Here is an Example

Here’s an example of a paired-passage type question with conflicting viewpoints for the SAT reading section, along with a sample passage pair and a step-by-step explanation of the correct and incorrect answers.

Passage 1:
In the article “The Benefits of Technology in Education,” the author highlights the positive impact of technology on learning. Technology provides access to a vast array of educational resources, enhances interactive learning experiences, and promotes collaboration among students. It empowers students to explore new subjects, engage with multimedia content, and develop crucial digital skills that are valuable in the modern world. The author argues that integrating technology into education can lead to improved student outcomes and better prepare them for future success.

Passage 2:
Contrarily, in the essay “The Limitations of Technology in Education,” the author presents a skeptical view of technology’s role in the classroom. While acknowledging its potential benefits, the author raises concerns about over-reliance on technology, decreased face-to-face interaction, and potential distractions. The essay suggests that excessive use of technology may hinder critical thinking, creativity, and personal connection. The author emphasizes the need for a balanced approach, integrating technology mindfully while preserving traditional teaching methods.

Based on the passages, which statement accurately summarizes the contrasting viewpoints of the authors?

A) The authors disagree on the extent to which technology enhances student outcomes.
B) The authors share the belief that technology promotes collaboration among students.
C) The authors agree on the positive impact of technology but differ on its drawbacks.
D) The authors hold similar opinions on the potential benefits and limitations of technology.

Now, let’s break down the steps to find the correct answer:

Step 1: Analyze the Passages
In this step, we need to understand the main ideas and viewpoints presented in the passages. Passage 1 highlights the benefits of technology in education, while Passage 2 takes a skeptical stance and presents the limitations of technology. The question asks us to identify the statement that accurately summarizes the contrasting viewpoints of the authors.

Step 2: Eliminate Incorrect Answers
Let’s evaluate each answer choice and eliminate the ones that do not accurately summarize the contrasting viewpoints.

A) The authors disagree on the extent to which technology enhances student outcomes. This answer choice incorrectly suggests a disagreement about the extent of technology’s impact on student outcomes. It does not capture the contrasting viewpoints presented in the passages. Eliminate it as an incorrect choice.

B) The authors share the belief that technology promotes collaboration among students. This answer choice incorrectly suggests that both authors agree on the promotion of collaboration. However, Passage 2 raises concerns about decreased face-to-face interaction, which implies a differing perspective. Eliminate it as an incorrect choice.

C) The authors agree on the positive impact of technology but differ on its drawbacks. This answer choice accurately captures the contrasting viewpoints. Passage 1 emphasizes the positive impact of technology, while Passage 2 highlights its limitations and the need for a balanced approach. Keep it as a strong contender.

D) The authors hold similar opinions on the potential benefits and limitations of technology. This answer choice incorrectly suggests that both authors hold similar opinions on both benefits and limitations. However, Passage 2 presents a skeptical viewpoint, indicating differing opinions. Eliminate it as an incorrect choice.

Step 3: Identify the Correct Answer
Among the answer choices, statement C accurately summarizes the contrasting viewpoints of the authors. It acknowledges their agreement on the positive impact of technology but highlights their differing opinions on its drawbacks. Therefore, the correct answer is C) The authors agree on the positive impact of technology but differ on its drawbacks.

Now that we’ve gone through the step-by-step explanation, see how you did! Understanding and analyzing conflicting viewpoints in paired-passage questions can be challenging, but with practice, you’ll become more adept at identifying the contrasting perspectives presented in the passages.