Which of the following is the first step you should take when trying to identify the meaning of an unknown word? look the unknown word up in a dictionary. remove the unfamiliar word from the sentence. replace the unfamiliar word with a synonym based on context clues. look for clues that indicate the word’s meaning.

Read the passage from an argumentative essay. many endangered species are currently threatened by climate change. there are some laws already in place, but are they effective enough? anyone with a conscience knows that these creatures deserve the chance to survive without outside threats impeding their survival. i suppose this is a tough decision for lawmakers, but i hope they choose wisely. which statement best evaluates the claim in the passage?