Which word is most closely synonymous with the word patronage as it appears in the following statement?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: 'Auspices' is most synonymous with 'patronage' in this context, indicating support or sponsorship. In the provided extract, the author expresses a desire to meet with the working men and their families, indicating a sense of support and sponsorship towards them, aligning with the meaning of 'auspices.' The other choices do not capture the idea of support or sponsorship and are therefore incorrect.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The central idea of the passage is to highlight the significance of understanding insects in ecosystems, not just focusing on their adaptability or life transitions. Choice A is incorrect as the passage does not introduce specific insects transitioning from water to air. Choice B is incorrect as the main focus is not solely on how insects adapt to their environment, but on their broader role in ecosystems. Choice D is incorrect as the passage does not discuss the duality of insect life, but rather their importance in the ecosystem.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In the context provided, 'decay' implies a gradual deterioration or breaking down over time. It does not specifically refer to decomposing, shrinking, or withering. Therefore, the correct answer is 'To deteriorate.' 'To decompose' is incorrect as it refers to the breakdown of organic matter, 'To shrink' is incorrect as it means to become smaller, and 'To wither' is incorrect as it means to dry up or wilt, none of which fully capture the meaning of decay in this context.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The repetition of 'I had a dream' in the text serves to emphasize the speaker's excitement and vision. By repeating this phrase, the author highlights the importance and impact of the dream, reinforcing the central theme of hope and aspiration. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because the primary purpose of the repetition is not persuasion, demonstration of authority, or creating a rhythmic effect, but rather to underscore the speaker's emotions and aspirations.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The author stresses the significance of buying locally grown food due to its minimal travel distance, which results in reduced resource utilization. This aligns with the passage's primary environmental theme of conserving resources for the future. Choice A is incorrect because although buying locally grown food can support the community, the main focus in the passage is on resource conservation. Choice C is incorrect as the passage emphasizes the importance of packaging but does not specifically mention that locally grown food uses less packaging. Choice D is incorrect as the health aspect related to fewer pesticides is not discussed in the passage regarding the importance of buying locally grown food.