PSAT Reading Question 92: Answer and Explanation

Question: 92

Based on the passage, it can be inferred that Symphoricarpos orbiculatus is

• A. a forb species beneficial to grazers.
• B. an invasive shrub.
• C. a woody warm-season grass.
• D. a late spring grass.

Correct Answer: B

Explanation:

B

The question asks what can be inferred about Symphoricarpos orbiculatus. Look for the lead words Symphoricarpos orbiculatus, and read a window around the lines to find the answer in the passage. Lines 68–71 say that Burning in late spring has been considered the most effective time to control invasive shrubs, but Symphoricarpos orbiculatus was the only woody species that declined with repeated late spring burning. Therefore, Symphoricarpos orbiculatus is one of the invasive shrubs. Eliminate (A), (C), and (D), which do not match the prediction. The correct answer is (B).