16Hit1600
Expression of IdeasVery hardEmphasising a limitation of a study

Expression of Ideas practice question

While researching a topic, a student has taken the following notes: - A 2023 study of 12 coral reefs found less bleaching on reefs near sea-grass beds. - The effect was strong. - All 12 reefs lay within a single bay. - The researchers noted that reefs in other bays might respond differently. The student wants to emphasise a limitation of the study.

Which choice most effectively uses relevant information from the notes to accomplish this goal?

  1. A. Because all 12 reefs in the 2023 study lay in a single bay, its finding that sea-grass beds reduce bleaching may not hold elsewhere, as the researchers themselves noted.Correct
  2. B. The 2023 study found a strong link between sea-grass beds and reduced bleaching.
  3. C. The 2023 study examined 12 coral reefs.
  4. D. Sea-grass beds reduce coral bleaching.

Answer: A. Because all 12 reefs in the 2023 study lay in a single bay, its finding that sea-grass beds reduce bleaching may not hold elsewhere, as the researchers themselves noted.

One bay: the limitation, and the researchers' own caution.

Why the other answers are wrong

B. The 2023 study found a strong link between sea-grass beds and reduced bleaching.
The finding, not the limitation.
C. The 2023 study examined 12 coral reefs.
A count, without saying why it matters.
D. Sea-grass beds reduce coral bleaching.
Overstates the finding.

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