Question

which best describes the structure of the text?
oa the text is a comparison/contrast of the states and the new territories.
ob the text is a narrative recounting the lincoln - douglas debates chronologically.
oc the text is an exposition on the debates illustrated by excerpts from the debates.
od the text is a cause and effect argument about why slavery should be allowed in some states.

Explanation:

To answer this, one needs to analyze the text's overall organization. If it presents information about the debates along with excerpts to explain points, it's an exposition. There's no indication of a comparison - contrast between states and new territories, a chronological narrative of the debates, or a cause - effect argument about slavery in the question prompt.

Answer:

C. The text is an exposition on the debates illustrated by excerpts from the debates.