PSAT Writing and Language Question 110: Answer and Explanation

Question: 110

Which choice best concludes the essay by reinforcing its main idea?

• A. NO CHANGE
• B. but many of his family members attended his funeral and honor him today.
• C. but he was able to work as both a train brakeman and a musician.
• D. but if the history of American music is an indication, his influence is still alive and well.

Correct Answer: D

Explanation:

D

Note the question! The question asks for a choice that best concludes the essay by reinforcing its main idea, so it's testing consistency. First, consider the main idea of the passage. The passage introduces Jimmie Rodgers, discusses his early life, explains how he began his country musical career, and evaluates Rodgers's significance, indicating that his influence would be felt for many generations to come and that his music influenced other non-country artists. Look for an answer choice that is consistent with these ideas. Eliminate (A) because it contradicts the passage's point that Rodgers was highly influential. Eliminate (B) because his influence on his family is not consistent with the passage's main idea—the passage focuses on his influence on the music industry. Eliminate (C) because it mentions only his careers and not his influence as a musician, so it's not consistent with the main idea. Keep (D) because the idea that his influence is still alive and well is consistent with the passage's main idea. The correct answer is (D).