Read the introduction. Voter participation is the cornerstone of a democratic society, and America’s young people should seize this privilege as soon as they are able. Some youth wait until a presidential election year or until confronted with a compelling political issue. Instead, everyone ought to register on his or her eighteenth birthday and embrace this rite of passage into adulthood. What is the author’s purpose?

Which of these sentences would best express the main idea of a speech arguing that people should participate in a charity softball tournament? a) softball is a great way to get some much-needed exercise. eliminate b) the money raised by the tournament will local animal shelters. c) the tournament is a fun way to spend time with friends while a worthy cause. d) even if you don't have any softball experience, you can form a team and participate.