The Platypus

28 The author uses a compare-and-contrast organizational pattern in the selection to help the reader understand the —

• F ways in which scientists learn about the platypus

• G ways in which the platypus takes care of its young compared to other animals

• H ways in which the male and female platypuses defend themselves

• J ways in which the platypus is different from other mammals

29 In which section would the reader find information about the size of a baby platypus?

• A The introductory paragraph

• B The Female Platypus

• C The Male Platypus

• D A Special Way to Find Food

30 What is the most likely reason the author wrote this selection?

• F. To inform the reader about an animal that has fascinated people since it was discovered

• G To explain to the reader how to tell mammals from other groups of animals

• H To encourage the reader to appreciate animals that are unfamiliar

• J To tell the reader how scientists observe and study a wild animal

31 In paragraph 5, what does the word prefers mean?

• A Spends time

• B Finds comfort

• C Likes one thing more than another

• D Tries to find a better way

32 What is the main reason the author introduces the selection with the information in paragraph 1?

• F. To show that the platypus is related to the otter and the beaver

• G To explain that the platypus is a recent scientific discovery

• H To emphasize that the platypus has an unusual appearance

• J To suggest that the platypus can survive only in Australia