Explain Author's Reasons and Evidence Practice Test

Read the passage, then answer the question.

Planting more trees near playgrounds is important because trees cool the area and improve air quality. First, trees provide shade, and shade lowers surface temperatures. The reason is that leaves block sunlight from heating up blacktop and metal equipment. For example, the City of Brookdale measured playground temperatures on a sunny day. Under a large oak tree, the ground was about 12°F cooler than the open blacktop nearby.

Second, trees help clean the air because their leaves trap tiny particles of dust and pollution. According to the U.S. Forest Service, one mature tree can absorb around 48 pounds of carbon dioxide in a year. In Brookdale, students noticed less dust on benches near the new trees after several weeks, especially on windy days.

Some people worry trees will drop leaves to clean up, but the author argues that raking can be a class job during science lessons. Therefore, planting trees near playgrounds is worth the effort.

Question: The author states that trees cool playgrounds because leaves block sunlight. What evidence supports this reason?

Read the passage, then answer the question.

Our town should build a bike path along River Road because it would make travel safer and healthier. First, a separate path protects riders since bikes would not have to share a narrow lane with cars. For example, the River Road shoulder is only about 2 feet wide in some places, and drivers often pass quickly. According to a survey from the Parks Department, 62% of families said they avoid biking there because it feels unsafe.

Second, a bike path encourages exercise because people are more likely to ride when they feel protected. In the nearby town of Lakeview, a two-mile path opened in 2021. City data reveals that weekend bike counts rose from about 40 riders to 110 riders after the path opened. A local doctor, Dr. Chen, explained that regular biking can strengthen the heart and lungs.

Some people think a bike path would cost too much, but the author notes that Lakeview paid for its path using a state safety grant. Therefore, planning a bike path is a smart way to protect residents and support healthy habits.

Question: Why does the author include the detail that 62% of families avoid biking on River Road?