Question

read the paragraph below.
when tyrese dropped his crutches and limped to the starting block, the audience froze. then the starter’s signal sounded, and the swimmers dove in. an awkward splash emerged from lane eight, but tyrese began reaching and kicking in earnest, keeping pace with many of his opponents. all eyes measured his steady progress. then, the mass on the bleachers leaned toward the finish, lips bitten, fists clenched, and silently willed every swimmer’s hand hit to the wall.
what is the audience’s attitude toward tyrese in lane eight?
○ the audience is bored and indifferent about tyrese’s effort.
○ the audience is judgmental and unkind toward tyrese.
○ the audience is interested and supportive of tyrese.
○ the audience is helpful and instructive toward tyrese.

Explanation:

• Analyze each option:
• Option 1: The audience "froze", "all eyes measured his progress", and "leaned toward the finish, lips bitten, fists clenched" which shows they are engaged, not bored or indifferent. Eliminate.
• Option 2: The audience's actions (leaning, biting lips, clenching fists) show support, not judgment or unkindness. Eliminate.
• Option 3: The audience "froze" (showing attention), "all eyes measured his progress", and "leaned toward the finish, lips bitten, fists clenched" (showing investment and support) as they watch Tyrese swim. This fits.
• Option 4: The audience is watching, not giving help or instructions. Eliminate.

Answer:

C. The audience is interested and supportive of Tyrese.