Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. The passage describes the reproductive habits of the sun-fish, focusing on how the mother sun-fish provides and guards her spawn until they are ready to take care of themselves. Choice B is incorrect as the passage does not delve into the broader ecosystem of the sun-fish. Choice C is incorrect as there is no persuasive element in the passage about protecting aquatic ecosystems. Choice D is incorrect as the passage does not discuss the mating habits of sun-fish but rather the care provided by the mother sun-fish.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The email sent by the instructor after reconsidering his grading plan for the semester is aimed at persuading the students to understand the situation and potentially take certain actions based on his decision. It is not a technical piece that focuses on explaining complex processes, nor is it primarily a narrative recounting events. It also does not strictly provide information or explain a topic (expository writing). Instead, the email's purpose is to influence the students' perspective or behavior, making it a persuasive type of writing.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The definition that most closely relates to the usage of the word 'moult' in the passage is the act of shedding part or all of the outer shell. The passage mentions how some insects remain under water until they are ready to undergo their final moult and attain the winged state. This process involves shedding their old skin or exoskeleton to transition from the aquatic larval stage to the aerial adult stage. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because they do not align with the specific context provided in the passage. Choice A talks about an adventure underwater, which is unrelated to the biological process of moulting. Choice B refers to a mating act between insects, which is not the focus of the passage. Choice D discusses the death of an organism leading to a revival of life, which is not connected to the moulting process described in the passage.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Clothilde should look for more information on how to prune her elderberry plant and utilize the elderflowers for tea and homemade wine in Chapter 4: Herbs in Food. This chapter typically covers information on using herbs in various culinary and beverage preparations, which aligns with Clothilde's goals. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because Chapter 4, specifically focusing on herbs in food, is the most relevant chapter for Clothilde's inquiry on utilizing elderflowers for tea and wine.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The author generally presents the information in a cause-effect format. The scientist talks about the increase in carbon dioxide emissions by countries like China, India, and Brazil leading to rising global temperatures. The politician, on the other hand, argues against a causal link between carbon emissions and temperature increase, suggesting a natural rise in temperatures. The information is structured around the cause of carbon emissions and its effect on global temperatures. Choice A, chronological order, is incorrect as the information is not presented in a time sequence but rather based on cause and effect. Choice B, comparison-contrast, is not the best description as the focus is more on cause and effect rather than comparing or contrasting different elements. Choice D, conclusion-premises, is also incorrect as the information does not follow the pattern of drawing conclusions based on premises but rather discusses the relationship between carbon emissions and temperature increase.