In West Africa, jalis have traditionally been keepers of information about family histories and records...
In West Africa, jalis have traditionally been keepers of information about family histories and records of important events. They have often served as teachers and advisers, too. New technologies may have changed some aspects of the role today, but jalis continue to be valued for knowing and protecting their peoples’ stories. Which choice best states the main idea of the text?
- A) Even though there have been some changes in their role, jalis continue to preserve their communities
- B) Although jalis have many roles, many of them like teaching best.
- C) Jalis have been entertaining the people within their communities for centuries.
- D) Technology can now do some of the things jalis used to be responsible for.
Correct Answer: A) Even though there have been some changes in their role, jalis continue to preserve their communities
Explanation
The choice that best states the main idea of the text is A) Even though there have been some changes in their role, jalis continue to preserve their communities' histories. The text discusses how jalis in West Africa have traditionally been keepers of information about family histories and important events. While new technologies may have changed some aspects of their role, the text emphasizes that jalis are still valued for their knowledge and protection of their peoples' stories. Therefore, the main idea is that despite changes, jalis continue to play a crucial role in preserving their communities' histories.