Since implementing the new reading intervention program in 2019, Lincoln Elementary has seen its third-grade reading scores rise from 45%...
GMAT Craft and Structure : (Structure) Questions
Since implementing the new reading intervention program in 2019, Lincoln Elementary has seen its third-grade reading scores rise from 45% proficiency to 78% proficiency. The program appears to have been ______: these substantial improvements exceeded even the most optimistic projections.
Which choice completes the text with the most logical and precise word or phrase?
effective
expensive
controversial
overwhelming
Step 1: Decode and Map the Passage
Part A: Create Passage Analysis Table
| Text from Passage | Analysis |
|---|---|
| 'Since implementing the new reading intervention program in 2019, Lincoln Elementary has seen its third-grade reading scores rise from 45% proficiency to 78% proficiency.' |
|
| '[MISSING WORD]' |
|
| 'these substantial improvements exceeded even the most optimistic projections.' |
|
Part B: Provide Passage Architecture & Core Elements
Main Point: Lincoln Elementary's reading intervention program produced remarkably successful results that surpassed all expectations.
Argument Flow: The passage establishes the program's implementation and dramatic score improvements, then evaluates those results as exceeding even the most optimistic predictions. The missing word needs to connect these two ideas logically.
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 word must logically connect the program's dramatic results (45% to 78%) with the fact that these results exceeded expectations
- Since the improvements were so substantial that they beat even optimistic projections, the word should indicate the program worked really well
- The relationship is one where the evidence supports a positive judgment about the program
effective
- Describes the program as successful at achieving its goals
- Perfectly matches our prethinking - when something exceeds optimistic projections, it proves effectiveness
expensive
- Focuses on cost rather than results
- The passage gives no information about the program's expense
controversial
- Suggests the program caused disagreement or debate
- Nothing in the passage indicates controversy
overwhelming
- Means excessively intense or crushing
- Does not make logical sense when followed by exceeded projections