Question

although enforcement could be better, dress codes are good for our school. a group of angry students complained that the policy is unfair. the answer is to change the policy, not eliminate it all together. once we eliminate dress codes, students will think they can do anything. they will stop changing for gym class, start cutting class, and start ignoring school policy. school only works if there are sensible rules that everyone follows.

which sentence from the paragraph undermines the authors argument?

• although enforcement could be better, dress codes are good for our school.
• the answer is to change the policy, not eliminate it all together.
• once we eliminate dress codes, students will think they can do anything.
• school only works if there are sensible rules that everyone follows.

Explanation:

Identify the author's main argument

The author's main claim is that "dress codes are good for our school." The author argues against eliminating them.

Analyze the effect of each sentence

We need to find which sentence weakens or undermines this central claim.

• "Although enforcement could be better, dress codes are good for our school."

This sentence directly admits a weakness in the current system ("enforcement could be better"). By conceding that enforcement is flawed, it provides a point that undermines the absolute strength of the author's argument.

• "The answer is to change the policy, not eliminate it all together."

This supports the main argument by proposing a constructive solution to keep the dress code.

• "Once we eliminate dress codes, students will think they can do anything."

This supports the main argument by warning of negative consequences if the dress code is removed.

• "School only works if there are sensible rules that everyone follows."

This supports the main argument by establishing a general principle that justifies having rules like dress codes.

Evaluate the concession

Admitting that "enforcement could be better" is a concession. It acknowledges a flaw in the policy the author is defending, thereby undermining the argument.

Answer:

• (A) Although enforcement could be better, dress codes are good for our school. (Correct answer)
• (B) The answer is to change the policy, not eliminate it all together.
• (C) Once we eliminate dress codes, students will think they can do anything.
• (D) School only works if there are sensible rules that everyone follows.