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Question

Difficulty: MediumObligations versus Recommendations

Read the following excerpt from the High Mountain National Park Backcountry Guide:

"High Mountain National Park Backcountry Guide:
Welcome to the backcountry trail network. To ensure safety and conservation, please observe the following rules. It is mandatory for all hikers to obtain a wilderness permit at the visitor center before entering the backcountry. While on the trails, hikers must pack out all trash, as littering is strictly prohibited and subject to fines.

For your safety, we strongly recommend carrying at least two liters of water per person and wearing sturdy hiking boots. It is also highly advisable to check the weather forecast before your departure, as conditions can change rapidly. Please note that camping is permitted only in designated areas; campers are required to set up their tents at least 200 feet away from lakes and streams. While not required, using a bear-proof food canister is highly encouraged to prevent wildlife encounters. Finally, all fires are prohibited, except in the designated iron fire rings at the primary campsites."

Based on this guide, which of the following actions is presented as a recommendation rather than a mandatory requirement?

  1. A
    Setting up camp tents at least 200 feet away from water sources
  2. B
    Securing a wilderness permit prior to beginning the hike
  3. Using a bear-proof food canister while campingAnswer
  4. D
    Packing out all trash and refuse from the trails

Answer

Using a bear-proof food canister while camping
The correct answer is the option focusing on using a bear-proof food canister. The text explicitly states that this action is 'not required' but 'highly encouraged,' which defines it as a recommendation. The other choices (obtaining a permit, camping away from water, and packing out trash) are all described using mandatory terms such as 'mandatory,' 'required,' and 'must,' signifying obligations.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the text for indicators of obligation versus recommendation.
Identify words like 'mandatory,' 'must,' 'prohibited,' and 'required' as indicators of obligations, and 'recommend,' 'advisable,' and 'encouraged' as indicators of recommendations.
To establish a baseline for categorizing the actions described in the passage.
2
Evaluate each option against the identified language in the text.
Determine that obtaining a permit is 'mandatory,' packing out trash is something hikers 'must' do, and camping 200 feet from water is 'required.' Conversely, using a bear-proof canister is 'not required' but 'highly encouraged.'
To distinguish which actions are compulsory rules and which are suggested guidelines.
3
Select the option that is explicitly described as not required but recommended.
The action of using a bear-proof food canister is identified as the only recommendation.
To solve the question by choosing the correct distinction.

Key Concept

Distinguishing between mandatory rules (obligations) and suggested guidelines (recommendations) in instructional texts by analyzing specific vocabulary and modal verbs.
Estimated Time:1m 30s
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Topics

Obligations versus Recommendations

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