Use the paragraph to answer the question. Summer should be a time of heading to the beach with friends and playing capture the flag in the yard until the streetlights come on. However, research suggests that it should also be a time for learning. Summer learning loss, sometimes referred to as the “summer slide,” is a loss of academic achievement students experience during the summer. Schools should implement summer reading programs to help combat this summer setback. Engaging summer reading programs help to foster lifelong readers. Reading over the summer helps children keep their literacy skills up, and with a broader selection of books, the program can pique the interest of reluctant readers. What is the author's purpose? (1 point) Responses Persuade readers of the benefits of summer reading programs in schools. Persuade readers of the benefits of summer reading programs in schools. Inform how children should spend their summers Inform how children should spend their summers Entertain students with a strong summer reading program

The author's purpose is to persuade readers of the benefits of summer reading programs in schools.

Use the paragraph to answer the question. (1) Our town's plastic bag ban is a wise policy. (2) Studies have demonstrated the detrimental effects plastic bags have on the environment. (3) People have argued that banning plastic bags will only result in the increased use of paper bags, simply causing a different environmental problem. (4) However, paper bags can be recycled more effectively than plastic bags. (5) We should all support the new policy on plastic bags. In which sentence does the author refute an opposing argument? (1 point) Responses 4 4 5 5 3 3 2

The author refutes an opposing argument in sentence 4: "However, paper bags can be recycled more effectively than plastic bags."

The author's purpose in the paragraph is to persuade readers of the benefits of summer reading programs in schools. The paragraph mentions that research suggests summer learning loss is a problem and schools should implement summer reading programs to combat this setback. It also highlights the benefits of these programs, such as fostering lifelong readers and helping children keep their literacy skills up. Therefore, the author is trying to persuade readers of the importance and advantages of summer reading programs.