Marine biologist Dr. Sarah Chen has gained recognition for her innovative research on coral reef ecosystems. In a research proposal,...
GMAT Information and Ideas : (Ideas) Questions
Marine biologist Dr. Sarah Chen has gained recognition for her innovative research on coral reef ecosystems. In a research proposal, a graduate student argues that Chen demonstrates exceptional skill at integrating multiple scientific disciplines in her studies.
Which quotation from a peer reviewer would best support the student's argument?
Chen's 2019 study of bleaching patterns used advanced underwater photography to document coral deterioration across fifteen reef sites over a three-year period.
In her landmark paper on reef resilience, Chen combined traditional marine biology field methods with computer modeling techniques from atmospheric science and statistical analysis approaches borrowed from epidemiology.
Chen's research on coral spawning cycles, published in the Journal of Marine Science, has been widely cited and represents a significant contribution to our understanding of reproductive timing in tropical species.
Chen's collaborative work with the National Marine Sanctuary resulted in new protection protocols that have been adopted by three major reef conservation programs.
Step 1: Decode and Map the Passage
Create Passage Analysis Table
| Text from Passage | Analysis |
|---|---|
| 'Marine biologist Dr. Sarah Chen has gained recognition for her innovative research on coral reef ecosystems.' |
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| 'In a research proposal, a graduate student argues that Chen demonstrates exceptional skill at integrating multiple scientific disciplines in her studies.' |
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Provide Passage Architecture & Core Elements
Main Point: A graduate student claims that Dr. Chen skillfully integrates multiple scientific disciplines in her coral reef research.
Argument Flow: We're introduced to Dr. Chen as a recognized marine biologist, then presented with a graduate student's specific claim about her interdisciplinary approach that requires supporting evidence.
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
- The right answer should tell us:
- The quotation must show Chen using methods or approaches from different scientific fields
- It should explicitly mention multiple disciplines or clearly show interdisciplinary work
- The integration should be presented as a strength or notable feature of her research
Chen's 2019 study of bleaching patterns used advanced underwater photography to document coral deterioration across fifteen reef sites over a three-year period.
- Shows Chen's documentation methods using underwater photography
- Only mentions marine biology techniques—no integration of multiple disciplines
- Shows thorough research but stays within one field
In her landmark paper on reef resilience, Chen combined traditional marine biology field methods with computer modeling techniques from atmospheric science and statistical analysis approaches borrowed from epidemiology.
- Explicitly states Chen 'combined traditional marine biology field methods with computer modeling techniques from atmospheric science and statistical analysis approaches borrowed from epidemiology'
- Directly demonstrates integration of three different scientific disciplines
- Perfectly matches our prethinking about showing interdisciplinary approach
Chen's research on coral spawning cycles, published in the Journal of Marine Science, has been widely cited and represents a significant contribution to our understanding of reproductive timing in tropical species.
- Discusses the impact and significance of Chen's coral research
- Focuses on citation count and contribution to marine science
- Trap: Students might think 'significant contribution' equals interdisciplinary work, but this only shows impact within one field
Chen's collaborative work with the National Marine Sanctuary resulted in new protection protocols that have been adopted by three major reef conservation programs.
- Describes collaborative outcomes and practical applications
- Shows Chen working with others but doesn't demonstrate disciplinary integration
- Trap: Students might confuse collaboration with different people for integration of different scientific approaches