The following text discusses animal communication.
Dolphin communication exhibits properties once thought unique to human language. Individual dolphins develop signature whistles functioning like names. They can refer to absent individuals and remember whistles for decades. Whether these capabilities constitute true language remains debated, but the sophistication far exceeds simple stimulus-response patterns.
What is the primary purpose of the text?
To argue that dolphins should have legal rights
To compare dolphin brains to human brains in detail
To describe advanced aspects of dolphin communication
To provide training instructions for marine mammals
Correct Answer: C
Choice C is the best answer. The text describes advanced communication features: signature whistles, reference to absent individuals, and long-term memory.
- Evidence: The text lists features: "signature whistles," "refer to absent individuals," "remember whistles for decades."
- Reasoning: These details support the claim of "sophistication" mentioned in the final sentence.
- Conclusion: The purpose is to describe these advanced aspects.
💡 Strategy: Identify the main topic (dolphin communication) and the specific details (whistles, memory).
Choice A is incorrect because legal rights aren't discussed. Choice B is incorrect because brain comparison isn't made. Choice D is incorrect because training isn't addressed.