Question

english language arts
name:
8th grade
the florida everglades: a river of grass
the florida everglades is not a swamp, but a vast, slow - moving river spanning over 1.5 million acres of land. its unique ecosystem is often described as a
iver of grass\ due to the endless sawgrass marshes that rise out of the shallow water. this immense wetland is a crucial part of florida’s environment, extending from the kissimmee river basin near orlando all the way down to florida bay.
the most important aspect of the everglades is the essential habitat it provides for a diverse range of wildlife. it is the only place on earth where alligators and crocodiles coexist. additionally, the region is home to the endangered florida panther, manatees, and hundreds of species of birds, making it a critical biodiversity hotspot.
unfortunately, this vital ecosystem faces numerous threats. decades of drainage and water management projects designed to support agricultural development and human population growth have dramatically altered the natural flow of water. changes in water flow, combined with pollution from fertilizers and pesticides, have shrunk the habitat and endangered many native species. recognizing its global importance, extensive restoration efforts are now underway, funded by both state and federal governments. the main goal of these projects is to restore the natural water flow across the ecosystem, ensuring the survival of the everglades for future generations
answer the following questions based only on the text provided above.
question 1
which sentence best expresses the central idea of the entire passage?
a. the florida everglades is a large swamp that provides habitat for alligators and crocodiles.
b. restoration projects are the main focus of government spending in florida.
c. the everglades is a critical, unique ecosystem facing serious threats, leading to current conservation efforts.
d. the sawgrass marshes of the everglades are being polluted by fertilizer and pesticide runoff from farms.

Explanation:

• Option A: The passage states the Everglades is not a swamp, and focusing only on alligators/crocodiles misses the broader points about threats and restoration.
• Option B: The passage doesn't say restoration is the main focus of Florida's government spending, just that it's funded by state and federal.
• Option C: The passage describes the Everglades as unique (River of Grass, biodiversity hotspot), notes threats (water management, pollution), and mentions restoration efforts. This covers the main ideas.
• Option D: Pollution is a threat, but this option only focuses on that and the sawgrass marshes, missing the broader ecosystem description and restoration.

Answer:

C. The Everglades is a critical, unique ecosystem facing serious threats, leading to current conservation efforts.