Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The passage emphasizes the importance of studying a foreign language in high school for future success, including college acceptance rates and job market demand. To evaluate the argument's validity, it is crucial to examine the direct impact of studying a foreign language on college acceptance rates. Choice D is the correct answer because it directly addresses this aspect by comparing the correlation between high school students' study of a foreign language and subsequent college acceptance rates. This comparison would provide concrete evidence supporting or refuting the argument presented in the passage. Choices A, B, and C, though related to language education, do not directly assess the specific relationship between studying a foreign language in high school and college acceptance rates, making them less relevant for evaluating the argument's validity.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In the context provided, the word 'patronage' implies supporting or helping someone in a condescending manner. 'Auspices' is the correct answer as it refers to support or sponsorship, especially from an influential or powerful source, without the negative connotations associated with patronage. 'Aberration' (choice B) means a departure from what is normal or expected and is not a synonym for patronage. 'Acerbic' (choice C) means sharp or bitter in tone, which is not related to patronage. 'Adulation' (choice D) means excessive admiration or praise, which is not synonymous with patronage.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'Leif Erikson deserves more credit for exploring America.' The author's main conclusion, as supported by the extract, is that Leif Erikson should receive more credit for his contributions in exploring the New World. Choice A is incorrect as it does not capture the essence of the author's conclusion, which is about recognizing Erikson's achievements rather than just labeling him as a legendary explorer. Choice C is incorrect because while Leif Erikson did convert to Christianity, the primary focus of the conclusion is on his exploration rather than his motivations. Choice D is incorrect as it only mentions one aspect of Erikson's achievements (contacting the natives) and does not encompass the broader idea of giving him more credit for his explorations.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. According to the passage, when encountering evidence that disproves a hypothesis of the form 'All x and y,' something that is x but not y can disprove the hypothesis. Using the example provided in the passage, a monkey (x) that has no hair (not y) would disprove the hypothesis 'All monkeys are hairy.' Choice A is incorrect because something that is neither x nor y is not specifically mentioned in the passage to disprove such hypotheses. Choice B is incorrect because the passage states that something that is both x and y confirms the hypothesis, not disproves it. Choice D is incorrect as the passage does not discuss something that is y but not x disproving the hypothesis; it focuses on x but not y as evidence to disprove the hypothesis.

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.