READING COMPREHENSION PRACTICE QUESTIONS

READING COMPREHENSION PRACTICE QUESTIONS ISAAC ASIMOV 1. Definition of “PROLIFIC”. Highly productive A. Against war B. Literate C. Ecocentric 2. For what type of writing was Mr. Asimov most famous for? A. Juvenile fiction B. Mystery C. Popular science Science, fiction, writing 3. The Big three mentioned were , , and . Asimov, Heinlein, Clarke 4. How old was Asimov when he died? (this was a fill in the blank question) 72 years old 5. What is his greatest fear? Flying LAUGHTER 1. Which statement is presented in the passage? A. Native Americans rarely laugh. Native Americans humor is often overlooked. B. Western Americans neglect the needs of Native Americans. C. Native American humor is mostly satire. 2. What is implied by this paragraph? A. Native Americans really are as stern and serious as they white men make them out to be. B. Humor is the same all over the world. Native American humor deserves more attention. 3. The author seems to favor Research into Native American humor 4. The author's reason for writing seem to have been to Persuade people to take a broader view on Native Americans. ALL THE JAZZ Jazz has been called "the art of expression set to music", and "America's great contribution to music". It has functioned as popular art and enjoyed periods of widespread public response, in the "jazz age" of the 1920s, in the "swing era" of the late 1930s and in the peak popularity of modern jazz in the late 1950s. The standard legend about Jazz is that it originated around the end of the 19th century in New Orleans and moved up the Mississippi River to Memphis, St. Louis, and finally to Chicago. It welded together the elements of Ragtime, marching band music, and the Blues. However, the influences of what led to those early sounds goes back to tribal African drum beats and European musical structures. Buddy Bolden, a New Orleans barber and cornet player, is generally considered to have been the first real Jazz musician, around 1891. What made Jazz significantly different from the other earlier forms of music was the use of improvisation. Jazz displayed a break from traditional music where a composer wrote an entire piece of music on paper, leaving the musicians to break their backs playing exactly what was written on the score. In a Jazz piece, however, the song is simply a starting point, or sort of skeletal guide for the Jazz musicians to improvise around. Many of the early Jazz musicians were bad sight readers and some couldn't even read music at all. These early musicians couldn't make money very much and were stuck working menial jobs to make a living. The second wave of New Orleans Jazz musicians included such memorable players as Joe Oliver, Kid Ory, and Jelly Roll Morton. These men formed small bands and took the music of earlier musicians, improved its complexity, and gained greater success. This music is known as "hot Jazz" due to the enormously fast speeds and rhythmic drive. A young cornet player by the name of Louis Armstrong was discovered by Joe Oliver in New Orleans. He soon grew up to become one of the greatest and most successful musicians of all time, and later one of the biggest stars in the world. The impact of Armstrong and other talented early Jazz musicians changed the way we look at music. 1. Definition of CONFLUENCE. A. Melding B. Influence Intersection C. Coming together 2. Where and when did jazz originate? Southern US. 20th century OR New Orleans 3. How does the author regard Jazz? A real aficionado A. Unable to determine B. Doesn't like it much C. Enjoys it occasionally 4. Derivation of the word “Jazz” West coast slang HOMONYMS 1. How does the article define homonyms? Words that sound alike but are spelled different ways with different meanings. 2. What inference can be drawn from the article? English is a difficult language to master. 3. Which statement is a fact rather an opinion? Homonyms make learning English more challenging. 4. What conclusion can be drawn from the article? In order to master English, the student must learn about homonyms. Glass 1. The definition of brittle is? Easily broken 2. What conclusion can be drawn by the information included in the article? New use for glass is constantly being discovered. 3. What statement is implied by the article? Glass is an essential part of our lives. 4. What statement is a fact stated in the article? Glass isn’t an element, but a combination of several elements. CHANGING TIME 1. To what word or phrase does the word “They” in the 3rd paragraph mean? Clock change DST 2. Which statement is true based on the info in the article? Computers automatically change the time settings when DST is established. 3. Which statement most accurately reflects the author's attitude about this subject? DST is an inconvenience & should end. MR. ROGERS 1. According to the passage, Fred Rogers believed in . Uniqueness 2. Why did Fred Rogers design and develop a T.V. show for children? He wanted to help children deal with real world problems. 3. Author wrote the passage because . He wanted to inform readers or audience about Fred Rogers 4. Which statement is a fact and not an opinion? Mr. Rogers started a website for children in his retirement. LIGHTNING STRIKE 1. The author seems to . Favor the use of lightning rods 2. The passage suggests lightning rods are used to what? Draw lightning away from buildings. 3. When taking cover from lightning, you should? Get into metal car, or lie flat 4. The reader can conclude that lightning? Consists of a main stroke and several smaller strokes. 5. The word penetrates means. To pierce HEALTHCARE 1. The passage implies that There is a crisis in normal management in healthcare 2. According to the passage, why are more and more people using the emergency room for minor illness? They cannot afford the co-payments or deductible required by insurance. 3. Which statement is an opinion? If we don’t change the way healthcare game is played, we’re all going to lose. 4. Why do insurance companies continue to raise insurance rates? Hospitals are passing down the costs of taking care of people without insurance. 5. What does premium means? An amount to be paid for an insurance policy. FACTORY 1. The paragraph states that both labor and management . Can benefit from a well-designed factory. 2. The paragraph suggests the purpose of a factory layout is for . Safety and profit. ELECTORAL COLLEGE The Electoral College has nothing to do with college and contains no students. The Electoral College consists of votes that each state acquires based on the number of representatives it has in Congress. Each state has two electoral votes because each state has two senators. The remaining electoral votes are determined by the number of Congressmen, the number of which is based on the population of the state established by the Census taken each decade. During the presidential election, most states cast all their electoral votes for the candidate who wins the popular vote in that state. It's all very confusing, but the founding fathers know what they were doing. By having and using the Electoral College candidates' campaign in every state, but just because they win the popular vote across the country doesn't mean they will always win the election. Case in point, in election 2000, Al Gore won the popular vote across the country, but George W. Bush won more electoral votes. Therefore, he became our 43rd president. 1. Which statement is a fact? Each state casts their electoral votes during the Presidential election. 2. What does cast mean? To give one’s vote 3. The author intends the ready to ? Have an understanding of the electoral college. 4. The author's reason for writing this piece seems to be to Teach the reader NURSERIES 1. Nurseries are . Special types of farms. 2. Panel means . A strip of board or other material that forms a section of a wall or door. 3. Why do they need a special permit? Too many nurseries mean that there are not enough buyers for the plants that need to be sold. 4. Which is a fact? Greenhouses create tropical conditions at nurseries. 5. The author implied that ? Nurseries are helpful for farmers. A BIT ABOUT BICYCLES Today, bicycles are so common that it's hard to believe they haven't always been around. But two hundred years ago, bicycles didn't even exist, and the first bicycle, invented in Germany in 1818, was nothing like our bicycles today. It was made of wood and didn't even have pedals. Since then, however, numerous innovations and improvements in design have made the bicycle one of the most popular means of recreation and transportation around the world. In 1839, Kirkpatrick Macmillan, a Scottish blacksmith, dramatically improved upon the original bicycle design. Macmillan's machine had tires with iron rims to keep them from getting worn down. He also used foot-operated cranks like pedals, so his bicycle could be ridden at a quick pace. It didn't look much like a modern bicycle, though, because its back wheel was substantially larger than its front wheel. In 1861, the French Michaux brothers took the evolution of the bicycle a step further by inventing an improved crank mechanism. Ten years later, James Starley, an English inventor, revolutionized bicycle design. He made the front wheel many times larger than the back wheel, put a gear on the pedals to make the bicycle more efficient, and lightened the wheels by using wire spokes. Although this bicycle was much lighter and less tiring to ride, it was still clumsy, extremely top heavy, and ridden mostly for entertainment. It wasn't until 1874 that the first truly modern bicycle appeared on the scene. (14) Invented by another Englishman, H.J. Lawson, the "safety bicycle" would look familiar to today's cyclists. This bicycle had equal-sized wheels, which made it less prone to toppling over. Lawson also attached a chain to the pedals to drive the rear wheel. With these improvements, the bicycle became extremely popular and useful for transportation. Today they are built, used, and enjoyed all over the world. 1. About how long did it take for bicycles to look and feel like they do today? 53 centuries or 5300 years. 2. The author intended the reader to what? Understand a bit about the history of bicycles 3. Taste means? Perceiving a sensation on the tongue a. A sensation in the tongue b. A liking c. Ability to enjoy what is beautiful and harmonious 4. What has been added to the basic design of the bicycle? Gears and hand operated breaks 5. After reading this article the reader learned that ? Bicycling is gaining in popularity all over the world. THE RAINFOREST 1. The definition of “HABITAT” is? A natural environment where species live and grow normally. Read the following stories and respond to the questions provided. 2. Born in 1914, Bessie Blount Griffin decided to become a medical professional. She originally received her nurse’s training at Newark Hospital in New Jersey and later studied physical therapy in Chicago. When the United States was embroiled in World War II, Griffin got involved in taking care of the wounded soldiers, and it was then that she began developing inventions to help them regain some form of self-care and independence. In 1951, Griffin designed an electronic feeding tube to help amputees feed themselves. The feeding tube was activated by the patient biting down on it to deliver a mouthful of liquefied food. The tone of this passage is: praising disapproving informative motivating The correct answer is C. The passage has a neutral and serious tone. The author is a not trying to convince the reader of anything and is merely stating facts. 3. The American public's obsession with dieting has led to one of the most dangerous health misconceptions of all time. Many television ads, sitcoms, movies, magazine articles, and diet- food product labels would have consumers believe that carbohydrates are bad for the human body and that those who eat them will quickly become overweight. We are advised to avoid foods such as pasta, potatoes, rice and white bread and opt for meats and vegetables instead. Carbohydrates are macronutrients, meaning they are essential sources of fuel that are necessary for survival. Contrary to popular belief, carbohydrates have many health benefits; however, the key to maintaining a healthy body is to consume these and other macronutrients – such as protein and fat – in appropriate amounts. Which of the sentences in this passage expresses a fact? Carbohydrates are macronutrients, meaning they are essential sources of fuel that are necessary for survival. We are advised to avoid foods such as pasta, potatoes, rice and white bread Carbohydrates are bad for the human body and that those who eat them will quickly become overweight The American public's obsession with dieting has led to one of the most dangerous health misconceptions of all time. The correct answer is A. From the above passage, it can be concluded that option A presents a fact which can be scientifically proven. Other sentences are general observations made regarding carbohydrates. Like the advice to eat less carbohydrates, or that they are bad for human body and such. 4. Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance that’s found in all cells of the body. The body needs some cholesterol to make hormones, vitamin D, and substances that help in digesting foods. The body produces most cholesterol naturally, and it is found in some foods. Blood cholesterol used to be thought of as a problem only for adults. What can you infer from this passage? blood cholesterol is no longer a problem for adults only children have a problem with blood cholesterol blood cholesterol affects both adults and children cholesterol is only produced in the body The correct answer is C. From the last statement in the passage, it can be inferred that blood cholesterol is not a problem only for adults, but that it affects children too. So in lieu of this, option A and B are not providing the complete information. Option C explains the inference by included both adults and children. And as per option D, it is not completely correct as it is also found in some foods as well. 5. When people think of carnivorous plants, they may believe that it is one of the strongest plants to exist. These carnivorous plants are built to survive in places that other plants cannot. This specialization comes at a cost. They have a hard time adapting to other environments. Their strengths become weaknesses in rich soil. They depend on the harsh yet delicate environments in which they thrive. They are not so hardy after all. Still, there's something to be said about the power of life when one finds a plant that can survive in barren soil. What is the main idea of this passage? Carnivorous plants are not hard to take care of because they feed themselves. Carnivorous plants are delicate because they need certain conditions to survive. Carnivorous plants are difficult to keep at home, but you should keep trying. Carnivorous plants are inspirational and they are interesting to watch and own. The correct answer is B. The passage explains that the carnivorous plants can survive in places where other plants might not but at the same time, they do not adapt to new conditions. They can only survive in specific conditions which are harsh. They cannot be kept at home and like all other plants, these also make their own food. 6. Technically, a web is not just anything a spider makes out of silk; it is a silk structure made to catch prey. Only about half of the known spider species catch prey by means of webs. Other spiders, including members of the wolf spider, jumping spider, ground spider, sac spider, lynx spider, and other spider families, actively hunt for prey or sit and wait for prey to come to them (trap door spiders, crab spiders, and others). Hunting spiders use their silk for the dragline (the single thread all spiders leave behind them when they walk), the egg sac, and in some species, the retreat (a little silk "house" the spider rests in), but do not make true webs. What can be inferred from the passage above? all spiders build webs spiders that build webs don’t build egg sacs silk is used by all spiders all spiders use webs to catch prey The correct answer is C. All spiders do not build webs and use it to catch prey. Some spiders actively hunt for prey. Silk, though is used by all spiders – for building webs, for dragline, egg sacs etc. 7. For years, many people knew the story of Helen Keller, but most were unaware of the life of her tutor, Anne Sullivan. Despite being blind herself, she was able to teach her blind and deaf student, Helen Keller, how to communicate. However, the legacy of Anne Sullivan was not forgotten. Her life’s work and journey teaching Helen was dramatized in the very successful play, The Miracle Worker. The play was such a hit that it was adapted for both television and film. What is the meaning of the word “dramatized” as used in this passage? theatrical falsified adapted emphasized The correct answer is C. The positive tone of this passage indicates that the speaker was satisfied with the play’s version of Anne Sullivan’s story, therefore choice B would be incorrect. Choice A is an adjective but the sentence calls for a transitive verb, so it cannot be correct. Choice D is a possible fit, but C is the better choice because “adapted” is frequently used when describing theatrical productions based on true or previously told stories. 8. You will find this text to be an invaluable resource as you continue your French studies. Regardless of whether you are learning French for travel, professional activity, or academic pursuits, a grasp of verbs is essential for communicating in French. This guide includes exercises that cover over 2,000 French verbs, as well as all major tenses and regular and irregular verb forms. Which of the sentences in this passage expresses a fact? Regardless of whether you are learning French for travel, professional activity, or academic pursuits, a grasp of verbs is essential for communicating in French. This guide includes exercises that cover over 2,000 French verbs, as well as all major tenses and regular and irregular verb forms. You will find this text to be an invaluable resource as you continue your French studies. None of the above. The correct answer is B. Choice A expresses an opinion regarding learning French that one needs to grasp the knowledge of verbs first. Choice B expresses a fact that this guide has exercises covering 2000 verbs. Choice C is not correct because it is the feeling of the author that one might find this particular guide invaluable. 9. Almonds are a highly nutritious food. However, their nutritious value is not outweighed by their cost to the environments in which they are commonly grown. According to a recent report, it takes approximately 1.1 gallons of water to produce a single almond. For places like California that are prone to drought, a great deal of water can be wasted to grow almonds; this water should be going to low-income communities that are running low on drinking water. Which of the sentences in this passage expresses a fact? However, their nutritious value is not outweighed by their cost to the environments in which they are commonly grown. For places like California, that are prone to drought, a great deal of water can be wasted to grow almonds; this water should be going to low-income communities that are running low on drinking water. According to a recent report, it takes approximately 1.1 gallons of water to produce a single almond. Almonds are a not a highly nutritious food. The correct answer is C. Choice A expresses an opinion regarding the environmental costs and nutritional value associated with almonds. Choice B expresses an opinion about how water should be distributed during times of extreme drought. Choice D is not correct because almonds have high nutritional quality of almonds. Choice C presents a fact regarding the amount of water required to grow each almond. 10. While waiting to board your flight in most airports, you’ll probably pass by a duty-free shop. Many international travellers like to take advantage of these stores because they sell luxury items free of tax. However, taxes are still applied on goods purchased if the customer is traveling domestically. Cashiers verify this information by checking your boarding pass before completing the transaction. As a result of this rule, it is not particularly worthwhile to buy duty-free unless you are traveling outside the country. What is the main idea of this passage? Duty-free shops are inexpensive. International travel is more cost-effective than domestic travel. Shopping at duty-free shops is only financially advantageous if you have a boarding pass for an international flight. Shopping at duty-free shops is only financially advantageous if you have a boarding pass for a domestic flight. The correct answer is C. This passage does not discuss the price of items sold at duty-free shops or the cost of international versus domestic travel, so choices A and B are wrong. Choice D states the opposite of what is established in the passage, leaving us with choice C as the correct answer. 11. A vaccine is a preparation of killed or weakened germs that is injected under the skin and causes the blood to produce antibodies against the disease. Effective vaccines, for instance, have been developed for small pox, rabies, and polio. What is the speaker’s tone in this passage? objective regretful optimistic uncertain The correct answer is A. The writer uses direct statements to write about vaccines defining them factually and hence making an objective statement. 12. Rachel Carson’s Silent Spring was the first book to raise public awareness regarding application of agricultural chemicals and pesticides like DDT (dichloro-diphenyl- trichloroethane), provoking extensive dialogue regarding environmental legislation. Published in 1962, her exploration of human impact on the environment forever changed the world. Silent Spring was preceded by three previous books by Carson that also discussed the environment: Under the Sea-Wind, The Sea Around Us, and The Edge of the Sea. What is the meaning of the word “provoking” as used in this passage? inciting distressing nagging alleviating The correct answer is A. While some may find Rachel Carson’s book nagging or distressing, the passage indicates a more general reaction. However, the passage does indicate that that reaction caused a significant change in thinking, making choice A the best answer here. “Alleviating” does not apply to this passage. 13. Car alarms are annoying and aa public nuisance. Their persistent and disruptive noise has been shown to boost stress hormones that are linked to physiological illness and psychological distress. Studies also show that children regularly exposed to car alarm noise have difficulty concentrating on quiet tasks like reading. Because car alarm noise makes people irritable, it also increases the tendency to be impatient and rude. In short, noisy car alarms are helping erode public civility. According to police, criminologists, insurance companies, auto manufacturers, and even car thieves themselves, car alarms are next to useless. What is the speaker’s tone in this passage? neutral irritated amused confused The correct answer is B. Words like nuisance, persistent and disruptive noise, irritable, impatience, rude, noisy – all have negative connotation. This implies that the author is not neutral, amused or puzzled. All these words describe the tone of author as irritable about the car alarms. 14. Riding on planes used to be a very luxurious experience. In fact, the journey was once considered the most luxurious part of the travel experience—even for coach passengers! Although it was a luxurious experience for the passenger, it was not the case for the flight attendants. The rights of flight attendants were completely disregarded until the 1970s, when Stewardesses for Women’s Rights was organized. They were successful in achieving the removal of industry rules for stewardesses, including ones that forced retirement at 32 and banned marriage. Which of the sentences in this passage expresses a fact? However, the rights of flight attendants were completely disregarded until the 1970s, when Stewardesses for Women’s Rights was organized. They were successful in achieving the removal of industry rules for stewardesses, including ones that forced retirement at 32 and banned marriage. In fact, the journey was once considered the most luxurious part of the travel experience—even for coach passengers! Riding on planes used to be a very luxurious experience. The correct answer is B. In options A, C and D, the author is not sharing facts, all of them are influenced by his thoughts; the rights were completely disregarded, journey was luxurious, overall a very luxurious experience. In option B, there is a particular outcome of the actions carried out, i.e. removal of industry rules which was successful. This is a fact. 15. One of the best benefits of carbohydrates is their ability to provide fuel to the muscles and the brain. They also help to maintain the health of our organs, tissues, and cells. Scientific studies have shown that one types of carbohydrate, called fiber, also commonly referred to as roughage, reduces the risk of heart disease and diabetes, Carbohydrates also contain antioxidants, which protect the body's cells from harmful particles with the potential to cause cancer. According to the passage, which of the following is NOT one of the essential health-benefits of carbohydrates mentioned? prevention of cancer prevention of stroke prevention of heart disease and diabetes prevention of chronic pulmonary disease The correct answer is A. According to the passage, the carbohydrates, specifically fibers, are involved in reducing the risk of heart disease, which include stroke and chronic pulmonary diseases and diabetes. In case of cancer, it only protects the body’s cell from harmful particles that can potentially cause cancer. It does not prevent cancer from occurring. 16. Every two years, the World Monuments Fund (WMF) assembles an international panel of experts in archaeology, architecture, art history, and historic preservation. The panel’s job is to compile a list of the worlds’ "100 Most Endangered Sites." Included on the list are architectural and cultural sites endangered by a variety of man-made threats, such as uncontrolled tourism, urban development, global warming, and war. These sites are under threat of demolition in order to make way for the construction of new and more modern buildings. These historical sites must be saved and we should whatever it takes to save and preserve these endangered sites. What is the author’s tone in this passage? persuasive humorous objective questioning The correct answer is A. The author writes in a tone that is persuasive in order to convince the reader to take action. Clue key words include “must be saved” and “whatever it takes.” These opinionated states are there to convince the reader to care about the historical sites. 17. Pilsen is an old community in Chicago with a long history. This part of Chicago started small and got bigger, as most neighbourhoods in the city did. Its cultural history is about moving, changing, and connecting. Many people have moved there over the decades. This movement started when immigrants chose to settle in this part of the city when Chicago was growing rapidly. An immigrant is a person who moves from one country to another. Pilsen’s first people spoke German. They had moved from Germany. If you go to Pilsen today you will see some of the places they built. But when they first moved there, it had just a few homes. Then immigrants continued to migrate there; newcomers moved to Pilsen so they could be near people who came from the same country. What is the main idea of this passage? Chicago has a long history Pilsen is a community of immigrants Chicago grew rapidly Pilsen is in Chicago The correct answer is B. The passage is a summary of the community of immigrants, all the other answer choices are details of the story. 18. Nocturnal creatures, such as bats and owls, have highly developed senses that enable them to function in the dark. Bats are nocturnal in order to avoid other winged competitors when hunting for food. Many such animals also take advantage of the cover of darkness to help them avoid predators. What is the meaning of the word “nocturnal” as used in this passage? feathery living active at night birds The correct answer is C. It can be deduced from the clue in the previous sentence ‘highly developed senses enable them to function in the dark’ that the word nocturnal refers to ‘active at night’. 19. The term “neon light” was originally applied to a particular type of vapour lamp using the inert, colourless gas neon. A long tube was filled with neon, which then became luminous at low pressure when an electric current was passed through it. The lamp then emitted the characteristic reddish-orange light of neon. Today, the term “neon light” is given to lamps of this general type which may be filled with a variety of gases, depending on the colour that is desired. Argon, for example, is used to produce blue light. Colours can also be altered by changing the colour of the glass tube. The tubes must be quite long in all these lamps to produce light efficiently. As a result, high voltages are required. Neon tube lamps are not practical for indoor illumination, but they have found widespread outdoor use in glowing, colourful advertising signs. What can be inferred from this passage? The inert neon gas is reddish-orange in colour. To change the colour, inside gas can be changed. Modern ‘neon lights’ are more efficient that those in the past. Modern ‘neon lights’ contain neon gas only. The correct answer is B. According to the passage, the neon gas is an inert, colourless gas. Modern neon lights still require high voltages and are designed the same way as before, they have the same efficiency as the ones in past. Also, the modern neon lights can have other gases than neon to change the colour of the lamp. So, the option B, i.e. to change colour of the lamp, the inside gas can be changed. 20. A legend is a popular type of folk tale. In some ways, legends resemble myths, another type of folk tale. But myths describe events from antiquity and usually deal with religious subjects, such as the birth of a god. Legends tell of recognizable people, places and events and often take place in comparatively recent times. Some legends are based on real persons or events, but many are entirely fictional. The legends of the superhuman accomplishments of Paul Bunyan and Pecos Bill are imaginary, while the legends about Washington and Lincoln are mostly exaggerations of real qualities those two presidents had. All societies have legends. Most legends began as stories about the heroes of a particular region, occupation, or ethnic group. For example, John Henry was a legendary hero of black Americans, and Casey Jones of railroad workers. Over time, however, these figures have become national heroes. Which of the following can be inferred from the above passage? myths generally take place in comparatively recent times legends about Lincoln and Washington are completely fictional both legends and myths can be classified as folk tales John Henry and Casey Jones are today well-known only by small groups of people The correct answer is C. The passage discusses about legends and myths both taking place at a different time periods in history. Legends are based in modern times while the myths are described form ancient events. Legends about Lincoln and Washington are based on real life, but there are some exaggerations involved too. It is not completely fiction. Legends and mythos both resemble folk tales which makes the option C the correct answer. And in option D, John Henry and Casey Jones are both national heroes. 21. The cranial bones and facial bones are the two general types of bones that compose the skull. Both of these types of bones are associated with the axial skeleton. The brain is encased and accommodated by the cranial bones. Nasal, jaw, palate, and cheek structures are all considered facial bones. Knowing the bones of the skull is an important first step in studying the brain. What is the main idea of this passage? The facial bones are more important than the cranial bones. The skull is really one bone, itself. The skull has the most important bones in the human skeleton. The skull is composed of the cranial and facial bones. The correct answer is D. The passage discusses some details regarding the facial and cranial bones, as well as the skull in general. However, no opinions are expressed regarding the importance of one set of bones over the others, so choices A and C can be eliminated. Choice B is incorrect, based upon the information provided in the passage. Therefore, choice D is the correct answer. 22. Taking more than the recommend dose (overdose) may cause liver damage. In case of overdose, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center right away. Quick medical attention is critical for adults as well as for children even if you do not notice any signs or symptoms. What is the speaker’s tone in this passage? pleading cautionary concerned criticizing The correct answer is B. The author is describing the effects of overdosing a particular medicine. He is informing what happens when you overdose and what one should do in a case where such an event has occurred. Words and phrases like in any case, critical, imply that the author is serving as a warning against such events. It is not criticizing any one, or pleading and concerned. It is factual with a hint of advice. Hence the author’s tone here is cautionary. 23. Concussions are a surprisingly common occurrence in sports. High school athletes suffer thousands of concussions every year, most often in football, ice hockey, and soccer. According to the CDC, between 2001 and 2009, an estimated 173,285 people under age 19 were treated in hospital emergency rooms for concussions related to sports and recreation activities. Changes in the rules for athletic competition have reduced the number of sports-related concussions. After the National Collegiate Athletic Association made the use of the head when tackling illegal in 1976, the annual number of head and neck injuries in football declined by about 50%. The required use of helmets in many contact sports and advances in helmet design also has resulted in fewer head injuries. Improved conditioning of young athletes, especially strengthening of neck muscles, may also help to prevent concussions. Which of the sentences in this passage expresses an opinion? According to the CDC, between 2001 and 2009, an estimated 173,285 people under age 19 were treated in hospital emergency rooms for concussions. The National Collegiate Athletic Association made the use of the head when tackling illegal in 1976, the annual number of head and neck injuries in football declined by about 50%. Improved conditioning of young athletes, especially strengthening of neck muscles, may also help to prevent concussions. The required use of helmets in many contact sports and advances in helmet design also has resulted in fewer head injuries. The correct answer is C. In option A, B and C, the author has provided facts regarding the number of cases of concussions, percentage decline in concussion cases because tackling was made illegal in football and helmets were made a requirement for contact sports in addition to advances in helmet design. All of these are factual events supported by specific data. Unlike the statement in option C, which states that improved conditioning may help in preventing concussion but it isn’t supported by any data, facts. It is an opinion about something that might happen. 24. Born in 1950, Stevie Wonder became a musical sensation before he was even old enough to drive, despite being blind from birth. Not only does he have a remarkable and recognizable voice, he is also an accomplished keyboardist, drummer, and harmonica player. Throughout his years in the business, he has become a skilled producer and often collaborates with other rising and established musicians. 10 of his 23 studio albums have hit number-one on the US pop charts, in addition to more than 30 top ten singles. With 25 Grammy awards to his name, it’s safe to say that Stevie Wonder will continue to be regarded as one of the greatest musicians of his generation for many years to come. What is the main idea of this passage? Stevie Wonder is regarded as a one-hit-wonder, despite his long career. Stevie Wonder is the greatest musician of his generation. Stevie Wonder’s long career has earned him much success and acclaim. Stevie Wonder’s story proves that anyone can overcome their physical disabilities to reach their greatest dreams. The correct answer is C. Choice A does not reflect what is expressed in the passage and choice b exaggerates his accomplishments. Although choice d may seem true according to the passage, it does not encapsulate the primary message as well as choice c. The passage focuses on Stevie Wonder’s career broadly, not his disability in particular. 25. A scientific theory is an explanation of some aspect of the natural world that can, in accordance with the scientific method, be repeatedly tested, using a predefined protocol of observations and experiments. Established scientific theories have withstood rigorous scrutiny and are a comprehensive form of scientific knowledge. A reliable scientific theory is based not upon careless work, but rather upon meticulous research and experimentation. What is the meaning of the word “meticulous” as used in this passage? hasty expensive careful informal The correct answer is C. As the passage talks about scientific theory, careful is the one option that fits here best. A hasty, expensive or an informal research would not result in a reliable scientific theory. 26. The praying mantis is named for its prominent front legs, which are bent and held together at an angle that suggests the position of prayer. By any name, these fascinating insects are formidable predators. They have triangular heads poised on a long "neck," or elongated thorax. They can turn their heads 180 degrees to scan their surroundings with two large compound eyes and three other simple eyes located between them. What is the meaning of the word “formidable” as used in this passage? causing fear pleasant comforting nonthreatening The correct answer is A. In the passage, the mantis is described as a predator and as its adjective, formidable means fear causing. A predator is not pleasant, comforting or non- threatening. 27. Why did Skanderbeg take 300 Albanian soldiers with him and leave the Battle of Nis? Sultan Murad II ordered him to do so. Skanderbeg did not want to fight any more, so he fled the Battle of Nis. Skanderbeg never forgot his Albanian heritage and wanted to fight with the Albanians against the Ottoman Empire. Skanderbeg wanted to serve the Ottoman Empire. The correct answer is C. Skanderbeg never forgot that he was Albanian, and had pride for his country and his people. Although Skanderbeg grew up in the Ottoman Empire, he had a sense of loyalty to his country. He wanted to fight for the independence of Albania and not on the side of the Ottoman Empire. This sentence: “Skanderbeg became the greatest general and military commander in the Ottoman Empire as an adult, but he never forgot his origin, his people, his family, and his pride for his country,” describes Skanderbeg’s commitment to his Albanian heritage. 28. Which of the following statements from the passage expresses a fact, not an opinion? In the year 1405 on the 6th of May, a brave warrior was born in the country of Albania. Skanderbeg became the greatest general and military commander in the Ottoman Empire. For six months, the Albanians fought against the Ottoman Empire in Kruje. A and C. The correct answer is A. “In the year 1405 on the 6th of May, a brave warrior was born in the country of Albania,” does not identify the warrior’s name so choice d is incorrect; this means that choice c is incorrect as well. Choice b is incorrect because the sentence does not say he saved Albania. 29. What is the meaning of the word “forged,” as used in the following sentence: “Skanderbeg used a forged letter from Sultan Murad II to secure his position, and reclaim Kruje for Albania, which had been taken by the Ottomans.” historic fake real formed The correct answer is B. Forged means “falsely signed.” Skanderbeg signed someone else’s signature with his own hand in order to take control of the city of Kruje. Prior to reading that Skanderbeg forged the Sultan’s signature, the story mentions that he abandoned the Battle of Nis with 300 Albanian soldiers. This sets the tone that Skanderbeg had acted against the Sultan. With this information, the reader can understand that when Skanderbeg “forged” a signature he did something to the letter in order to gain and secure power and control of Kruje. 30. Which of the following is true in regards to the tone of the author in the article? Skanderbeg was an intelligent young man with a significant amount of money. Skanderbeg was a brave, strong warrior. Skanderbeg was a weak warrior; that is why he ran away from the Ottoman Empire. Skanderbeg was a traitor to the Ottoman Empire for leaving the battle against John Hunyadi. The correct answer is B. The article does not talk about whether Skanderbeg was rich or poor. Skanderbeg was a courageous and was taken by the Ottoman empire in his childhood. And Skanderbeg abandoned the battle against John Hunyadi as he had a sense of loyalty to his country Albania. He wanted to fight for the independence of Albania and not on the side of the Ottoman Empire. 31. What is the author’s purpose of writing this article? To describe the strength of the Ottoman Empire. To detail the leadership of the Sultan. To discuss the leadership of Skanderbeg and how he protected the Albanian people. To inform the reader about the conditions of Albania during the 13th century. The correct answer is C. The article primarily discusses Skanderbeg’s life, leadership, and his effort to defend the Albanian people and land. Although the author also briefly discusses the large number of forces that the Ottoman Empire possessed, the emphasis of the story is on Skanderbeg’s life as a warrior and his efforts to gain independence for Albania from the Ottoman Empire. 32. What can be inferred if the brain is damaged? Other organs in the body will be unable to receive signals from the brain. The brain’s ability to store memories can be affected. All normal life functions can be altered. A, B, and C The correct answer is D. Many problems can occur within the body if the brain is not functioning correctly. The article informs the reader about various problems that the body can experience if the brain is damaged, including problems with memory and transmitting signals to the other organs in the body. The author expresses through the article that the brain is even responsible for ensuring monitoring of breathing and heartbeat. 33. What is the summary of the article? The brain is one of the most important organs of the body. The cerebrum is responsible for sending and receiving sensory signals and nerve impulses throughout your body. Parkinson’s is a horrible degenerative disease of the brain that slowly damages the body’s entire ability to function. The brain stem connects the cerebrum to the spinal cord. The correct answer is A. The main focus of the article is to explain that the brain is a very important organ in the body. The entire theme of the article is summarized in the following sentence: “The human brain is a complex organ that serves as the central command center of your body; as a result, it is the most vital organ in a vertebrate’s body.” 34. What is the meaning of the word “degenerative” as used in this sentence: “Another way that the brain can be damaged is through degenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, and multiple sclerosis.” healthy rehabilitative deteriorating dense The correct answer is C. Degenerative means deteriorating, or getting/making worse. Diseases of the brain worsen the condition of the whole body. The author mentions several diseases of the brain. Just by understanding that the author is discussing diseases we should be able to infer that the world “degenerative” has a negative meaning related to brain diseases. Prior to the sentence that uses the word “degenerative,” we know that when the brain experiences a significant trauma, permanent damage to the brain can occur. 35. Which of the following statements is true in regards to the tone of the author? The author is casually discussing the brain, the functions of the brain, and the parts of the brain. The author is seriously discussing the brain, the functions of the brain, and the parts of the brain. The author is light-hearted and humorous. The author is worried that the reader will injure his/her brain. The correct answer is B. This is an informative article written in a serious tone. While you are reading the article, you should be able to identify that the content of the article is primarily factual. The author is not making jokes, the author is not inputting his own opinion, the author is merely representing factual information about the brain, thus classifying it very clearly as a serious, informative piece. 36. Which of the following statements from the passage expresses a fact, not an opinion? “The human brain is a complex organ that serves as the central command center of your body.” “The brain stem’s primary purpose is to control important bodily functions.” “It is protected by the skull, and is suspended in cerebrospinal fluid, which further protects the brain.” All of the above. The correct answer is D. The goal of this article is to educate the reader about all aspects of the brain and the importance of the brain. In the last paragraph, the author states, “Ultimately, the human brain is a delicate organ, but it is extremely vital to the proper functioning of the body,” in order to remind the reader of the importance of the brain. Also, the following sentence -- “The brain stem’s primary purpose is to control bodily functions such as maintaining a normal body temperature, monitoring breathing and heartbeat, and regulating hunger and thirst” -- continues to remind the reader that without the brain, the rest of the body cannot function properly. 37. What is the final recommendation regarding the research about the effects of a Mediterranean diet on individuals who have previously had breast cancer? You should definitely follow a Mediterranean diet if you have already had breast cancer, because for certain you will not experience a relapse. Consuming less olive oil and more red meat will prevent you from experiencing a reoccurrence of breast cancer. More research is needed to be certain that following a Mediterranean diet can reduce the chance of experiencing reoccurring breast cancer. Both A and B The correct answer is C. More research is needed to be certain of the benefits of a Mediterranean diet for breast cancer survivors. Throughout the article the author impresses upon the reader that studies have shown that there is a link between following a Mediterranean diet and a decrease in risk of a relapse. The last sentence -- “Cancer Research UK's senior clinical adviser in cancer research strongly believes that the findings of several studies indicate that following a Mediterranean diet will lower the risk of women experiencing reoccurring cancer; however, further research is required to verify the study’s results” -- explains implications for the future. This statement suggests that researchers are continuing to investigate the benefits of a Mediterranean diet on individuals who already had breast cancer. 38. Which of the following sentences is NOT a supporting detail about the effects of a Mediterranean diet on former breast cancer patients? To follow the diet, you must consume several servings a day of fruits and vegetables. To follow the diet, you should limit your intake of whole grains to one serving per week. In another study conducted in Spain, women who consumed a Mediterranean diet with an increase in consumption of olive oil outstripped the results of the control group who followed a low-fat diet. According to the study, maintaining a Mediterranean diet containing vegetables, fish, and olive oil may lessen the probability of encountering reoccurring breast cancer. The correct answer is D. Following a Mediterranean diet is likely to decrease the chance of experiencing a relapse is a main idea, not a supporting detail. All of the other options in the questions were supporting details about the Mediterranean diet. Examples of supporting details include: “To follow the diet, you must consume several servings a day of fruits and vegetables,” “Those who experienced the most success with the Mediterranean diet limited their consumption of alcohol to less than one drink a day,” and “To follow the diet, you should limit your intake of whole grains to one serving per week.” 39. What is the meaning of the word “outstripped” as used in this sentence: “In another study conducted in Spain, women who consumed a Mediterranean diet with an increase in consumption of olive oil outstripped the results of the control group who followed a low-fat diet.” surpassed fell short failed consumed The correct answer is A. The group that followed the Mediterranean diet experienced better results than those who did not follow the Mediterranean diet. Throughout the article, proof is shown that following a Mediterranean diet can reduce an individual’s chance of experiencing a relapse. Also, the sentence directly before the sentence with the vocabulary word outstripped, states: “Multiple studies have shown that women who altered their diet and consumed a Mediterranean diet were less likely to experience a reoccurrence of breast cancer, than those in the control group who did not change their diet.” 40. Which of the following statements from the passage expresses a fact, not an opinion? Participants in the experimental group were required to consume several servings a day of fruits and vegetables, and limit their intake of whole grains to one serving per week and their intake of fish to four servings per week. Following the Mediterranean diet is the surest way to lower the risk of reoccurring cancer. Consuming less alcohol is the most important part of the Mediterranean diet. Following the Mediterranean diet is very difficult. The correct answer is A. The first statement is about how the study was conducted, factual objective of the study. Mediterranean diet is not the guaranteed method to lower the risk recurring cancer. This diet does not focus on regulating the alcohol intake, though participants limited their intake. And any difficulty or ease in following this diet is completely an author’s perception. 41. Based upon the primary tone used by the author, where would you expect to read a passage like this? a textbook a medical journal the opinion section of the newspaper a women’s fashion magazine The correct answer is C. The focus of this article suggests that following a Mediterranean diet may decrease an individual’s chances of a relapse. Because this is not a definite fact, the article belongs on the opinion page. 42. What is the primary tone used by the author?? Inspirational Disappointed Regretful Happy The correct answer is A. The story writes an illustrative narrative about someone who triumphed despite all odds. Even though disabilities like being deaf were part of her, it did not stop her from living her life full of accomplishments. 43. Which of the following statements expresses an opinion? Most educational experts believed it was impossible to teach a deaf and blind student reading, writing, or arithmetic. People who are deaf and blind can receive a standard education Laura Dewey Bridgman was born in New Hampshire on December 21, 1829. Both B and C The correct answer is A. The ability to teach a deaf and blind student was not tried before and was considered an impossible situation without any data to back it up. As per the article, it can be stated clearly that people who are deaf and blind can receive standard education as it is proved by Laura Dewey Bridgman. 44. What is the meaning of the word “impaired” as used in the following statement: “The illness also impaired her senses of smell and taste.” repaired damaged fixed influenced The correct answer is B. Considering the context of the article, it talks about deaf and blind people, the word impaired means damaged as Laura’s illness with scarlet fever damaged her hearing and her sight too. 45. What can be deduced from this article? Laura was able to learn to read and write despite being deaf and blind. It showed that deaf and blind person can be successful. Both a and b. People who are deaf and blind cannot receive a standard education. The correct answer is C. The option D is not true as it is proved incorrect by the fact that Laura was able to learn to read and write despite being deaf and blind and was quite successful in her life. 46. Based upon the primary tone used by the author, where would you expect to read a passage like this? a history textbook a scientific journal a newspaper article a women’s fashion magazine The correct answer is A. The focus of this article is providing information about Laura Dewey Bridgman who was the first person to learn how to read and write despite being deaf and blind. Because this is a definite historical instance, the article belongs in the history books. 47. What is the most likely possibility for the future of Giant’s Causeway? Giant’s Causeway will rise above the water as the tide level decreases. Fewer tourists will come to the Giant’s Causeway because it will no longer be very beautiful or impressive. The Giant’s Causeway may slowly disappear under the water. New columns and rock forms will appear within the next 50 years. The correct answer is C. The article suggests that eventually the Giant’s Causeway will sink below the water’s surface. In the final sentences of the article the author states: “Scientists predict that by the year 2050 many of the Causeways stepping stones will completely disappear under the water. The disappearance of the stones will be a great loss to Ireland, and can also have a negative effect on plants, animals, and other wildlife that live and grow there.” These statements imply that the Causeway is at risk of disappearing. 48. According to one legend, how did Fionn escape from the giant Benandonner? Fionn disguised himself as a baby. Fionn fought off the giant and killed him with his sword. Fionn destroyed the Causeway and drowned his opponent. Benandonner took pity on Fionn and let him run away. The correct answer is A. In the legend Fionn disguised himself as a baby to escape the battle with the other giant. In the second paragraph of the story, the author directly states the answer to this question. “In one version of the legend, when Fionn discovers that his opponent is much larger than he thought, he disguises himself as a baby.” Fionn’s enemy did not drown or run away; in fact, Fionn was scared, so he disguised himself as a baby. 49. Which of the following statements reflects an opinion, rather than a fact. The cliffs are comprised of approximately 40,000 columns made of rock, formed over 60 million years ago as a consequence of an ancient volcanic eruption. The disappearance of the stones will be a great loss to Ireland. Regrettably, however, the longevity of the Giant Causeway is threatened. B and C The correct answer is D. Choice A is the only statement that presents factual information. Choices B and C both express onions about Giant’s Causeway and its significance in Ireland. The word “regrettably” and phrase “great loss” contribute to why these statements are both considered onions. 50. What is the meaning of “flock” as used in the following sentence: “It has become one of Ireland’s major tourist attractions, and tourists flock to the site to see the mysteries and hear about the legends that are said about Giant’s Causeway.” cherish gather visit group The correct answer is B. As the passage is talking about many tourists, word flock refers to a gathering. Tourists gather to the site to see the mysteries. 51. What is the main purpose of this passage? To help people learn about the Giant’s Causeway. To know how many tourists, visit the Giant’s Causeway per year. To discuss how volcanic eruptions, result in geological wonders. To learn about the Giant’s Causeway’s history and geographic features. The correct answer is D. The goal of the article is to help people learn about the Giant’s Causeway. Although the article mentions one legend about the Causeway, the primary purpose of the article is to explain about the Causeway: where it is, the natural features it has, and why people enjoy visiting the Causeway. The last paragraph goes on to mention geographic features that make the Causeway remarkable: “Three famous rock features on the Causeway are called: The Giant’s Boot, Basalt Columns, and The Chimney Stacks.”