How authors support their points

Question 1

Read the following excerpt from an editorial about plastic waste: "Every year, millions of plastic bottles end up in our oceans, where they break down into tiny particles that are mistaken for food by marine life. Imagine a sea turtle, its beak tangled in a plastic bag, struggling to surface for air. If we each reduced our use of single‑use plastics, we could protect these creatures and keep our waters clean. It's time to act now." Which statement best identifies the author’s primary purpose and the rhetorical strategy used to advance that purpose?

Accepted Answer

The author’s purpose is to persuade readers to reduce single‑use plastics, and the author uses an emotional appeal (pathos) by describing the suffering of marine animals.

Answer

The author’s purpose is to entertain readers with a humorous story about turtles, and the author uses an anecdotal style to engage the audience.

Answer

The author’s purpose is to criticize government policies on waste management, and the author uses sarcasm to highlight political inaction.

Answer

The author’s purpose is to inform readers about the amount of plastic waste in oceans, and the author uses a logical appeal (logos) by presenting statistics.

Question 2

Read the passage below: "Every summer, the river swells beyond its banks, flooding the fields that families have tended for generations. Scientists warn that rising temperatures are making these floods more frequent and severe. If we do nothing, the loss of fertile land will threaten the food supply for millions. We must act now by reducing carbon emissions and supporting sustainable farming practices." Which choice best states the author's purpose in this passage and the rhetorical strategy the author uses to achieve that purpose?

Accepted Answer

The author's purpose is to persuade readers to reduce carbon emissions; the author uses a call to action urging immediate steps.

Answer

The author's purpose is to describe scientific data; the author uses complex statistical tables.

Answer

The author's purpose is to inform readers about flood patterns; the author uses descriptive language to paint a vivid picture.

Answer

The author's purpose is to entertain readers with a dramatic story; the author uses humor to engage the audience.

Question 3

Read the passage below: "Scientists have found that planting trees in cities can lower temperatures. A recent study measured temperature drops of up to 5 degrees Fahrenheit in neighborhoods with many trees. Because cooler air reduces the need for air conditioning, families can save money on electricity bills." Which statement best explains how the author supports the point that planting trees can help families save money?

Accepted Answer

The author gives a statistic about temperature drops and explains how cooler air reduces electricity costs.

Answer

The author lists several types of trees without giving any data.

Answer

The author tells a personal story about a family who planted a tree and saved money.

Answer

The author argues that trees are beautiful, which makes people want to plant them.

Try three questions

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