SSAT Reading Question 224: Answer and Explanation
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Question: 224
1. Paragraph 1 is primarily concerned with
- A. the origin of the scientific classification Sirenia
- B. the similarities between manatees and mermaids
- C. how manatees cause shipwrecks
- D. a comparison between manatees and dugongs
Correct Answer: A
Explanation:
A is correct. The first paragraph tells how manatees and dugongs came to be called sirenians because of their resemblance to the sirens, or sea nymphs, of Greek mythology. Choice B is wrong because, although the passage mentions that sailors—particularly those who have spent many months at sea—may have mistaken a manatee for a mermaid, it does not provide specific similarities between manatees and mermaids. Choice C is wrong because it was the sirens of mythology who are said to have caused shipwrecks. Choice D is wrong because the passage does not compare manatees and dugongs, except to say that both are sirenians. Choice E is wrong because it is the observer of the manatee, not the manatee itself, who might imagine that the manatee looks like a mermaid.