Question

read this paragraph from \online identity\:
while the online mask does not reveal the actual identity of the person, it does reveal an example of what lies behind the mask. for instance, if a person chooses to act like a rock star online, this may mean that he or she has an interest in rock music. even a person choosing to hide behind a totally false identity says something about the fear and lack of self - esteem he or she may be experiencing.
which phrase from the paragraph most accurately reveals the authors point of view toward online identities?
a. the phrase \totally false identity\ reveals the authors disapproval of people who lie online.
b. the phrase \what lies behind the mask\ reveals the authors belief that online identities can reveal truth about people.
c. the phrase \fear and lack of self - esteem\ reveals the authors sympathy for people who hide their identity.
d. the phrase \act like a rock star\ reveals the authors concern about people pretending to be famous.
question 6: connotation/word choice standard: 8.l.v3.c

Explanation:

The paragraph starts by stating that the online mask (online identity) reveals "what lies behind the mask". Then it gives examples - acting like a rock star shows an interest in rock music, and a "totally false identity" shows fear and lack of self - esteem. This indicates that the author believes online identities can show something true about a person.

• Option A: The author doesn't just disapprove of those with "totally false identity", but also uses it as an example of revealing something (fear and lack of self - esteem), so this option is too narrow.
• Option C: While "fear and lack of self - esteem" is mentioned, the overall point is about online identities revealing truths, not just sympathy.
• Option D: "Act like a rock star" is an example to support the idea that online identities reveal something (interest in rock music), not about concern for pretending to be famous.

Answer:

B. The phrase "what lies behind the mask" reveals the author's belief that online identities can reveal truth about people.