Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test Preparation Materials Sample Quiz 1

In paragraph 5, the term "hypothesis" is used to refer to a prediction. A hypothesis is an educated guess or a proposed explanation for a phenomenon or a problem. It is based on prior knowledge, observations, and logical reasoning. In the context of the paragraph, the term "hypothesis" is used to suggest that the prediction made in the experiment is being discussed.

The event described in paragraph 3 happened first.

Bacteria are responsible for the decomposition of plastic bags. Bacteria have the ability to break down the chemical bonds in the plastic, leading to its decomposition. This process is known as biodegradation, where bacteria use the plastic as a source of energy and carbon. Bacteria produce enzymes that can break down the complex structure of plastic, converting it into simpler compounds that can be utilized by other organisms in the environment. Therefore, bacteria play a crucial role in the natural breakdown of plastic bags.

The purpose of the information inside the parentheses in paragraph 6 is to provide an explanation. The information is likely providing additional details or clarification about a concept or result mentioned in the paragraph. This explanation helps to enhance the reader's understanding of the topic being discussed.

Burd's experiment won the top prize because it could solve a significant problem. This suggests that his experiment was able to address an important issue or challenge, potentially related to plastic bags. The other options, such as Burd's future plans or the discovery of bacteria, may be interesting but they do not directly explain why his experiment was awarded the top prize.