SHSAT English Language Arts Quiz: Best Concluding Sentence

20 questions · exam conditions

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Best Concluding SentenceQuestion 1 of 20

(1) The modern pencil owes its existence to a 16th-century discovery in England. (2) A large deposit of pure, solid graphite was found, which locals first used to mark sheep. (3) This new material was superior to lead, as it left a darker mark but was not toxic. (4) Early 'pencils' were simply sticks of graphite wrapped in string or sheepskin. (5) It wasn't until the late 18th century that a method for encasing the graphite in wood was developed, creating the tool we recognize today.

Which sentence best concludes this passage?

Nicolas-Jacques Conté was the French inventor who patented the modern pencil-making process in 1795.

From a simple shepherd's tool to a staple of classrooms and offices, the pencil's evolution was a gradual but significant process.

Today, mechanical pencils offer a popular alternative to traditional wood-cased pencils because they do not require sharpening.

The graphite was initially mistaken for a form of lead, which is why the core of a pencil is still often called 'lead.'

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SHSAT English Language Arts Quiz

SHSAT English Language Arts Quiz: Best Concluding Sentence

Practice Best Concluding Sentence in SHSAT English Language Arts with focused quiz questions that help you check what you know, review explanations, and build confidence with test-style prompts.

What this quiz covers

This quiz focuses on Best Concluding Sentence, giving you a quick way to practice the rules, question types, and explanations that matter most for SHSAT English Language Arts.

How to use this quiz

Try each quiz question before looking at the correct answer. Use the explanations to review missed ideas, then come back to similar questions until the pattern feels familiar.

All questions

Question 1

Which sentence best concludes this passage?

Nicolas-Jacques Conté was the French inventor who patented the modern pencil-making process in 1795.
From a simple shepherd's tool to a staple of classrooms and offices, the pencil's evolution was a gradual but significant process. (correct answer)
Today, mechanical pencils offer a popular alternative to traditional wood-cased pencils because they do not require sharpening.
The graphite was initially mistaken for a form of lead, which is why the core of a pencil is still often called 'lead.'

Explanation: When choosing a concluding sentence for a passage, you need to find one that wraps up the main theme and provides closure to the entire discussion. The passage traces the historical development of the pencil from its 16th-century origins to the modern wooden version we know today. Choice B effectively concludes this passage because it synthesizes the entire historical journey described. It captures both the humble beginnings (a shepherd's marking tool) and the pencil's current widespread use, while emphasizing that this transformation was "gradual but significant" — exactly what the passage demonstrates through its chronological progression from graphite sticks wrapped in string to wood-encased pencils. Choice A introduces new, specific information about Nicolas-Jacques Conté and a 1795 patent. While historically relevant, this adds a new detail rather than concluding the existing narrative, making it feel like the start of a new paragraph rather than an ending. Choice C shifts focus entirely to mechanical pencils, which weren't mentioned anywhere in the passage. This creates a jarring topic change rather than providing closure to the historical account. Choice D offers an interesting historical detail about the "lead" terminology, but like choice A, it introduces new information rather than wrapping up the passage's central theme about the pencil's evolution. Study tip: For conclusion questions, avoid answers that introduce entirely new information or shift topics. The best conclusions synthesize and reflect on what's already been discussed, providing a sense of completion to the passage's main argument.

Question 2

(1) Urban beekeeping, the practice of keeping bee colonies in cities, has grown in popularity. (2) Rooftops, community gardens, and balconies can provide suitable homes for hives. (3) These bees contribute to the pollination of urban parks and gardens, which helps local ecosystems thrive. (4) Furthermore, beekeepers can harvest honey, offering a locally sourced sweet treat. (5) Despite initial concerns about stings, many city dwellers have come to appreciate the benefits these pollinators provide.

What is the best concluding sentence for this passage?

The most common species of bee used in urban environments is the European honeybee, known for its high honey production.
Bees play a crucial role in agriculture worldwide, pollinating approximately one-third of the food crops that humans consume.
However, setting up a new hive can be an expensive and time-consuming hobby for people who are just starting out.
This trend not only supports urban biodiversity but also reconnects city residents with the natural processes of food production. (correct answer)

Explanation: When you encounter a question asking for the best concluding sentence, you need to identify what would provide the most effective closure while connecting back to the passage's main themes and purpose. The passage discusses urban beekeeping's growth, benefits, and acceptance. An effective conclusion should synthesize these ideas and provide a sense of completeness. Answer choice D accomplishes this perfectly by tying together two key themes: environmental impact ("supports urban biodiversity") and human connection ("reconnects city residents with natural processes"). This creates a satisfying ending that elevates the discussion beyond just listing benefits to explaining the broader significance of urban beekeeping. Choice A introduces new, specific information about bee species that wasn't discussed in the passage. Conclusions shouldn't introduce entirely new topics but rather wrap up existing ones. Choice B shifts focus to global agriculture and food crops, which moves away from the urban context that defines this passage. While factually interesting, it doesn't serve the passage's specific focus on city beekeeping. Choice C introduces a negative aspect (expense and time) that contradicts the passage's overall positive tone about urban beekeeping's growth and benefits. For concluding sentence questions on the SHSAT, look for answers that synthesize the passage's main ideas rather than introducing new information. The best conclusions often connect specific details from the passage to broader, meaningful themes—exactly what choice D does by linking urban beekeeping to both environmental and social benefits.

Question 3

(1) The Venus flytrap is a carnivorous plant native to the subtropical wetlands of the East Coast of the United States. (2) Its 'trap' is made of two hinged lobes at the end of each leaf, fringed by cilia that look like eyelashes. (3) When an insect or spider touches one of the trigger hairs on the inner surface of the lobes, the trap snaps shut in less than a second. (4) The plant then secretes digestive enzymes to break down the soft tissues of its prey, absorbing essential nutrients. (5) This adaptation allows the Venus flytrap to thrive in poor soil where other plants might struggle.

Which sentence best concludes the paragraph?

The plant's trapping mechanism is so specialized that it can distinguish between live prey and non-living stimuli like raindrops.
This remarkable mechanism makes the Venus flytrap one of the most fascinating examples of adaptation in the plant kingdom. (correct answer)
Despite their exotic appearance, Venus flytraps can be grown as houseplants with the proper care and distilled water.
The wetlands where these plants grow are often threatened by development and changes in land use.

Explanation: When you encounter a question asking for the best concluding sentence, you need to think about how paragraphs work as unified units. A strong conclusion should tie together the main ideas presented and provide a sense of closure or broader significance. This paragraph systematically explains how the Venus flytrap works: its structure (hinged lobes with cilia), its mechanism (trigger hairs cause rapid closure), and its function (digestive enzymes extract nutrients from prey). The passage builds toward explaining why this adaptation matters—it allows the plant to survive in nutrient-poor soil. Choice B works best because it synthesizes all these details into a broader statement about the plant's significance. After learning about the intricate trapping mechanism, digestive process, and adaptive advantage, concluding that this makes the Venus flytrap "one of the most fascinating examples of adaptation in the plant kingdom" feels natural and complete. Choice A introduces new, specific information about distinguishing live prey from raindrops, which adds detail rather than concluding the discussion. Choice C shifts focus entirely to houseplant care, which is unrelated to the paragraph's emphasis on natural adaptation and survival mechanisms. Choice D brings up habitat threats, introducing an environmental concern that doesn't connect to the mechanical and biological processes the paragraph explores. For conclusion questions on the SHSAT, look for the choice that captures the paragraph's main theme and provides closure rather than introducing new tangential information. The best conclusions often step back to show the broader significance of the details you've just learned.

Question 4

(1) The Pony Express was a mail service that delivered messages, newspapers, and mail across the American frontier in the 19th century. (2) Using a series of relay stations, riders on horseback could carry mail from Missouri to California in about ten days. (3) This was a revolutionary speed at the time, cutting communication time by weeks. (4) Riders had to be young, tough, and lightweight, facing harsh weather and dangerous terrain. (5) Despite its legendary status, the service was only in operation for about 18 months.

Which sentence best concludes the passage?

The first westbound Pony Express trip left St. Joseph, Missouri, on April 3, 1860, and arrived in Sacramento, California.
It was ultimately made obsolete by the completion of the transcontinental telegraph line, which offered even faster communication.
Its brief but daring existence captured the public imagination, becoming a lasting symbol of the American West's spirit of adventure. (correct answer)
The Pony Express was a financial failure, never turning a profit for its founders during its short operational history.

Explanation: When you encounter a question asking for the best concluding sentence, you need to think about how conclusions function in well-written passages. A strong conclusion should synthesize the main ideas presented and provide closure that feels satisfying and complete. Looking at this passage, the key themes are the Pony Express's revolutionary speed, the challenges riders faced, and importantly, its brief existence despite legendary status. The conclusion should tie these elements together in a way that feels final and meaningful. Choice C accomplishes this perfectly by connecting the service's "brief but daring existence" (echoing sentence 5's mention of its short operation) with its lasting cultural impact. The phrase "captured the public imagination" explains why something so short-lived became "legendary," and "symbol of the American West's spirit of adventure" synthesizes the themes of speed, danger, and frontier courage established earlier. Choice A is wrong because it provides specific factual details that would fit better in the body of the passage, not as a conclusion. Choice B focuses too narrowly on just one reason for the service's end without addressing its broader significance. Choice D emphasizes financial failure, which introduces a completely new focus on economics that doesn't connect to the passage's emphasis on adventure, speed, and legendary status. For conclusion questions on the SHSAT, look for the choice that synthesizes rather than introduces new information, and that provides emotional or thematic closure rather than just additional facts. The best conclusions often explain the lasting significance of whatever the passage describes.

Question 5

(1) Echolocation is a biological sonar used by several animal species, most notably bats and dolphins. (2) These animals emit calls out to the environment and listen to the echoes of those calls that return from various objects. (3) The brain processes the time it takes for the echo to return and its characteristics to build a 'sound map' of the surroundings. (4) This ability allows bats to navigate and hunt for insects in complete darkness. (5) Similarly, dolphins use echolocation to find fish and avoid obstacles in murky water.

Which sentence is the best conclusion for this passage?

Human-made sonar technology, used in submarines and for mapping the ocean floor, is based on the same fundamental principles.
The frequency of the sounds used for echolocation is often too high for humans to hear, falling into the ultrasonic range.
Therefore, this remarkable sensory adaptation enables animals to 'see' their world through sound, performing critical tasks for survival. (correct answer)
Some species of shrews and cave-dwelling birds have also developed a more basic form of echolocation for navigation.

Explanation: When you encounter a question asking for the best conclusion to a passage, you need to find the choice that effectively wraps up the main ideas and provides a satisfying ending that flows logically from what came before. This passage explains echolocation by defining it, describing how it works, and giving specific examples of how bats and dolphins use it. The best conclusion should tie these elements together with a broader insight about the significance of this adaptation. Choice C accomplishes this perfectly. It synthesizes the key concept—that echolocation allows animals to "see" through sound—and connects this to the survival benefits mentioned in the examples (navigation, hunting, finding food, avoiding obstacles). The word "therefore" signals a logical conclusion, and "remarkable sensory adaptation" elevates the discussion to show why echolocation matters in the broader context of animal survival. Choice A introduces entirely new information about human technology, which shifts focus away from the biological adaptation discussed throughout the passage. Choice B provides an interesting detail about sound frequency, but it's a minor technical point rather than a unifying conclusion. Choice D adds more examples of echolocation in other species, which extends the discussion rather than concluding it—this would be better suited as additional body content. For conclusion questions on the SHSAT, look for answers that summarize the main point while adding insight about its significance. Avoid choices that introduce completely new topics or simply add more examples without wrapping up the discussion.

Question 6

(1) The Silk Road was not a single route but a vast network of trade routes connecting East Asia with Europe and the Middle East for centuries. (2) It was named for the lucrative Chinese silk trade, which was a major commodity transported along these paths. (3) However, many other goods were exchanged, including spices, porcelain, and precious metals. (4) Beyond the material goods, the Silk Road was a crucial conduit for the transmission of ideas, technologies, religions, and even diseases. (5) Cultures and civilizations that might have remained isolated were profoundly shaped by this constant interaction.

Which sentence is the best conclusion for this passage?

The decline of the Silk Road began in the 15th century with the rise of maritime trade routes that were faster and could carry more cargo.
The city of Samarkand, located in modern-day Uzbekistan, was one of the most important and wealthy trading centers along the Silk Road.
In this way, the historic network functioned as the world's first global superhighway, fundamentally shaping human history through commerce and cultural exchange. (correct answer)
Marco Polo, a Venetian merchant, famously traveled along the Silk Road in the 13th century and documented his experiences.

Explanation: When you encounter a question asking for the best conclusion to a passage, you need to find the choice that effectively synthesizes the main ideas while providing closure to the author's argument. The passage establishes that the Silk Road was a network of trade routes that facilitated not just commerce, but also cultural exchange, transmission of ideas, technologies, and religions. The final sentence emphasizes how this interaction "profoundly shaped" civilizations. A strong conclusion should tie these themes together with a broader significance. Choice C accomplishes this perfectly by calling the Silk Road "the world's first global superhighway" and emphasizing how it "fundamentally shaped human history through commerce and cultural exchange." This metaphor captures both the physical network aspect and the transformative impact mentioned throughout the passage, while the phrase "fundamentally shaped human history" provides the kind of sweeping significance that makes for an effective conclusion. Choice A introduces new information about the Silk Road's decline, which shifts focus away from the passage's emphasis on the network's positive impact. Choice B narrows the focus to a specific city, which doesn't synthesize the broader themes established. Choice D mentions Marco Polo, but this is a specific historical detail rather than a concluding statement about the Silk Road's overall significance. For conclusion questions, look for answers that broaden rather than narrow the scope, synthesize the main themes rather than introduce new information, and provide a sense of closure that reflects the passage's overall message.

Question 7

(1) The Great Migration was the movement of millions of African Americans from the rural Southern United States to the urban Northeast, Midwest, and West between 1916 and 1970. (2) Seeking to escape racial segregation and poor economic conditions, they were drawn by the promise of industrial jobs in northern cities. (3) This massive demographic shift had a profound impact on the country. (4) Cities like Chicago, Detroit, and New York saw their African American populations grow exponentially. (5) The migration also fueled the Harlem Renaissance, a flowering of African American art, music, and literature.

What is the most effective concluding sentence for this passage?

In doing so, these migrants not only reshaped the demographics of American cities but also fundamentally transformed the nation's cultural and political landscape. (correct answer)
The development of the mechanical cotton picker in the 1940s reduced the need for manual farm labor in the South.
Many migrants found that while economic opportunities were greater in the North, they still faced discrimination and prejudice in housing and employment.
Isabel Wilkerson's book 'The Warmth of Other Suns' provides a detailed narrative history of the Great Migration through personal stories.

Explanation: When you encounter a question asking for the most effective concluding sentence, you need to identify what would best wrap up the passage's main ideas while providing a sense of closure and broader significance. This passage discusses the Great Migration's causes, scale, and initial impacts. An effective conclusion should synthesize these elements and emphasize the overall historical importance. Choice A accomplishes this perfectly by connecting the demographic changes mentioned in sentence 4 with the cultural transformation referenced in sentence 5, then expanding to acknowledge the full scope of impact including political changes. The phrase "not only...but also" creates a sophisticated summary that builds upon specific details to reach a broader conclusion about national transformation. Choice B introduces completely new information about cotton pickers that wasn't discussed anywhere in the passage. Effective conclusions synthesize existing content rather than adding unrelated facts. Choice C, while historically accurate, focuses on the negative experiences migrants faced, which shifts the passage's tone and doesn't build upon the positive cultural impact highlighted in sentence 5 about the Harlem Renaissance. Choice D simply provides a book recommendation, which reads more like a bibliography entry than a meaningful conclusion to the historical analysis. For concluding sentence questions on the SHSAT, look for options that synthesize the passage's key points while expanding their significance. Avoid choices that introduce entirely new topics, contradict the passage's tone, or merely add supplementary information without connecting to the broader themes already established.

Question 8

(1) The discovery of the Rosetta Stone in 1799 by French soldiers in Egypt was a pivotal moment in the field of Egyptology. (2) The stone was inscribed with a single decree issued at Memphis, Egypt, in 196 BCE. (3) Crucially, this decree was written in three different scripts: Ancient Egyptian hieroglyphs, Demotic script, and Ancient Greek. (4) Since scholars could still read Ancient Greek, they were able to use it as a key to unlock the meaning of the other two, previously undecipherable scripts. (5) It took more than two decades of intense study by scholars like Jean-François Champollion to fully crack the code.

Which sentence provides the best conclusion for the passage?

After the French defeat in Egypt, the Rosetta Stone became the property of the British and has been housed in the British Museum since 1802.
Hieroglyphs had been a complete mystery for centuries, with many believing they were merely symbolic pictures rather than a functional language.
This monumental breakthrough in translation opened a direct window into the language and culture of ancient Egypt, transforming our understanding of its history. (correct answer)
Demotic was a script used for everyday documents in ancient Egypt, while hieroglyphs were typically reserved for more formal inscriptions on monuments.

Explanation: When you encounter a question asking for the best conclusion to a passage, you need to identify which choice best wraps up the main ideas and provides logical closure to the author's argument. The passage traces a clear narrative arc: the Rosetta Stone's discovery, its unique trilingual inscription, how scholars used Greek as a key to decode the other scripts, and the decades of work required to crack the code. The logical conclusion should address the significance and impact of this achievement. Choice C perfectly concludes this story by explaining the ultimate outcome—that deciphering these scripts "opened a direct window into the language and culture of ancient Egypt, transforming our understanding of its history." This ties together all the passage's elements and explains why the discovery and decoding process mattered so much. Choice A shifts focus to political ownership and museum location, which is completely unrelated to the passage's emphasis on linguistic breakthrough. Choice B provides background information about hieroglyphs that would fit better at the beginning of the passage, not as a conclusion. Choice D offers technical details about the difference between Demotic and hieroglyphic scripts, but this is explanatory information rather than a concluding statement about the discovery's significance. For conclusion questions, look for the choice that synthesizes the passage's main points and explains their broader importance or impact. Avoid answers that introduce new tangential information, provide background details, or focus on minor aspects rather than the central theme.

Question 9

(1) The concept of a 'green roof,' or a roof of a building that is partially or completely covered with vegetation, has been gaining traction in urban planning. (2) A layer of soil is laid over a waterproof membrane, and plants are grown on top. (3) These roofs provide excellent insulation, reducing a building's heating and cooling costs. (4) They also absorb rainwater, which helps manage stormwater runoff and prevents flooding in cities. (5) Furthermore, green roofs can create habitats for birds and insects, improving urban biodiversity.

Which sentence is the most effective conclusion for this passage?

There are two main types of green roofs: intensive roofs, which are thicker and can support larger plants, and extensive roofs, which are lighter.
The installation of a green roof can be a complex and expensive process, requiring significant structural support for the building.
By offering a suite of environmental and economic benefits, green roofs present a smart solution for creating more sustainable cities. (correct answer)
The city of Chicago has been a leader in the green roof movement in North America, with numerous installations on public and private buildings.

Explanation: When you encounter a question asking for the most effective conclusion, you need to identify which option best summarizes the main ideas and provides closure to the passage's argument. This passage presents green roofs as a beneficial urban planning solution, highlighting three key advantages: energy savings through insulation, stormwater management, and biodiversity improvement. An effective conclusion should tie these benefits together and reinforce the overall positive message about green roofs. Choice C accomplishes this perfectly by summarizing the passage's core argument. The phrase "suite of environmental and economic benefits" encompasses all the advantages mentioned (insulation saves money, stormwater management helps the environment, biodiversity improves urban ecosystems), while "smart solution for creating more sustainable cities" provides a forward-looking conclusion that reinforces the passage's supportive tone. Choice A introduces new technical information about roof types that wasn't discussed in the passage. Adding new details in a conclusion weakens the ending rather than reinforcing the main points. Choice B focuses solely on negative aspects (complexity and cost) that contradict the passage's positive tone about green roofs' benefits. Choice D provides a specific example about Chicago, but conclusions should broaden the discussion rather than narrow it to one city's experience. Remember that effective conclusions synthesize the main points rather than introduce new information. Look for answer choices that capture the passage's overall message and tone while providing a sense of closure. Avoid options that shift focus to new topics, contradict the passage's perspective, or get too specific when the passage has been general.

Question 10

(1) The invention of the printing press by Johannes Gutenberg in the mid-15th century was a turning point in world history. (2) Before this innovation, books were painstakingly copied by hand, making them rare and expensive. (3) Gutenberg's press, which used movable metal type, allowed for the mass production of written materials for the first time. (4) This led to a rapid increase in literacy rates as books became more accessible to the general public. (5) Ideas could now spread more quickly and widely than ever before, fueling movements like the Renaissance and the Reformation.

Which sentence best concludes this passage?

The first major book printed using movable type was the Gutenberg Bible, which was acclaimed for its high aesthetic and technical quality.
Movable type technology had actually been invented centuries earlier in China, but it did not spread as widely as Gutenberg's version.
By democratizing access to information, this single invention fundamentally altered the structure of society and paved the way for the modern world. (correct answer)
Gutenberg was a goldsmith from Mainz, Germany, and he used his knowledge of metalworking to create his durable type pieces.

Explanation: When you encounter a question asking for the best concluding sentence, you need to think about how conclusions should function: they synthesize the main ideas and show the broader significance of what was discussed. This passage traces the impact of Gutenberg's printing press from invention to widespread social change. The logical flow moves from the technical innovation (sentence 3) to its immediate effects (sentence 4) to its role in major historical movements (sentence 5). A strong conclusion should tie these threads together and emphasize the overall historical importance. Choice C accomplishes exactly this by synthesizing the passage's key themes. The phrase "democratizing access to information" connects back to sentence 4's point about increased literacy, while "fundamentally altered the structure of society" encompasses the Renaissance and Reformation mentioned in sentence 5. The conclusion "paved the way for the modern world" provides the broad historical perspective that caps off the discussion effectively. Choice A focuses too narrowly on one specific book rather than the printing press's overall impact. Choice B introduces new information about Chinese movable type that shifts focus away from the passage's main argument about Gutenberg's revolutionary effect. Choice D provides biographical details about Gutenberg himself, which doesn't serve the concluding function of showing why his invention mattered historically. For conclusion questions on the SHSAT, look for answer choices that synthesize rather than introduce new details. The best concluding sentence will connect the passage's main points while emphasizing their broader significance or lasting impact.

Question 11

(1) The Atacama Desert in Chile is one of the most arid places on Earth. (2) Some weather stations in the desert have never recorded any rainfall. (3) This extreme dryness is primarily caused by a 'rain shadow' effect. (4) To the east, the massive Andes Mountains block moist air from the Amazon basin. (5) To the west, a cold ocean current, the Humboldt Current, cools the air and prevents the formation of rain clouds over the coast.

Which sentence best concludes this passage?

Despite the harsh conditions, over 500 species of plants have adapted to survive in this extreme environment.
The clear skies and high altitude of the Atacama have made it one of the best places in the world for astronomical observatories.
Scientists study the Atacama's soil to understand what conditions might be like on the surface of Mars.
This unique combination of geographic and oceanic factors works to effectively cut off the desert from sources of moisture. (correct answer)

Explanation: When you encounter a question asking for the best concluding sentence, you need to identify which choice best wraps up the main ideas presented in the passage while maintaining logical flow. This passage explains why the Atacama Desert is so extremely dry by describing two key geographic factors: the Andes Mountains blocking moisture from the east, and the Humboldt Current preventing rain cloud formation to the west. The best conclusion should synthesize these explanations into a final summary statement. Choice D accomplishes exactly this by tying together both geographic factors ("geographic and oceanic factors") and restating the main point that these work together to prevent moisture from reaching the desert. This creates a satisfying conclusion that reinforces the passage's central explanation. Choice A shifts focus entirely to plant adaptation, which introduces new information rather than concluding the existing discussion about what causes the desert's dryness. Choice B similarly changes topics to astronomy and observatories, which has no connection to the passage's focus on the causes of aridity. Choice C introduces Mars research, again moving away from the established topic of why the desert lacks moisture. Each wrong answer commits the same error: introducing completely new information instead of wrapping up the existing explanation. While these facts about the Atacama might be true, they don't function as effective conclusions to this particular passage. For concluding sentence questions, look for the choice that synthesizes or summarizes the main points already discussed, rather than introducing new topics. The best conclusion feels like a natural endpoint to the author's line of reasoning.

Question 12

(1) Origami, the traditional Japanese art of paper folding, creates intricate sculptures from a single sheet of paper without any cutting or gluing. (2) The practice began in the 17th century and was initially used for ceremonial and religious purposes. (3) Over time, it evolved into a popular recreational art form. (4) Modern origami artists have applied mathematical principles to the craft, enabling the creation of designs with astonishing complexity and realism. (5) These principles allow folders to plan out the crease patterns needed to form specific shapes, like insects with multiple legs or detailed human figures.

Which sentence is the best conclusion for this passage?

The most famous traditional origami design is the Japanese paper crane, which is said to grant a wish to those who fold a thousand of them.
Thus, what began as a simple folk art has transformed into a sophisticated discipline that blends creativity with rigorous geometric logic. (correct answer)
Origami has also found practical applications in science and engineering, inspiring designs for foldable solar panels and medical stents.
Specialized origami paper is often used because it is thin and strong, holding a crease well without tearing during complex folds.

Explanation: When you encounter a question asking for the best conclusion, you need to identify which choice effectively wraps up the passage's main ideas and provides a sense of closure. A strong conclusion synthesizes the key points rather than introducing entirely new information. This passage traces origami's evolution from simple ceremonial practice to sophisticated mathematical art. The author emphasizes this transformation by contrasting its humble 17th-century beginnings with modern applications of complex geometric principles. Choice B perfectly captures this progression by explicitly stating "what began as a simple folk art has transformed into a sophisticated discipline that blends creativity with rigorous geometric logic." This conclusion ties together both the historical development and the mathematical complexity mentioned throughout the passage. Choice A focuses solely on paper cranes and folklore, which introduces new details not discussed in the passage and ignores the mathematical evolution that the author emphasizes. Choice C brings up practical applications in science and engineering, but this shifts to entirely new territory rather than concluding the artistic and mathematical themes already established. Choice D discusses technical details about paper quality, which is a minor implementation detail that doesn't address the passage's central theme of transformation and sophistication. For conclusion questions on the SHSAT, look for the choice that synthesizes the passage's main themes without introducing major new topics. The best conclusions often highlight contrasts or developments that the author has been building throughout the text, creating a satisfying sense of completion.

Question 13

(1) Plate tectonics is the scientific theory that Earth's outer shell is divided into several large plates that glide over the mantle, the rocky inner layer above the core. (2) The plates act like a hard and rigid shell compared to Earth's mantle. (3) This movement is responsible for a wide range of geological phenomena. (4) Where plates collide, mountain ranges can be forced upward. (5) Where they pull apart or slide past each other, earthquakes and volcanic activity are common.

Which sentence would be the most effective conclusion for the passage?

Therefore, this constant, slow motion of Earth's crust is the primary driving force shaping the planet's surface features. (correct answer)
The Pacific Plate is the largest of the major tectonic plates, covering a significant portion of the Pacific Ocean basin.
Alfred Wegener first proposed the theory of continental drift in 1912, but it was not widely accepted for decades.
Hotspots are volcanic regions thought to be fed by underlying mantle that is anomalously hot compared with the surrounding mantle.

Explanation: When you encounter a question asking for the most effective conclusion, you need to identify which option best summarizes the main ideas and provides closure to the passage's central argument. The passage systematically explains plate tectonics: it defines the theory (sentence 1), describes how plates behave (sentence 2), introduces the concept that this movement causes geological phenomena (sentence 3), and provides specific examples of what happens at plate boundaries (sentences 4-5). An effective conclusion should tie these ideas together with a broad statement that reinforces the main theme. Choice A accomplishes this perfectly by summarizing the passage's central point: that tectonic plate movement is the fundamental force creating Earth's surface features. The word "therefore" signals a logical conclusion, and "constant, slow motion" directly connects to the plate movement described throughout the passage. This sentence effectively wraps up all the examples and explanations provided. Choice B introduces completely new information about the Pacific Plate, which wasn't mentioned in the passage and doesn't summarize the main ideas. Choice C shifts focus to historical information about Alfred Wegener and continental drift theory, which is tangential to the passage's focus on how plate tectonics works. Choice D brings up hotspots and mantle temperature, adding new technical details rather than concluding the discussion. For conclusion questions on the SHSAT, look for the option that synthesizes the passage's main points without introducing new information. Effective conclusions often use transitional words like "therefore," "thus," or "in conclusion" and restate the central theme in broader terms.

Question 14

(1) The Dust Bowl was a period of severe dust storms that greatly damaged the ecology and agriculture of the American and Canadian prairies during the 1930s. (2) The crisis was caused by a combination of factors. (3) Years of severe drought plagued the region, leaving the soil dry and brittle. (4) At the same time, decades of extensive farming without crop rotation or other soil conservation methods had exhausted the topsoil. (5) When powerful winds swept across the plains, they picked up the loose soil, creating massive, choking clouds of dust known as 'black blizzards.'

Which sentence is the best conclusion for this passage?

John Steinbeck's novel 'The Grapes of Wrath' vividly portrays the hardships faced by a family of farmers who fled the Dust Bowl.
In response to the crisis, the U.S. government established the Soil Conservation Service to promote better land management practices.
This catastrophic environmental event displaced hundreds of thousands of people and served as a harsh lesson in the importance of sustainable farming. (correct answer)
The area most affected by the Dust Bowl included parts of Oklahoma, Texas, Kansas, Colorado, and New Mexico.

Explanation: When you encounter a question asking for the best conclusion to a passage, you need to find the choice that effectively wraps up the main ideas and provides closure to the discussion. The passage explains what the Dust Bowl was, what caused it (drought and poor farming practices), and describes its immediate effects (dust storms). A strong conclusion should synthesize these elements and reflect on their broader significance. Choice C accomplishes this perfectly by acknowledging both the human impact ("displaced hundreds of thousands of people") and the lasting lesson about environmental stewardship ("harsh lesson in the importance of sustainable farming"). This ties together the causes and consequences while providing meaningful closure. Choice A introduces irrelevant information about a literary work that wasn't mentioned in the passage. While Steinbeck's novel does relate to the Dust Bowl, bringing up specific literature doesn't conclude the scientific and historical discussion the passage established. Choice B focuses only on one government response, which is too narrow and specific for an effective conclusion. It also introduces new information rather than synthesizing what was already presented. Choice D simply provides additional factual details about the geographic scope. Like choice B, this adds new information rather than concluding the existing discussion, and it doesn't offer any synthesis or reflection on the significance of the events described. Remember: effective conclusions synthesize main points and often reflect on broader significance or lasting impact, rather than introducing completely new facts or tangential information.

Question 15

(1) Spices have played a significant role in human history, valued not only for their flavor but also for their use in medicine and religious rituals. (2) In ancient and medieval times, spices like pepper, cloves, and cinnamon were rare and extremely valuable commodities. (3) The immense profits from the spice trade drove European powers to seek new sea routes to Asia. (4) This 'Age of Discovery' was largely motivated by a desire to control the lucrative sources of these goods. (5) The quest for spices led to global exploration and the establishment of vast colonial empires.

Which sentence provides the best conclusion for this passage?

In addition to flavoring food, many spices were believed to have properties that could preserve meat before the advent of refrigeration.
The Spice Islands, or Moluccas, in modern-day Indonesia were the original source of some of the world's most sought-after spices.
Thus, the demand for these seemingly simple flavorings had a profound and lasting impact on the course of global politics and history. (correct answer)
Christopher Columbus was searching for a western route to the spice-producing regions of Asia when he encountered the Americas.

Explanation: When you encounter questions asking for the best conclusion to a passage, look for an answer that synthesizes the main ideas and provides closure to the argument being developed. This passage traces a clear progression: spices were valuable → their trade was profitable → European powers sought new routes to obtain them → this led to exploration and colonialism. The best conclusion should tie these elements together and emphasize their broader significance. Choice C accomplishes exactly this by using the transitional word "Thus" to signal a conclusion, then summarizing how "these seemingly simple flavorings" (referring back to spices) had far-reaching consequences on "global politics and history." This directly connects to the passage's final point about exploration and colonial empires, while encompassing the entire argument. Choice A introduces new information about meat preservation that, while historically accurate, shifts focus away from the passage's central theme about exploration and political consequences. Choice B also adds new specific information about the Spice Islands that wasn't developed in the passage and doesn't provide closure to the main argument. Choice D mentions Columbus, which is relevant but focuses on one specific example rather than drawing a broad conclusion about the overall impact described throughout the passage. For conclusion questions on the SHSAT, always choose the answer that wraps up the passage's main argument rather than introducing new details or examples. Look for transitional words like "thus," "therefore," or "in conclusion" that signal the author is synthesizing their points.

Question 16

(1) The construction of the Brooklyn Bridge, completed in 1883, was a monumental feat of 19th-century engineering. (2) It was the first bridge to use steel for its cable wire, and its massive stone towers were taller than any structure in New York City at the time. (3) The project, led by John A. Roebling and later his son Washington Roebling, took 14 years and faced numerous setbacks. (4) The use of caissons, pressurized underwater chambers for building the foundations, was a particularly dangerous and innovative technique.

Which sentence would be the most effective conclusion for the passage?

Ultimately, its completion symbolized an era of American ambition and industrial might, setting a new standard for bridge design. (correct answer)
The Brooklyn Bridge remains a popular tourist attraction and a vital transportation link for thousands of commuters to this day.
Washington Roebling's wife, Emily Warren Roebling, played a crucial role by overseeing the bridge's completion after her husband fell ill.
Many workers suffered from 'caisson disease,' now known as decompression sickness, due to the dangerous underwater work.

Explanation: When you encounter a question asking for the most effective conclusion, you need to think about what a strong conclusion accomplishes: it should synthesize the main ideas from the passage and provide a sense of closure that connects to the overall theme. The passage focuses on the Brooklyn Bridge as a groundbreaking engineering achievement, emphasizing its innovative features (first steel cables, massive towers, dangerous caisson technique) and the ambitious scope of the 14-year project. The correct conclusion should capture the broader significance of these details. Choice A effectively synthesizes all the passage's elements by connecting the bridge's innovative engineering to its symbolic importance as a representation of American ambition and industrial progress. This conclusion ties together the technical achievements mentioned throughout the passage and elevates them to their historical significance, making it the strongest ending. Choice B focuses only on the bridge's current status as a tourist attraction and transportation link, which shifts away from the passage's emphasis on its engineering significance and historical achievement. Choice C introduces new information about Emily Warren Roebling that, while historically important, wasn't developed in the passage and feels like an add-on rather than a conclusion. Choice D simply elaborates on the dangers of caisson work mentioned in sentence 4, but doesn't provide the broad perspective needed for an effective conclusion. For conclusion questions, look for the choice that brings together the passage's main themes while providing a sense of broader significance or lasting impact, rather than introducing new details or focusing on just one aspect.

Question 17

(1) The geysers of Yellowstone National Park are a spectacular natural phenomenon. (2) They are hot springs that periodically erupt, sending jets of boiling water and steam into the air. (3) This process is driven by a specific geological setup underground. (4) Surface water seeps down through cracks in the rock until it meets rock heated by magma deep within the Earth. (5) The water becomes superheated, and the immense pressure that builds up eventually forces a column of steam and water to the surface in a powerful eruption.

What is the best concluding sentence for this passage?

Yellowstone's Old Faithful geyser is famous for its predictable eruptions, which occur approximately every 90 minutes.
Tourists from all over the world visit Yellowstone each year specifically to witness the park's impressive collection of geysers.
Thus, a rare combination of abundant water, intense heat, and a natural plumbing system creates these remarkable geothermal wonders. (correct answer)
The colors seen around many hot springs are caused by different species of heat-loving microorganisms called thermophiles.

Explanation: When you encounter questions about concluding sentences, focus on finding the choice that best wraps up the passage's main ideas and provides logical closure to the argument or explanation presented. This passage explains how geysers work through a clear cause-and-effect process: water seeps down, meets heated rock, becomes superheated under pressure, and erupts. The best conclusion should synthesize these key elements into a unifying statement. Choice C does exactly this by identifying the three essential components—"abundant water, intense heat, and a natural plumbing system"—that create geysers. The word "Thus" signals a logical conclusion, and "these remarkable geothermal wonders" directly refers back to the geysers described throughout the passage. Choice A introduces specific information about Old Faithful that wasn't discussed in the passage. While related to geysers, it shifts focus to one particular example rather than concluding the general explanation. Choice B focuses on tourism and human interest, which is completely outside the scope of this scientific explanation about geological processes. Choice D brings up thermophiles and hot spring colors, introducing entirely new scientific concepts that weren't mentioned anywhere in the passage about geyser formation. For conclusion questions on the SHSAT, look for the choice that ties together the passage's main points without introducing new, unrelated information. The best concluding sentence will often use transitional words like "thus," "therefore," or "consequently" and will synthesize rather than add new details.

Question 18

(1) Coral reefs are often called the 'rainforests of the sea' due to their incredible biodiversity. (2) These underwater structures are built by colonies of tiny animals called coral polyps. (3) They provide shelter, food, and breeding grounds for about 25 percent of all marine species, despite covering less than one percent of the ocean floor. (4) Reefs also protect coastlines from storms and erosion and support local economies through tourism and fishing. (5) However, these vital ecosystems are under threat from climate change, pollution, and overfishing.

Which sentence best concludes this passage?

The Great Barrier Reef off the coast of Australia is the world's largest coral reef system, visible even from outer space.
Coral bleaching occurs when rising water temperatures cause corals to expel the algae living in their tissues, turning them white.
Many scientists are working on innovative methods, such as coral gardening, to help restore damaged reef ecosystems.
The combination of their ecological importance and their current vulnerability makes their preservation a critical global priority. (correct answer)

Explanation: When you encounter a question asking for the best concluding sentence, you need to think about how conclusions function. A strong conclusion should synthesize the main ideas presented in the passage and provide closure that feels both logical and complete. This passage establishes two key points: coral reefs are incredibly important ecosystems (sentences 1-4 detail their biodiversity and benefits), and they face serious threats (sentence 5 introduces climate change, pollution, and overfishing). An effective conclusion needs to tie these contrasting ideas together. Choice D accomplishes this perfectly by combining both themes—"their ecological importance and their current vulnerability"—and elevating them to a broader significance with "critical global priority." This creates a satisfying synthesis that acknowledges everything the passage has established while providing a sense of urgency and importance. Choice A introduces entirely new factual information about the Great Barrier Reef's size and visibility from space. While interesting, this shifts focus to a specific example rather than wrapping up the passage's broader themes. Choice B defines coral bleaching, which is new technical information. Like A, this adds detail rather than providing closure, and it narrows the focus to just one threat mechanism instead of addressing the passage's full scope. Choice C mentions restoration efforts, which is somewhat related but introduces a new angle (solutions) that the passage hasn't developed. It feels more like the start of a new discussion than a conclusion. For conclusion questions, look for answer choices that synthesize rather than introduce new information, and that address all major themes the passage has established.

Question 19

(1) The human brain's ability to change and reorganize itself by forming new neural connections is known as neuroplasticity. (2) For a long time, scientists believed that the brain was a static organ that did not change significantly after childhood. (3) However, research over the past few decades has shown that the brain is remarkably adaptable throughout life. (4) Learning a new skill, for example, can create new pathways and strengthen existing ones. (5) This plasticity also allows the brain to recover from injury by letting healthy regions take over the functions of damaged areas.

What is the most effective concluding sentence for this passage?

Studies have shown that activities like playing a musical instrument or learning a new language can enhance brain plasticity.
One of the most active periods of neuroplasticity occurs during early childhood, when the brain is rapidly developing.
This ongoing capacity for adaptation means that our brains are constantly being shaped by our experiences, thoughts, and actions. (correct answer)
The two main types of neuroplasticity are structural plasticity, which involves changes in brain structure, and functional plasticity.

Explanation: When choosing a concluding sentence, you need to think about how it wraps up the passage's main ideas while providing closure. The best conclusions either summarize key points or extend the discussion in a meaningful way that feels complete. Choice C works perfectly because it synthesizes the passage's central theme about neuroplasticity being an ongoing, lifelong process. The passage establishes that scientists once thought the brain was static after childhood (sentence 2), then explains how research proved the brain remains adaptable throughout life (sentence 3). Choice C captures this continuous nature with "ongoing capacity for adaptation" and connects it to our daily lives by mentioning how "experiences, thoughts, and actions" shape our brains. This creates a satisfying conclusion that feels both comprehensive and forward-looking. Choice A introduces specific examples (musical instruments, languages) that, while related to neuroplasticity, feel like they're starting a new discussion rather than concluding the current one. Choice B actually contradicts the passage's emphasis on lifelong plasticity by focusing specifically on early childhood, which undermines the main argument. Choice D introduces technical categories (structural vs. functional plasticity) that weren't discussed in the passage, making it feel disconnected and more like the beginning of a different topic. For SHSAT reading questions about conclusions, look for answers that echo the passage's main theme while providing a sense of completion. Avoid choices that introduce entirely new information or contradict the passage's central argument.

Question 20

(1) The development of Braille in the 19th century revolutionized literacy for people who are blind or visually impaired. (2) It was created by Louis Braille, a Frenchman who lost his sight as a child. (3) The system is based on a code of raised dots, arranged in small rectangular cells, that can be felt with the fingertips. (4) Each cell pattern represents a letter, a number, or a punctuation mark. (5) This tactile writing system allows for the production of books and documents that can be read without sight.

Which sentence provides the most effective conclusion for the passage?

By providing a method for independent reading and writing, Braille opened up the worlds of education and culture to millions. (correct answer)
Louis Braille based his innovative system on a military code called 'night writing,' which was designed for soldiers to communicate in the dark.
Today, digital technologies like screen readers and audiobooks offer alternative methods of accessing written information.
The Braille system has been adapted for use in almost every language around the world, including languages with different scripts.

Explanation: When you encounter questions about effective conclusions, think about how a good ending should relate to and wrap up the main ideas presented in the passage. An effective conclusion synthesizes the key points and often emphasizes the broader significance or impact of the topic. This passage focuses on how Braille revolutionized literacy for people who are blind or visually impaired. It explains what Braille is (a tactile system of raised dots), who created it (Louis Braille), and how it functions (allowing reading without sight). The most effective conclusion should tie these elements together while highlighting the overall impact. Choice A works perfectly because it synthesizes the passage's main theme—that Braille enabled independent reading and writing—and expands on the revolutionary impact mentioned in the opening sentence. It connects the technical description of the system to its profound effect on education and culture for millions of people, providing a satisfying sense of closure and significance. Choice B introduces new historical information about military "night writing" that, while potentially interesting, doesn't conclude or synthesize what the passage has already established. Choice C shifts focus to modern alternatives like screen readers and audiobooks, moving away from Braille rather than concluding the discussion about it. Choice D mentions Braille's global adaptation, which is relevant but doesn't capture the transformational impact that the passage emphasizes. For conclusion questions, look for the choice that best synthesizes the main ideas while reinforcing the passage's central theme or showing its broader significance—not one that introduces entirely new information or changes direction.