Question 188·Hard·Rhetorical Synthesis
While researching a topic, a student has taken the following notes:
- Forest ecologist Suzanne Simard pioneered research into underground mycorrhizal networks linking trees.
- Simard’s experiments suggest that trees use these fungal connections to “communicate,” sharing carbon and chemical signals.
- Simard popularized the phrase “wood wide web.”
- Some scientists caution that describing the networks as a communication system is anthropomorphic.
- University of British Columbia forest biologist Melanie Jones argues that nutrient exchange is driven by “resource gradients” rather than intent.
The student wants to include a sentence that underscores scientific skepticism about Simard’s claim that trees communicate by offering an alternative explanation for why nutrient exchange occurs.
Which choice most effectively uses relevant information from the notes to accomplish this goal?
For rhetorical synthesis, underline the stem’s purpose words (here, skepticism + an alternative explanation). Then match answer choices to the specific note(s) that achieve that purpose, eliminating choices that merely repeat the main claim or that sound relevant but miss part of the stated goal.
Hints
Focus on the added constraint
The correct choice must show skepticism by giving an alternative explanation for nutrient exchange, not just by expressing doubt.
Match a choice to a specific note
Which note explains nutrient exchange without intent? Pick the answer that most closely restates that note.
Beware of tempting but incomplete skepticism
A sentence can sound skeptical but still be wrong here if it doesn’t actually explain why nutrient exchange occurs.
Step-by-step Explanation
Identify the exact writing goal
The stem asks for a sentence that underscores scientific skepticism about Simard’s claim by offering an alternative explanation for why nutrient exchange occurs.
So the best choice should:
- Present a scientist’s alternative explanation, and
- Explicitly move away from the idea of intentional “communication.”
Find the note that provides an alternative explanation
In the notes, the key alternative explanation is: Melanie Jones argues nutrient exchange is driven by “resource gradients” rather than intent.
That directly frames nutrient exchange as a non-intentional process, which fits the goal.
Eliminate choices that don’t provide the alternative explanation
Eliminate choices that:
- Repeat Simard’s claims (they support, not question, “communication”), or
- Express general caution (skepticism) without giving the requested alternative explanation for nutrient exchange.
Choose the option that best matches the alternative-explanation note
The sentence about Melanie Jones explaining nutrient exchange via “resource gradients,” not intentional communication most directly accomplishes the goal.
Correct answer: University of British Columbia biologist Melanie Jones argues that nutrient exchange occurs because of “resource gradients,” not intentional communication between trees.