Read This Paragraph and Answer the Questions That Follow It

question 29

Multiple Choice

Read this paragraph and answer the questions that follow it. ​
(1) Because hikers, campers, and others who love the outdoors may encounter snakes, they need to know the main differences between venomous snakes and non-venomous snakes. (2) Venomous snakes and non-venomous snakes differ in several ways. (3) Venomous snakes such as copperheads and rattlesnakes usually have triangle-shaped heads instead of the elongated oval-shaped heads of non-venomous snakes. (5) The eyes of venomous snakes usually have elliptical-shaped pupils instead of the rounded pupils that non-venomous snakes have. (6) Venomous snakes also have fangs, which non-venomous snakes do not have. (7) A snakebite made by a venomous snake will consist of two close-set puncture marks. (8) In contrast, a non-venomous snake's bite mark will look ragged. (9) If the snake is swimming in the water, a venomous snake such as a water moccasin will swim with its entire body visible on the water's surface. (10) However, a non-venomous snake, such as a harmless water snake, will swim with only its head above water.
Does this paragraph compare, contrast, or both?

• A) compares only
• B) contrasts only
• C) compares and contrasts

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Definitions:

Scientific Method

A systematic and empirical approach to research in which a problem is identified, relevant data are gathered, a hypothesis is formulated, and then the hypothesis is empirically tested.

Self-Correcting Process

A method or mechanism that automatically adjusts and corrects its course of action to maintain or return to a desired state or condition.

Observing Nature

The act of paying close attention to the natural environment, often to understand natural processes or for relaxation and enjoyment.

Theory

An explanation using an integrated set of principles that organizes observations and predicts behaviors or events.