the woman
shrugged off, or minimized and ignored, things that others would
consider disasters does not elaborate on the idea that the woman
possessed a remarkably diffident disposition. There is no direct
connection between ignoring certain things and being diffident; one
could lack self-confidence and still shrug off things that would
bother others. Choice (E) is incorrect. Ingenuous means innocent
and not devious. The structure of the
sentence indicates that the part of the sentence following the
colon will modify or elaborate on the
first part. The idea that the woman shrugged off, or minimized
and ignored, things that others
would consider disasters does not elaborate on the idea that the
woman possessed a
remarkably ingenuous disposition. There is no direct connection
between ignoring certain things
and being ingenuous; one who is innocent could shrug off things
that would bother others.
Critical Reading Question 9
Choice (D) is correct. In lines 1-2, the author states, Every
now and again, cosmologists decide that the universe needs
redecorating. The author is comparing the way cosmologists reorder
their conceptions of the universe to the way someone might
redecorate or renovate a home. The terms declutter, embellish, and
fixingterms that often have to do with home renovation or interior
decorationall expand on the idea that cosmologists redecorate the
universe. In lines 8-12, the author makes the comparison explicit:
Like the decorator who strips away wallpaper . . . cosmologists are
realizing that their discovery . . . points to serious problems
with their models. Choice (A) is incorrect. The terms declutter,
embellish, and fixing do not establish a tone of breezy disdain, or
nonchalant scorn; indeed, nothing in the passage suggests that the
author is scornful of cosmologists changing conceptions of the
universe. Instead, these terms expand upon an earlier figure of
speech. The termsall of which often have to do with home renovation
or interior decorationrelate to the authors comparison of
cosmologists to someone who is redecorating a home. Choice (B) is
incorrect. The terms declutter, embellish, and fixing do not
emphasize the complexity of an issue. In fact, the author uses
these terms in an effort to make an issue easier to understand; he
or she compares the way cosmologists reorder their conceptions of
the universe to the way someone might redecorate or renovate a
home. The quoted terms often have to do with home renovation or
interior decoration, and the author uses them in order to expand on
his or her comparison of cosmologists to someone who is
redecorating. Choice (C) is incorrect. The terms declutter,
embellish, and fixing are not used to vary the terms of a critique;
indeed, nothing in the passage suggests that the author is
critiquing, or examining critically, cosmologists changing
conceptions of the universe. Further, the terms are not varied;
they are all terms that often have to do with home renovation or
interior decoration. The author uses the quoted terms in order to
expand on his or her comparison of the way
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2012 PSAT/NMSQT Answer Explanations
2012 The College Board. All Rights Reserved
cosmologists reorder their conceptions of the universe to the
way someone might redecorate a home. Choice (E) is incorrect. The
terms declutter, embellish, and fixing are not used to explain
the
details of a technical theory; indeed, the author is not trying
to provide a technical explanation of
the details of cosmologists changing conceptions of the
universe. Rather, the author is trying to
present cosmologists changing conceptions in a way that is
accessible for non-scientists. He or
she compares the way cosmologists reorder their conceptions of
the universe to the way
someone might redecorate a home; the quoted terms, all of which
have to do with home
renovation or interior decoration, expand on the authors
comparison.
Critical Reading Question 10
Choice (E) is correct. Throughout the passage, the author
compares cosmologists practice of revising our understanding of the
universe in light of new scientific discoveries to redecorating.
The author maintains the metaphor into the last sentence: When
theyre done fixing things, chances are well hardly recognize the
place. The author is referring to the fact that cosmologists are at
it again, once again doing research that will redecorate the
universe. The last sentence of the passage implies that this
current research will transform our understanding of the universeit
will change our understanding so much that well hardly recognize
the universe. Choice (A) is incorrect. Throughout the passage, the
author compares cosmologists practice of revising our understanding
of the universe in light of new scientific discoveries to
redecorating. The author maintains the metaphor into the last
sentence: When theyre done fixing things, chances are well hardly
recognize the place. The author is not implying that cosmologists
recent views of the cosmos are aesthetically satisfying, or
pleasing in appearance; indeed, it is somewhat odd to speak of
scientific theories in terms of their beauty rather than their
scientific attributes. Instead, the author is implying that
cosmologists current research will greatly transform our
understanding of the universeit will change our understanding so
much that well hardly recognize the universe. Choice (B) is
incorrect. Throughout the passage, the author compares cosmologists
practice of revising our understanding of the universe in light of
new scientific discoveries to redecorating. The author maintains
the metaphor into the last sentence: When theyre done fixing
things, chances are well hardly recognize the place. The author is
not implying that current cosmological methods can be bewilderingly
complex. He or she is not saying that well hardly recognize the new
universe because it will be too difficult to understand, but rather
that we will simply see the universe very differently because new
research will so transform our current understanding. Choice (C) is
incorrect. Throughout the passage, the author compares cosmologists
practice of revising our understanding of the universe in light of
new scientific discoveries to redecorating. The author maintains
the metaphor into the last sentence: When theyre done fixing
things, chances are well hardly recognize the place. The author is
not indicating that cosmologists currently doing research will
damage previous theoretical models of the universe, or that they
will harm anything. Indeed, he or she suggests that cosmologists
today are doing what cosmologists have always done: revising and
correcting their understanding of the universe based on new
information and discoveries. Choice (D) is incorrect. Throughout
the passage, the author compares cosmologists practice of
revising our understanding of the universe in light of new
scientific discoveries to redecorating.
The author maintains the metaphor into the last sentence: When
theyre done fixing things,
chances are well hardly recognize the place. The author is not
implying that contemporary
astronomical theories will be thoroughly tested by the
scientific community. He or she is not
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2012 PSAT/NMSQT Answer Explanations
2012 The College Board. All Rights Reserved
talking about how other scientists will treat new theories when
they are revealed, but rather about
how wethe public, it seemswill have a new view of the universe
as a result of current
research.
Critical Reading Question 11
Choice (A) is correct. In line 5, the author indicates that
Charles Chesnutt, a writer, earned immediate accolades for his
workthat is, he earned praise for his work right away. The author
goes on to state that Chesnutt earned praise for creating fresh,
vivid, dramatic sketches in a new and delightful vein. It is
reasonable to assume that these quotations are examples of the
praise Chesnutt received from his contemporaries, or people who
were living at the same time, as soon as they read his work. Choice
(B) is incorrect. In line 5, the author indicates that Chesnutt
earned immediate accolades for his workthat is, he earned praise
for his work right away. The author goes on to state that Chesnutt
earned praise for creating fresh, vivid, dramatic sketches in a new
and delightful vein. These quotations are not examples of Chesnutts
pronouncements about the purpose of fiction writing. It is clear
that the quoted statements were not made by Chesnutt, but rather by
others who had read his work. They are examples of the praise
Chesnutt received. Choice (C) is incorrect. In line 5, the author
indicates that Chesnutt earned immediate accolades for his workthat
is, he earned praise for his work right away. The author goes on to
state that Chesnutt earned praise for creating fresh, vivid,
dramatic sketches in a new and delightful vein. These quotations
are not examples of the type of language that appears in Chesnutts
stories. It is clear that the quoted statements were not spoken or
written by Chesnutt, but rather were made by others who had read
his work. They are examples of the praise Chesnutt received. Choice
(D) is incorrect. In line 5, the author indicates that Chesnutt, a
nineteenth-century writer, earned immediate accolades for his
workthat is, he earned praise for his work right away. The author
goes on to state that Chesnutt earned praise for creating fresh,
vivid, dramatic sketches in a new and delightful vein. These
quotations are not examples of the shared language of
nineteenth-century short-story writers. It is clear that the
statements were made by people who had read Chesnutts work; there
is no indication that these people were also writers or that
Chesnutt would have phrased things the same way they did. Choice
(E) is incorrect. In line 5, the author indicates that Chesnutt, a
nineteenth-century writer,
earned immediate accolades for his workthat is, he earned praise
for his work right away. The
author goes on to state that Chesnutt earned praise for creating
fresh, vivid, dramatic sketches
in a new and delightful vein. These quotations are not examples
of the unintelligible jargon, or
impossible to understand language, of modern-day literary
critics. It is clear that the statements
were made by people who were living at the same time as
Chesnutt, not by modern critics. The
quotes are examples of the immediate praise Chesnutts work
receivedin the 1800s.
Critical Reading Question 12
Choice (D) is correct. The description in these lines employs a
simile: Chesnutts writing portrayed human loss and torment . . .
with a wit like an ax cutting into a tree in the backwoods of the
North Carolina he knew so well. Because an ax penetrates a tree
trunk with considerable force, this figure of speech suggests that
many of Chesnutts stories are both forceful and penetrating in
their insights. Choice (A) is incorrect. In lines 9-12 the author
states that Chesnutts writing portrayed human loss and torment . .
. with a wit like an ax cutting into a tree in the backwoods of the
North Carolina he knew so well. Bret Harte is mentioned earlier in
the passage, but these lines are
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2012 PSAT/NMSQT Answer Explanations
2012 The College Board. All Rights Reserved
focused specifically on Chesnutts portrayal of human emotions;
the author is not comparing Chesnutt to Harte or suggesting that
Chesnutts stories are more realistic than Hartes. Choice (B) is
incorrect. In lines 9-12 the author states that Chesnutts writing
portrayed human loss and torment . . . with a wit like an ax
cutting into a tree in the backwoods of the North Carolina he knew
so well. Although these lines refer to Chesnutts home (North
Carolina), the description does not suggest that many of Chesnutts
stories evoke a warm and sentimental response. The author is not
indicating that Chesnutt wrote sentimental stories about his home;
rather, he or she is describing Chesnutts ability to portray loss
and tormenthuman experiences that are neither warm nor sentimental.
Choice (C) is incorrect. In lines 9-12 the author states that
Chesnutts writing portrayed human loss and torment . . . with a wit
like an ax cutting into a tree in the backwoods of the North
Carolina he knew so well. Earlier in the passage the author
indicates that Chesnutt was one of the first African American
writers; however, nowhere in the passage does the author indicate
that Chesnutt influenced other writers. The description in lines
9-12 does not suggest that Chesnutt influenced the writings of
other African American authors. Choice (E) is incorrect. In lines
9-12 the author states that Chesnutts writing portrayed human
loss and torment . . . with a wit like an ax cutting into a tree
in the backwoods of the North
Carolina he knew so well. Although the author mentions the North
Carolina wilderness, he or she
only does so in order to make the comparison between Chesnutts
insights and an ax cutting into
a tree more colorful. Chesnutts descriptions of things may have
been vivid, but there is no
indication that he actually wrote about North Carolina or life
in the North Carolina wilderness in
his stories.
Critical Reading Question 13
Choice (A) is correct. The statement in lines 5-7 of Passage 1
summarizes the view that that the
body and its parts are physical matter while the mind is not.
The author of Passage 2 indicates
that advances in molecular biology and neuroscience tell us that
every process that is used in
the development of the body is also used in the development of
the brain and that The initial
structure of the mind . . . is a product of our genes. The
author of Passage 2, then, would most
likely agree that the view described in Passage 1 has been
undermined by recent discoveries in
molecular biology. He or she believes in the evidence indicating
that our brains are just a bunch
of molecules, grown in all the usual ways.
Choice (B) is incorrect. The statement in lines 5-7 of Passage 1
summarizes the view that that
the body and its parts are physical matter while the mind is
not. The author of Passage 2
indicates that advances in molecular biology and neuroscience
tell us that every process that is
used in the development of the body is also used in the
development of the brain and that The
initial structure of the mind . . . is a product of our genes.
The author of Passage 2, then, would
not agree that the view described in Passage 1 has been
strengthened by modern ideas about
humans place in the universe. The author of Passage 2 would say
that the view has been
weakened in the recent past, not that it has been strengthened
at all.
Choice (C) is incorrect. The statement in lines 5-7 of Passage 1
summarizes the view that that
the body and its parts are physical matter while the mind is
not. The author of Passage 2
indicates that advances in molecular biology and neuroscience
tell us that every process that is
used in the development of the body is also used in the
development of the brain and that The
initial structure of the mind . . . is a product of our genes.
The author of Passage 2, then,
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2012 PSAT/NMSQT Answer Explanations
2012 The College Board. All Rights Reserved
probably would not agree that the view described in Passage 1 is
supported by cognitive
neuroscientists; indeed, he or she suggests that advances in . .
. neuroscience have contributed
to an opposing view.
Choice (D) is incorrect. The statement in lines 5-7 of Passage 1
summarizes the view that that the body and its parts are physical
matter while the mind is not. The author of Passage 2 indicates
that advances in molecular biology and neuroscience tell us that
every process that is used in the development of the body is also
used in the development of the brain and that The initial structure
of the mind . . . is a product of our genes. There is no reason to
believe the author of Passage 2 would agree that the view described
in Passage 1 is promoted by contemporary philosophers; this author
makes no mention of contemporary philosophers. Choice (E) is
incorrect. The statement in lines 5-7 of Passage 1 summarizes the
view that that
the body and its parts are physical matter while the mind is
not. The author of Passage 2
indicates that advances in molecular biology and neuroscience
tell us that every process that is
used in the development of the body is also used in the
development of the brain and that The
initial structure of the mind . . . is a product of our genes.
The author of Passage 2 probably
would not agree that the view described in Passage 1 is
consistent with the findings of
nineteenth-century chemists; he or she points out that John
Dalton and the nineteenth-century
chemists found that our bodies are, like all other matter, made
up of atoms.
Critical Reading Question 14
Choice (E) is correct. In the third paragraph of Passage 1, when
discussing mind-body dualism,
the author explains that Descartes may have been uncertain and
ambivalent about a problem
that has chronically plagued human beings into precisely the
same state of uncertainty and
ambivalence. In lines 30-31, he or she adds, Very human and very
understandable. The tone of
this comment is best described as sympathetic, or understanding.
The author is indicating that
because many other people throughout time have had mixed
feelings concerning an issue, it is
easy to understand why Descartes had mixed feelings concerning
the same issue.
Choice (A) is incorrect. In the third paragraph of Passage 1,
when discussing mind-body dualism, the author explains that
Descartes may have been uncertain and ambivalent about a problem
that has chronically plagued human beings into precisely the same
state of uncertainty and ambivalence. In lines 30-31, he or she
adds, Very human and very understandable. The tone of this comment
is not sarcastic. Rather than ridiculing or scorning Descartes for
having mixed feelings concerning an issue, the author indicates
that it is easy to understand why Descartes felt as he didafter
all, many other people throughout time have had mixed feelings
concerning the same issue. Choice (B) is incorrect. In the third
paragraph of Passage 1, when discussing mind-body dualism, the
author explains that Descartes may have been uncertain and
ambivalent about a problem that has chronically plagued human
beings into precisely the same state of uncertainty and
ambivalence. In lines 30-31, he or she adds, Very human and very
understandable. The tone of this comment is not apologetic; the
author does not regretfully acknowledge that Descartes was at fault
in any way. Instead, he or she acknowledges that it is easy to
understand why Descartes had mixed feelings concerning an
issueafter all, many other people throughout time have had mixed
feelings concerning the same issue. Choice (C) is incorrect. In the
third paragraph of Passage 1, when discussing mind-body dualism,
the author explains that Descartes may have been uncertain and
ambivalent about a problem that has chronically plagued human
beings into precisely the same state of uncertainty and
ambivalence. In lines 30-31, he or she adds, Very human and very
understandable. The
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2012 PSAT/NMSQT Answer Explanations
2012 The College Board. All Rights Reserved
tone of this comment is not impartial, or unbiased; indeed, the
author is clearly sympathizing with Descartes. He or she is
indicating that it is easy to understand why Descartes had mixed
feelings concerning an issueafter all, many other people throughout
time have had mixed feelings concerning the same issue. Choice (D)
is incorrect. In the third paragraph of Passage 1, when discussing
mind-body
dualism, the author explains that Descartes may have been
uncertain and ambivalent about a
problem that has chronically plagued human beings into precisely
the same state of uncertainty
and ambivalence. In lines 30-31, he or she adds, Very human and
very understandable. The
tone of this comment is not admiring. Rather than expressing
admiration for Descartes in these
lines, the author simply sympathizes with him, explaining that
it is easy to understand why
Descartes had mixed feelings concerning an issueafter all, many
other people throughout time
have had mixed feelings concerning the same issue.
Critical Reading Question 15
Choice (D) is correct. In lines 33-35, the author of Passage 1
refers to the awe and wonder we
[humans] deservedly have for our own minds; he or she connects
this reverence for our own
minds with Descartes theory of mind-body dualism. The author of
Passage 2, however,
considers this attitude outdated and completely at odds with
everything that scientists have
learned in molecular biology over the past decade. This author
holds the view that the human
mind and body have developed in the same manner, but
acknowledges that this view is
anathema to our deeply held feelings that our minds are special,
somehow separate from the
material world. Therefore, it is most likely that the author of
Passage 2 would consider the
attitude expressed in Passage 1 an example of humans tendency to
overemphasize their
distinctiveness, or specialness.
Choice (A) is incorrect. In lines 33-35, the author of Passage 1
refers to the awe and wonder we [humans] deservedly have for our
own minds; he or she connects this reverence for our own minds with
Descartes theory of mind-body dualism. The author of Passage 2,
however, considers this attitude outdated and completely at odds
with everything that scientists have learned in molecular biology
over the past decade. This author holds the view that the human
mind and body have developed in the same manner, but acknowledges
that this view is anathema to our deeply held feelings that our
minds are special, somehow separate from the material world.
Although the author of Passage 2 does maintain that scientific
advances have undercut the theory of mind-body dualism, he or she
does not really accuse people of disputing scientific advances.
Rather, the author focuses on humans tendency to hold fast to the
notion that the human mind is special. Choice (B) is incorrect. In
lines 33-35, the author of Passage 1 refers to the awe and wonder
we [humans] deservedly have for our own minds; he or she connects
this reverence for our own minds with Descartes theory of mind-body
dualism. The author of Passage 2, however, considers this attitude
outdated and completely at odds with everything that scientists
have learned in molecular biology over the past decade. This author
holds the view that the human mind and body have developed in the
same manner, but acknowledges that this view is anathema to our
deeply held feelings that our minds are special, somehow separate
from the material world. The author of Passage 2 probably would not
consider the attitude expressed in Passage 1 evidence of peoples
tendency to defend their own skepticism; this author does not
present people as being generally skeptical, or doubtful. Rather,
he or she is indicating that people tend to be overly certain that
the human mind is special. Choice (C) is incorrect. In lines 33-35,
the author of Passage 1 refers to the awe and wonder we [humans]
deservedly have for our own minds; he or she connects this
reverence for our own
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2012 PSAT/NMSQT Answer Explanations
2012 The College Board. All Rights Reserved
minds with Descartes theory of mind-body dualism. The author of
Passage 2, however, considers this attitude outdated and completely
at odds with everything that scientists have learned in molecular
biology over the past decade. This author holds the view that the
human mind and body have developed in the same manner, but
acknowledges that this view is anathema to our deeply held feelings
that our minds are special, somehow separate from the material
world. The author of Passage 2 would not consider the attitude
expressed in Passage 1 evidence of peoples tendency to exaggerate
the role of the body; on the contrary, he or she would likely
consider it evidence of peoples tendency to exaggerate the role of
the mind. Choice (E) is incorrect. In lines 33-35, the author of
Passage 1 refers to the awe and wonder we
[humans] deservedly have for our own minds; he or she connects
this reverence for our own
minds with Descartes theory of mind-body dualism. The author of
Passage 2, however,
considers this attitude outdated and completely at odds with
everything that scientists have
learned in molecular biology over the past decade. This author
holds the view that the human
mind and body have developed in the same manner, but
acknowledges that this view is
anathema to our deeply held feelings that our minds are special,
somehow separate from the
material world. The author of Passage 2 probably would not
consider the attitude expressed in
Passage 1 evidence of peoples tendency to resist identifying
with other people; indeed, the
people who view the human mind with awe and wonder presumably
believe that all human beings
possess special minds.
Critical Reading Question 16
Choice (E) is correct. In line 35, the author of Passage 1
states, There is no doubt that the human mind is special. He or she
then lists the ways the human mind is special, introducing each
reason with the word in. The author indicates that the human mind
is special in its immense capacity to feel pleasure and pain and to
be aware of the pain and pleasure of others; in its ability to love
and pardon; in its prodigious memory; in its ability to symbolize
and narrate; in its gift of language with syntax; in its power to
understand the universe and create new universes; in the speed and
ease with which it processes and integrates disparate information
so that problems can be solved. The author of Passage 1 uses this
list, with the repeated word in, to convey the unique capabilities
of the human mindthat is, the special things that only the human
mind can do. Choice (A) is incorrect. In line 35, the author of
Passage 1 states, There is no doubt that the human mind is special.
He or she then lists the ways the human mind is special,
introducing each reason with the word in. The author is not
conveying the skills that human beings gradually acquire; he or she
gives no indication that the things listed are learned over time.
Rather, the author seems to be conveying the innate, or inborn,
abilities of the human mind. The author uses the list, with the
repeated word in, to convey unique capabilities of the human
mindthat is, the special things that only the human mind can do.
Choice (B) is incorrect. In line 35, the author of Passage 1
states, There is no doubt that the human mind is special. He or she
then lists the ways the human mind is special, introducing each
reason with the word in. The author is not conveying distinctions
between mind and body; he or she is not explaining how the mind is
different from the body, but rather seems to be indicating that the
human mind is different from other animals minds. The author uses
the list, with the repeated word in, to convey the unique
capabilities of the human mindthat is, the special things that only
the human mind can do. Choice (C) is incorrect. In line 35, the
author of Passage 1 states, There is no doubt that the human mind
is special. He or she then lists the ways the human mind is
special, introducing each reason with the word in. The author is
not conveying that humans are particularly self-absorbed; indeed,
the author seems to agree with the notion that the human mind is
special and
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2012 PSAT/NMSQT Answer Explanations
2012 The College Board. All Rights Reserved
unique. He or she uses the list, with the repeated word in, to
convey the unique capabilities that do make the human mind special,
not to suggest that humans are self-absorbed. Choice (D) is
incorrect. In line 35, the author of Passage 1 states, There is no
doubt that the
human mind is special. He or she then lists the ways the human
mind is special, introducing
each reason with the word in. The author is not conveying the
range of emotions people
experience. The author lists attributes, not emotionsfor
example, the ability to use language
with syntax is not an emotion. He or she uses the list, with the
repeated word in, to convey the
unique capabilities of the human mindthat is, the special things
that only the human mind can
do.
Critical Reading Question 17
Choice (A) is correct. In line 49, the author of Passage 2
refers to the idea that our minds float
free of our genomes; in other words, the idea that the human
mind and the human body
developed separately and differently. The author of Passage 2
takes issue with this idea, calling it
outdated and disproven by modern science. This idea is most
similar to Descartes dualism of
the mind and the body, mentioned in line 15 of Passage 1.
Descartes theory says that the body
and its parts are physical matter while the mind is not. Both
the idea in line 49 (Passage 2) and
the idea in line 15 (Passage 1) indicate that the mind and body
are fundamentally different and
separate.
Choice (B) is incorrect. In line 49, the author of Passage 2
refers to the idea that our minds float free of our genomes; in
other words, the idea that the human mind and the human body
developed separately and differently. This idea is not most similar
to the idea expressed in lines 17-18 of Passage 1. In these lines,
the author of Passage 1 refers to Descartes suggestion that the
mind and the body interacted in some way. The idea expressed in
Passage 2 has to do with the development of the human mind and the
human body; it does not have to do with interactions between the
mind and body after they have developed. Choice (C) is incorrect.
In line 49, the author of Passage 2 refers to the idea that our
minds float free of our genomes; in other words, the idea that the
human mind and the human body developed separately and differently.
This idea is not most similar to the idea expressed in line 36 of
Passage 1. In that line, the author of Passage 1 refers to the
human minds capacity to feel pleasure and pain. The idea expressed
in Passage 2 has to do with the development of the human mind and
the human body; it does not address specific abilities of the human
mind (such as the ability to experience emotions). Choice (D) is
incorrect. In line 49, the author of Passage 2 refers to the idea
that our minds float free of our genomes; in other words, the idea
that the human mind and the human body developed separately and
differently. This idea is not most similar to the idea expressed in
lines 38-39 of Passage 1. In these lines, the author of Passage 1
refers to the human minds ability to symbolize and narrate. The
idea expressed in Passage 2 has to do with the development of the
human mind and human body; it does not address specific abilities
of the human mind (such as the ability to narrate events or
experiences). Choice (E) is incorrect. In line 49, the author of
Passage 2 refers to the idea that our minds float
free of our genomes; in other words, the idea that the human
mind and the human body
developed separately and differently. This idea is not most
similar to the idea expressed in line 39
of Passage 1. In this line, the author of Passage 1 refers to
the minds gift of language with
syntax. The idea expressed in Passage 2 has to do with the
development of the human mind
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2012 PSAT/NMSQT Answer Explanations
2012 The College Board. All Rights Reserved
and human body; it does not address specific abilities of the
human mind (such as the ability to
use a sophisticated language system).
Critical Reading Question 18
Choice (C) is correct. In line 35, the author of Passage 1
states that There is no doubt that the human mind is special. In
lines 58-59, the author of Passage 2 refers to humans deeply held
feelings that our minds are special. Both authors use the word
special to mean exceptional, or excellent and rare; theyre
referring to the view that the human mind is something excellent
and distinctive. Choice (A) is incorrect. In line 35, the author of
Passage 1 states that There is no doubt that the human mind is
special. In lines 58-59, the author of Passage 2 refers to humans
deeply held feelings that our minds are special. In these lines,
the word special does not mean primary, or of first rank or
importance. Both authors are referring to the view that the human
mind is excellent, but neither author indicates that the mind is
most importantthat it is more important than any other aspect of a
human. In lines 35 and 59, the word special means exceptional, not
primary. Choice (B) is incorrect. In line 35, the author of Passage
1 states that There is no doubt that the human mind is special. In
lines 58-59, the author of Passage 2 refers to humans deeply held
feelings that our minds are special. In these lines, the word
special does not mean additional, or added. Indeed, it does not
make much sense to say that people believe that the human mind is
added or that our minds are added. In lines 35 and 59, the word
special means exceptional, or excellent, not additional. Choice (D)
is incorrect. In line 35, the author of Passage 1 states that There
is no doubt that the human mind is special. In lines 58-59, the
author of Passage 2 refers to humans deeply held feelings that our
minds are special. In these lines, the word special does not mean
definite, or having distinct or certain limits. Both authors are
referring to the view that the human mind is excellent and rare,
not indicating that the human mind has certain limits. Choice (E)
is incorrect. In line 35, the author of Passage 1 states that There
is no doubt that the
human mind is special. In lines 58-59, the author of Passage 2
refers to humans deeply held
feelings that our minds are special. In these lines, the word
special does not mean featured,
or displayed or presented as a special attraction. Both authors
are referring to the view that the
human mind is excellent and rare, but neither author suggests
that the mind is somehow
displayed or held up as a kind of attraction. In lines 35 and
59, the word special means
exceptional, not featured.
Critical Reading Question 19
Choice (E) is correct. The author of Passage 2 explains that
although it goes against our deeply
held feelings that our minds are special, science has arrived at
the idea that the brain might be
assembled in much the same way as the rest of the body. The
author asserts in the second
paragraph that this idea is a continuation, perhaps the
culmination, of a growing up for the
human species that for too long has overestimated its own
centrality in the universe. The author
suggests that the human species is growing up in that, as
scientific developments occur, it is
coming to the realization that humans do not occupy a privileged
place in naturemuch as a
growing and maturing child comes to realize that he or she is
not the center of the universe.
Choice (A) is incorrect. The author of Passage 2 explains that
although it goes against our deeply held feelings that our minds
are special, science has arrived at the idea that the brain
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2012 PSAT/NMSQT Answer Explanations
2012 The College Board. All Rights Reserved
might be assembled in much the same way as the rest of the body.
The author asserts in the second paragraph that this idea is a
continuation, perhaps the culmination, of a growing up for the
human species that for too long has overestimated its own
centrality in the universe. The author refers to Copernicus
theories about Earths position in the universe, but he or she
presents the acceptance of those theories as just one stage in
humans realization that they are not the center of the universe.
The phrase growing up does not refer only to the acceptance of
Copernicus theories but rather to the entire process, sparked by
multiple scientific developments, of humans recognizing that they
do not occupy a privileged place in nature. Choice (B) is
incorrect. The author of Passage 2 explains that although it goes
against our deeply held feelings that our minds are special,
science has arrived at the idea that the brain might be assembled
in much the same way as the rest of the body. The author asserts in
the second paragraph that this idea is a continuation, perhaps the
culmination, of a growing up for the human species that for too
long has overestimated its own centrality in the universe. The
author does suggest that we have learned more about the brain, but
he or she is not indicating that the human species is growing up in
that it has an increasing understanding of and respect for the
power of the human mind. Rather, the author is indicating that the
human species is realizing that humans do not occupy a privileged
place in naturethat humans are not the center of the universe.
Choice (C) is incorrect. The author of Passage 2 explains that
although it goes against our deeply held feelings that our minds
are special, science has arrived at the idea that the brain might
be assembled in much the same way as the rest of the body. The
author asserts in the second paragraph that this idea is a
continuation, perhaps the culmination, of a growing up for the
human species that for too long has overestimated its own
centrality in the universe. The phrase growing up does not refer to
a commitment in all scientific branches to solving problems related
to human survival; indeed, the author of Passage 2 does not discuss
human survival. Rather, the phrase indicates that the human species
is realizing that humans do not occupy a privileged place in
naturethat humans are not the center of the universe. Choice (D) is
incorrect. The author of Passage 2 explains that although it goes
against our
deeply held feelings that our minds are special, science has
arrived at the idea that the brain
might be assembled in much the same way as the rest of the body.
The author asserts in the
second paragraph that this idea is a continuation, perhaps the
culmination, of a growing up for
the human species that for too long has overestimated its own
centrality in the universe. The
phrase growing up does not refer to an endorsement of the view
that our brains are not a
product of carbon, hydrogen, and other elements; in fact, the
author indicates that it is the
endorsement of the view that the human brain is made up of a
bunch of molecules that might be
the culmination of humans growth. The phrase indicates that the
human species is realizing that
humans do not occupy a privileged place in naturethat humans are
not the center of the
universe.
Critical Reading Question 20
Choice (B) is correct. In lines 64-72, the author of Passage 2
lists various stages in the growing
up process that has led the human species away from
overestimat[ing] its own centrality in the
universe: Copernicus showed us that our planet is not at the
center of the universe. William
Harvey showed that our heart is a mechanical pump. John Dalton
and the nineteenth-century
chemists showed that our bodies are, like all other matter, made
up of atoms. Watson and Crick
showed us how genes emerge from chains of carbon, hydrogen,
oxygen, nitrogen, and
phosphorus. In the 1990s, the Decade of the Brain, cognitive
neuroscientists showed that our
minds are the product of our brains. The author of Passage 2
lists all of the things scientists have
showed us in order to make a point about the place of human
beings in the universe; he or she
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2012 PSAT/NMSQT Answer Explanations
2012 The College Board. All Rights Reserved
indicates that these scientific developments have led humans to
accept that we are not at the
center of the universe.
Choice (A) is incorrect. In lines 64-72, the author of Passage 2
lists various stages in the growing
up process that has led the human species away from
overestimat[ing] its own centrality in the
universe. He or she lists things scientists have showed us: that
our planet is not at the center
of the universe, that our heart is a mechanical pump, that our
bodies are . . . made up of
atoms, and so on. Although the list includes Watson and Crick,
who showed us how genes
emerge from chains of carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen, and
phosphorous, the author is not
making a point about the role of genes in shaping human
development. The discovery concerning
genes is just one of the scientific developments the author
asserts has led humans to accept that
we are not at the center of the universe; the authors main point
is about the place of human
beings in the universe.
Choice (C) is incorrect. In lines 64-72, the author of Passage 2
lists various stages in the growing up process that has led the
human species away from overestimat[ing] its own centrality in the
universe. He or she lists things scientists have showed us: that
our planet is not at the center of the universe, that our heart is
a mechanical pump, that our bodies are . . . made up of atoms, and
so on. Although twentieth-century scientists and their achievements
are included in this list, the author is not making a point about
the remarkable achievements of twentieth-century scientists;
indeed, the list also includes scientific developments that took
place well before the twentieth century. The authors main point is
about the place of human beings in the universe; he or she asserts
that these scientific developments have led humans to accept that
we are not at the center of the universe.
Choice (D) is incorrect. In lines 64-72, the author of Passage 2
lists various stages in the growing up process that has led the
human species away from overestimat[ing] its own centrality in the
universe. He or she lists things scientists have showed us: that
our planet is not at the center of the universe, that our heart is
a mechanical pump, that our bodies are . . . made up of atoms, and
so on. Although relatively recent scientific findings are
mentioned, the author is not making a point about the controversial
nature of recent scientific findings; indeed, most of the findings
mentioned are not recent, and the author gives no indication that
the findings are controversial. The authors main point is about the
place of human beings in the universe; he or she asserts that these
scientific developments have led humans to accept that we are not
at the center of the universe. Choice (E) is incorrect. In lines
64-72, the author of Passage 2 lists various stages in the
growing
up process that has led the human species away from
overestimat[ing] its own centrality in the
universe. He or she lists things scientists have showed us: that
our planet is not at the center
of the universe, that our heart is a mechanical pump, that our
bodies are . . . made up of
atoms, and so on. Although the human mind is mentioned, the
author is not making a point about
the fundamental mystery of the human mind; indeed, many of the
scientific developments listed
are unrelated to the mystery of the mind. The authors main point
is about the place of human
beings in the universe; he or she asserts that these scientific
developments have led humans to
accept that we are not at the center of the universe.
Critical Reading Question 21
Choice (D) is correct. In this part of Passage 2, the author is
discussing findings showing that the
mechanisms that build our brains are just a special case of the
mechanisms that build the rest of
our bodies. He or she acknowledges that the concept may seem
unappealing, stating that some
might see the idea that our brains are just a bunch of molecules
. . . as a bleak renunciation of all
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2012 PSAT/NMSQT Answer Explanations
2012 The College Board. All Rights Reserved
that is special about humanity. The phrase just a bunch of
molecules emphasizes that the
concept is unappealing because it seems to reduce the special
human mind to something very
basic and ordinary.
Choice (A) is incorrect. In this part of Passage 2, the author
is discussing findings showing that
the mechanisms that build our brains are just a special case of
the mechanisms that build the rest
of our bodies. He or she acknowledges that the concept may seem
unappealing, stating that
some might see the idea that our brains are just a bunch of
molecules . . . as a bleak
renunciation of all that is special about humanity. The author
uses the phrase just a bunch of
molecules to acknowledge that the emerging concept of the brain
seems to reduce the human
mind to something very basic and ordinary and therefore is
unappealing to those who firmly
believe that the mind is special. The author is not undermining
the view that the mind is special,
but rather explaining how the new concept of the brain must seem
to people who hold that view.
Choice (B) is incorrect. In this part of Passage 2, the author
is discussing findings showing that
the mechanisms that build our brains are just a special case of
the mechanisms that build the rest
of our bodies. He or she acknowledges that the concept may seem
unappealing, stating that
some might see the idea that our brains are just a bunch of
molecules . . . as a bleak
renunciation of all that is special about humanity. The author
is not criticizing the view that the
human brain is just a bunch of molecules; in fact, the author
agrees with this viewpoint, calling it
an exciting modern take on an old idea, that there is a bond
that unifies all living things.
Choice (C) is incorrect. In this part of Passage 2, the author
is discussing findings showing that the mechanisms that build our
brains are just a special case of the mechanisms that build the
rest of our bodies. He or she acknowledges that the concept may
seem unappealing, stating that some might see the idea that our
brains are just a bunch of molecules . . . as a bleak renunciation
of all that is special about humanity. The author is not
emphasizing an overly modest attitude; the author agrees with the
view that the human brain is just a bunch of molecules and does not
suggest that scientists are being modest in describing the mind as
such. Choice (E) is incorrect. In this part of Passage 2, the
author is discussing findings showing that
the mechanisms that build our brains are just a special case of
the mechanisms that build the rest
of our bodies. He or she acknowledges that the concept may seem
unappealing, stating that
some might see the idea that our brains are just a bunch of
molecules . . . as a bleak
renunciation of all that is special about humanity. The author
is not minimizing the differences
between old and new perspectives. Rather, he or she is
emphasizing one difference: whereas the
old perspective holds that the human mind is special and unique,
the new perspective seems to
reduce the mind to something very basic and ordinaryto nothing
more than molecules.
Critical Reading Question 22
Choice (C) is correct. The author of Passage 2 calls the view
that our brains are just a bunch of molecules an exciting modern
take on an old idea, that there is a bond that unifies all living
things. In this context, the term take most nearly means outlook.
The author is indicating that scientific findings have caused an
old viewpoint to be looked at in another wayin other words, people
now have a new outlook. Choice (A) is incorrect. The author of
Passage 2 calls the view that our brains are just a bunch of
molecules an exciting modern take on an old idea, that there is a
bond that unifies all living things. In this context, the term take
does not mean scene, or episode (as in a television show or movie).
The author is indicating that the view of the brain represents a
new outlook, not that it
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2012 PSAT/NMSQT Answer Explanations
2012 The College Board. All Rights Reserved
is somehow a scene. Indeed, it does not make much sense to say
that the new view is a modern scene on an old idea. Choice (B) is
incorrect. The author of Passage 2 calls the view that our brains
are just a bunch of molecules an exciting modern take on an old
idea, that there is a bond that unifies all living things. In this
context, the term take does not mean share, or portion belonging to
one. The author is indicating that the view of the brain represents
a new outlook, not that it is a portion of something that is owed
to someone. Indeed, it does not make much sense to say that the new
view is a modern share on an old idea. Choice (D) is incorrect. The
author of Passage 2 calls the view that our brains are just a bunch
of molecules an exciting modern take on an old idea, that there is
a bond that unifies all living things. In this context, the term
take does not mean reaction. The author is indicating that the view
of the brain represents a new outlook, but he or she does not
indicate that it is a direct response to the old idea that all
living things are connected. Further, one would not say that a view
is a modern reaction on an old idea. Choice (E) is incorrect. The
author of Passage 2 calls the view that our brains are just a bunch
of
molecules an exciting modern take on an old idea, that there is
a bond that unifies all living
things. As it is used in line 80, the term take does not mean
number, or, in this context, the
quantity of something taken at one time. It does not make sense
to say that a new view of the
brain is a modern number on an old idea.
Critical Reading Question 23
Choice (B) is correct. The author of Passage 1 discusses the
mind-body dualism theory
associated with Descartes, mentioning that mainstream science
and philosophy no longer
believe that the body and its parts are physical matter while
the mind is not. This author
acknowledges that Descartes view appeals to the awe and wonder
we deservedly have for our
own minds, but in the last line he or she cautions that awe and
wonder at the human mind are
compatible with other views of the relation between the body and
the mind and do not make
Descartes views any more correct. The author of Passage 2
praises the view that has replaced
mind-body dualism, asserting that the idea that our brains are
just a bunch of molecules is
actually an exciting modern take on an old idea, that there is a
bond that unifies all living things.
He or she goes on to conclude with a stirring, or rousing and
inspiring, statement about unity
among living things: Through advances in molecular biology and
neuroscience, we can now
understand better than ever just how deeply we share our
biological make-up . . . with all the
creatures with which we share our planet. The final sentence of
Passage 1 is cautionary, while
the final sentence of Passage 2 is stirring.
Choice (A) is incorrect. The author of Passage 1 discusses the
mind-body dualism theory
associated with Descartes, mentioning that mainstream science
and philosophy no longer
believe that the body and its parts are physical matter while
the mind is not. This author
acknowledges that Descartes view appeals to the awe and wonder
we deservedly have for our
own minds, but in the last line he or she cautions that awe and
wonder at the human mind are
compatible with other views of the relation between the body and
the mind and do not make
Descartes views any more correct. The final sentence of Passage
1 is not perplexed; the author
does not seem confused about anything regarding views of the
human mind and body. Further,
the final sentence of Passage 2 is not resigned, or accepting of
defeat. Rather, the final sentence
is stirring, or inspiring. After praising the view that has
replaced mind-body dualism and asserting
that it verifies the bond that unifies all living things, the
author of Passage 2 concludes with an
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2012 PSAT/NMSQT Answer Explanations
2012 The College Board. All Rights Reserved
inspiring statement about how deeply we share our biological
make-up . . . with all the creatures
with which we share our planet.
Choice (C) is incorrect. The author of Passage 1 discusses the
mind-body dualism theory associated with Descartes, mentioning that
mainstream science and philosophy no longer believe that the body
and its parts are physical matter while the mind is not. This
author acknowledges that Descartes view appeals to the awe and
wonder we deservedly have for our own minds, but in the last line
he or she cautions that awe and wonder at the human mind are
compatible with other views of the relation between the body and
the mind and do not make Descartes views any more correct. The
final sentence of Passage 1 is not ironic, or humorously sarcastic;
the author seems to be sincere, not sarcastic. Further, the final
sentence of Passage 2 is stirring, or inspiring, not dismissive.
After praising the view that has replaced mind-body dualism and
asserting that it verifies the bond that unifies all living things,
the author of Passage 2 concludes with an inspiring statement about
how deeply we share our biological make-up . . . with all the
creatures with which we share our planet. Choice (D) is incorrect.
The author of Passage 1 discusses the mind-body dualism theory
associated with Descartes, mentioning that mainstream science and
philosophy no longer believe that the body and its parts are
physical matter while the mind is not. This author acknowledges
that Descartes view appeals to the awe and wonder we deservedly
have for our own minds, but in the last line he or she cautions
that awe and wonder at the human mind are compatible with other
views of the relation between the body and the mind and do not make
Descartes views any more correct. The final sentence of Passage 1
is not reverent, or worshipful; rather, it is cautionary, warning
people not to believe incorrect views. Further, the final sentence
of Passage 2 is not dispassionate, or unaffected by strong feeling;
rather, it is stirring, or inspiring. After praising the view that
has replaced mind-body dualism and asserting that it verifies the
bond that unifies all living things, the author of Passage 2
concludes with an inspiring statement about how deeply we share our
biological make-up . . . with all the creatures with which we share
our planet. Choice (E) is incorrect. The author of Passage 1
discusses the mind-body dualism theory associated with Descartes,
mentioning that mainstream science and philosophy no longer believe
that the body and its parts are physical matter while the mind is
not. This author acknowledges that Descartes view appeals to the
awe and wonder we deservedly have for our own minds, but in the
last line he or she cautions that awe and wonder at the human mind
are compatible with other views of the relation between the body
and the mind and do not make Descartes views any more correct. The
final sentence of Passage 1 is not indignant, or angry over
something unjust or unworthy; although the author cautions people
not to believe incorrect views, he or she does not seem to be angry
about anything. Further, the final sentence of Passage 2 is
stirring, or inspiring, not surprised. After praising the view that
has replaced mind-body dualism and asserting that it verifies the
bond that unifies all living things, the author of Passage 2
concludes with an inspiring statement about how deeply we share our
biological make-up . . . with all the creatures with which we share
our planet. Critical Reading Question 24
Choice (A) is correct. Both passages suggest that the notion
that the mind and body are separate
is appealing but problematic. The author of Passage 1 states
that the view that most human
beings today would regard as their own holds that the body and
its parts are physical matter
while the mind is not. The author suggests that this view is
appealing given the awe and wonder
we . . . have for our own minds. However, the author also
suggests that this view is problematic:
This view is no longer mainstream in science or philosophy and
is not correct. Likewise, the
author of Passage 2 acknowledges that humans have deeply held
feelings that our minds are
special, somehow separate from the material world, but also
asserts that this appealing notion is
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2012 PSAT/NMSQT Answer Explanations
2012 The College Board. All Rights Reserved
incorrect: such beliefs are completely at odds with everything
that scientists have learned in
molecular biology over the past decade.
Choice (B) is incorrect. Neither the author of Passage 1 nor the
author of Passage 2 considers
the notion of mind-body dualism novel, or new. Indeed, the
author of Passage 1 indicates that this
theory is associated with Descartes, a seventeenth-century
philosopher, and the author of
Passage 2 suggests that humans have a long history of viewing
the human brain as special,
somehow separate from the material world. Further, both authors
do more than call mind-body
dualism impractical; both authors indicate that the notion is
incorrect.
Choice (C) is incorrect. Both passages suggest that the notion
that the mind and body are
separate is appealing, which suggests that some people might
find the notion reassuring; some
might be comforted by thinking of the human mind as something
special that deserves awe and
wonder. However, neither the author of Passage 1 nor the author
of Passage 2 considers the
notion of mind-body dualism rational, or suggests that the
notion is based on reason. In fact, the
author of Passage 2 explicitly states that the notion is
completely at odds with everything that
scientists have learned in molecular biology over the past
decade.
Choice (D) is incorrect. Neither the author of Passage 1 nor the
author of Passage 2 considers the notion of mind-body dualism
innovative, or original and imaginative. Indeed, the author of
Passage 1 indicates that this theory is associated with Descartes,
a seventeenth-century philosopher, and the author of Passage 2
suggests that humans have a long history of viewing the human brain
as special, somehow separate from the material world. Further,
although both authors indicate that scientific developments have
shown the theory is incorrect, neither author suggests that the
theory is controversial among the general public or even among
scientists. Choice (E) is incorrect. Neither the author of Passage
1 nor the author of Passage 2 considers the notion of mind-body
dualism demeaning, or degrading; on the contrary, both acknowledge
that the theory is appealing because it supports the human tendency
to view the human brain as special and worthy of awe and wonder.
Further, although both authors indicate that the theory is now
outdated, neither author suggests the theory was shortsighted, or
lacking in foresight, when it was developed.
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2012 PSAT/NMSQT Answer Explanations
2012 The College Board. All Rights Reserved