Digital SATReading and Writing: Craft and StructureHard
A student is writing an essay about the ethical implications of genetic engineering. They have found two sources: Source A, a scientific journal article detailing the technical feasibility of gene editing, and Source B, a philosophical treatise discussing the moral boundaries of altering human DNA. The student wants to emphasize the *tension* between scientific capability and ethical considerations. Which of the following strategies would most effectively integrate these two sources to achieve the student's purpose?
- ASummarize Source A, then summarize Source B, and conclude with a general statement about both.
- BPresent lengthy quotes from both sources sequentially without much interpretive commentary.
- CUse Source A to explain *how* gene editing works, and then use Source B to explore the *moral questions* raised by that capability.
- DFocus primarily on Source A, using Source B only to briefly acknowledge opposing viewpoints.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Use Source A to explain *how* gene editing works, and then use Source B to explore the *moral questions* raised by that capability.
To emphasize the 'tension' between scientific capability and ethical considerations, the student must first establish the capability (Source A) and then directly explore the ethical questions it raises (Source B), showing how one directly informs the other in a problematic way.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Mere summary and a general conclusion do not effectively highlight the 'tension' or direct relationship between the two aspects.
- B. Presenting quotes without commentary does not analyze or integrate the sources to address the specific tension the student wants to highlight.
- D. This approach would downplay the ethical considerations, failing to emphasize the 'tension' between the two aspects.
Source Integration for Argument
The process of weaving external information and ideas into one's own writing to support or develop an argument.
- Requires synthesis, not just summary.
- Should clearly explain the relevance of the source material.
- Must advance the essay's main thesis or purpose.
Memory trick: Blend the voices, make them sing your tune.