Rice is the seed of a monocot plant Oryza sativa. It is an essential part of the diet of millions of people. People grow and harvest rice in Asia, the Middle East, Latin America, and the West Indies. In fact, rice, maize (corn), and wheat are the staple crops for over two-thirds of the world population.
Rice usually comes in three edible forms. Brown rice has a nutty taste and chewy texture. It's healthier than white rice because of its higher fiber content. White rice, however, has a much longer shelf life, cooks faster, and produces fluffier grains. Wild rice has a hard, almost woody texture along with a nutty taste, and it has similar health benefits as brown rice. Also, wild rice has the lowest calorie content of all rices.
-Excerpted from "Staples and Peoples" by Almas Malthus
Which evidence from the text supports the inference that many people would be at risk of starvation if rice were no longer available?
Check all that are true.
Rice is an essential part of the diet of millions of people.
Rice is one of the world's rarest grains, an Asian cousin to wheat and maize.
Brown rice is healthier and nuttier than white rice, but does not have as long of a shelf life.
Rice is the seed of a plant called Oryza sativa and usually comes in three edible forms.
Rice, maize, and wheat are the staple crops for over two-thirds of the world population.
2
Game Bonus
Cite textual evidence to support an inference
The evidence from the text that supports the inference that many people would be at risk of starvation if rice were no longer available includes:
- "Rice is an essential part of the diet of millions of people."
- "Rice, maize (corn), and wheat are the staple crops for over two-thirds of the world population."