Question

read the following passage:
the spotted owl population continues to decrease in the forests of the western united states and canada. its terrible decline has been spurred by an increase in the cruel and vicious logging practices that occurred for so long. in canada, there are fewer than 30 breeding pairs left in the wild.
which phrase from this passage is a subjective element that makes the passage less trustworthy?
a. population continues to decline
b. forests of the western united states and canada
c. cruel and vicious logging practices
d. 30 breeding pairs left in the wild

Explanation:

Subjective elements are opinion-based, emotional language rather than factual statements. Options A, B, and D are verifiable factual claims about the owl population's status and location. Option C uses emotionally charged, judgmental terms ("cruel and vicious") that reflect a personal opinion rather than objective observation, reducing the passage's trustworthiness.

Answer:

C. Cruel and vicious logging practices