A student is writing an argumentative essay about all teens needing smart phones for his debate class. Read the paragraphs from the student's essay and the directions that follow. In this day and age, all teens need smart phones because they provide safety and an excellent source for research. Many may say that smart phones are too distracting for teenagers, and could lead to decreased academic performance. Even if this is true, the benefits to safety and research outweigh the minor possibility of distraction. First, many teens are driving themselves or riding with friends. Smart phones can help these teens get accurate, fast directions so they do not get lost or find themselves in dangerous areas. Also, smart phones can provide teens with an immediate way to look for resources to help them if they are in danger, such as police department phone numbers or park ranger contact information. Smart phones keep teens safe in ways that simple cell phones cannot. In addition to the safety they bring, smart phones are also an excellent resource for research for teens. So many classes in school require research, and, if teens have smart phones in their pockets to use for research, they can save time and money that would be required to visit a library or buy resources online. A smart phone gives teens quick, reliable information at their fingertips. The student found more information. Which piece of evidence supports the student's claim about the necessity of smart phones for teens in his essay? A. Smart phones are more expensive than regular cell phones and often require a long–term contract. B. Smart phones are considered much more modern and contemporary than more traditional flip phones or landline phones. C. Smart phones can be equipped with helpful applications for reliable research sites and can download historical documents, scientific articles, encyclopedia entries, etc. D. Smart phones come in a variety of colors, can be decorated according to the individual teen's taste, and can download many games to keep teens entertained.

Answer 1

The piece of evidence that best supports the student's claim about the necessity of smart phones for teens is:

C. Smart phones can be equipped with helpful applications for reliable research sites and can download historical documents, scientific articles, encyclopedia entries, etc.

This evidence directly relates to the argument that smart phones are an excellent resource for research, which is one of the key points made in the essay.