SAT #17 Reading (Question 9)

Question

Based on the passage, it can reasonably be inferred that Celia tells the narrator about leaving Panama (lines 91-96) primarily to [...]?

Answer 1

Answer Choice D is the correct answer because Celia’s mention of her family’s arrival from Panama comes directly after the narrator says, “I hope so. It’s why we came.” After a brief moment of reflection, Celia responds with her own story, which seems intended to demonstrate empathy and understanding for the narrator. This most closely matches the more general Answer Choice D, which says that Celia tells the narrator about leaving Panama primarily to “assure the narrator that she understands and empathizes with her.” Answer Choice A is incorrect because there’s no suggestion or mention that Celia is trying to encourage the narrator to share her story, and more evidence is required to back up this more specific claim. Answer Choice B is incorrect because its more specific than Answer Choice D, and because Celia’s story, while somewhat similar to the narrator’s, only concerns her own reasons for immigration. Answer Choice C is incorrect because Celia’s story doesn’t mention how her family has prospered since immigrating to the United States.