PrepTest 145, Section 4, Question 8
Technology is radically improving the quality of life(55 more words not shown)
Which one of the following(12 more words not shown)
- AThe direct application(20 more words not shown)
- BThe design, production,(21 more words not shown)
- CCompanies involved in(24 more words not shown)
- DEither the creation(17 more words not shown)
- EThe only ways(30 more words not shown)
Reading the argument
Technology can improve a community even before its residents use the new invention. Designing, testing, making, and selling it can create jobs. Those businesses can also expand the tax base and give a struggling community a sense of renewal.
That is a different benefit from the direct use of a technology, such as cleaner water or better internet access. The passage is reminding us to count both. A community might benefit from the industry that develops an invention, as well as from what the invention eventually does.
What we’re looking for
The question asks for the main conclusion. The first sentence makes the broad claim: direct applications aren't technology's only route to improving quality of life. The material introduced by “after all” explains why we should accept it. Keep that distinction between the overall point and the economic examples supporting it.
Working the answers
- ACorrect
This captures the main point that direct applications of innovations aren't the only way technology can greatly improve life in some communities. The discussion of growing industries, jobs, taxes, and renewal supports that broader conclusion.
- B
This is part of the reason for accepting the conclusion. The growth of industries can revive communities, which helps show why the benefits of technology extend beyond using the innovations themselves. B stops at a supporting claim instead of stating the overall point it supports.
- C
These are the specific benefits used to explain how the industries help. Jobs, a larger tax base, and a sense of renewal support the claim about reviving a community. That claim, in turn, supports the broader conclusion about technology's benefits. C gives us the detailed evidence.
- D
The passage says technology can greatly improve life in some communities. It doesn't establish that creating or directly applying technology improves life in most communities. D expands the number of communities beyond what the author claims.
- E
The passage gives jobs, taxes, and renewal as ways a community can benefit from technology-related industry. It doesn't say those are the only ways technology improves life. In fact, it explicitly recognizes direct benefits from innovations as well. E turns examples into an exclusive list.
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