Digital SATReading and Writing: Craft and StructureMedium
A journalist is writing an article about a small town's struggle with economic decline. The article begins by describing the once-bustling main street now lined with vacant storefronts and ends with a quote from a long-time resident saying, 'We've seen better days, but we're not giving up yet.' Which option best describes the overall structure of this article?
- AContrast between past prosperity and present challenges, concluding with a note of resilience.
- BDetailed analysis of the economic factors contributing to the decline.
- CChronological recounting of the town's history.
- DProblem-solution approach focusing on revitalization efforts.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Contrast between past prosperity and present challenges, concluding with a note of resilience.
The article starts by describing the 'once-bustling main street' (past prosperity) followed by 'vacant storefronts' (present challenges). It concludes with a quote acknowledging the struggles ('seen better days') but expressing hope ('not giving up yet'). This clearly establishes a contrast and ends with resilience.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. The article uses descriptive imagery and a quote, not a 'detailed analysis of economic factors,' to convey the situation.
- C. While there's a sense of time passing, the structure focuses on the contrast rather than a detailed chronological history.
- D. The article describes the problem and hints at future hope, but it does not detail specific 'revitalization efforts' as a solution.
Text Structure: Contrast and Resolution
A text structure that highlights differences between two or more subjects, often concluding with a way to overcome or cope with the presented conflict.
- Presents opposing ideas or situations.
- Often uses 'but,' 'however,' 'on the other hand' keywords.
- May end with a sense of hope, compromise, or ongoing struggle.
Memory trick: Structures help stories stand tall and clear.