Question 89

The sentences given below, when properly sequenced, form a coherent paragraph. Each sentence is labelled with a number. Decide on the most logical order and enter the sequence of numbers in the space provided.

  1. The muddy concoction - made by grinding the kava plantʼs roots and mixing it with water to create a dark, earthy liquid - holds a deep cultural significance throughout the region, and the drink is often shared between friends, guests, and colleagues.
  2. Regular kava drinkers often describe this blissful state as a sort of peace, a way for the body and mind to uncoil from itself.
  3. Called 'yaqona' in Fiji, ‘ava' in Samoa and 'sakau' in Micronesia, kava has occupied a sacred role in Pacific countries for centuries.
  4. A swig (or two) taken from a bowl or shell - sometimes quite literally a coconut shell cut in half - can lead to profound relaxation, a sort of numbness that trickles down from your mouth through your shoulders and spine.


Correct Answer: 3142

Sentence 1 mentions 'the muddy concoction', and moves on to discuss its characteristics, implying that the concoction had been addressed before sentence 1. Sentence 2 discusses kava drinkers, but it should be placed after a detailed discussion about kava and its constituents, as presented in sentence 1. Sentence 3 introduces kava and is likely the opening sentence. Sentence 4 relates little to kava on the surface, and also does not introduce the drink; therefore, it is likely not the opening sentence either.

Sentence 3 introduces kava and mentions countries in the Pacific. These countries are alluded to in sentence 1 ('throughout the region') and therefore, sentences 3 and 1 form a pair. 31 is the opening pair. This leaves only two possibilities, 3142 and 3124.

Sentence 2 mentions 'this blissful state' and cannot follow directly after 31. We can therefore conclude that 3142 is the better choice. Sentence 4 continues after sentence 1 and discusses the relaxation that kava provides. Sentence 2 concludes by describing this 'blissful state' of relaxation as 'a way for the body and mind to uncoil from itself.'

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