Official SAT essay Practice test #5 prompt:
In his article, Eric Klinenberg discusses the irreversible damage that air conditioners generate. He uses a wide variety of strategies such as: statistical evidence, counterarguments, and presenting possible solutions of the issue to try to convince readers to decrease use of air conditioners.
Within the text, Klinenberg cites statistics to spotlight the over-relying of consumers on air conditioners. He highlights the fact that “most designs for new office, commercial and residential property rely entirely on AC” and proves that by mentioning “sales of air conditioners rose 20% in India and China last year.” By stating this evidence the author supports his idea that people are becoming negatively dependent on ACs. This also leaves an effect on the audience which enlightens them to something they might not have noticed before.
In addition, the author cites counterarguments to his own claim, saying that he is hardly against air conditioners. He also states that “air conditioners may well generate enough benefits to balance the indisputable, irreversible damage they generate.” By using this technique, Klinenberg gradually inputs the idea into the readers’ minds rather than forcefully urging them to accept it. This method convinces the reader that the damages of air conditioners outweigh the benefits.
Throughout the passage, the author also shidlights possible solutions to avoid AC overuse. He presents solutions such as: “shading from trees and cross ventilation from windows and fans.” By doing that, the author connects his central idea with ways to avoid the over-reliance. Furthermore, it provides readers with future ways to possible control their usage.
All in all, Eric Klinenberg makes use of excellent strategies to convince the readers of his claim. By using statistical evidence, counterarguments, and providing possible solutions, no reader is ever expected to finish reading and still be doubtful of Klinenberg’s claim.