Examkin

Question

Difficulty: MediumAnalyzing Bolded Statement Roles

Agricultural scientists recently proposed introducing a genetically modified species of parasitic wasp to control the population of destructive stem-borer beetles affecting regional maize crops. Opponents of the plan argue that introducing a non-native insect species could unpredictably disrupt local ecosystems. However, field trials conducted in neighboring agricultural zones demonstrated that the introduced wasp species dies off naturally within weeks once beetle populations fall below a critical threshold. Therefore, the proposed biological control plan is unlikely to cause long-term ecological damage to the region.

In the argument above, the two boldfaced portions play which of the following roles?

  1. A
    The first is a finding that supports the opponents' objection to the proposed plan; the second is a secondary conclusion supported by that finding.
  2. B
    The first is contextual background information supporting the traditional view; the second is the author's primary argument against implementing the plan.
  3. The first presents factual evidence used to counter a potential objection to the proposed plan; the second is the main conclusion derived from that evidence.Answer
  4. D
    The first presents evidence supporting a plan; the second is an intermediate conclusion that serves as a premise for the opponents' main position.
  5. E
    The first offers empirical evidence that refutes the author's core premise; the second is a concession made to critics of the biological control project.

Answer

The first boldfaced statement presents factual evidence used to counter a potential objection to the proposed plan, while the second boldfaced statement is the main conclusion derived from that evidence.
The correct option accurately identifies the dual functions of the bolded statements: the first boldface provides empirical trial data showing that the wasps die off quickly (countering the critics' objection about long-term ecosystem disruption), and the second boldface is the main conclusion drawn by the author based on that evidence.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the main argument structure and identify the author's main stance.
Opponents argue the wasp will cause ecological damage. The author disagrees and argues the plan will not cause long-term damage.
Understanding the overall argument flow helps clarify which statements support or oppose the main conclusion.
2
Determine the role of the first boldfaced statement.
The statement shows that wasps die off naturally when beetles decrease, which directly addresses and mitigates the opponents' concern.
It acts as empirical evidence refuting the opponents' objection.
3
Determine the role of the second boldfaced statement.
Introduced by 'Therefore', it states the main claim that the biological control plan is unlikely to cause long-term ecological damage.
This is the primary argument/conclusion the author is advancing.

Key Concept

Analyzing Bolded Statement Roles
Rate this question

Topics

Analyzing Bolded Statement Roles

More questions from this topic