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LSAT Reading
Comprehension: The New Dual Passages*
In addition
to the three single passages, the LSAT now contains one pair of
dual passages, for total of four question sets. Dual passages are
quite similar to the single passages, but rather than just one selection
from a single author, two passages are given on a similar or related
subject (by two separate authors, generally with different points
of view). Comparative reading passages are followed by five to eight
questions, and, like the single passage sets, these questions should
be answered only on the basis of the information provided in their
accompanying passages.
As you read
the passages for their respective main points, remember that the
passages will relate to each other in various ways. As the test
makers recently stated, “In some cases, the authors of the
passages will be in general agreement with each other, while in
others their views will be directly opposed. Passage pairs may also
exhibit more complex types of relationships: for example, one passage
might articulate a set of principles, while the other passage applies
those or similar principles to a particular situation.”
The primary
goal for comparative reading is clearly to identify the main point
of each passage and then to relate those ideas to each other, focusing
on the passages’ similarities and differences. Questions in
comparative reading tend to focus less on the detailed common question
indicators observed in single passages—specific examples,
new terms or phrases, lists—and more on broader, holistic
ideas—main point, author’s tone and opinion, and function.
Many students find it useful to pause briefly after reading Passage
A to organize their thoughts about what they have just read. Once
you have taken a moment to ensure that you are comfortable with
the information from the first passage, move on to Passage B and
read with the intention of establishing the relationship between
the approach and attitude of both authors.
Finally, as
with all Reading Comprehension, remember that maintaining a positive
attitude is critical. Do not be intimidated by the dual format;
you should find the comparative reading to be extremely similar
to, and possibly easier than, the other three passages in your Reading
Comprehension section.
* Excerpted from
The PowerScore LSATs
Deconstructed Series
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