Free Practice Question
CR · Critical Reasoning
555-605
Weaken
A group of archaeologists discovered a set of ancient pottery shards at a dig site. Initially, they believed the shards belonged to a type of pottery known for its intricate designs, as the patterns on the shards were quite detailed. However, the size of the shards was much smaller than typical pieces from that pottery type. Based on this evidence, the archaeologists concluded that the shards must belong to a different, yet related, style of pottery.
Which of the following, if true, would best provide evidence showing that the conclusion above is possibly flawed?
Answer Choices
Correct answer marked belowA
The intricate designs of pottery can vary significantly in size depending on the region.
B
Many ancient pottery styles have been lost to history, making classification difficult.
The smaller shards could represent a juvenile form of the pottery style in question.
Correct
D
Pottery from different cultures can share similar design elements.
E
The patterns on the shards are consistent with a known style of pottery that is unrelated.
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Official Explanation
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The archaeologists initially believed the shards belonged to a type of pottery known for its intricate designs due to the detailed patterns. However, the size of the shards was much smaller than typical pieces from that pottery type, leading them to conclude that the shards must belong to a different style. To challenge this conclusion, we need evidence that suggests the…
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Comments
3
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S
SuryaMar 30, 2025
Good question
R
RajuanMay 12, 2024
Great
B
BenSep 22, 2024
Great
What this question tests
What it tests
Whether you can identify the option that most undermines an argument's conclusion.
Common trap
Choosing an irrelevant objection or one that attacks the premise rather than the reasoning.
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Details
Difficulty
555-605
Type
CR