Archaeologist Dr. Thomas Reyes argues that ancient Polynesian navigators used sophisticated star maps and ocean current knowledge to travel thousands of miles across the Pacific. He disputes earlier theories that Polynesian settlement of distant islands was accidental.
Which discovery would most effectively support Reyes's argument about intentional navigation?
Polynesian islands have diverse flora and fauna
Archaeological evidence shows the same islands were settled multiple times by different groups
Polynesian canoes were made from local trees
Traditional Polynesian songs describing star navigation routes match actual sea paths between islands
Correct Answer: D
Choice D is the best answer. Songs describing star navigation routes that match actual geography prove both the existence of navigational knowledge and its accuracy.
- Context clues: The claim is about "sophisticated star maps" for intentional travel.
- Evidence evaluation: Cultural records matching real routes prove deliberate navigation.
- Verify: Accurate traditional knowledge couldn't exist from accidental voyages.
💡 Strategy: Cultural preservation of accurate information proves intentional knowledge transmission.
Choice A is incorrect because biodiversity doesn't address how humans arrived. Choice B is incorrect because multiple settlements could still occur by accident. Choice C is incorrect because canoe materials don't prove navigation methods.