find these in the sixth paragraph, around lines 35–49. The text clearly states that less than 1% of cars
suffered damage. Underline that line and choose (D) for question 16. Then, because you already have the
“best evidence” underlined, when you get to question 17, you’ve already answered it. Just find your line
reference in the answers, bubble it in, and move on.
General Paired Sets and Parallel POE
Not all sets of paired questions will be as easy as specific paired sets, but they’ll still be approachable. If
you have a question that is a main idea/general question or a question without a clear Line Reference or
Lead Word, Parallel POE is a very useful strategy.
Best Evidence
Not sure where to find
the answer? Let the “best
evidence” lines help!Using Parallel POE, you’ll be able to work through the questions at the same time! When you find yourself
faced with a set of paired questions, you can start with the second question (the “best evidence” question)
if (1) you aren’t sure where to look for the answer or (2) the first question is a general question about the
passage. Because the second question in the pair asks which lines provide the best evidence for the
previous question, you can use those lines to help work through the answers for the previous question.
Let’s take a look.
20.Based on the passage, the author most likely agrees that “pitting” is
A) a coincidence based on group observations.
B) the result of cosmic rays and nuclear fallout.
C) an example of mass hysteria similar to the Salem Witch trials.
D) the result of a streak of vandalism in the spring of 1954.21.Which choice provides the best evidence for the answer to the previous question?
A) Lines 12-14 (“Panicked residents...tests.”)
B) Lines 30-32 (“As summer...shelters.”)
C) Lines 60-64 (“The idea...guillotine.”)
D) Lines 86-89 (“I suspect...it.”)When you read question 20, you might have an initial feeling of, “Well, that could be from anywhere in the
passage.” Sure could. Now you’re potentially faced with the worst scavenger hunt ever. Instead of wading
through the entire passage, though, and trying to find something you think answers the question and then
hope it’s included in the “best evidence” question, go to the “best evidence” first! This is the Parallel
POE strategy.