The author of the passage mentions the observations of women historians (lines 15-17) most probably in order to
Show Hint
- provide support for an assertion made in the preceding sentence (lines 10-12)
- raise a question that is answered in the last sentence of the passage (lines 27-32)
- introduce an opinion that challenges a statement made in the first sentence of the passage
- offer an alternative view to the one attributed in the passage to working-class mothers
- point out a contradiction inherent in the traditional view of child labor reform as it is presented in the passage
The Correct Option is A
Solution and Explanation
Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
This question asks about the rhetorical function of a specific piece of evidence—the citation of "women historians." In academic writing, authors cite other scholars for specific reasons, most commonly to provide evidence for their own claims.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
The question provides a strong structural clue by referencing the "preceding sentence (lines 10-12)." This points to a very common and logical argumentative structure:
\begin{enumerate}
\item Author's Assertion (lines 10-12): The author makes a claim, likely that the reformers' efforts were met with resistance or that their view was myopic.
\item Supporting Evidence (lines 15-17): The author then backs up this claim with expert testimony, citing "women historians" who have observed the class conflict or resistance.
\end{enumerate}
This sequence of "claim, then evidence" is fundamental to persuasive writing.
\[\begin{array}{rl} \bullet & \text{(A) This option describes the "claim, then evidence" structure perfectly.} \\ \bullet & \text{(B) and (C) suggest a more complex, less direct rhetorical function. While possible, the direct support role is more probable.} \\ \bullet & \text{(D) The historians are likely cited to support the author's explanation of the working-class view, not to offer an alternative to it.} \\ \bullet & \text{(E) The historians' work is used to build the author's new argument, not just to point out a contradiction in an old one. Providing support for the author's own assertion is a more active and direct function.} \\ \end{array}\]
Step 3: Final Answer:
The most logical reason for an author to introduce the findings of historians is to use them as evidence to bolster an argument they have just made. Therefore, the historians' observations are mentioned to support the assertion in the preceding sentence.
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