Question

read this passage:
more restrictions need to be placed on owners of exotic monkeys. unlike cats and dogs, monkeys are likely to contract diseases from humans because of our genetic similarities. there are opponents who are in favor of owning monkeys without restrictions, but their arguments ultimately fail. monkey ownership should be more tightly regulated.
which statement best describes the author’s use of a claim and a counterclaim in the passage?
a. the claim is clear and supported with a reason, but the counterclaim is unclear.
b. the claim is unclear and not supported with a reason, but the counterclaim is clear.
c. the claim and counterclaim are clear, but the claim is not supported with a reason.
d. the claim and counterclaim are unclear, and the claim is not supported with a reason.

Explanation:

The author's clear claim is that more restrictions are needed on exotic monkey owners, supported by the reason that monkeys can contract human diseases due to genetic similarities. The counterclaim (opponents favor unrestricted monkey ownership) is mentioned but no details of their arguments are provided, making it unclear.

Answer:

A. The claim is clear and supported with a reason, but the counterclaim is unclear.