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Paragraph Summary Questions
25. The passage given below is followed by four summaries. Choose the option that best captures the authorâs position.
North American walnut sphinx moth caterpillars (Amorpha juglandis) look like easy meals for birds, but they have a trick up their sleevesâthey produce whistles that sound like bird alarm calls, scaring potential predators away. At first, scientists suspected birds were simply startled by the loud noise. But a new study suggests a more sophisticated mechanism: the caterpillarâs whistle appears to mimic a bird alarm call, sending avian predators scrambling for cover. When pecked by a bird, the caterpillars whistle by compressing their bodies like an accordion and forcing air out through specialized holes in their sides. The whistles are impressively loud - they have been measured at over 80 dB from 5 cm away from the caterpillar - considering they are made by a two-inch long insect.
A. North American walnut sphinx moth caterpillars will whistle periodically to ward off predator birds - they have a specialized vocal tract that helps them whistle.
B. North American walnut sphinx moth caterpillars can whistle very loudly, the loudness of their whistles is shocking as they are very small insects
C. North American walnut sphinx moth caterpillars, in a case of acoustic deception, produce whistles that mimic bird alarm calls to defend themselves.
D. North American walnut sphinx moth caterpillars, in a case of deception and camouflage, produce whistles that mimic bird alarm calls to defend themselves.
âSolution with Explanation
Correct Answer: C
Detailed explanation by Wordpandit:Option A makes a false statement about a vocal tract. Hence Option A can be eliminated.
Option B looks to be correct in a general manner; however it does not specify about the self-defence mechanism deployed by the caterpillar. So until a more precise option comes along, keep option B in the parking lot.
Option D contains the word 'camouflage' â which is a visual method of deception for self-defence. However in the beginning itself the author writes that they âlook like easy meals for birdsâ. Option D can be eliminated too.
Option C concisely summarizes the key points discussed in the passage, and is a better option that B. It specifies that the caterpillars use sound or acoustics to deceive predatory birds. Hence Option C is the correct answer.
Word 1: Suspected
Context:
"At first, scientists suspected birds were simply startled by the loud noise" - News Report
Explanatory Paragraph:
The word "suspected" is commonly used when someone believes something to be true without having complete proof. In this case, the scientists initially believed that the birds' reaction was due to loud noise, but they did not yet have definite evidence to support that idea. It's a term that reflects uncertainty or a preliminary conclusion based on available observations.
Meaning: Believed something to be true without certain proof (Verb - past tense of "suspect")
Pronunciation: suh-SPEK-tid
Difficulty Level: ââ Basic
Etymology: From Latin "suspectare," meaning to look at secretly or mistrust.
Prashant Sir's Notes:
"Suspected" is often used in scientific hypotheses or investigations where conclusions are drawn tentatively. Think of it as the 'first guess' before confirmation. Helps build critical thinking around how evidence builds toward truth.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: believed, assumed, presumed, hypothesized, inferred
Antonyms: confirmed, verified, proved, validated, established
Usage Examples:
- The police suspected foul play in the disappearance of the documents.
- She suspected her colleague of leaking the confidential report.
- Doctors initially suspected food poisoning but later ruled it out.
- We suspected the engine noise was due to low oil levels.
Cultural Reference:
"The butler is always suspected first in mystery novels, even when heâs innocent." - Common trope in detective fiction
Think About It:
How do our suspicions shape our decisions before we have evidenceâand what are the consequences of acting on them too soon?
Quick Activity:
Think of three situations where you suspected something was wrong but didn't have proof. Write a sentence for each using the word "suspected".
Memory Tip:
Break it down: "sus-" (under) + "spect" (look) = to look under the surface. Suspect = to look deeper when something seems off.
Real-World Application:
The word "suspected" is widely used in news, legal contexts, science, and everyday life when discussing preliminary beliefs or hypotheses. Learning to use it helps with formal and analytical thinking.
Word 2: Sophisticated
Context:
"But a new study suggests a more sophisticated mechanism: the caterpillarâs whistle appears to mimic a bird alarm call, sending avian predators scrambling for cover" - Scientific Research Article
Explanatory Paragraph:
The word "sophisticated" refers to something that is complex, advanced, or developed in a refined and intricate way. In the given context, the caterpillar's defense mechanism isn't just a basic response; it's a cleverly evolved strategy that mimics a bird's alarm call, showing high biological complexity. "Sophisticated" can describe technology, behavior, or thinking that reflects depth, subtlety, or worldly experience.
Meaning: Highly developed or complex (Adjective)
Pronunciation: suh-FIS-ti-kay-tid
Difficulty Level: âââ Intermediate
Etymology: From Latin "sophisticatus", past participle of "sophisticare" (to tamper with), derived from Greek "sophos" meaning wise.
Prashant Sir's Notes:
"Sophisticated" often carries a positive connotationâthink of it as the opposite of crude or basic. Whether describing a machine, a strategy, or a person's taste, it implies polish, complexity, and thoughtful design.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: refined, complex, intricate, elegant, advanced
Antonyms: crude, basic, simple, naĂŻve, primitive
Usage Examples:
- The spy used a sophisticated code to communicate securely.
- She had a sophisticated taste in art and fashion.
- The security system is highly sophisticated, with facial recognition and motion sensors.
- The argument was backed by a sophisticated analysis of market data.
Cultural Reference:
"James Bond is known for his sophisticated gadgets and refined manners." - Pop Culture Spy Icon
Think About It:
Does becoming more sophisticated always mean becoming betterâor can simplicity sometimes be more effective?
Quick Activity:
List three things you consider sophisticated (a gadget, a person, or a design). Write one sentence for each using the word correctly.
Memory Tip:
Think of âsophisticatedâ as SO-PHYSICS-TED: something so complex even a physicist named Ted might admire it!
Real-World Application:
In daily life, "sophisticated" can describe technology (software), behavior (social skills), or tastes (music, wine), helping you sound precise and expressive in both formal and informal conversations.
Word 3: Mechanism
Context:
"But a new study suggests a more sophisticated mechanism: the caterpillarâs whistle appears to mimic a bird alarm call, sending avian predators scrambling for cover" - Scientific Research Article
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Mechanism" refers to the system of parts or a process that makes something work or function. In the given context, it refers to how the caterpillarâs whistle works as a defense strategy. Rather than being a random sound, it's part of an evolved biological process that mimics a bird alarm call. This suggests an intentional and structured system behind what might first appear to be a simple behavior.
Meaning: A system or structure of parts working together in a process (Noun)
Pronunciation: MEH-kuh-niz-um
Difficulty Level: ââ Basic
Etymology: From Greek "mÄkhanÄ" meaning âmachineâ or âdeviceâ, passed into Latin as "mechanisma" and then into English via French.
Prashant Sir's Notes:
Often used in both science and everyday contexts, "mechanism" is a versatile word. In biology, it refers to the way organisms adapt or function. In discussions, it's helpful when describing how something operatesâbe it psychological, technical, or procedural.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: process, system, method, operation, structure
Antonyms: chaos, randomness, disorganization
Usage Examples:
- The immune system has a complex mechanism for fighting infections.
- The locking mechanism of this safe is highly secure.
- The teacher explained the mechanism behind photosynthesis.
- There needs to be a better mechanism for resolving customer complaints.
Cultural Reference:
"The Rube Goldberg machine is a classic example of an overly complex mechanism to achieve a simple task." - Engineering Humor
Think About It:
In a world driven by systems, how much do we really understand the mechanisms behind the things we use every day?
Quick Activity:
Pick any daily activity (e.g., brushing teeth or turning on a light). Write 2â3 sentences explaining the mechanism behind how it works.
Memory Tip:
Think of "mechanism" as a âmachine-ismâ â itâs how the parts of a machine (or process) come together and operate.
Real-World Application:
"Mechanism" is used in academic, scientific, technical, and even political discussions. Understanding its usage allows for more precise explanations of how things function, especially in analytical writing and research.
Word 4: Mimic
Context:
"But a new study suggests a more sophisticated mechanism: the caterpillarâs whistle appears to mimic a bird alarm call, sending avian predators scrambling for cover" - Scientific Research Article
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Mimic" means to imitate or copy the behavior, sound, appearance, or voice of someone or something. In the context of the sentence, the caterpillarâs whistle is not a random noiseâit cleverly imitates the bird alarm call. This imitation serves a purpose: to confuse or scare away predators by making them think danger is nearby. "Mimic" can refer to both harmless and strategic imitation in nature or human actions.
Meaning: To imitate someone or something, especially to deceive or entertain (Verb)
Pronunciation: MIH-mik
Difficulty Level: ââ Basic
Etymology: From Greek "mimos" meaning imitator or actor, which passed into Latin as "mimicus", and into English as "mimic".
Prashant Sir's Notes:
Nature uses mimicry as a survival tool, just like humans use mimicry in acting, learning, or satire. "Mimic" is a versatile wordâit appears in biology, comedy, art, and even robotics. Always note whether the mimicry is intentional, deceptive, or artistic.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: imitate, copy, impersonate, resemble, echo
Antonyms: differ, diverge, originate, contrast
Usage Examples:
- The parrot can mimic human speech with surprising accuracy.
- Some snakes mimic the colors of more dangerous species to avoid predators.
- He tried to mimic his teacher's voice during the prank call.
- The app uses AI to mimic real human conversations.
Cultural Reference:
"Comedians like Jim Carrey are known for their ability to mimic celebrities, capturing their voices and mannerisms." - Entertainment Industry Insight
Think About It:
Is mimicry always a form of flattery, or can it also be used to deceive or manipulate?
Quick Activity:
Try mimicking the voice or posture of someone you know (respectfully!). Then write a short sentence explaining what made the mimicry believable.
Memory Tip:
Think: "Mimic = Mirror" â both reflect something else. When you mimic, you're acting like a mirror of the original!
Real-World Application:
"Mimic" is used in biology (animal mimicry), AI (mimicking human behavior), performance arts (impersonations), and even in learning (children mimic adults). Understanding this word deepens your grasp of imitation in both science and society.
Word 5: Specialized
Context:
"When pecked by a bird, the caterpillars whistle by compressing their bodies like an accordion and forcing air out through specialized holes in their sides." - Scientific Observation
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Specialized" refers to something designed or adapted for a particular function or task. In this context, the caterpillars have evolved unique holes in their bodies specifically meant for producing a whistling sound when under attack. These holes are not genericâthey serve a highly focused defensive purpose. The word is often used to describe unique functions in biology, professions, and technology where normal systems are modified for specific roles.
Meaning: Designed or trained for a specific purpose or activity (Adjective)
Pronunciation: SPEH-shuh-lized
Difficulty Level: ââ Basic
Etymology: From Latin "specialis" meaning âparticularâ or âindividualâ, with the suffix "-ized" indicating the act of making or adapting.
Prashant Sir's Notes:
Specialization is a hallmark of evolution and efficiencyâbe it organs, tools, or careers. The word often highlights precision and expertise. Recognize its use in both biology (like organs or cells) and social structures (like specialized jobs).
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: customized, adapted, tailored, exclusive, focused
Antonyms: general, common, standard, universal, ordinary
Usage Examples:
- Doctors often receive specialized training in areas like neurology or cardiology.
- These gloves are specialized for handling chemicals safely.
- Insects have specialized organs for detecting sound and motion.
- He works in a specialized branch of cybersecurity focused on biometric data.
Cultural Reference:
"Modern economies thrive on specialized laborâwhere each person focuses on one task for maximum efficiency." - Adam Smithâs Division of Labor Principle
Think About It:
In a rapidly changing world, is it better to be specialized in one thing or versatile in many?
Quick Activity:
Write down three professions or tools that are highly specialized. Briefly describe what makes them unique to their field.
Memory Tip:
Think: âSpecialized = Special + Sizedâ â itâs something shaped for a specific purpose, not one-size-fits-all.
Real-World Application:
"Specialized" is often used in healthcare, education, technology, and biology to describe targeted expertise or functionâan essential word when discussing efficiency or evolution.
