LSAT Explanation PT 35, S1, Q11: Linguist: Some people have understood certain

LSAT Question Stem

The linguist's argument proceeds by 

Logical Reasoning Question Type

This is a Method of Reasoning question. 

Correct Answer

The correct answer to this question is E. 

LSAT Question Complete Explanation

Let's first analyze the argument in the passage. The linguist discusses certain studies that some people believe show that bilingual children have a reduced "conceptual map" because bilingualism overstresses their linguistic capacities. The evidence for this belief is that bilingual children tend to have a smaller vocabulary than most children of the same age group, according to vocabulary tests given in only one language. The linguist argues that these studies are flawed because dual-language tests reveal that bilingual children often express a given concept with a word from only one of their two languages. In this argument, the premises are the results of the single-language and dual-language tests, and the conclusion is that the studies supporting the belief about bilingualism are flawed.

Now, let's identify the question type and what it's asking us to do. This is a Method of Reasoning (MOR) question, which asks us to determine how the linguist's argument proceeds.

Let's evaluate each answer choice:

a) offering evidence for the advantages of bilingualism over monolingualism

This answer choice is incorrect because the linguist does not provide evidence that bilingualism is advantageous over monolingualism. Instead, the linguist is arguing against the belief that bilingualism has a negative effect on a child's "conceptual map."

b) pointing out an inconsistency in the view that bilingualism overstresses a child's linguistic capabilities

This answer choice is also incorrect because the linguist does not address the issue of bilingualism overstressing a child's linguistic capabilities. Instead, the linguist focuses on the flaw in the studies that led to this belief.

c) offering evidence that undermines the use of any vocabulary test to provide information about a child's conceptual map

This answer choice is incorrect because the linguist does not argue against the use of any vocabulary test. Instead, the linguist points out the flaw in using single-language tests for bilingual children.

d) providing a different explanation for the apparent advantages of bilingualism from the explanation suggested by the results of certain studies

This answer choice is incorrect because the linguist is not providing a different explanation for the advantages of bilingualism. The linguist is arguing against the belief that bilingualism has a negative effect on a child's "conceptual map."

e) pointing out a methodological error in the technique used to obtain the purported evidence of a problem with bilingualism

This answer choice is correct. The linguist points out the methodological error of using single-language tests for bilingual children, which led to the belief that bilingualism has a negative effect on a child's "conceptual map."

In conclusion, the correct answer is E, as the linguist's argument proceeds by pointing out a methodological error in the technique used to obtain the purported evidence of a problem with bilingualism.