Question 1: What is the main argument presented by Linda in the passage?

Answer: That the construction of the industrial park would bring economic prosperity and job growth.

Question 2: Identify one environmental concern raised by Marcus.

Answer: That the environmental impact would be devastating, threatening local wildlife and green spaces.

Question 3: Which literary technique is used when the author describes the debate becoming more heated and residents feeling overwhelmed?

Answer: c) Tone

Question 4: Describe how the town council's decision reflects a balanced approach to evaluating the arguments.

Answer: The town council decided to conduct further environmental assessments, acknowledging both economic benefits and environmental concerns, demonstrating an attempt to weigh both perspectives fairly.

Question 5: What evidence does Linda use to support her argument?

Answer: She cites recent studies showing projected job growth and increased tax revenue.

Question 6: Analyze the effectiveness of Marcus's criticism. Does it strengthen or weaken his stance? Why?

Answer: Marcus's criticism highlights environmental concerns, which strengthen his stance by emphasizing the potential long-term ecological damage, although the effectiveness depends on the validity of his evidence.

Question 7: Identify a persuasive technique used by either Linda or Marcus in their argument.

Answer: Linda uses statistical evidence to support her claims.

Question 8: How does the author create an atmosphere of debate and tension in the passage?

Answer: By describing the heated discussions, residents feeling overwhelmed, and the conflicting claims.

Question 9: What are the potential strengths of Linda's argument?

Answer: Economic growth, job creation, and increased revenue.

Question 10: Suggest one additional piece of evidence that Marcus could present to strengthen his environmental argument.

Answer: Data on previous environmental damages caused by similar developments.