Question 8 • CMS 2025-2026 English I CREDIT RECOVERY
Read the excerpt from "Save the Coral Reefs.” A study completed in 2004 found that seventy percent of our coral reefs are already destroyed or currently under threat of destruction. It also concluded that much of the wreckage to reefs has been caused by humans. The resiliency of the reefs is on our side, though. More can be done now to help the coral reefs bounce back—even flourish. What is meaning of the word "resiliency” in this context?
Answer
A
the manner in which an ecosystem decomposes
B
the capability of one ecosystem to ruin another ecosystem
C
the way an ecosystem supports plant and animal life
D
the ability of an ecosystem to recover from damage
Explanation
The excerpt says the reefs can “bounce back—even flourish” despite the damage they have suffered. In this context, “resiliency” means the ability of an ecosystem to recover from damage. The other choices describe harming another ecosystem, decomposing, or supporting life, not recovering.
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