Read the Paragraph Below and Answer the Questions That Follow

question 29

Multiple Choice

Read the paragraph below and answer the questions that follow.
(1) The average age of first marriage has been rising; in America, it is now 28.4 for men and 26.5 for women. (2) Why are people waiting longer to get married? (3) Americans are postponing marriage for a number of reasons. (4) One cause of this phenomenon is young people's desire to concentrate on their careers before taking on the additional responsibilities of a spouse and children. (5) Many people also want to enjoy the freedom and independence of the single life as long as possible. (6) Another reason for postponing marriage is the lack of pressure to marry. (7) Society now finds it acceptable for people in their twenties to be involved in intimate, long-term relationships without tying the knot. (8) Therefore, friends and family members are less likely to urge young people to formally commit to one another. (9) Yet another cause for the rising age of first marriage is the fear of divorce combined with high expectations for a marital relationship. (10) People want to wait to marry until they're sure they've found their perfect soul mate.
How many causes does the writer include to develop the topic sentence?

• A) two
• B) three
• C) four

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Definitions:

Hormone Secretions

The process by which hormones are released by glands into the bloodstream.

Dm

Often shorthand for diabetes mellitus, a chronic condition characterized by high levels of sugar in the blood due to insulin production or function issues.

Correct Meaning

The accurate interpretation or definition of a word, phrase, or symbol.

Endocrine System

A system of glands that produces and secretes hormones directly into the bloodstream to regulate the body's growth, metabolism, and sexual development and function.