PSAT Reading Question 71: Answer and Explanation

Question: 71

It can be inferred from the passage that Churchill's administration

• A. is likely to be controversial.
• B. will meet with approval from all members of the House of Commons.
• C. is dominated by Opposition Liberals.
• D. has some unfilled positions.

Correct Answer: D

Explanation:

D

The question asks what can be inferred about Churchill's administration. Notice that this is the first question in a paired set, so it can be done in tandem with Q15. Look at the answer choices for Q15 first. The lines for (15A) say that A War Cabinet has been formed of five Members, representing…the unity of the nation. Check the answers for Q13 to see if any of the answers are supported by these lines. At first, they may seem to support (14B), but this is a Mostly Right/Slightly Wrong trap answer: (14B) contains the word all, which is too strong to be supported by the passage. Eliminate (15A) because it does not support any of the answers for Q14. The lines for (15B) state that the appointment of the other Ministers usually takes a little longer, but…when Parliament meets again…the administration will be complete in all respects. This information matches (14D), indicating there are some unfilled positions. Draw a line connecting (15B) and (14D). The lines for (15C) mention that the Speaker took the necessary steps, but say nothing about Churchill's administration; these lines don't support any of the answers to Q14, so eliminate (15C). The lines for (15D) state that We have before us many, many long months of struggle and of suffering. This refers to the war with Germany, and doesn't support any of the answers from Q14. Eliminate (15D). Without any support in the answers from Q15, (14A), (14B), and (14C) can be eliminated. The correct answers are (14D) and (15B).