PSAT Reading Question 479: Answer and Explanation

Question: 479

Which option gives the best evidence for the answer to the previous question?

• A. Lines 23–24 ("This was . . . aid")
• B. Lines 39–40 ("Following . . . War")
• C. Lines 41–43 ("A bounty . . . birds")
• D. Lines 44–46 ("However . . . military")

Correct Answer: D

Explanation:

(D) These lines state that the bounty system—a measure that prevented government involvement—worked well because the locals were better able to hunt the emus. Thus, we can infer that their first-hand experience gave them an advantage. Choice (A) states only that government aid was requested. Choice (B) references the media's involvement but, of course, does not connect the media with the successful fight against the emu population. Choice (C) includes the lines where the bounty system is explained, but fails to explain why it was successful. So choice (D) is the only answer that gives evidence as to what attributed to the effective attacks on the emus.