PSAT Reading Question 272: Answer and Explanation

Question: 272

The main idea of the passage is that

• A. national park rangers are concerned about possible injuries due to Pokémon Go.
• B. visitors to national parks are discouraged by the lack of Wi-Fi and other technology.
• C. people who play Pokémon Go are more likely to visit national parks.
• D. Pokémon Go may encourage players to explore and learn about national parks.

Correct Answer: D

Explanation:

D

The question asks about the main idea of the passage. Because this is a general question, it should be done after the specific questions. The first paragraph introduces Pokémon Go and says that the phenomenon has made its way through civilization and is now venturing into uncharted territory: national parks. The sixth paragraph captures the main idea of the passage, stating that Pokémon Go may become a new way to explore historic parks. Choice (A) is a Right Answer, Wrong Question trap answer; although the passage does mention that injuries abound when playing the game, this is not the main idea of the passage. Eliminate (A). Eliminate (B) because it does not mention Pokémon Go. Although (C) mentions both Pokémon Go and national parks, this is Right Words, Wrong Meaning trap answer. One of the park employees quoted in the passage says that games such as Pokémon Go are a new and emerging opportunity to bring new audiences to the park, but the passage doesn't indicate that Pokémon Go players are more likely than others to visit national parks. Eliminate (C). Keep (D) because it matches the prediction. The correct answer is (D).