Which of the following best describes the purpose of the passage?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The purpose of the passage is to inform Mr. Morgan that he will likely not receive an offer for the job of Lead Technician due to the high number of applicants. The passage mentions the high volume of applications and the competitive nature of the selection process, indicating that Mr. Morgan may not be successful. Choice B is incorrect because the passage does not express gratitude to Mr. Morgan but rather informs him of the situation. Choice C is incorrect as there is no offer made in the passage. Choice D is incorrect as the passage does not specifically state that the review will take longer than expected, but rather that it will take longer than previously stated.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Babies primarily rely on the sense of touch during their early development. Their sense of touch is one of the first senses to develop, allowing them to explore and understand the world around them. Touch helps babies bond with caregivers, provides comfort, and facilitates learning about different textures and sensations. While vision, hearing, and smell are also important, touch plays a crucial role in infants' early development and communication. The provided extract explains that babies initially rely on hearing and later on vision, with touch being essential for early bonding and exploration, making it the primary sense in infancy.

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 answer is B. The passage explains that the kingsnake mimics the venomous coral snake's markings to deter predators, particularly hawks and eagles, which cannot differentiate between the two species. This implies that both the coral snake and the kingsnake face similar threats from predators in their shared habitat. Choice A is incorrect because the passage clearly states that the kingsnake is nonvenomous, so it is not dangerous to humans. Choice C is incorrect as the passage highlights that not all snakes with flashy markings are venomous, emphasizing the need for caution. Choice D is incorrect as there is no mention of the kingsnake changing its markings in response to the presence of hawks or eagles in the passage.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The most likely description of the relationship between the author and Alan is friendly. The author's message to Alan is filled with warmth, concern, and offers of help, indicating a positive and supportive tone. The use of phrases like 'I just wanted to drop you a quick note' and 'Let me know if you want any special treats' reflect a friendly and amicable relationship. Choices A, B, and D are not as suitable as competitive, formal, or caring relationships do not align as strongly with the friendly and supportive nature of the interaction described in the text.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The sentence 'Finally, we were able to settle in to enjoy the movie.' indicates the completion or conclusion of a sequence of events. The word 'finally' signals that something has been achieved or reached at the end of a series of actions or events. Choices A, B, and D do not indicate the end of a sequence but rather express different points within a series of events or actions.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: A letter written by a local farmer who witnessed the Battle of Gettysburg would be a primary source as it provides direct firsthand accounts and observations from someone who was present during the event. This source would offer valuable insights and perspectives for an article on the Battle of Gettysburg. Choice B, a documentary produced by a local TV station, is a secondary source as it interprets and presents information about the battle rather than providing direct firsthand accounts. Choice C, a novelization of the battle written by the great-grandson of a Union soldier, is also a secondary source as it involves interpretation and creative storytelling rather than direct eyewitness information. Choice D, a history textbook for a college-level course in American history, is a tertiary source that compiles information from various primary and secondary sources rather than presenting original firsthand accounts.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The best summary of the passage is that humans can use coloration and markings on snakes to determine whether they're venomous. The passage discusses how snake markings serve the purpose of warning predators and helping humans identify venomous snakes by their bright coloration. Choice B is incorrect because the passage focuses on how coloration helps snakes evade predators rather than hide from them. Choice C is incorrect as it only mentions two specific snakes with similar markings, which is a minor detail compared to the main point of identifying venomous snakes. Choice D is incorrect because it only partially reflects the passage, focusing solely on the relationship between markings and venom in snakes, missing the crucial aspect of human ability to discern venomous snakes based on their coloration.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The final sentence of the passage mentioning that Julia set a course for home indicates that Julia is making a deliberate decision to head towards her residence. This implies that she is planning to go home, suggesting that option B is the most accurate interpretation. Options A, C, and D are incorrect as they do not align with the context provided. Option A is incorrect as there is no indication that Julia cannot go directly home. Option C is incorrect as there is no mention of Julia returning to work. Option D is incorrect as there is no evidence in the passage to suggest that Julia is worried about the fire at her office spreading to her home.