Which of the following would weaken the author's argument?

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: D

Rationale: In the context provided, the word 'testament' most likely refers to evidence. A testament can be something that serves as proof or confirmation of a fact or situation. In this case, it is used in a non-religious sense to indicate evidence or proof. The other choices are incorrect as 'story' does not fit the context, 'surprise' is not related to the owners' skills mentioned, and 'artifact' does not align with the discussion of the restaurant's success.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The most likely reason Julia did not return to work after the alarm is that she got stuck in traffic and could not get back to her office. The extract provides details about Julia's challenging morning, starting from being woken up early by lawn mowers, having a caffeine-free cup of coffee, facing traffic delays, arriving late at work, and receiving additional work from her boss. These events culminated in Julia deciding to leave after the fire alarm, indicating that being stuck in traffic was the primary reason for her absence. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because there is no direct evidence in the provided extract to support them. Julia's actions suggest that her decision to leave was more related to external factors like traffic issues rather than internal feelings of embarrassment, tiredness, or being given time off by her boss.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The passage mentions that Mr. Morgan's application for the position of Lead Technician has been received, along with a higher-than-expected number of applications. It also states that the Human Resources team will take longer than previously stated to review candidates and schedule interviews. While there is no direct mention of Mr. Morgan's qualifications or the likelihood of him being offered an interview, it can be inferred that his interest in the position and the competitive application pool suggest that he is well qualified and stands a good chance of being offered an interview. Therefore, the most supported conclusion is that Mr. Morgan is well qualified for the position of Lead Technician and will likely be offered an interview. Choice A is incorrect because the passage does not mention the specific timeframe within which Mr. Morgan was informed about receiving feedback. Choice C is not directly supported by the passage as it does not indicate any challenges in finding a qualified candidate. Choice D is not directly addressed in the passage and is speculative.

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: The passage is expository as it provides factual information about the sensory, motor, and perceptual development in babies during the first two years of life. It explains how babies' senses develop, focusing on hearing and vision in their early stages. The passage presents these developmental milestones in a straightforward and informative manner, making it expository. Choice B (narrative) is incorrect because the passage does not tell a story or present a sequence of events involving characters. Choice C (persuasive) is incorrect as there is no attempt to convince or persuade the reader of a particular viewpoint. Choice D (descriptive) is incorrect because the passage does not aim to create a vivid picture or impression using sensory details; instead, it focuses on providing clear information about sensory development in infants.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: After the soil has been loosened with a tiller or trowel, the next step should be to mix fertilizer or compost into the loosened soil. This action is crucial as it provides essential nutrients for plant growth, improves soil fertility, and promotes healthy plant development. Digging a trench, cutting potatoes, or mounding soil around the base of the plant are not tasks typically performed immediately after loosening the soil. Therefore, option A is the correct choice as it aligns with the standard practice of enhancing soil quality before planting.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Water immediately. After planting potatoes, the first step should always be to water them immediately. This is crucial to settle the soil around the newly planted potatoes, ensuring good contact between the roots and the soil. Watering helps kickstart the growth process and provides the necessary moisture for the newly planted potatoes to establish themselves successfully. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because mounding soil, mixing fertilizer/compost, and spacing potatoes should be done before or during planting, not immediately after.

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.