Unlock the key to tackling these complex questions by zeroing in on the goal outlined in the prompt, bypassing distracting details.
Rhetorical synthesis problems are a type of question in the digital SAT exam that require students to integrate multiple pieces of information in order to craft a coherent response that aligns with a specific objective.
These problems present a scenario or topic, followed by a list of related facts, and then ask the student to formulate an answer that adheres to a particular directive—such as highlighting similarities or differences, summarizing research findings, or exemplifying an idea.
The critical challenge lies not in the complexity of the information provided but in the student's ability to discern the central goal of the question and to filter through the details to construct a response that is both precise and pertinent to that goal.
While preparing a presentation, a student has gathered the following information:
The student wants to emphasize the innovative nature shared by two of Earle's projects.
Which choice most effectively uses relevant information from the notes to accomplish this goal?
A) The 1979 "Jim Suit" dive set a depth record, while the 1985 "JASON Project" ventured into online educational realms.
B) Both the "Jim Suit" dive and the "JASON Project" showcased Earle's innovation: the former set new depth records, and the latter revolutionized educational outreach.
C) Earle’s contributions to marine biology and oceanography extend globally, reflected in her numerous expeditions and hours spent underwater.
D) Earle achieved the "Jim Suit" dive in 1979 and initiated the "JASON Project" in 1985.
Before even reading the bullet point information, figure out what is being asked first. By reading the question first, you know what to look for when reading the bullet point information.
Mini Question
What is the main task this question requires you to perform?
Go through the bullet point information one by one. Recognize what each project entails and stands for. Here, understand that the "Jim Suit" dive and the "JASON Project" were milestones in different areas – one in exploration, the other in educational outreach.
Mini Question
What accomplishment(s) showcased Dr. Earle's innovation?
Now that you've read both the question and identified the relevant information, you need to focus on how to synthesize an argument using the information as directed by the question.
This step is important because sometimes answer choices involve the same information from the bullet points but contain different perspectives, so you need to choose the answer that best suits the question.
Mini Question
What similarity between the two projects should be emphasized?
Go through each of the provided choices and evaluate them against your objective. Do they draw a similarity? Do they mention the specific projects? Do they highlight the pioneering aspect?
Only choice B mentions the two projects ("Jim Suit" dive and "JASON Project") AND highlight the innovations brought forth by each project, so it is likely the correct answer here.
The right choice will tick all the boxes: drawing a similarity, referring specifically to the projects, and emphasizing their innovative natures. It shouldn’t merely state facts but should present them in a way that argues your point.
In this case, re-read choice B and ensure it meets all the criteria set by the question and your analysis. Confirm that it does indeed draw a similarity and highlights innovation, ensuring it’s not doing the opposite – suggesting a contrast or just stating information.
Mini Question
What makes an option comprehensive for this example question?
This systematic approach ensures that you are not just randomly selecting an answer or going by what "sounds right." Instead, you're logically deducing the correct answer by understanding the context, the objective, and analyzing each option in relation to these. Each step is about narrowing down your options until you're left with the one that best fits all criteria.
Pay close attention to what the question is asking you to do — whether it's drawing comparisons, emphasizing similarities, or highlighting specific aspects.
Small keywords in the options can significantly change the meaning. Be vigilant about every word in the choice you select.
Always refer back to the original notes or information provided to ensure your choice is consistent with the facts.
Your answer choice should make logical sense in drawing comparisons or emphasizing points. It shouldn’t feel forced or unrelated.
Some options might seem correct because they sound fancy or contain additional scientific information. Stay focused on the criteria the question sets.
Unsure of the right answer? Start eliminating the ones you’re confident don’t meet the question’s needs. This strategy often makes the correct option clearer.
Now that you've mastered this question type, it's time to test your skills
Take a Free Digital SAT Practice Test