Question

what would improve the second paragraph to better support the writers position? details about how cork and timber are harvested. examples of how cancer drugs are developed from many sources. statistics that show that deforestation has caused higher prices. information about what causes volcanoes to erupt.

Explanation:

To solve this, we analyze each option based on how it would support the writer's position (though the passage isn't shown, we infer based on typical writing support):

1. "Details about how cork and timber are harvested" – If the writer’s position relates to sustainable harvesting or forestry, this could support. But without passage context, we check others.
2. "Examples of how cancer drugs are developed from many sources" – Unrelated to cork/timber (common forestry/resource topics), so unlikely.
3. "Statistics that show that deforestation has caused higher prices" – If the writer argues about economic impacts of deforestation, statistics (data) strongly support by quantifying the claim.
4. "Information about what causes volcanoes to erupt" – Irrelevant to most positions about cork/timber/deforestation.

Assuming the writer’s position is about deforestation’s economic impact, statistics (option 3) provide concrete evidence. If the position is about sustainable harvesting, option 1. But "statistics" (data) is a strong support tool. However, since the question is about improving the paragraph, we need to match the writer’s position.

But since the passage (not shown) likely relates to resources (cork, timber, deforestation), the most relevant is "Statistics that show that deforestation has caused higher prices" as it provides empirical support.

To support a writer’s position, evidence like statistics (data) is powerful. If the position is about deforestation’s economic impact, statistics quantifying the price - increase claim strengthen the argument. Other options (cancer drugs, volcanoes) are irrelevant, and "harvesting details" is less impactful than statistical evidence for an economic claim.

Answer:

Statistics that show that deforestation has caused higher prices.