Set 4: Inferences (Intermediate)
Explanation
PASSAGE
Researchers studying honeybee colonies found that worker bees adjust their behavior based on the colony's needs. When more foragers are needed, nurses transition to foraging; when the hive is threatened, workers become guards. Individual bees respond to chemical signals without central coordination, yet the colony behaves as a unified organism.
What can be inferred about bee colony organization?
Detailed Explanation
This question asks you to draw a logical conclusion from the text. 'Without central coordination' + 'behaves as a unified organism' = emergent behavior from decentralized responses. A valid inference must be supported by evidence in the passage, even if not stated directly. Look for clues in the text that strongly suggest the answer. Avoid conclusions that require assumptions beyond what's written. Valid inferences are strongly supported by multiple pieces of evidence in the text. Be cautious of choices that go too far beyond what the passage actually states. The best inference is the one most directly supported by textual evidence.
Key Evidence:
• "respond to chemical signals without central coordination"
• "colony behaves as unified organism"
Why others are wrong: A (They 'transition' between roles.), B (They 'adjust their behavior.'), C ('Without central coordination' = no director.).