ACT Preparation / Unit 21 ACT 2021 worked example, 60 to 90 seconds
Which Viewpoint a New Finding Supports
The idea
A new-finding question is answered in three steps. First, state what each viewpoint predicts about the situation in the finding. Second, compare the finding with each prediction. Third, choose the viewpoint whose prediction it matches and the other's it contradicts; if both predict it, it supports neither over the other.
In practice
Worked example: a new invented finding shows that oxygen at the lake bottom was normal during the die-off. Scientist 1 predicted very low bottom oxygen, so the finding contradicts that view; scientist 2 made no oxygen prediction and is not contradicted, so the finding favors scientist 2. A second finding, that the week was very warm, supports neither over the other, since both accept it.
Where people slip
Ask what each view predicted before the finding arrived, not what each could be stretched to explain afterward.
Your place on the trail
Every lesson rests on earlier ones and opens later ones. Tap any to jump.
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