Lesson 4.2: The Predict-Then-Pair Method

Introduction

In this lesson, students, we will explore the Predict-Then-Pair method used in the Sentence Equivalence section of the GRE's Verbal Reasoning. This technique is essential for selecting two words that fill in the blank to create sentences with equivalent meanings. By mastering this method, you'll improve your ability to tackle Sentence Equivalence questions effectively.

Learning Objectives

By the end of this lesson, you will be able to:

• Predict the needed meaning before viewing answer choices.
• Identify pairs of words that fit your prediction and create coherent sentences with the same meaning.
• Avoid falling into single-word traps that lack equivalent partners.
• Generate a target meaning before examining the options provided in the test.
• Locate the correct matching pair that yields equivalent sentences.

The Role of Prediction in Sentence Equivalence

Before confronting the answer choices, it's critical to generate a target meaning based on the sentence structure and context clues. Knowing the general direction of the sentence allows you to hone in on the right answers more accurately.

Example 1: Prediction Step

Consider the sentence:

"The artist's work was so __________ that critics described it as revolutionary."

To predict a suitable meaning, we analyze the context. The phrase "critic described it as revolutionary" implies that the artist's work must possess qualities leading to a strong positive evaluation. Therefore, we might predict words related to greatness, innovation, and originality.

Predicting Words

Possible predictions include terms like "innovative," "groundbreaking," and "pioneering". These predictions give you a framework to evaluate your answer choices more effectively.

Finding Paired Words

After predicting the intended meaning, the next step involves scanning the answer choices to find two words that match your prediction.

Example 2: Finding Pairs

Using the previous prediction, let's assume our answer choices are:

1. conventional
2. unusual
3. innovative
4. ordinary
5. exceptional
6. mundane

From our earlier prediction, we can clearly see that both innovative and exceptional align well with the inferred meaning of the sentence. Therefore, by selecting these two words, we ensure that we generate sentences conveying similar meanings:

• "The artist's work was so innovative that critics described it as revolutionary."
• "The artist's work was so exceptional that critics described it as revolutionary."

In contrast, the words conventional, ordinary, unusual, and mundane do not perfectly align with our prediction. They fail to capture the positive, revolutionary essence indicated in the sentence.

Avoiding Single-Word Traps

Now that we have discussed prediction and pairing, it’s essential to address a common misconception: the idea that recognizing a single synonym allows you to confidently select an answer. This approach can be misleading, as GRE Sentence Equivalence questions specifically require two words that can work in tandem to create equivalent meanings.

Example 3: Understanding the Trap

Let’s revisit our previous example with an incorrect focus. Suppose one of the choices is innovative while the other is commonplace. One might think that pulling out one synonym completes the answer. However, the word commonplace contradicts our prediction of something revolutionary. Thus, it is crucial to find two compatible words.

Steps to Apply the Predict-Then-Pair Method

1. Read the Sentence: Quickly understand the context and what type of word fits the blank.
2. Predict the Meaning: Consider what you believe the blank should convey based on context clues.
3. Evaluate Answer Choices: Look for word pairs that align with your prediction.
4. Confirm Coherency: Ensure that the selected words do not just fit individually, but also create sentences with equivalent meanings.

Example 4: Putting it All Together

Let’s evaluate another example:

"After years of being ignored, the once-promising project was now viewed as __________."

1. Predict the meaning: The terms should denote something negative, as the project was once “promising” but is now being re-evaluated negatively.

1. Suppose the answer choices are:

• a. futile
• b. irrelevant
• c. essential
• d. useful
• e. insignificant
• f. groundbreaking

1. The words futile and insignificant both capture a dismissive perspective that logically fits our target meaning, while essential, useful, and groundbreaking would contradict the negative turn indicated in the sentence.

1. Confirming the phrases:

• "After years of being ignored, the once-promising project was now viewed as futile."
• "After years of being ignored, the once-promising project was now viewed as insignificant."

Conclusion

The Predict-Then-Pair method is an invaluable strategy for succeeding in the Sentence Equivalence section of the GRE. By predicting the intended meaning of the sentence before examining the answer choices, you can efficiently hone in on word pairs that create equivalent sentences. Remember to avoid relying on single-word traps, and always ensure your choices make sense together in context.

Study Notes

• Always predict the meaning before looking at answer choices.
• Start with the context and clues in the sentence to guide your predictions.
• Look for pairs of words that can hold equivalent meanings when used in the sentence context.
• Avoid choosing a single correct word unless it has a matching pair that also fits the sentence meaning.
• Practice developing intuition for word meanings and connotations over time.