Question

Read the excerpt from a speech.

Many enthusiastic student athletes have slim prospects for earning a spot on a varsity team; however, they would embrace the idea of after-school sporting events offered to everyone. The school could sponsor, for example, an intramural volleyball program in the afternoons. This would encourage fitness and foster student involvement. It even has the potential to train varsity hopefuls who have not had the opportunity to play on a team.

The author’s purpose is
to explain the history of high school athletics.
to criticize the school’s athletic programs.
to present a case for intramural sports.
to explain the rules of intramural volleyball.

Answer 1

to present a case for intramural sports.

The paragraph argues for after-school intramural programs, gives an example (volleyball), and lists benefits (encourages fitness, fosters involvement, trains varsity hopefuls).