Question

disparate — varying
15 the first paragraph of the text serves to
(1) highlight the prevalence of texting
(2) stress the benefits of texting
(3) explain the origins of texting
(4) support the abolition of texting

Explanation:

To solve this question, we analyze the purpose of a text's first paragraph (usually introductory). Let's evaluate each option:

1. Option 1 (highlight the prevalence of texting): Introductory paragraphs often establish the importance or commonality of a topic. Highlighting "prevalence" (how widespread texting is) fits a typical opening’s role of contextualizing the topic’s significance.
2. Option 2 (stress the benefits of texting): A first paragraph rarely dives into benefits immediately; it usually introduces the topic’s existence or scope, not its advantages.
3. Option 3 (explain the origins of texting): Explaining origins (history) is more likely in a body paragraph, not an introductory one, which focuses on setting the topic’s context (not its history).
4. Option 4 (support the abolition of texting): Advocating for abolition is a persuasive stance, unlikely in an introductory paragraph (which is neutral or explanatory about the topic’s presence, not argumentative against it).

Answer:

1. highlight the prevalence of texting