Question 1: 1. The author's primary purpose in this passage is to...

• Argue that Black History Month should not be so commercial.
• Argue that Black History Month should be abolished. (Correct answer)
• Argue that Black History Month should be maintained.
• Suggest that African-American history should be taught in two months rather than just one.
• Argue that African-American history is not part of mainstream curriculum.

Correct answer: Argue that Black History Month should be abolished.

When an author's primary purpose is to 'argue that Black History Month should be abolished,' the passage would present a clear thesis against the observance and provide supporting reasons and evidence for its discontinuation. The author's goal would be to persuade the reader to adopt this specific, often controversial, viewpoint. This goes beyond merely informing or suggesting alternatives, aiming for a definitive change.