Question

As you read this paragraph from an article about global warming, look for clues about the author’s point of view:

Corals, the small sea creatures that form the spectacular coral reefs, are also endangered by global warming. As the ocean temperatures rise, the balance between corals and algae in the reefs is thrown off, and the corals die. Additionally, the oceans are becoming more acidic as they take in excess carbon dioxide from the air. Corals do not grow well in water with a high acid content. In the last twenty years, corals have been affected by global warming in all parts of the world. And since corals are a main food source for many sea animals, less coral could mean trouble for other marine life, including fish that humans eat.

What level of knowledge about corals does this author seem to have?
Group of answer choices

a marine biologist’s knowledge

a fishing boat captain’s knowledge

a tour guide’s knowledge

a politician's knowledge

Flag question: Question 9
Question 91 pts
The California Board of Tourism needs an article for its web site about places to go whale watching in California, but the Board wants to be careful not to favor any particular location or business. Who would be the best person to hire for this task?
Group of answer choices

a writer who has never tried whale watching

a writer who lives near most of California’s whale-watching sites

a writer with a relative in the whale-watching business

a writer who also owns a boat that he rents to whale watching tours

Flag question: Question 10
Question 101 pts
As you read this passage, look for clues that suggest the author’s purpose.

Recent studies from a variety of medical experts have shown that drinking large amounts of soda each day can increase the risk of health problems such as obesity, diabetes, dental cavities, and high blood pressure. While keeping the body well-hydrated is important, how this is done is just as important. Water is the best beverage for the human body. It keeps it hydrated, without doing any damage in the process.

What is this author’s purpose?
Group of answer choices

to entertain readers with details about the effects of drinking soda

to inform readers about the medical risks of obesity

to persuade readers to drink water instead of soda when thirsty

to inform readers about the specific biochemical effects of soda on teeth

Flag question: Question 11
Question 111 pts
When an author is writing to inform readers, which kinds of details will be most helpful?
Group of answer choices

facts

instructions

anecdotes

opinions

Flag question: Question 12
Question 121 pts
What is usually included in the first paragraph of an informative report?
Group of answer choices

a statement of the report’s topic or main ideas

a list of details covered in the report

a short explanation of the writer’s reasons for writing

a description of the writer and his qualifications

Answer 1

1) Corals paragraph — answer: a tour guide’s knowledge.
- The paragraph gives general, nontechnical facts suitable for a lay audience rather than the detailed, specialized info a marine biologist would provide.

2) California Board of Tourism hiring — answer: a writer who has never tried whale watching.
- That writer is least likely to have conflicts of interest or local bias among the choices.

3) Soda paragraph purpose — answer: to persuade readers to drink water instead of soda when thirsty.

4) Informative writing details — answer: facts.

5) First paragraph of an informative report — answer: a statement of the report’s topic or main ideas.