ACT (Enhanced)ReadingMedium
Read the following excerpt from a historical analysis of the American Civil War: "The Anaconda Plan, conceived by General Winfield Scott, aimed to suppress the Confederacy by blockading Southern ports and controlling the Mississippi River. While initially derided as too slow and cumbersome, its strategic objectives, particularly the economic strangulation of the South, proved remarkably effective in the long term, albeit at a heavy cost in both time and resources. The plan demonstrated a foresight that many contemporary critics lacked, understanding that a prolonged war of attrition, rather than a swift decisive battle, would ultimately determine the conflict's outcome." Which of the following statements best describes the author's overall assessment of the Anaconda Plan?
- AThe author believes the Anaconda Plan was a brilliant and swift military strategy.
- BThe author suggests the Anaconda Plan was too costly and ultimately ineffective.
- CThe author acknowledges the initial criticism but ultimately views the plan as strategically sound and effective.
- DThe author argues that the Anaconda Plan was completely misunderstood by its contemporary critics.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. The author acknowledges the initial criticism but ultimately views the plan as strategically sound and effective.
The passage notes the initial derision but then states its strategic objectives 'proved remarkably effective in the long term,' indicating an overall positive assessment despite acknowledging the costs and initial criticism.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. The passage states it was 'initially derided as too slow and cumbersome,' contradicting 'brilliant and swift'.
- B. While acknowledging 'heavy cost,' the passage explicitly states it 'proved remarkably effective,' contradicting 'ultimately ineffective'.
- D. The author implies critics lacked foresight but doesn't state it was 'completely misunderstood'; rather, its long-term effectiveness was underappreciated.
Author's Overall Assessment
The main judgment or opinion the author expresses about a subject, often conveyed through tone and specific word choices.
- Requires synthesizing multiple parts of the text.
- Look for words that convey judgment or evaluation.
- Distinguish between initial reactions/criticism and the author's final conclusion.
Memory trick: The author's words weigh their thoughts.