StrengthenDiff: Hardest
Logic Breakdown
Passage Summary: The author claims there are many more seniors in town now, citing the fact that the average age of the neighborhood has gone up by five years.
Conclusion: The population of residents over the age of 65 in the area has grown significantly over the last decade.
Reasoning: The average age of the people living in this specific region has risen from 52 to 57 during that same ten-year period.
Analysis: The argument assumes that a rising average age is a direct result of more elderly people moving in or staying put. However, averages are fickle; the age could go up simply because all the young people fled to the city or because the birth rate plummeted. To strengthen this, we need to confirm that the 'over 65' demographic is actually the driver of this change. Look for an answer that eliminates those pesky alternative explanations about the younger population.
Conclusion: The population of residents over the age of 65 in the area has grown significantly over the last decade.
Reasoning: The average age of the people living in this specific region has risen from 52 to 57 during that same ten-year period.
Analysis: The argument assumes that a rising average age is a direct result of more elderly people moving in or staying put. However, averages are fickle; the age could go up simply because all the young people fled to the city or because the birth rate plummeted. To strengthen this, we need to confirm that the 'over 65' demographic is actually the driver of this change. Look for an answer that eliminates those pesky alternative explanations about the younger population.
Passage Stimulus
Passage Redacted
Unlock Full Passage22.Which one of the following, if true, would most strengthen the argument?
Correct Answer
A
If the number of people under 18 increased, then the average age rising cannot be explained by fewer young people. That makes it more likely that the 65+ group increased in number, thus strengthening the argument.
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