Difficulty: Hard

Average Score: 33%

(1) The first domestication of the horse, one of the greatest achievements of man in the animal kingdom, was not the work of a day; but like all other great accomplishments, was brought about by a gradual process of discoveries and experiments. (2) Man, in all his inventions and discoveries, has almost invariably commenced with some simple principle, and gradually developed it from one degree of perfection to another. (3) The first hint that we have of the use of electricity was Franklin's drawing it from the clouds with his kite. (4) Now it is the instrument of conveying thought from mind to mind, with a rapidity that surpasses time. (5) The great propelling power that drives the wheel of the engine over our land, and ploughs the ocean with our steamers, was first discovered escaping from a tea-kettle. (6) And so the powers of the horse, second only to the powers of steam, became known to man only as experiments, and investigation revealed them. - P. R. Kincaid, from *The Archian Art of Taming and Training Wild & Victims Horses*

The passages are similar in that both

Rationale

characterize winter as being more peaceful than spring.

The passages reflect on the gradual advancements and achievements in human invention and discovery, suggesting a contrast between the stillness associated with winter and the dynamic progress of spring. This implies that winter embodies a certain peace that is transformed as spring arrives with its vitality.

A (focus on the beauty of new growth in spring) YOUR ANSWER

The passages do not emphasize the beauty of new growth in spring; rather, they explore the processes and gradual advancements in human endeavors, such as the domestication of the horse and the discovery of steam power. While spring symbolizes growth, the texts focus more on the significance of experimentation and discovery rather than the aesthetic aspects of spring.

B (describe the cold of winter giving way to the warmth of spring) YOUR ANSWER

Although the passages mention advancements that may imply change, they do not specifically describe the transition from the cold of winter to the warmth of spring. Instead, the emphasis lies on the gradual process of discovery and the inherent peace of winter, contrasting with the energetic nature of spring.

C (depict a landscape that is cold and barren) YOUR ANSWER

The passages do not depict a cold and barren landscape; instead, they focus on the themes of discovery and invention. While winter may be associated with barrenness, the aim of the passages is to highlight the significance of human achievements rather than to illustrate a specific landscape.

D (characterize winter as being more peaceful than spring) CORRECT

This option accurately reflects the essence of the passages. They imply that winter, with its stillness and quietude, allows for the thoughtful experimentation that leads to significant advancements, contrasting with the lively and chaotic nature often associated with spring.

Conclusion

The passages emphasize the peaceful nature of winter as a backdrop for the gradual process of discovery and invention. This tranquility is portrayed as a necessary condition for human achievements, which stand in contrast to the more dynamic and energetic qualities of spring. Thus, the characterization of winter as more peaceful emerges as a central theme that aligns with the narrative of human progress.

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