What is the author's primary purpose in writing this essay?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. The author's primary purpose in writing this essay is to teach readers the difference between coral snakes and kingsnakes. The essay discusses how skin coloration and markings help snakes hide from predators and indicate whether a snake is venomous. By comparing the physical characteristics and behaviors of coral snakes and kingsnakes, the author helps readers understand how to distinguish between the two species to avoid potential dangers. Choice A is incorrect because the essay focuses more on distinguishing between snake species rather than solely on the relationship between markings and venom. Choice C is incorrect as the essay does not aim to illustrate why snakes are dangerous but rather to educate about the differences between specific snake types. Choice D is incorrect as the essay does not discuss how animals survive in difficult environments, but instead focuses on snake markings and behaviors.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct sequence of the author's actions based on the extract is as follows: the author looked at the house on Forest Road first, then two houses that were too small, followed by a house with a yard that was too small, and finally a house that was too expensive. Therefore, choice B correctly lists the author's actions in the given sequence. Choice A is incorrect as it reverses the order of the second and third houses visited. Choice C is incorrect as it includes a house with only one bathroom, which was not mentioned in the extract. Choice D is incorrect as it places the house on Forest Road last, whereas it was actually the first house visited.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The passage uses specific evidence to support its claims. It presents factual information about the impact of private tutoring on students' grades, including a comparison of GPAs between students who had different types of tutoring. This specific evidence strengthens the argument by providing concrete data and examples. Emotional evidence, appeal to authority, and rhetorical questioning are not used in this passage, as it primarily relies on data and analysis to make its case.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Choice A weakens the author's argument by highlighting a potential conflict of interest. If the cited study was funded by a company offering discounted tutoring, it could introduce bias and question the credibility of the study's findings. This revelation could cast doubt on the objectivity and reliability of the research, ultimately undermining the argument based on the cited study. Choices B, C, and D do not directly impact the credibility or objectivity of the cited study, so they would not significantly weaken the author's argument.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In the context provided, the word 'move' is used to indicate that the vehicles are 'marked to move quickly,' which implies that they are intended to be sold rapidly. Therefore, the correct meaning of 'move' in this context is 'sell.' Options A, C, and D do not accurately capture the intention of the word as it is used in the passage. While 'advance forward' (Option C) might seem plausible, the context of a sales event and the urgency to buy due to low prices indicate that 'sell' is the most fitting interpretation.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Option D is the most concise summary of the passage as it encapsulates the main idea that the passage focuses on the changes in babies' senses during their first year of life. The passage explains how babies are born with sensory abilities similar to adults but highlights the significant changes that occur during the first year, particularly in vision development. While the other options touch on specific aspects mentioned in the passage, they do not capture the overall essence of the passage, which emphasizes the dynamic and transformative nature of babies' sensory experiences in their first year.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The author's purpose is to attract customers to Carl's Car Depot. The text from the extract clearly emphasizes the one-day-only summer sale event at Carl's Car Depot, highlighting the wide range of cars available at discounted prices with special financing options. The author aims to draw in potential customers by presenting compelling offers and creating a sense of urgency. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because the primary focus is on attracting customers to Carl's Car Depot by showcasing the available cars and the limited-time sale, not solely informing customers about the cars, urging other dealerships to lower prices, or generally providing affordable cars.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The author's conclusion about the house on Pine Street is that it was too expensive. This can be inferred from the description provided in the text, where it is mentioned that although the house had enough space inside, it didn't have a big enough yard for their dogs, and the cost of the house was well above their price range. Therefore, the correct answer is D. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect as they do not align with the evidence from the text, which clearly points to the cost being the main issue with the house on Pine Street.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: By observing the headings provided in the extract, we can see that they are sorted alphabetically starting from 'Gray Tree Frog.' Following this alphabetical order, the next heading to be inserted in the blank spot would also come alphabetically next, which is 'Gray Tree Frog.' Choices B, C, and D do not follow the alphabetical pattern established by the existing headings and are therefore incorrect.