Abby is studying selective breeding in 8th-grade science class. While conducting research for an assignment, she discovered that the University of Michigan was one of the several universities that received a grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The grant of $14.4 million is the largest grant to date. The participating universities will have six international partners. Their goal is to improve the quality of rosaceous fruit.
Abby wondered why the government would give such a large amount of money for this type of project. She began to create a list of the possible advantages and disadvantages of selecting breeding of rosaceous fruit.
Which items on Abby’s list would provide a complete argument to justify the selective breeding program and the $14.4 million of government grant money?
1. better tasting fruit
2. longer-lasting fruit
3. develop products that would cost more for consumers
4. larger crop yields
5. less damage from pests and diseases
6. more research projects for college students
5, 6
1, 5, 6
1, 2, 4, 5
1, 2, 3, 6
The correct answer is 1, 2, 4, 5.
Explanation: These items provide a clear argument justifying the selective breeding program and the substantial government grant. Better tasting fruit (1) and longer-lasting fruit (2) enhance consumer satisfaction and food quality. Larger crop yields (4) contribute to food supply efficiency, which is crucial for addressing food demands. Less damage from pests and diseases (5) means reduced reliance on pesticides and increased sustainability in agriculture. All these factors can show a positive impact on agriculture and food quality, supporting the rationale for such financial investment.