Digital PSAT Reading and Writing Practice Question 59: Answer and Explanation

Question: 59

______________ One of the most highly regarded surrealist artists, Salvador Dali, often drew on symbols that he saw in his dreams and incorporated them into his paintings. Dali's formal art education began in 1921 at the School of Fine Arts in Madrid, where he studied for several years. However, Dali was expelled shortly before graduating because he claimed that none of the teachers was competent enough to examine him. In this same year he painted Basket of Bread, which features four slices of buttered bread in a basket with one set off from the others and missing a bite. The painting uses a dematerializing lighting technique that shows just how far Dali's skill had already developed when he was only 22.

Given that all are true, which choice completes the text with the best introduction to the paragraph?

• A. The use of discrete symbolism is essential to the surrealist movement.
• B. Art has been appreciated by millions of museum goers the world over.
• C. Salvador Dali was born in Spain in the city of Figueres.
• D. It is rare to find artistic works that have truly stood the test of time.

Correct Answer: A

Explanation:

(A) This sentence begins the paragraph with a general introduction to the subject that is specifically elaborated upon in the next sentence. Choices (B) and (D) are too broad, and choice (C) is too specific.