Question

read this sentence from passage 2, paragraph 6:
a student without a solid foundation in basic ski fish without fins; the latter isn’t able to swim, a will students be able to succeed in math.
how does the author’s use of figurative language achieve the purpose of the paragraph?
it emphasizes how the problem - solving approach fails to give students the tools they need to succeed.
it emphasizes the power and effectiveness of a drill and practice method in math classrooms.
it describes the feelings of students who are overwhelmed by complex problems in their mathematical education.
it describes how students with diverse needs deserve teaching methods which allow them to work at their own pace.

Explanation:

The passage argues that drill and practice (repeated practice) is essential for mathematical literacy. The figurative language compares a student without basic math skills to a fish without fins (unable to swim/succeed). This emphasizes that drill and practice (which builds basic skills) is powerful/effective, as without it (like a fin - less fish), students can’t succeed. The first option is wrong as it’s about problem - solving approach failing, but the passage supports drill practice. The third option is about student feelings, not the purpose of the figurative language. The fourth option is about diverse needs, which the figurative language doesn’t address. So the correct option is the one about emphasizing drill and practice’s power/effectiveness.

Answer:

It emphasizes the power and effectiveness of a drill and practice method in math classrooms.