Question

Read the following paragraphs and answer the question that follows.
Paragraph 1: Here are some handy rules of thumb. Anyone who calls themselves a thought leader is to be avoided. A man who does not wear socks cannot be trusted. And a company that holds an employee-appreciation day does not appreciate its employees.
Paragraph 2: It is not just that the message sent by acknowledging staff for one out of 260-odd working days is a bit of a giveaway (there isn’t a love-your-spouse day ... for the same reason). It is also that the ideas are usually so tragically unappreciative. You have worked hard all year so you get a slice of cold pizza or a rock stamped with the words “You rock”?
Which of the following BEST describes the relationship of the first paragraph with the second paragraph?

• A. The first paragraph is redundant, in the presence of the second paragraph.
• B. The first paragraph is humorous, while the second paragraph is sarcastic.
• C. The second paragraph gives evidence to the claims made by the first paragraph
• D. Without the second paragraph the first paragraph is meaningless.
• E. The first paragraph evokes interest, the second paragraph elaborates.

Answer 1

Answer: (E)

The first paragraph evokes interest, the second paragraph elaborates.

Answer 2

Step 1: Analyze the purpose of each paragraph.
- The first paragraph presents generalized observations in a humorous manner, setting the tone and evoking interest. - The second paragraph elaborates on one of the observations (employee appreciation day), providing detailed reasoning and examples in a sarcastic tone.
Step 2: Evaluate the options.
- Option 1: Incorrect. The first paragraph is not redundant; it sets the context for the second paragraph.
- Option 2: Partially correct but misses the elaborative relationship between the two paragraphs.
- Option 3: Incorrect. The second paragraph does not provide evidence for all claims made in the first paragraph.
- Option 4: Incorrect. The first paragraph can stand independently, as it makes broad observations.
- Option 5: Correct. The first paragraph piques curiosity, while the second expands on a specific example, illustrating the claim.
Final Answer: (5)