Question

In recent years, scientists have collected data on the extent of sea ice in the Arctic Ocean as shown in the graph. How does the data in the graph support or refute the theory of global climate change?

Answer 1

The graph supports this theory because it shows that the sea rises and falls yearly.
The graph supports this theory as it shows a gradual decline in sea ice extent.
The graph refutes this theory as it shows only normal yearly fluctuations in sea ice extent.
The graph refutes this theory because it does not provide any information on global temperatures.

Answer 2

The graph supports this theory because it shows that the sea rises and falls yearly.
Keyword "shows". I'd say more "implies". The links being that when ice melts it becomes water in the sea.

The graph supports this theory as it shows a gradual decline in sea ice extent.
minus 2 from the mean ice thickness in near 2010. In other words the ice has got "thinner2, I think. What's "hidden" here the mass of ice referred to which is probably in the millions/billions of tonnes/tons. Ice doesn't flow the same way that melted ice/water does. so a LOT of ice melting is a lot of water forming.

The graph refutes this theory as it shows only normal yearly fluctuations in sea ice extent.
Keyword "normal" ?
Implication "that's what it would do anyway, that's normal".
Keyword "refute" ? I'd say more "challenges". Presumably we DON'T KNOW what's "normal" because we've never asked the question that way before. Which fuels the argument/debate/row/controversy.

The graph refutes this theory because it does not provide any information on global temperatures.
Temperature is not explicitly mentioned in the graph. However, it is alluded to through the word ICE. This suggests temperatures of around zero.