Urban Rat Research and Challenges

The video tutorial guides students through analyzing an article by Abigail Tucker about Baltimore street rats. It focuses on understanding the author's claim that while the day-to-day work of scientists may seem unproductive, their research is crucial. The lesson involves reviewing the article's structure, identifying how different sections support the claim, and planning an essay response. Students learn to trace the development of the author's claim and understand the importance of scientific research in addressing urban rat problems.

What is the main claim made by the author in the article 'Crawling Around with Baltimore Street Rats'?

• The day-to-day work of scientists is thrilling and exciting.

• The research conducted by scientists is critical despite seeming unproductive.

• Urban rats are not a significant problem for cities.

• Scientific research on urban rats is unnecessary.

What is the primary focus of the article's historical sections?

• The technological advancements in rat research.

• The personal life of Abigail Tucker.

• The problems caused by urban rats over time.

• The daily routines of scientists.

Which of the following activities is NOT part of the scientists' day-to-day work as described in the article?

• Observing the urban ecosystem.

• Mapping rat populations.

• Recording data.

• Developing new rat species.

Why is the research on urban rats considered critical according to the article?

• Because it is a requirement for scientific funding.

• Because it addresses public health and economic issues.

• Because it helps in understanding the behavior of all animals.

• Because it provides entertainment for scientists.

What is one of the significant challenges faced by scientists in controlling urban rat populations?

• Insufficient funding for research.

• Lack of interest from the public.

• Rats' preference for rural areas.

• Rats' ability to adapt and survive despite efforts to eliminate them.

Which of the following is a reason why urban rats are a significant concern?

• They are a source of food for other animals.

• They carry diseases and cause economic damage.

• They contribute to urban beautification.

• They are a protected species.

What does the author imply about the effectiveness of past efforts to control rat populations?

• They have been unnecessary and redundant.

• They have had mixed results and require further research.

• They have been completely successful.

• They have been ignored by the public.

How does the article conclude regarding the efforts to control urban rat populations?

• It suggests that the problem has been completely solved.

• It highlights the ongoing challenges and the need for continued research.

• It claims that rats are no longer a threat to cities.

• It states that scientists have given up on the issue.

What message does the author convey by ending the article with the idea of rats 'laughing' at humans?

• The research on rats is complete and no longer needed.

• Rats continue to pose a challenge and seem to outsmart human efforts.

• Humans have successfully outsmarted rats.

• Rats are not intelligent creatures.

What does the author suggest about the future of urban rat research?

• It should be discontinued as it is not yielding results.

• It should focus more on rural rat populations.

• It is only important for historical documentation.

• It is critical and must continue to address ongoing issues.