A student is writing a research report about how the octopus defends itself. The student wants to revise the draft to replace vague language with more precise language and vocabulary. Read the draft of the first paragraph of the report and answer the question that follows.

Question

text. The octopus is one of the most intelligent animals. Like all animals, it has developed defense mechanisms in order to avoid getting eaten, but what sets it apart is the amount of complex techniques it uses to defend itself from attackers. One of the cleverest things the octopus can do is hide in plain sight. It can blend in with what is around it really fast. Animals swim by without even figuring it out! On the occasions when the octopus does get discovered there are other amazing defense mechanisms it can rely on beyond camouflage.

Which of the following best revises the underlined sentences by including more precise language and vocabulary?

Answer 1

Here’s a revision of the underlined sentences using more precise language:

"One of the most remarkable strategies the octopus employs is its ability to conceal itself within its environment. It can rapidly change its skin color and texture to seamlessly blend in with surrounding objects. Predators often swim by without even noticing its presence!"

This revision enhances clarity and specificity, replacing vague phrases like "really fast" and "figuring it out" with more descriptive and precise language.

Answer 2

A.
An octopus can almost instantaneously match the colors, patterns, and textures of its surroundings. Predators such as dolphins, eels, and sharks swim by without even noticing them!

B.
It can change its skin as soon as it wants to. Animals that want to eat it, like sharks, will swim right on by and barely blink an eye, which helps it not get attacked.

C.
If it needs to hurry up and look like some rocks so it will not be seen, it will. If an animal looks at it and thinks it is a rock, it will not even mess with it.

D.
It is kind of like when army soldiers dress in clothes that blend in with the trees. Their enemies might not see them even when they are right there.

Answer 3

The best option that revises the underlined sentences by including more precise language and vocabulary is:

A. "An octopus can almost instantaneously match the colors, patterns, and textures of its surroundings. Predators such as dolphins, eels, and sharks swim by without even noticing them!"

This option effectively uses precise language to describe the octopus's camouflage ability and provides specific examples of predators. It avoids vague language and clearly illustrates the concept.