Many archaeologists assume that large-scale engineering projects in ancient societies required an elite class to plan and
direct the necessary labor. However, recent discoveries, such as the excavation of an ancient canal near the Gulf Coast of
Alabama, have complicated this picture. Using radiocarbon dating, a team of researchers concluded that the 1.39-kilometer-
long canal was most likely constructed between 576 and 650 CE by an Indigenous society that was relatively free of social
classes.
It describes a common view among archaeologists, then discusses a recent ﬁnding that challenges that view.
It outlines a method used in some archaeological ﬁeldwork, then explains why an alternative method is superior to it.
It presents contradictory conclusions drawn by archaeologists, then evaluates a study that has apparently resolved that
contradiction.
It identiﬁes a gap in scientiﬁc research, then presents a strategy used by some archaeologists to remedy that gap.
Choice A is the best answer. The text starts by introducing a common view among archaeologists about the need for an elite
class to direct large-scale engineering projects. Then, it discusses the discovery of a large canal most likely built by a society
without an elite class, which challenges the ﬁrst view.
Choice B is incorrect. Although the text discusses carbon dating as an archaeological method, it doesn’t compare it to any
other alternative methods. Choice C is incorrect. The study doesn’t resolve any contradictions—rather, it introduces a
contradiction to the one view presented at the beginning of the text. Choice D is incorrect. The text never identiﬁes any gaps
in scientiﬁc research.