Read the excerpt from "Exploring Mars.” Scientists don't think the rat's fame is all bad. It can help get people interested in the rover's mission. People who hear about the rat might want to see more photos. They'll go to NASA's website. Then they'll learn more about Mars. Which best states the central idea of the excerpt?

What effect is created by the plaque posted on the gate at the entrance to the family's home in nadine gordimer's "once upon a time"? the words written on the plaque offer readers a foreshadowing of the story's outcome without revealing the actual conclusion, the author's use of flashback allows readers to understand what is at the heart of the issues of encroachment in the suburban neighborhood the repetition of the words written on the plaque presents an oxymoron because readers already sense that the plaque has been ineffective in warding off intruders. the author introduces a paradox in which readers are presented with a warning notice when no actual infraction has taken place.

Read the excerpt from martin luther king jr.’s “i have a dream” speech. the negro is still languishing in the corners of american society and finds himself an exile in his own land. and so we’ve come here today to dramatize a shameful condition. the emotional connotation of the underlined word king express his a. indecision. b. hopefulness. c. spirituality. d. outrage.

Which sentence is correctly punctuated? a. i haven’t found a new job, and i don’t plan to look for one until i have to. b. my work is piling up—day to day—and i can’t seem to get caught up. c. i know things could be worse (they have been in the past).