Which of the following statements offers a supporting argument for the passage's claim that many coastal islands are eroding?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Statement C directly provides evidence of coastal land erosion by stating that Louisiana has lost a significant amount of coastal land area. This supports the passage's claim that many coastal islands are eroding. Choice A is incorrect because the expense of recent hurricane seasons does not directly relate to coastal land erosion. Choice B is incorrect as the active period of the Atlantic Basin does not specifically address coastal land erosion. Choice D, while related to coastal storms, does not directly support the claim that many coastal islands are eroding.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The passage provides factual information and details about the loss of barrier islands due to erosion and its impact on coastal communities. It focuses on defining and describing the issue rather than analyzing causes and effects, making it best classified as a definition essay. Choice B, cause/effect essay, would require a deeper exploration into the causes and effects of the erosion. Choice C, comparison essay, would involve comparing different aspects or scenarios, which is not the focus here. Choice D, persuasive essay, aims to convince the reader of a particular viewpoint, which is not the purpose of this passage.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In the context of the article describing the assassination of President Lincoln, the word 'mortal' is used to describe a wound that will cause death. The sentence 'The wound is mortal' indicates that the wound is fatal and will result in the President's death. Therefore, the correct synonym for 'mortal' in this context is 'fatal,' meaning causing death. Choice A, 'deadly,' is the best synonym as it directly relates to causing death. Choices B and D, 'recoverable' and 'dangerous,' do not accurately reflect the meaning of 'mortal' in this context.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Including multiple headlines at the start of an article allows for the quick conveyance of the most important information about a significant event. In the case of the article about the assassination of Abraham Lincoln, the headlines serve as brief summaries of key details, such as the event itself, the perpetrator, the status of the President, and related incidents like the attempted assassination of Secretary Seward. These headlines help readers grasp the main points efficiently without having to read through the entire article. The purpose is to summarize the key details and attract readers' attention to engage them in the content. Choice B is incorrect because the purpose is not to sensationalize the story but to inform. Choice C is incorrect as the intention is not to incite panic but to provide essential information. Choice D is incorrect because the headlines serve a meaningful purpose and are not included just to fill empty space on the page.