Read this paragraph about wildfires. Then choose the best answer for each question that follows.

Most forest fires and wildfires are natural. They clear away debris, old brush, and dying trees, leaving heartier trees better able to grow. Certain trees, in fact, produce seeds
only when fire heats them. If the fire removes thick shrubs and undergrowth, the water supply increases, aiding other plants and local animals. Fire also may kill predatory insects or pests that live on and damage otherwise healthy trees.
1. What inference can you make from this paragraph?
a. A fire can have many causes.
b. Forest fires can be beneficial.
c. Trees usually survive forest fires.
d. Fires move upward from the forest floor.

3 answers

The best answer is: b. Forest fires can be beneficial.

This choice is supported by the information in the paragraph that explains how wildfires can clear debris, promote growth of healthier trees, and benefit the local ecosystem.

Read the passage below and answer the following questions.
Sachiko's reading helped her make a second inference about society's impact on nature:
"Suppressing or stopping natural fires has a negative effect on forests.”
Which of these pieces of evidence helped Sachiko make that inference? Choose all that apply.
a. Wildfires emit gases that contribute to global warming.
b. Fires may add nutrients to the soil as organic matter breaks down.
c. Natural fires create spaces between trees that slow fire movement. d. There are tens of thousands of wildfires each year in the United States.
e. Occasional exposure to fire lets some trees develop fire resistance.

The pieces of evidence that helped Sachiko make the inference that "suppressing or stopping natural fires has a negative effect on forests" are:

b. Fires may add nutrients to the soil as organic matter breaks down.

c. Natural fires create spaces between trees that slow fire movement.

e. Occasional exposure to fire lets some trees develop fire resistance.

These options highlight the beneficial roles that natural fires play in maintaining forest health and preventing more severe fires, supporting Sachiko's inference about the negative impacts of fire suppression.