Answer:
The best choice for a section that develops the author's claim about the urgency of the mountain pine beetle issue is option C, which highlights the rapid devastation caused by the larvae, underscoring the urgency of addressing the problem.
Step-by-step explanation:
To determine which section from the passage best develops the author's claim that the spread of mountain pine beetles is an urgent issue requiring swift action, we need to look for content that emphasizes the urgency and potential consequences of the problem. Let's examine the options:
A. "She took note of the spot, turned off the main road, and immediately looked for a nearby landowner to get permission to collect samples." (paragraph 3)
This sentence shows the author's proactive approach but doesn't directly emphasize the urgency of the situation.
B. "This is the same species that had killed so many millions of acres in Colorado several years before, and I was overwhelmed." (paragraph 4)
This sentence reflects the author's emotional response to the situation but doesn't provide specific information about the urgency.
C. "Over just a few weeks, the larvae destroy the tree's vital systems. After several months, the tree turns red and brown as it dies." (paragraph 5)
This section explains the rapid destruction caused by the mountain pine beetles, and it does emphasize the urgency of the issue. It shows how quickly the infestation can cause significant damage.
D. "Years of experience studying insect species and their effect on the environment trained her to look out for the tell-tale signs of mountain pine beetles." (paragraph 2)
This sentence provides background information about the author's expertise but doesn't directly address the urgency of the issue.
The best choice for a section that develops the author's claim about the urgency of the mountain pine beetle issue is option C, which highlights the rapid devastation caused by the larvae, underscoring the urgency of addressing the problem.