Question

what makes evidence credible?
a. popular opinions
b. expert verification
c. personal stories
d. emotional appeal
read the following original passage, \debate on the park proposal\, and answer the questions.
during a town hall meeting, two speakers presented their arguments about a new public park proposal. the first speaker claimed that the park would benefit the community by providing a space for exercise, relaxation, and social gatherings. she cited examples from nearby towns where parks had led to improved community health and reduced stress levels. the second speaker, however, argued that the cost of maintaining the park would be too high and could lead to higher taxes. he referenced a recent study showing that some towns struggle with the upkeep of their parks, causing financial strain on local governments. both arguments highlight different perspectives on the park proposal, focusing on community benefits versus financial costs.
what evidence did the second speaker use to support his argument?
a. data on increased crime rates in parks
b. examples from nearby towns with parks
c. a study showing financial strain from park maintenance
d. testimonials from local residents
what is the key difference between the arguments presented by the two speakers?
a. one focuses on environmental impact; the other on education.
b. both speakers argue for the same side.
c. one focuses on improving local businesses; the other on safety concerns.
d. one focuses on community benefits; the other on financial costs.
what is the main claim of the first speaker?
a. the park would increase property values.
b. the park would reduce pollution in the town.
c. the park would benefit the community.
d. the park would create new jobs.
what helps establish author authority?
a. publication date
b. writing style
c. personal beliefs
d. professional credentials
which affects source credibility?
a. publication length
b. text format
c. writing style

Explanation:

• First question: Expert verification (b) is a common way to establish evidence credibility as experts have knowledge and authority in a field. Popular opinions (a) can be wrong, personal stories (c) are anecdotal, and emotional appeal (d) is not based on facts.
• Second question: The second speaker “referenced a recent study showing that some towns struggle with the upkeep of their parks, causing financial strain on local governments” which matches option c (A study showing financial strain from park maintenance).
• Third question: The passage states “Both arguments highlight different perspectives on the park proposal, focusing on community benefits versus financial costs” so option d (One focuses on community benefits; the other on financial costs) is correct.
• Fourth question: The first speaker “claimed that the park would benefit the community by providing a space for exercise, relaxation, and social gatherings” so option c (The park would benefit the community) is the main claim.
• Fifth question: Professional credentials (d) help establish author authority as they show expertise. Publication date (a), writing style (b), and personal beliefs (c) are less relevant.
• Sixth question: Text format (b) can affect source credibility (e.g., peer - reviewed journal vs. random blog). Publication length (a) and writing style (c) are not key factors for credibility.

Answer:

b. Expert verification
c. A study showing financial strain from park maintenance
d. One focuses on community benefits; the other on financial costs
c. The park would benefit the community
d. Professional credentials
b. Text format