English II - Antarctica: Governing the Icy Continent

Which word in paragraph 3 means "specified as an essential condition"?

• negotiated

• used

• stipulated

• agreed

Based on the information in paragraphs 4 and 5, what can the reader conclude about the countries that have signed the Antarctic Treaty since 1959?

• They have promised to invest in the economic development of Antarctica.

• They have made a commitment to preserve Antarctica and its natural resources.

• They have decided to focus their efforts only on protecting marine life.

• They agree that tourism in and around Antarctica should be carefully regulated.

How do the phrases "reinforced the original intent" and "banned indefinitely" in paragraph 5 contribute to the tone of the paragraph?

• They create a formal, administrative tone.

• They create a sly, ironic tone.

• They create a sincere, persuasive tone.

• They create a bitter, dejected tone.

Which quotation from the article best explains the ongoing care necessary for the protection of Antarctica?

• These scientists conduct research on a range of subjects, including ecosystems, weather patterns, and the effects of pollution. (paragraph 1)

• Some of those territories overlapped, and some countries would not recognize the claims made by other nations. (paragraph 2)

• Since 1959, more countries have joined the agreement, and its objectives have been expanded. (paragraph 4)

• Scientists and regulators are evaluating the impact such permanent facilities as visitor centers, museums, and hotels would have on the environment. (paragraph 7)

Which of these is the best summary of the section "Governed by Treaty"?

• Seven countries claimed control over land in Antarctica in the 1940s, and each refused to recognize the territorial claims of the other nations. Despite these political disputes, scientists from all over the world wanted to conduct research there. Starting in 1957, international teams of scientists cooperated to establish coastal bases and inland stations on the icy continent.

• In the 1940s several countries had conflicting territorial claims in Antarctica. The success of an international scientific research project in the 1950s, however, led to the signing of the Antarctic Treaty in 1959. This 12-nation agreement detailed what countries could and could not do on Antarctica and required the signers to meet periodically to review the treaty's goals.

• Although early stakeholders could not have known what the future held for Antarctica, many countries did work together to preserve the continent. For example, 12 countries signed a treaty that stated explicitly what countries were allowed to do in Antarctica. Also, 67 nations agreed to conduct research together and, in doing so, made significant discoveries.

• The International Geophysical Year project and the Antarctic Treaty were two important developments that determined the future of Antarctica. The Antarctic Treaty, which went into effect in 1961, was signed by Argentina, Chile, Great Britain, France, and the United States. Because of this treaty, nations cannot use Antarctica for military purposes.

How does the cause-and-effect relationship described in paragraphs 6 and 7 contribute to the development of the article's thesis?

• The effect of technological progress on tourism demonstrates a new challenge facing the nations who have agreed to protect Antarctica.

• The effect of increased tourism on current and future scientific research in Antarctica demonstrates a weakness in the original treaty.

• The employment opportunities created by new permanent facilities on Antarctica demonstrate the benefits of investing in technology.

• The recent economic growth created by the improved living conditions in Antarctica demonstrates the importance of international cooperation.

What does the quotation from Claire Christian in paragraph 8 best suggest about tourism in Antarctica?

• There is a need for strict governmental regulation of the tourism industry.

• An overflow of tourists will have an adverse effect on the environment.

• Laws have not yet been established to regulate the tourism industry.

• Guidelines can ensure tourists will not interfere with scientific research.

What is the most likely reason the author organizes the information in the article chronologically?

• To accentuate the problems faced in Antarctica and their solutions

• To tell the story of Antarctica's development into a tourist site

• To give emphasis to the effects of progress and change in Antarctica

• To reveal the competing economic interests at play in Antarctica

How do the details in paragraph 9 support the key idea that tourism to Antarctica should be

more carefully managed?

• By highlighting the need for essential care of people who visit or work there

• By summarizing the treaties that have addressed the issue

• By describing what has been happening to animal life on the continent

• By explaining the likely negative effects to the continent and ocean