The most important idea to include in a summary from the provided paragraph is: The platypus is a rare type of mammal that bears its young by laying eggs. This statement captures the uniqueness of the platypus in the context of mammalian classification, which is a central theme of the paragraph.
The platypus is an Australian mammal that does not fall neatly into a
classification. It is one of only two mammals (the other being the
echidna) that bear young by laying eggs. In some respects, the
platypus resembles a duck; both have webbed feet and bills. The
platypus has a tail like a beaver’s and a furry body similar to an
otter’s. Its unusual hybrid of body parts makes it well-suited for its
largely aquatic life. The platypus uses its webbed feet to paddle
through water, and its tail serves as a kind of rudder for steering.
While underwater, the platypus uses its bill to scoop up bits of food,
such as insects and shellfish, from the water’s bottom. The platypus
also scoops up bits of gravel, which grind up the food, as the
platypus is toothless. The platypus stores the food and gravel in its
cheeks until it reaches the water’s surface. Once the platypus
surfaces, it consumes its meal.
Which idea from the paragraph is important to include in a summary?
(1 point)
The platypus is a rare type of mammal that bears its young by laying
eggs.
The platypus paddles through water.
The platypus collects food such as insects and shellfish.
The platypus is a fascinating animal.
1 answer