Best DSAT Lessons - "Text Structure and Purpose"

"The sun dipped below the horizon, casting long shadows over the abandoned garden. I stood in silence, remembering happier days when laughter filled this space. Now, every rustle of the wind seemed to whisper secrets of lost youth and change that could never be recaptured."

Question:
What is the purpose of the text, and how is its structure established?

Explanation:

• Purpose: To evoke nostalgia while reflecting on the passage of time and the loss of youth.
• Structure: The passage moves from setting the scene (a vivid description of the fading day and garden) to personal reflection (reminiscing about past happiness and the inevitability of change).
• Key Clues: Descriptive imagery (sun dipping, long shadows) and a shift from external observation to internal reflection indicate the dual focus on setting and emotion.

"In the years following the revolution, the nation struggled to establish a stable government amid rampant factionalism. In particular, the deep-seated mistrust between former allies and enemies not only hampered swift reform but also set the stage for future conflicts. Subsequent reforms were implemented slowly as leaders grappled with these entrenched divisions."

Question:
What is the function of the underlined portion in the text?

Explanation:

• Function: To clarify and specify one of the key reasons behind the slow pace of governmental reform. It highlights how internal mistrust contributed to ongoing challenges.
• Key Clues: Notice the phrase "In particular," which signals that the sentence will offer a specific example or explanation. This adds a layer of detail that supports the broader argument about the difficulties in post-revolutionary reform.

"Recent environmental studies have revealed startling insights into the delicate balance of ocean ecosystems. Initially, researchers recorded subtle changes in water temperature and increasing acidity—variations so minor they barely registered on conventional instruments. However, as the investigation deepened in its second phase, these seemingly trivial changes were linked with a dramatic decline in the population of key marine species. In the conclusive phase of the study, scientists synthesized the data into a comprehensive model, demonstrating how even marginal shifts in climate variables can trigger far-reaching cascading effects throughout the marine food web."

Question:
What is the purpose of the text, and how is its structure established?

Explanation:

• Purpose: To explain how minor environmental changes can have significant impacts on marine ecosystems, thereby stressing the critical need for climate change interventions.
• Structure: The text is organized in a clear, progressive manner. First, it introduces subtle observations by reporting barely noticeable changes in water temperature and acidity. Then, it builds on these observations by connecting them to a dramatic decline in marine species populations, effectively linking cause with effect. Finally, it integrates these findings into a comprehensive model that highlights how these minor shifts can have wide-reaching, cascading impacts on the entire marine food web, thereby underlining the necessity for immediate intervention.
• Key Clues: Transitional language such as "initially," "as the investigation deepened," and "in the conclusive phase" signals this deliberate progression from observation, to analysis, and ultimately to synthesis.

"In the heart of our bustling city, the contrast between glossy skyscrapers and dilapidated neighborhoods could not be starker. Children play in the dusty alleys where streetlights once promised safety, and in upper districts, prosperity is paraded through immaculate parks and opulent malls. This disparity is not by chance but the visible result of policies that have long favored wealth over welfare."

Question:
What is the purpose of the text, and how is its structure established?

Explanation:

• Purpose: To highlight and criticize social inequality by juxtaposing two contrasting urban realities.
• Structure: The excerpt is organized by contrasting two settings—affluent versus impoverished areas—to underscore how policy decisions have created stark economic divisions.
• Key Clues: The direct comparisons ("glossy skyscrapers" vs. "dilapidated neighborhoods," "immaculate parks" vs. "dusty alleys") signal a deliberate use of contrast to support the argument.

"Remote work improves employee productivity despite common misconceptions. Studies consistently show that remote workers accomplish more than their office-bound counterparts. A Stanford University experiment found that home-based employees completed 13.5% more calls than staff in the office, equivalent to almost an extra workday per week. According to a survey by Airtasker, remote employees worked an average of 1.4 more days per month than office workers. This productivity boost stems from several factors. Remote workers experience fewer interruptions and office politics, saving an average of 40 minutes daily on unnecessary meetings. Additionally, eliminating commutes reduces stress and fatigue, allowing employees to dedicate more energy to their tasks. The flexibility to work during personal peak performance hours further enhances efficiency."

Question:
What is the purpose of the text, and how is its structure established?

Explanation:

• Purpose: To persuade readers that remote work enhances productivity
• Structure: First, it introduces the central claim(that remote work leads to higher productivity), establishing the premise with a clear, assertive statement. Next, it reinforces this claim by presenting empirical evidence(citing studies and statistics such as the Stanford experiment and the Airtasker survey), and then explains the reasons behind this increased productivity(such as fewer daily interruptions, reduced office politics, elimination of commutes, and the flexibility to work during peak performance hours).
• Key Clues: phrases like "studies consistently show" to signal that empirical data supports the claim; transitional expressions such as "this productivity boost stems from several factors" cue that the discussion will now shift from evidence to explaining underlying reasons.

"Recent empirical investigations into quantum entanglement have yielded anomalous and ostensibly paradoxical outcomes that subvert the conventional axioms of classical physics. Experimentalists have observed that subatomic particles exhibit highly nonlocal behaviors, insinuating the existence of a cryptic lattice of interconnections between matter and energy, hitherto unrecognized by orthodox theories. Moreover, these perturbations transcend the probabilistic expectations delineated by extant models, thereby galvanizing a paradigm shift in our comprehension of the underlying fabric of the universe. For instance, a novel experiment employing ultra-cooled ions revealed that entangled particles maintain instantaneous correlations over macroscopic distances, even under conditions that should ostensibly preclude such interactions. This empirical exemplar amplifies the discourse on quantum nonlocality, meticulously documenting instances where observed phenomena defy conventional causality."

Question:
What is the function of the underlined portion in the text?

Explanation:

• Function: To offer a detailed and concrete exemplar that substantiates the broader claim regarding the unforeseen and intricate behavior of entangled particles.
• Key Clues: Notice the signal phrase "For instance," which cues you that a specific example will follow to support the abstract argument.

Passage:

Recent advancements in gene-editing technology have sparked new discussions about the future of medicine. At a leading biomedical institute, scientists have reported early successes using CRISPR to correct mutations in cultured cells. Although the work is still in its preliminary stages, the study suggests that such techniques might one day reduce or even eliminate the burden of certain inherited disorders. Critics, however, remain cautious about unforeseen long-term effects and ethical challenges that accompany altering human DNA. Overall, the research highlights both the vast potential and the significant hurdles facing the next generation of genetic therapies.

Which choice best describes the main purpose of the passage?

A). To document ethical controversies surrounding gene-editing without considering its benefits.
B). To recount the historical development of gene-editing technologies.
C). To explain recent developments in gene‐editing research and discuss their potential future impact.
D). To criticize the use of CRISPR in biomedical research.

Correct Answer: C
Rationale:

• The passage outlines recent study results and hints at future possibilities, clearly emphasizing advancements alongside cautionary notes.
• Rather than focusing exclusively on ethics (ruling out A) or history (ruling out B), the text explains both the promise and challenges of new research.
• Option D is too one-sided; the passage presents a balanced view rather than outright criticism.
• Key details like "preliminary stages," "potential," and "significant hurdles" support answer C.

Passage:

In response to the educational challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, several school districts have implemented creative strategies to boost student performance. A recent study from an education research center details initiatives such as blended learning environments and community tutoring programs. These strategies not only helped students make up for lost instructional time but also encouraged a more collaborative and flexible approach to learning. School administrators now view these programs as instrumental in shaping a resilient and adaptive educational system going forward.

Which choice best states the function of the underlined sentence?

A). To contrast traditional learning methods with the new initiatives in an unrelated context.
B). To highlight how the reported strategies succeeded in addressing both academic and social aspects of education.
C). To criticize the reliance on alternative teaching methods during the pandemic.
D). To introduce unrelated statistical data about school funding.

Correct Answer: B
Rationale:

• The underlined sentence clarifies the positive outcomes of the new educational initiatives by linking improved academic performance with increased collaboration and flexibility.
• It does not merely contrast methods (A) or introduce criticism (C), nor does it shift the discussion to unrelated funding issues (D).
• The dual focus on addressing "lost instructional time" and fostering a collaborative environment supports answer B.

Passage:

A growing number of fashion industry reports have noted a significant transformation in consumer preferences over the past few years. Leading clothing brands are now partnering with local artisans and eco-designers to create collections that use sustainable materials and ethical production techniques. Several case studies describe how these initiatives, once considered niche, have expanded into mainstream popularity, prompting better research into biodegradable textiles and innovative manufacture processes. Market forecasts by industry analysts further suggest that this eco-conscious trend will redefine the future of fashion.

Which choice best describes the structure of the text?

A). The passage opens by discussing a general industry trend, then describes specific collaborations and innovations, and finally incorporates market predictions about future developments.
B). The passage recounts the history of fashion design while briefly mentioning sustainable practices as an isolated trend.
C). The passage outlines a comparison between luxury and fast fashion without discussing environmental issues.
D). The passage details multiple unrelated examples of new fashion trends without showing a clear progression of ideas.

Correct Answer: A
Rationale:

• The passage first introduces the overall shift in consumer preferences (industry trend), then provides concrete examples—such as collaborations with eco-designers—and concludes with forecasts about the trend's future.
• This logical progression from broad observation to specific examples and then to implications supports Option A.
• Option B mischaracterizes the passage by emphasizing historical recounting, Option C shifts focus to price categories rather than sustainability, and Option D does not reflect the coherent progression seen in the text.

Passage:

In a new chapter of space exploration, a private aerospace firm recently succeeded in landing a rover near a previously unexplored region on the moon. The mission is designed to test advanced navigation systems and to collect data that could shed light on the moon's geological mysteries. The live feed from the rover has already revealed intricate rock formations and surface textures that had never been documented before. Such observations have sparked enthusiasm among experts, hinting at possibilities for refining our understanding of lunar evolution and paving the way for future international collaborations in space research.

Which choice best states the function of the underlined sentence?

A). To introduce an unrelated technical detail that shifts the discussion to Earth-based geology.
B). To provide specific observational evidence that supports the mission's goal of advancing lunar geological knowledge.
C). To compare the capabilities of this mission with earlier, less successful attempts at lunar exploration.
D). To summarize the entire mission by listing all of its advanced technological features.

Correct Answer: B
Rationale:

• The underlined sentence offers concrete observations ("intricate rock formations and surface textures") that act as evidence supporting the mission's aim to expand our understanding of lunar geology.
• It does not introduce details about Earth's geology (ruling out A) or compare this mission to others (ruling out C).
• Additionally, it does not serve as a complete summary of technological features (ruling out D).
• Thus, Answer B most accurately reflects its role in reinforcing the passage's discussion of the mission's scientific contributions.

Passage:

The rising influence of social media on adolescent mental health has been a hot topic. One study conducted in several urban high schools found that platforms like TikTok and Instagram provide creative expression and peer connection, yet they are also linked with increased anxiety and feelings of inadequacy among teens. Researchers emphasize that while digital communities can offer support and inspiration, overexposure to curated images and viral trends may contribute to emotional stress. The report examines these dual effects, seeking to understand the complex interplay between connectivity and well-being in today's digital era.

Which choice best describes the main purpose of the text?

A). To recount statistical findings about teenage social media usage without assessing psychological impacts.
B). To argue that social media is solely responsible for the mental health crisis among adolescents.
C). To explain how social media can simultaneously offer support to teens and contribute to their emotional challenges.
D). To propose a series of policy reforms aimed at curbing social media use in high schools.

Correct Answer: C
Rationale:

• The passage weighs both the supportive and potentially harmful effects of social media on teen mental health, which matches option C.
• Key phrases like "dual effects" and "complex interplay" indicate an explanation of how these platforms offer both benefits and challenges.
• Option A is too narrow as it ignores the discussion of emotional impact, Option B oversimplifies the issue by attributing sole blame, and Option D proposes a solution that the passage does not address.

Difficulty level: Easy

Having trouble getting rid of weeds? One surprising solution may be to start eating them. Curly dock and broadleaf plantain are two edible plants that are usually considered weeds in North America. These and other plants like them are sometimes more flavorful than are some plants that people grow as food.

Which choice best states the main purpose of the text?

A. To suggest an unexpected solution to a problem
B. To discuss the best way to garden
C. To describe how good some plants taste
D. To identify a new cooking trend

Difficulty level: Medium

Ceremony, the 1977 novel by Laguna Pueblo author Leslie Marmon Silko, is typical of Native fiction written during the 1960s and 1970s. During that period, Silko and her peers wrote realistic and deeply serious portrayals of life in tribal communities. Recently, however, younger Native writers have embraced popular genres known for being entertaining and suspenseful, such as fantasy and horror. Anishinaabe author Nathan Adler is a figure in this movement. Their 2016 novel Wrist is a work of horror fiction.

Which choice best describes the overall structure of the text?

A. It discusses fiction by earlier Native writers, then describes how fiction by more recent Native writers differs from the earlier fiction.
B. It praises one Native fiction writer, then criticizes a different Native fiction writer.
C. It provides an overview of Native fiction, then compares it to fiction by non-Native writers.
D. It describes one Native author's early works, then describes her more recent works.

Difficulty level: Hard

In 2013 Bridie J.M. Allan and colleagues published a study concluding that ocean acidification has a strong effect on the behavior of Pomacentrus amboinensis, a species of fish. However, Allan and colleagues' study relied on a mean sample size of only about 18 fish. In a 2022 review of various scientists' conclusions about the impacts of ocean acidification on fish behavior, Timothy D. Clark and colleagues caution that relying on such a relatively small sample size can increase the potential for biased analysis. Such analysis, in turn, can contribute to reports of exaggerated effects.

Which choice best describes the function of the underlined sentence in the text?

A. It presents a criticism of the results reported by Allan and colleagues in their 2013 study.
B. It lists several traits of Pomacentrus amboinensis discovered by Allan and colleagues while conducting their 2013 study.
C. It emphasizes a detail about where Allan and colleagues conducted their 2013 study.
D. It states the conclusion reached by Allan and colleagues in their 2013 study.