STAAR Passage Synthesis

Based on the idea developed, what is some of the evidence of this?

• Sea otters eat sea urchins and prevent them from eating the kelp.

• Sea otters are unable to keep the crab population down.

• Sea otters have no impact on the kelp beds.

• Sea otters are the only animals that eat kelp.

Answer explanation

Sea otters eat sea urchins, which prevents them from consuming the kelp, supporting the idea that sea otters help maintain the kelp ecosystem.

Which sentence from the selection helps explain why otters are important to seagrass?

• Sea otters play an important role in the ocean.

• Many years ago, when there were no sea otters in the area, the kelp beds died out because of the sea urchins.

• The sea otters play a guardian role in seagrass beds too.

• The role that the sea otters play in the coastal areas along the northern Pacific helps keep nature in balance.

Answer explanation

The sentence 'The sea otters play a guardian role in seagrass beds too.' directly mentions the importance of sea otters to seagrass.

When did French settlers establish New Orleans?

• 1718

• 1926

• 1960

• 2005

What were the new home construction requirements mentioned in the text?

According to the text, why can't long-time New Orleanians imagine abandoning their city?

What was the main problem with New Orleans' protection as mentioned in paragraph 5?

What role do sea otters play in maintaining the balance of marine ecosystems?

• They primarily feed on large fish, controlling their population.

• They help in the spread of seagrass by dispersing its seeds.

• By preying on sea urchins, they prevent overgrazing of kelp forests.

• They have no significant impact on marine ecosystems.

Answer explanation

Sea otters play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of marine ecosystems by preying on sea urchins, which helps prevent overgrazing of kelp forests.

Why is the maintenance of flood walls and levees crucial for cities like New Orleans?

• To enhance the aesthetic appeal of the city.

• To support the growth of urban wildlife.

• To prevent flooding during heavy rains and storms.

• To increase tourism by offering water-based activities.

Answer explanation

The maintenance of flood walls and levees is crucial for cities like New Orleans to prevent flooding during heavy rains and storms.

How did the Army Corps of Engineers aim to improve the flood defense system in New Orleans post-Hurricane Katrina?

• By introducing advanced water pumps.

• By constructing taller and wider levees.

• By reinforcing levees with materials that can absorb water.

• By rebuilding levees with more durable materials and modern engineering techniques.

Answer explanation

The Army Corps of Engineers aimed to improve the flood defense system in New Orleans post-Hurricane Katrina by rebuilding levees with more durable materials and modern engineering techniques.