Which statement explains how the author’s use of a straw man impacts the overall argument? A.) It weakens the overall argument by distracting from the benefits of year-round school by focusing on what students do with free time.
B.) It strengthens the overall argument by pointing out that students’ time spent at school is mostly wasted.
C.) It weakens the overall argument by inviting criticism with the exaggeration of the amount of learning students lose in the summer.
D.) It strengthens the overall argument by advocating for students’ learning and pushing for best practices.

b flags hope this

answer: it is true that students often work and do household chores, but managing homework in addition to other responsibilities students learn to organize their time efficiently and prioritize their studies.

the first argument attacks those who disagree, asking them to be "realistic" and "accept facts." this is not conducive to healthy debate and disagreement. the second one only takes into account a section of the student population, and ignores the other one. finally, the third option offers only anecdotal evidence. it is only the last option that provides a well-constructed argument in a persuasive way.

the correct answer is a.

since in the sentence the word beacon is used as "guide".

lighthouse:

high tower located on the coasts and ports that emits a powerful light at intervals to guide navigators at night.

luminous tower.

beacon synonyms as a guide: lighthouse, north, tower