Set 2: Command of Evidence
Explanation
PASSAGE
Environmental scientists have mapped plastic pollution concentrations across major ocean regions. The chart shows estimated plastic pollution in million metric tons.
Which ocean region has the highest concentration of plastic pollution according to the data?
Detailed Explanation
This question requires you to identify evidence that supports a claim. The North Pacific bar is the tallest at 3.5 million metric tons, significantly higher than the other regions. The best evidence directly and explicitly supports the stated claim without requiring assumptions. Match specific textual details or data points to the claim being made. The correct answer provides clear, direct support. Strong evidence directly addresses the claim without requiring additional interpretation. When evaluating options, look for quotes or data that explicitly support the statement. Weak evidence may be tangentially related but doesn't provide direct proof.
Key Evidence:
• "Environmental scientists have mapped plastic pollution concentrations across major ocean regions"
Why others are wrong: A (Mediterranean (1.5) is second highest.), B (North Atlantic (1.2) is third.), D (Indian Ocean (0.6) is the lowest shown.).