PSAT Writing and Language Question 629: Answer and Explanation

Question: 629

Which choice would best connect the preceding and following sentences?

• A. NO CHANGE
• B. Are we interested in focusing on exploring the moon, nearby planets, and even faraway star systems?
• C. Do we want only to save money so that we can use it for domestic research programs to fight disease here on Earth?
• D. Are we focused on making the world a better place for our children, or do we want to leave them a legacy of environmental devastation?

Correct Answer: A

Explanation:

(A) The following sentence particularly clarifies which choice makes the most sense. The "former" would be referring to "knowledge and wisdom"—a sensible rationale for changing to robotic exploration since such exploration would increase our knowledge but wouldn't give humans bragging rights as the first to land on another planet. Choices (B) and (C) each present only one option instead of two. Choice (D) does not give an option that is the focus of the context that follows.