PrepTest 156, Section 1, Question 1

What we’re looking for

Working the answers

• A

  Protecting genetic diversity fits, but protecting North American cultures is an added purpose. The author explains the crops' agricultural value, not their role in preserving culture. A plausible additional benefit isn't part of this main point.

• B

  Hybridization is one example of indigenous farmers' practical knowledge, not the central recommendation. B also adds an unsupported story about recent crop failures forcing geneticists to pay attention. We aren't given that history.

• C
  Correct

  This links the eroding genetic base with the need to preserve and use knowledge from farmers who maintained diverse crops. It captures both the problem and the response, including the knowledge rather than only the physical seeds.

• D

  The opening connects vulnerability with agricultural practices that rely on a few genetically identical varieties. The later loss of indigenous knowledge threatens a valuable resource for addressing that problem. D turns that threatened resource into the explanation for the entire problem and leaves out the recommendation.

• E

  Selecting varieties for local yields is part of the explanation of heirloom diversity. But this answer only describes how varieties developed; it doesn't say why their knowledge should now be preserved. A supporting explanation isn't the full main point.