The Platypus - 2020 STAAR

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

• ways in which scientists learn about the platypus

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

• ways in which the male and female platypuses defend themselves

• ways in which the platypus is different from other mammals

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

• The introductory paragraph

• The Female Platypus

• The Male Platypus

• A Special Way to Find Food

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

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

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

• To encourage the reader to appreciate animals that are unfamiliar

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

In paragraph 5, what does the word prefers mean?

• Spends time

• Finds comfort

• Likes one thing more than another

• Tries to find a better way

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

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

• To explain that the platypus is a recent scientific discovery

• To emphasize that the platypus has an unusual appearance

• To suggest that the platypus can survive only in Australia