Question

It is most reasonable to infer that in line 77 the phrase "what the technology can do" refers to the capacity of CD-ROMs to: F. interfere with the playwright's original intent. G. reduce a play to the level of a television program. H. invite an appreciation for the immense possibilities contained in a Shakespeare play. J. simplify Shakespeare's complex messages by conveying them in modern English.

Short answer

Options: (A) interfere with the playwright's original intent (B) reduce a play to the level of a television program (C) invite an appreciation for the immense possibilities contained in a Shakespeare play (D) simplify Shakespeare's complex messages by conveying them in modern English Answer: Option (C) Explanation: In the context of line 77, the phrase "what the technology can do" refers to the potential of technology to enhance the experience of a Shakespeare play, inviting the audience to appreciate the immense possibilities contained therein. Option (C) aligns best with the context provided in line 77 and is the most reasonable inference based on the analysis of the passage and options.

Step-by-step solution

Understand the context of line 77

Begin by reading the passage around line 77 to understand the context. Identify any clues that can help determine the meaning of "what the technology can do."

Analyze the options

Next, analyze each of the given options (F, G, H, J) and compare them to your understanding of the context from step 1. Determine which option best reflects the intent of the phrase "what the technology can do." F. interfere with the playwright's original intent G. reduce a play to the level of a television program H. invite an appreciation for the immense possibilities contained in a Shakespeare play J. simplify Shakespeare's complex messages by conveying them in modern English

Connect the context and options

Connect your understanding of the context from step 1 with the analysis of the options in step 2. Identify which option is the most reasonable inference based on the information provided around line 77.

Choose the most reasonable inference

After completing step 3, choose the most reasonable inference based on your analysis. Keep in mind that the best answer should be well-supported by the surrounding text in line 77.

Verify your answer

Finally, verify your answer by re-reading the passage around line 77 and ensuring that the chosen option aligns with the context. It might be helpful to explain your reasoning for selecting the answer you chose.

Key concepts

Inference Questions

When you come across inference questions on the ACT Reading section, your main task is to read between the lines. Inference questions ask you to draw conclusions from evidence which is not explicitly stated in the text. To tackle these, first read the relevant lines and surrounding paragraphs to gather context. Look for subtleties in language, tone, and any comparative statements. Then, you’ll need to use your judgement to decide what the author is suggesting indirectly.

For instance, in the exercise where the phrase 'what the technology can do' is analyzed, the answer doesn't lie directly in the text; it's more about interpreting authorial intent and the implications of that phrase. Think about each option and ask yourself which one aligns with the hints you picked up from the passage. Even though the question doesn't present clear-cut evidence, your inference should be logical and well-supported by the context.

Analyzing Options

Once you’ve grasped the context, analyzing the options given is your next step. Begin by eliminating choices that are clearly not supported by the text. This could be due to a misalignment with the overall tone, theme, or because they contain information that contradicts what’s presented in the passage.

For example, if 'interfere with the playwright's original intent' portrays a negative connotation and if such a negative tone isn't suggested in the given text about technology, you could consider eliminating that option. Continue this process of elimination, comparing each option back to your understanding of the context until you narrow down to the most plausible answer.

Contextual Understanding

Understanding the context is vital for answering comprehension questions. Focus on building your contextual awareness by paying attention to more than just the words used; consider aspects like the purpose of the passage, the author’s perspective, and the time period it concerns. When working with complex materials such as technical discussions or, in the case of the exercise, references to Shakespearean plays, your ability to comprehend context becomes even more crucial.

For the phrase 'what the technology can do', one should discern whether the context indicates a positive, neutral, or negative perspective towards technological influence on Shakespeare's plays. Does the text celebrate new possibilities, or does it caution against the possible dilution of artistic intent? This will guide your choice among the available options.

Shakespeare's Plays Analysis

Analyzing Shakespeare's plays can be daunting due to their rich language and complex themes. However, understanding them becomes easier when you break down the plays into their elemental themes and character motivations. Notice the historical and social context Shakespeare wrote in, as these plays often reflect the concerns of his time.

When faced with an inference question about a technology's impact on Shakespeare, consider the values and ideas held during his era compared to modern perspectives. Does the text suggest that technology might 'simplify Shakespeare's complex messages'? Or does it imply the technology could 'invite an appreciation' for his works? Look for any nuanced discussion about preserving the integrity of original works against the benefits of modern interpretation and accessibility offered by technology.