zuai-logo

Cross-Text Connections

Brian Hall

Brian Hall

9 min read

Listen to this study note

Study Guide Overview

This study guide covers strategies for answering SAT Reading cross-text connection questions. It focuses on analyzing paired passages with similar topics but different authorial approaches, including comparing evidence, reasoning, points of agreement, and disagreement. It also covers identifying the central idea, theme, tone, and style of passages and provides practice questions.

SAT Reading & Writing: Cross-Text Connections - Your Ultimate Guide 🚀

Hey there! Let's get you prepped for those tricky cross-text questions on the SAT. It's all about seeing how different texts talk about the same thing, but in their own unique ways. Think of it like a conversation between authors – sometimes they agree, sometimes they totally clash, and sometimes they just add their own spin. Let's dive in!

Authorial Approaches to a Shared Topic

Analyzing Paired Passages

  • Paired passages are like two sides of the same coin. They tackle a similar central idea, theme, or topic, but from different angles.
  • Authors might have opposing viewpoints, offer complementary info, or just explore different parts of the topic.
  • To get the full picture, you've got to look at each passage's main purpose, tone, and style to see how they're unique.
  • Pay attention to how authors use evidence, examples, and rhetorical devices – that's where their individual approaches really shine.
  • Figure out the relationship between the passages: Do they agree? Disagree? Do they build on each other? This is key! 🔑
  • Close reading is your best friend here. Look closely at both passages, noting what's similar and what's different in their content, structure, and language.

Techniques for Effective Analysis

  • Compare how authors use facts, stats, expert opinions, anecdotes, or examples.
  • Contrast the quality and relevance of their evidence to see who makes the stronger argument.
  • Analyze the reasoning behind each author's argument. Are they logical? Persuasive?
  • Examine how they interpret and apply evidence. Do they see things the same way?
  • Look for gaps, inconsistencies, or fallacies in their reasoning. Nobody's perfect, right?
  • See how they handle counterarguments or other points of view. Do they address them fairly?

Evidence and Reasoning in Paired Passages

Types of Evidence

  • Facts and statistics: Think hard numbers and data. (e.g., numerical data on climate change)
  • Expert opinions: Quotes from the big brains. (e.g., quotes from renowned scientists)
  • Anecdotes: Personal stories that illustrate a point. (e.g., personal stories illustrating a point)
  • Historical examples: Events from the past. (e.g., Civil Rights Movement)
  • Literary references: Quotes or ideas from books and poems. (e.g., Shakespeare's works)

Analyzing Evidence and Reasoning

  • Compare the types of evidence used in each passage. Are they using the same tools?
  • Contrast the quality and relevance of the evidence. Is it strong and ...