Question

1. read this passage, and think about the argument it presents.

this winter, the weather has been much less fierce. unlike past years, there have been no major snowstorms or blizzards to bury people under several feet of snow. temperatures have generally stayed above zero, and even the wind has cooperated by keeping to a respectable 25 miles an hour or less. other parts of the country have not been as fortunate, of course, and several states have had no choice but to declare a state of emergency. we are fortunate to have had a far more enjoyable season than those on the east coast and in the midwest. i have appreciated it, even though it has meant less time off work for nasty weather.

what sentence from the passage provides evidence to support the claim made in the first sentence?

• \temperatures have generally stayed above zero, and even the wind has cooperated by keeping to a respectable 35 miles an hour or less.\
• \we are fortunate to have had a far more enjoyable season than those on the east coast and in the midwest.\
• \the weather this winter has been unusually mild, much to everyone’s relief.\
• \i have appreciated it, even though it has meant less time off work for nasty weather.\

Explanation:

The first sentence claims the winter weather is much less fierce. We need a sentence that provides factual, specific evidence of milder conditions. The correct option gives concrete details (temperatures above zero, wind speed limits) that directly show the weather is not severe, unlike the other options which are opinions, comparisons, or personal reactions.

Answer:

A. "Temperatures have generally stayed above zero, and even the wind has cooperated by keeping to a respectable 35 miles an hour or less."