A key skill for the SAT/ACT. Learn strategies for comparing and contrasting the points of view, purposes, and arguments presented in two different but related passages.
What is the most effective first step when approaching paired reading passages?
Read and analyze Passage 1 completely on its own first. Determine its main idea, purpose, and tone before you even look at Passage 2 or the questions.
After understanding Passage 1, what is your strategy for reading Passage 2?
Read Passage 2, actively looking for connections to Passage 1. Ask yourself: Does Passage 2 agree, disagree, provide an example, or offer a different explanation for the topic in Passage 1?
What does it mean if two passages 'agree' or have 'similar perspectives'?
They share the same fundamental argument or conclusion about the topic, even if they use different evidence or have slightly different tones.
What does it mean if two passages 'disagree' or have 'conflicting perspectives'?
They present opposing views or conclusions on the central topic. The argument of one passage directly contradicts the argument of the other.
What is the relationship if Passage 2 'elaborates on' a point from Passage 1?
Passage 2 provides more specific details, depth, or background information about a concept that was introduced more generally in Passage 1.
What does it mean if Passage 2 'presents a specific example of' a principle from Passage 1?
Passage 1 discusses a broad theory or general idea, and Passage 2 describes a concrete case study or instance that demonstrates that principle in action.
What is happening if Passage 2 'challenges' or 'questions' a claim from Passage 1?
Passage 2 introduces evidence, logic, or a counterargument that casts doubt on the validity or accuracy of a specific point made in Passage 1.
What does it mean for one passage to 'qualify' the claims of another?
It means to limit or restrict the claim of the other passage. Passage 2 might suggest that Passage 1's argument is only true under specific circumstances, rather than being universally applicable.
Describe the relationship where one passage offers an 'alternative explanation'.
Both passages may acknowledge the same fact or phenomenon, but they propose different causes or reasons for it.
How should you approach a question asking what the author of Passage 1 would think of a claim in Passage 2?
First, solidify your understanding of Author 1's main argument, purpose, and tone. Then, evaluate the specific claim from Passage 2 through Author 1's lens, predicting whether they would agree, disagree, or find it irrelevant.
A question asks about the 'relationship' between the two passages. What are the most common answer choices describing this relationship?
Common relationships include: agreement, disagreement, qualification, elaboration, offering a specific example for a general claim, or providing an alternative explanation.
