PSAT Reading Question 568: Answer and Explanation

Question: 568

The major thematic contrast in the narrative is between

• A. being motivated to find a job and deciding to take it easy.
• B. strict vegetarianism and a willingness to eat meat.
• C. becoming an immigrant and staying in one's native country.
• D. the attitudes of the workers and the true nature of their work.

Correct Answer: D

Explanation:

(D) In the passage, the workers are given menial, labor-intensive, unhygienic jobs. Nonetheless, they are thrilled to have the jobs. This is the passage's biggest contrast—that between "the attitudes of the workers and the true nature of their work." Choice (A) is flawed in that they never "take it easy." They are hard workers. Choice (B) is flawed in that the passage has nothing to do with "vegetarianism." Choice (C) is flawed in that even though the characters are immigrants, they make no mention of homesickness for their native land.