"Humans Need to Explore Outer Space" and "Let Robots Take to the Stars" Selection Quiz

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?

• 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.
• Mining in space could be a source for useful materials.

Which of the following words with similar meanings from “Humans Need to Explore Outer Space” has the most negative connotation?

• impossible (paragraph 3)
• problematic (paragraph 10)
• risky (paragraph 11)
• difficult (paragraph 12)

Read the sentence from paragraph 3 of “Let Robots Take to the Stars.” Would you want to trust a scientific mission to the people who run reality TV? The tone of this rhetorical question suggests that trusting a scientific mission to the people who run reality TV would be —

• appropriate
• ridiculous
• smart
• risky

Read this sentence from paragraph 4 of “Let Robots Take to the Stars.” The risks of space exploration could be grave for a planet already plagued by pollution. Which rhetorical device does the author use in this sentence?

• Loaded language
• Direct address
• Counterargument
• Repetition

In paragraph 11 of “Let Robots Take to the Stars,” which rhetorical device does the author use to sum up her argument?

• Humor
• Evidence
• Rhetorical question
• Sweeping generalization

Read the dictionary entry below. default \dĭ-fôlt´\ n 1. failure to perform a task or fulfill an obligation 2. failure of a party in a legal case to make a required court appearance 3. the failure of one or more competitors to participate in a contest 4. a situation or condition that is the case in the absence of specific action to change it Which definition most closely matches the way default is used in paragraph 11 of “Let Robots Take to the Stars”?

• Definition 1
• Definition 2
• Definition 3
• Definition 4

How does the author of “Let Robots Take to the Stars” support the idea that space travel is more suited to robots?

• By explaining the risks to human space travelers
• By sharing the details of a new space program
• By stating the need for international cooperation
• By quoting experts in the field of space exploration

Which two phrases describe ideas that are explored in both selections?

• Using science and technology in space exploration
• Limiting space exploration and reducing costs
• Redesigning the space program and accommodating tourists
• Understanding the benefits and objectives of space exploration
• Identifying the risks and rewards of space exploration

This question has two parts. First, answer Part A. Then, answer Part B. Part A Which statement is a claim both authors make to support their points of view?

• Space travel is one of the most innovative human ideas thus far.
• Space travel is as risky as climbing Mount Everest or flying a plane.
• A lot of money and time has already been spent on space exploration.
• Private companies can help support space exploration in the future.

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

• With so much human investment made, we must go forward, fully embracing space exploration as an important priority. (paragraph 1)
• There are dozens of private companies in the industry known informally as “New Space.” (paragraph 3)
• Technological innovations are developing to allow us to venture even farther into space. (paragraph 4)
• 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)