Question 12

Show the inaccuracy of a prediction about women's suffrage

The passage primarily aims to demonstrate how the prediction that women would merely vote as their husbands did not hold true, as evidenced by the emergence of a distinct gender gap in voting behavior after women gained the right to vote.

A) Describe the evolution of a gender gap in the United States

While the passage mentions the existence of a gender gap in voting behavior, it does not focus on detailing its evolution. Instead, it highlights the initial incorrect predictions about women's voting behavior rather than a comprehensive analysis of how the gap has developed over time.

B) Present a concise history of the women's suffrage movement

The passage does not provide a historical account of the women's suffrage movement. It merely references the context of women's suffrage to highlight a specific argument made against it, rather than detailing the movement's milestones or achievements.

C) Show the inaccuracy of a prediction about women's suffrage

This is the primary focus of the passage. It directly addresses and refutes the prediction that women would vote in line with their husbands, showcasing the reality of female voting behavior and the observed gender gap, which contradicts that prediction.

D) Explain the differences in voting behavior between men and women

Although the passage notes differences in voting behavior, it does not delve into a detailed explanation of these differences. The emphasis is instead on refuting a specific prediction, rather than analyzing the broader behavioral differences between genders.

Conclusion

The correct answer effectively encapsulates the main purpose of the passage, which is to challenge a prevalent misconception about women's voting behavior. All other options either misinterpret the focus of the text or fail to capture its central argument, reinforcing that the passage is ultimately about disproving an inaccurate prediction regarding women's suffrage.