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 weren't 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 author’s main purpose for including this paragraph?

a: to inform readers about the location of the scene that is unfolding

b: to explain to readers that being a scientist can be exciting work

c: to entertain readers by illustrating how dramatic the situation is

d: to reassure readers that the situation was completely under control

The answer is (C) to entertain readers by illustrating how dramatic the situation is.  

Explanation:

The Hot Zone – its full-title being The Hot Zone: The Terrifying True Story –  is a non-fiction book published in 1994, written by Richard Preston. The novel recounts the various causes and events revolving certain infectious diseases such as ebola. The quoted paragraph is a section of the novel, and the Jerry mentioned above refers to Lieutenant Colonel Gerald “Jerry” Jaax, a scientist and veterinarian working in the U.S Army.  

c

Explanation:

took it on edge

in the shadow of war

the following key ideas correctly express the key sentence.

restate key idea: most people can learn to swim in ten short lessons.

restate key idea: the majority of water-accident victims require mouth-to-mouth breathing.

restate key idea: an empty, tightly closed gallon jug will support a tired swimmer.  

restate key idea: first aid is to prevent accidents as well as assist in rescue.

explanation: the key idea needs to have the same topic as the key sentence (drowning and safety).