Digital SAT® Practice Test 1: Reading and Writing Module 1: Question 4 Explanation

Digital SAT Reading and Writing Test 1 Question 4

Which choice best describes the function of the third sentence in the overall structure of the text?

It suggests the original ecological context in which Alpine snowdrops thrived.
It outlines a prevailing concept highlighted by the case of the Alpine snowdrop and T. montanus.
It outlines a contrasting viewpoint regarding the adaptability of the Alpine snowdrop.
It offers a hint about the typical behavior of hummingbirds in varying terrains.

Answer:

Explanation

The Alpine snowdrop, a flower native to high-altitude mountain ranges, relies heavily on the hummingbird species Trochilus montanus for pollination. In the late 1800s, several of these flowers were relocated to a valley region devoid of T. montanus. Yet, driven by evolutionary forces, nature's intricate relationships have a propensity to reestablish themselves. By the mid-1900s, researchers noticed not only the appearance of T. montanus in the valley but also that the Alpine snowdrop was predominantly pollinated by them.

Choice B is the best answer. The text explains the relationship between the Alpine snowdrop and T. montanus hummingbirds. The third sentence presents a principle, which is illustrated by the discussion on the case of the Alpine snowdrop and T. montanus throughout the text.

Choice A: The third sentence does not suggest the original ecological context in which Alpine snowdrops thrived, but refers to when the Alpine snowdrop was relocated away from its native region.

Choice C: The third sentence does not involve any contrasting viewpoints on the adaptability of the Alpine snowdrop.

Choice D: The third sentence does not hint at the behavior of hummingbirds in different terrains.

✨ Expert's Tip ✨

Identify how the underlying principle in the third sentence relates to the rest of the text.