Question

what is the meaning of discourse as it is used in paragraph 9?
a argument
b conversation
c essay
d performance

Explanation:

The word "discourse" commonly refers to communication or conversation. In the context of a written passage, it is most likely to mean a conversation - like exchange of ideas or words. An argument is more of a debate with opposing views, an essay is a written piece, and a performance is an act of presenting something. Conversation best fits the general sense of the word in a text - based context.

Answer:

B. conversation