The BP Oil Spill Point of View

Which TWO of the following words from paragraph 1 have a strong connotative (emotional) meaning?

• horrific

• tragic

• possible

• company

Which sentence most accurately summarizes the author's point of view in this editorial?

• The explosion leaked millions of barrels of oil into the Gulf Coast, but BP responded quickly and responsibly.

• The oil spill disaster was a result of BP's thoughtless actions and its refusal to listen to experts.

• The rig explosion is a tragedy, but events like this are a problem that the oil industry can learn how to control.

• BP has been drilling safely in the Gulf of Mexico for over fifty years, and one accident should not be held against the company.

Why does the author include statements made by the BP oil executives such as David Rainey and Doug Suttles?

• To show that the evidence doesn't support the company's official statement.

• To emphasize that the oil company executives are honest.

• To explain why BP's actions were acceptable.

• To defend the company's actions before and after the oil spill.

What is the author's purpose for writing this text

• To convince people that BP is a responsible company.

• To inform the reader about the mistake BP made and how they fixed it.

• To convince the audience that BP caused a terrible oil spill that could easily have been avoided.

• To entertain the audience.