PSAT Reading Question 160: Answer and Explanation

Question: 160

The function of the final sentence of the excerpt ("First of all though, I've got to get up, my train leaves at five") is to

• A. provide a resolution to the conflict Gregor faces.
• B. foreshadow the conflict between Gregor and his boss.
• C. illustrate Gregor's resilience and ability to move on.
• D. emphasize Gregor's extreme sense of duty.

Correct Answer: D

Explanation:

D

Difficulty: Medium

Category: Function

Getting to the Answer: Contrast Gregor's thoughts with the dark tone of the rest of the excerpt. Think about how this phrase adds to or supports the interpretations you made in previous questions. The author ends the excerpt with Gregor completely disregarding the fact that he is now an insect. Gregor plans to go to work as he always does, and the author draws attention to the absurdity of this decision. Choice (D) is the correct choice. The author uses the matter-of-fact tone in the sentence to emphasize that Gregor will ignore his physical condition and go to work because he has such a strong sense of duty to his family.