Humans need to Explore the Outer Space

What reason does the author of “Humans Need to Explore Outer Space” give in
paragraph 6 to support her claim that space exploration should continue?

Our moon contains helium-3, an element that could be useful on Earth for energy developments such as nuclear fusion research. Mining there can also yield rare-earth metals (REMs) that are used in electronics and in the construction of solar panels. This form of mining, therefore, would be incredibly beneficial for our survival and advancement. In recent years, geological surveys have indicated the presence of water on the moon, which can serve to sustain a human-inhabited lunar base.

•           Mining in space could be a source for useful materials

• It is important to support technological advances in electronics.

• Recent geological surveys show that water exists on the moon.

• Helium-3 is an element needed for research in nuclear fusion.

Tags

CCSS.RL.7.1

CCSS.RI.6.8

CCSS.RI.7.1

CCSS.RI.7.8

CCSS.RI.8.1

Which two phrases describe ideas that are explored in this selection?

• Using science and technology in space exploration

• Identifying the risks and rewards of space exploration

• Limiting space exploration and reducing costs

• Redesigning the space program and accommodating tourists

• Understanding the benefits and objectives of space exploration

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CCSS.RI.7.2

CCSS.RL.7.2

CCSS.RI.6.2

CCSS.RL.6.2

CCSS.RL.8.2

This question has two parts. First, answer Part A. Then, answer Part B.

Part A
Which statement is a claim that the author makes to support her respective points of view?

• Space travel is as risky as climbing Mount Everest or flying a plane.

• Space travel is one of the most innovative human ideas thus far.

• Private companies can help support space exploration in the future.

• A lot of money and time has already been spent on space exploration.

Part B
Which two quotes from “Humans Need to Explore Outer Space” best support the answer to Part A?

• This exploration phase aims to discover the possibilities for past or present life on the Red Planet. (paragraph 8)

• The final frontier is a vast and dangerous place, difficult and expensive to explore. (paragraph 12)

• Technological innovations are developing to allow us to venture even farther into space.
  (paragraph 4)

• There are dozens of private companies in the industry known informally as “New Space.”
  (paragraph 3)

• With so much human investment made, we must go forward, fully embracing space exploration as an important priority. (paragraph 1)

This question has two parts. First answer Part A, then Part B.

1. Part A How does the author support the claim that greater discoveries in outer space are happening thanks to technological innovations?

• The author proposes ideas that may help humans on Earth.

• The author cites advances made as a result of recent space missions.

• The author includes quotations from experts on space exploration.

• The author poses questions that are still unanswered.

Part B Select two sentences that provide relevant support for the answer in Part A.

• "It is imperative that we use all our available resources to continue research on Mars." (paragraph 7)

• "After the explosions of the Challenger in 1986 and Columbia in 2003, the program was shut down in 2011." (paragraph 3)

• "Are there inhabitable planets in our galaxy and beyond?" (paragraph 1)

• "The Juno spacecraft orbited around Jupiter, sending observations that can help scientists understand the beginnings of the solar system." (paragraph 5)

• "A prominent example is the Hubble Space Telescope, which has made more than 1.3 million observations since its mission began in 1990." (paragraph 4)

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CCSS.RI.7.2

CCSS.RL.7.1

CCSS.RL.7.2

CCSS.RI.8.2

CCSS.RL.8.1