A quotation question about a group’s priorities tests whether you can find support for a claim. Start with the claim and put it in a few words, including who it is about and what it says about them. Then split it into parts and predict the kind of response that would show each part. Put each response in plain words so you can test it against the whole claim. Sharing the topic isn’t enough to show that the claim is true.
Hints
- Hint 1
In the sentence beginning “Ruiz claims,” separate the kind of rider from the priority being claimed.
- Hint 2
The word over in Ruiz’s claim signals a comparison. Ask what matters more to these commuters, and check whether a response shows that comparison as well as who the claim is about.
Step-by-step
Match both parts of the claim
Step 1Put the claim in plain words
Ruiz singles out commuters who mainly use the express bus to get to work. What does she claim about them? They prioritize on-time arrival over amenities, so being on time matters more than the extras. We can predict a work commuter who puts arrival time ahead of comfort or Wi-Fi.
- Step 2
Check which riders fit the claim
Do the speakers mainly use the express bus to get to work? The Sunday afternoons rider visits the park, and the person who can walk to work rarely needs the bus. The local bus rider goes grocery shopping and avoids the express. These responses don’t show an express-bus work commuter’s priorities.
- Step 3
Compare the work rider’s priorities
The rider says I ride the HarborLink to my office every weekday, which shows regular work trips. What matters more to this rider? I don’t care about Wi-Fi or cushioned seats means the extras don’t matter, while as long as the bus arrives on time makes arrival time the key concern. This rider does prioritize on-time arrival over amenities, because being on time comes first. Choice C.