Community volunteers participating in the StreamWatch water quality program collect samples from local waterways each month. Before analysis, particip...
GMAT Expression of Ideas : (Expression) Questions
Community volunteers participating in the StreamWatch water quality program collect samples from local waterways each month. Before analysis, participants record GPS coordinates, temperature readings, and visual observations in the mobile app. _____ laboratory technicians test the samples for pH levels, dissolved oxygen, and bacterial content.
Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?
Therefore,
However,
Subsequently,
For example,
Step 1: Decode and Map the Passage
Part A: Create Passage Analysis Table
| Text from Passage | Analysis |
|---|---|
| "Community volunteers participating in the StreamWatch water quality program collect samples from local waterways each month." |
|
| "Before analysis, participants record GPS coordinates, temperature readings, and visual observations in the mobile app." |
|
| "laboratory technicians test the samples for pH levels, dissolved oxygen, and bacterial content." |
|
Part B: Provide Passage Architecture & Core Elements
Main Point: The StreamWatch program involves a two-stage process where volunteers first collect and document water samples, then laboratory technicians analyze them.
Argument Flow: The passage describes a sequential water quality monitoring process. First, volunteers collect samples monthly. Then participants record preliminary data before analysis. Finally, laboratory technicians conduct the actual scientific testing.
Step 2: Interpret the Question Precisely
This is a fill-in-the-blank question asking us to choose the best logical connector. The answer must create the right relationship between what comes before and after the blank.
Step 3: Prethink the Answer
- Looking at our passage analysis, we have a clear sequence: participants record data in the app, then laboratory technicians test the samples
- The missing transition needs to show that the lab testing is the next step that follows the data recording
- This is a temporal/sequential relationship
- The right answer should indicate that the laboratory testing is the subsequent step that occurs after the data recording phase
Therefore,
✗ Incorrect
- "Therefore" indicates a cause-and-effect relationship or logical conclusion
- The lab testing is not a result of the data recording - they are separate steps in the same process
However,
✗ Incorrect
- "However" signals contrast or opposition
- There is no contrast between participants recording data and lab technicians testing samples - both are part of the same collaborative process
Subsequently,
✓ Correct
- "Subsequently" means "happening after" or "as the next step"
- Perfect fit for showing that lab testing is the next phase after data recording
For example,
✗ Incorrect
- "For example" introduces a specific instance or illustration
- Lab testing is not an example of data recording - it is a different step entirely