▶ Your Answer : The reading passage contends that the functions of antlers haven been determined. On the other hand, the lecturer brings up several points that contadict this argument.
First of all, the lecturer questions the validity of the point in the reading passage that antlers' main role in to attract mate. This is attributed to the fact that male deer use other methods such as vocalization and body postures. In fact, studies show that female deer often choose male with smaller antlers. Thus, the reading passage's first point is contradicted.
Moreover, the lecturer casts doubt on the point made by the reading passage that antlers are used by deer to mark the territory that they occupy. This is because deer use scent, not antlers, to mark territory. He points out that the reason why they rub their antlers against trees is to make their antler's outer skin soft, not to mark the territory. Consequently, the reading passage's second point is invaild.
Last but least, the lecturer disagrees with the point made in the reading passage that antlers are used to defend themselves against predators. It is obvious that they shed their antlers in the winter. In reality, most of female deer raise their offsprings with out males. Even though females do not have antlers, they can protect their offsprings. As a result, with such reasoning, the reading passage's final point is refuted. |