PSAT Reading Question 372: Answer and Explanation

Question: 372

Lines 10–14 suggest that a viewer of the Great Seal could generally understand it with some

• A. in-depth scholarly investigation.
• B. basic historical knowledge.
• C. background information about bird anatomy.
• D. familiarity with English heraldry.

Correct Answer: B

Explanation:

(B) Lines 10–12 state that "the symbolism of the obverse side is readily discernible to those versed in the story of the American Revolution." This means that if someone has basic historical knowledge about U.S. history, he or she will be able to make sense of the symbolism. Choice (A) is wrong because such in-depth knowledge is not necessary. Choice (C) is wrong because it is too narrowly focused on the eagle. Choice (D) is not correct because the Great Seal of the United States is "distinct from" English heraldry according to line 14.