The best response is:
Passage 2, because it mentions the experiment with Nim the chimpanzee.
This opening is clear in its intent to argue that only humans can acquire language, establishing the purpose of the argumentative text effectively.
In 1973, a baby chimpanzee named Nim, wrapped in a blanket and wearing a tiny diaper, was carried off a plane and introduced to his new human family. He had arrived in New York City as part of a Columbia University study to see whether a chimpanzee could develop language. Nim did, in fact, learn many signs. But many experts, including the psychologist who led the experiment, question whether Nim and other primates who have learned signs are in fact using language. The researcher who worked with Nim came to the belief that while Nim imitated people’s signs, he did not form sentences and express ideas. Language, he concluded, is a human skill.
Passage 2
Linguists and other experts on language and cognitive development have long argued about whether animals can use language. There is no doubt that animals communicate. Language, though, is a complex system that some believe only humans can master. A landmark experiment in animal language, involving a young chimpanzee named Nim, proved this. In short, people, and only people, can acquire language.
Question
Use the introductions to two argumentative texts to answer the question.
Which opening better conveys the purpose of the argumentative text?
(1 point)
Responses
Passage 2, because it describes language as a complex system.
Passage 2, because it describes language as a complex system.
Passage 1, because it describes what Nim wore when he met his new human family.
Passage 1, because it describes what Nim wore when he met his new human family.
Passage 2, because it mentions the experiment with Nim the chimpanzee.
Passage 2, because it mentions the experiment with Nim the chimpanzee.
Passage 1, because it provides sufficient background information on the study that led to a conclusion about animals and language.
1 answer