Based on the sample passage, the paragraphs that best help the author develop the idea that his mother will likely not succeed in the English course are:
14-15 and 19-21
How to explain
These paragraphs directly address the challenges Mom faces in the course.
They depict her struggles with academic language, writing assignments, and her grades, highlighting the growing gap between her expectations and reality.
This contrast effectively conveys the author's doubts about her success.
The Complete Question
Based on the following passage, which paragraphs (14-15, 19-21, 23-24, or 30-32) best help the author develop the idea that his mother will likely not succeed in the English course? Explain your answer.
Passage:
(1) My mother had always dreamed of taking an English course. She yearned to delve into the world of literature, to analyze poetry and write eloquent essays. But life, with its relentless demands and unexpected detours, had always pushed her dreams aside.
(2) Now, retired and with more time on her hands, Mom was determined to finally fulfill her wish. She enrolled in an introductory English class at the local community college, her eyes sparkling with anticipation.
(14) The first few weeks were a struggle. Mom, accustomed to the practical world of business, found herself overwhelmed by the dense academic language and complex literary concepts. She spent hours poring over textbooks, her brow furrowed in concentration.
(15) The writing assignments, particularly the analytical essays, were her biggest hurdle. She grappled with formulating clear arguments and supporting them with relevant evidence. Her drafts were littered with crossed-out words and frustrated scribbles.
(19) Despite her challenges, Mom persevered. She attended every class, participated in discussions, and sought help from her professor during office hours. Her classmates, mostly young students fresh out of high school, were impressed by her dedication and her thirst for knowledge.
(20) But even with her best efforts, Mom’s grades remained stubbornly low. Her essays, while showing improvement, still lacked the critical thinking and sophisticated writing skills expected of college students.
(21) Discouragement began to cloud her once-bright eyes. The frustration of not meeting her own expectations gnawed at her confidence. The dream that had once seemed so attainable now felt increasingly distant.
(23) One evening, after another particularly discouraging session with her professor, Mom confided in me. "I don't know if I can do this anymore," she confessed, her voice filled with despair. "Maybe I'm just not cut out for this kind of academic work."
(24) I tried to reassure her, reminding her of her progress and her unwavering determination. But even I couldn't shake the feeling that the course might be too demanding for her.
(30) As the semester progressed, Mom's attendance became sporadic. The sparkle in her eyes had dimmed, replaced by a growing sense of resignation. The English course, once a source of hope and excitement, had become a burden she no longer felt strong enough to carry.
(32) Finally, with a heavy heart, Mom decided to withdraw from the course. It was a painful decision, but ultimately she knew it was the right one. Her dream of mastering the English language remained unfulfilled, but the experience had taught her valuable lessons about resilience, self-acceptance, and the importance of pursuing one's passions, even in the face of adversity.