PSAT Reading Question 281: Answer and Explanation

Question: 281

Based on the passage, the authors' perspective on studying coral reefs is that it is

• A. confusing to find varying amounts of seaweed and algal turf in reefs.
• B. difficult to understand why the fish populations varied in different reefs.
• C. important to protect a valuable resource.
• D. controversial to study human effects on the reefs.

Correct Answer: C

Explanation:

C

The question asks for the authors' perspective on studying coral reefs. Since there is no line reference, use lead words and the order of the questions to find the window. There are no line references prior to this question, but Q19 asks about line 5, so the window for Q18 is likely in the first paragraph. Scan the first paragraph, looking for the lead words coral reefs. The passage begins by stating, Coral reefs are among the most valuable natural assets on Earth. The correct answer should reflect the authors' belief in the importance of coral reefs. Eliminate answers that don't match the prediction. The passage says that seaweeds and algal turfs grow on coral reefs and that herbivorous fish eat them, but it does not indicate that the authors find it confusing that there are varying amounts of seaweed and algal turfs. Eliminate (A). The authors mention that populations of herbivorous fish vary widely and explore the reasons behind the variations, but the passage does not say that the topic is difficult to understand. Eliminate (B). Choices (A) and (B) are Mostly Right, Slightly Wrong trap answers. Choice (C) is supported because the text describes coral reefs as valuable and mentions the importance of coral reef conservation. Keep (C). While the authors do discuss human impacts on coral reefs, no mention is made of any controversy. Eliminate (D). The correct answer is (C).