Digital SATReading and Writing: Information and IdeasMedium
A team of researchers is studying the migratory patterns of monarch butterflies. They observe that monarchs typically travel thousands of miles from cooler northern climates to warmer southern regions for winter. Upon arrival, the butterflies often cluster in specific oyamel fir forests in Mexico. The researchers hypothesize that these forests offer unique microclimates essential for monarch survival during dormancy. Which of the following observations, if true, would most strongly support the researchers' hypothesis?
- AOyamel fir forests are known to harbor a high diversity of insect predators that could threaten monarchs.
- BTemperature and humidity measurements within the oyamel forests show remarkably stable conditions compared to surrounding areas.
- COther butterfly species that migrate long distances overwinter in different types of forest ecosystems.
- DMonarch butterflies are also found overwintering in small numbers in other warm, forested regions.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Temperature and humidity measurements within the oyamel forests show remarkably stable conditions compared to surrounding areas.
The hypothesis states that oyamel fir forests offer 'unique microclimates essential for monarch survival.' Showing that these forests have 'remarkably stable conditions' directly supports the idea that their microclimate is unique and beneficial, thus essential for survival.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. This would contradict the hypothesis, suggesting the forests are dangerous rather than essential for survival.
- C. This is irrelevant to the specific hypothesis about monarch butterflies and oyamel forests.
- D. This weakens the idea that oyamel forests are 'unique' and 'essential' by showing other options exist.
Command of Evidence
The ability to identify and analyze evidence within a text, and to determine what evidence best supports a given claim or hypothesis.
- Involves evaluating the relevance and strength of evidence.
- Requires understanding the relationship between claims and supporting details.
- Can involve both textual and quantitative evidence.
Memory trick: Claim, Check, Connect: Does the evidence 'C'ement the claim?