Question

which statement best evaluates whether the narrative has a clearly defined focus?

dr. mcwhorter carefully poured the mixture into the petri dish. she wiped down the scale not to disturb the precious contents. finally, she held her breath and placed the dish und would see the cell growth that could mean new and promising research. as she adjusted and dropped the dish on the floor, where it shattered.

a. the narrative has a clearly defined focus on dr. mcwhorter’s clumsiness.

b. the narrative has a clearly defined focus on dr. mcwhorter’s field of study.

c. the narrative has a clearly defined focus on dr. mcwhorter’s careful work.

d. the narrative does not have a clearly defined focus.

Explanation:

The narrative shows Dr. McWhorter being careful (pouring mixture carefully, wiping scale not to disturb contents, holding breath while placing dish) throughout most of the actions. The accidental dropping at the end is a momentary lapse but the main focus is on her careful work. Option A (clumsiness) is wrong as the majority of actions show care. Option B (field of study) is not the focus - the actions are about her work process not the specific field. Option D (no focus) is incorrect as there is a focus on her careful actions.

Answer:

C. The narrative has a clearly defined focus on Dr. McWhorter’s careful work.