Question

As you read this passage, look closely at its use of typographical cues.

What Is an Ecosystem?

An ecosystem is an interdependent system of plants, animals, and microorganisms interacting with one another and with their physical environment. An ecosystem can be as large as the Mojave Desert or as small as a local pond. Ecosystems provide people with food, goods, medicines, and many other products. They also play a vital role in nutrient cycling, water purification, and climate moderation.Why does the author of this passage put some terms in bold type?

to highlight the main ideas of the article

to identify the key parts of an ecosystem

to indicate the terms that readers should look up

to identify important but possibly unfamiliar terms

Answer 1

to identify important but possibly unfamiliar terms

The bold type flags vocabulary the reader should notice or may not know, not the overall main ideas or specific parts to look up in a reference.