Question

read the paragraph from the hot zone.
just then, he noticed a blur of motion on his left, and he turned and saw two hazleton workers walking toward him. they werent supposed to be in here! the area was supposed to be sealed off, but they had come in by another route that led through a storeroom. they wore respirators, but nothing covered their eyes. when they saw the two men in space suits, they froze, speechless. jerry could not see their mouths, but he could see their eyes, wide with astonishment. it was as if they had suddenly discovered that they were standing on the moon.
what is the authors main purpose for including this paragraph?
○ to inform readers about the location of the scene that is unfolding
○ to explain to readers that being a scientist can be exciting work
○ to entertain readers by illustrating how dramatic the situation is
○ to reassure readers that the situation was completely under control

Explanation:

• Option A: The paragraph doesn't focus on explaining the location; it's about a surprising encounter. Eliminate A.
• Option B: The paragraph isn't about the excitement of being a scientist, but a dramatic situation. Eliminate B.
• Option C: The workers' unexpected presence, their frozen reaction, and the comparison to being on the moon create a dramatic scene, which entertains by showing the tension. This fits.
• Option D: The situation is not under control (workers entered a sealed area), so this is incorrect. Eliminate D.

Answer:

C. to entertain readers by illustrating how dramatic the situation is