Read the following excerpt from an argumentative essay. Answer the question that follows. Critics might say that smartphones in the classroom cause too many distractions. A 2009 article in Education Magazine made just such a claim. Although cell phones can certainly cause distractions, current research suggests that teachers and students are putting phones to better use. A 2013 Educator Insider poll reveals that 67% of high school instructors now encourage students to use phones in the classroom setting. Students without phones are actually at a disadvantage in the classroom. The poll lists Internet access, spell checks, and collaboration as three key uses of smartphones in an educational setting. How does the author handle the counterclaim?
A - The author chooses to concede the point and offers no rebuttal.
B - The author offers an opinion discounting the counterclaim.
C - The author ignores the counterclaim and avoids responding.
D - The author supplies a rebuttal that quotes more current research.