Question

the following is a draft of a student essay. it may contain errors. (1) before winter sets in, some animals fly south, others prepare to hibernate, and some stay active in the snow. (2) however, small rodents will adapt what is known as the subnivean zone into their winter home to survive and thrive. (3) existing grass close to the ground supports the first snowfall, and thanks to sublimation, creates the perfect winter habitat for these small burrowing animals. (4) they will have a sturdy frozen roof formed over their heads. (5) the rooms below will maintain a constant \warm\ temperature of 32 degrees fahrenheit. which information could be added to this introductory paragraph to further develop the topic? a. a description of the rodents that live in the subnivean zone and what they will eat during winter b. a statement explaining why the subnivean zone is important c. a description of the animals mentioned in the first sentence to highlight the differences between animals that do and do not live in the subnivean zone d. an explanation that the subnivean zone is an insulated tunnel under the snow that protects animals from the cold and other predators outside

Explanation:

The paragraph is about small rodents adapting to the subnivean zone as a winter - home. Option D provides more information about what the subnivean zone is, which helps to develop the topic further. Option A focuses only on rodents and their diet, Option B just states its importance without explaining what it is, and Option C focuses on differences of other animals rather than the subnivean zone itself.

Answer:

D. an explanation that the subnivean zone is an insulated tunnel under the snow that protects animals from the cold and other predators outside