AEPA English Practice Test Questions
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In most of the English grammar problems, students have can be solved by a teacher knowing the weak points of their students and helping them through it. Are you planning on passing the upcoming Arizona Educator Proficiency Assessment exam? Take up this practice quiz and be guaranteed a pass. All the best!
Questions and Answers
- 1.
Read the passage below from Coal: A Human History by Barbara Freese; then answer the question that follows.When the Romans invaded Britain, among the natural riches they found there were conspicuous outcrops of a velvety deep black mineral. It was declared the "best stone in Britain" by one Roman writer because it could easily be carved and polished into beautiful jewelry. In time, Britain became known for its exports of this prized material, and fashionable citizens back in Rome eagerly adorned themselves with it. Not only were the black trinkets they carved from it stylish, but they had the surprising and mysterious attribute of being flammable as well. They called this mineral gagate (a word that over the years changedto "jet," as in "jet black"), which is actually a special form of dense coal. Because they weren't good at telling the difference, though, it seems that many Romans were not wearing true jet but plain old coal—the same stuff that would much later be considered the best stone in Britain for entirely different reasons.Based on information presented in thepassage above, a reader would be best ableto draw which of the followingconclusions?
- A.
Coal was more important to the Romans than silver or gold.
- B.
The Romans can be credited with bringing fine jewelry to Britain.
- C.
Coal during this time period was not used as a fuel source by the Romans.
- D.
The Romans favored aesthetic values over utilitarian ones.
Correct Answer
C. Coal during this time period was not used as a fuel source by the Romans.Explanation
Based on the passage, the reader can conclude that coal during this time period was not used as a fuel source by the Romans. The passage mentions that the Romans carved the black mineral into beautiful jewelry and adorned themselves with it. The passage also states that the mineral had the surprising attribute of being flammable. Therefore, it can be inferred that the Romans valued coal for its aesthetic properties rather than its use as a fuel source.Rate this question:
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- 2.
Read the passage below; then answer the three questions that follow.Recent discoveries have bolstered the case for the existence of life on Mars. This possibility, long debated in both the scientific and popular press, centers on whether the Red Planet contains sufficient quantities of liquid water to sustain life. Although it has long been known that the Martian polar caps are partially composed of ice, evidence for the existence of liquid water has been much more elusive—so elusive, in fact, that most scientists discounted the possibility of Martian life. They argued that atmospheric conditions near the planet's equator turned ice directly into gas without going through a liquid phase. Any liquid water rising to the surface from warmer regions inside the planet would immediately freeze and be slowly drawn into the atmosphere.Then in the 1990s, an unmanned space vehicle from the European Space Agency's Mars Express project landed on the planet's surface and produced photographs that made the possibility of liquid water much more conceivable than many had imagined. The new photographs showed an equatorial formation that looked like terrestrial pack ice. The photos pointed to the possibility of liquid subsurface water whose motion had caused the ice on the surface to move, break into pieces, and then refreeze.The area in question is roughly 278,000 square miles in extent, 150 feet deep, and is covered with a layer of ash and dust that appears to have protected the ice from reacting with the atmosphere. Nearby formations suggest that this "ocean" of ice gushed onto the planet's surface from a group of deep cracks in the ground. The evidence indicates a sudden bursting of great quantities of water from the ground, which quickly froze into a vast area of ice. The same area where the ice was discovered also was found to contain high concentrations of methane. That this gas is often an end product of biological reactions makes the prospect of life on Mars even more likely.These findings have stirred considerable excitement in the scientific community. The discovery of warm, wet places beneath the Martian surface that predate the beginnings of life on Earth, scientists note, is a matter of considerable importance. That some such places are probably still there is even more significant. For where there is water, there is always the potential for life.Which of the following excerpts from thepassage is a general statement?
- A.
The new photographs showed an equatorial formation that looked like terrestrial pack ice.
- B.
The area in question is roughly 278,000 square miles in extent, 150 feet deep, and is covered with a layer of ash and dust that appears to have protected the ice from reacting with the atmosphere.
- C.
The same area where the ice was discovered also was found to contain high concentrations of methane.
- D.
The discovery of warm, wet places beneath the Martian surface that predate the beginnings of life on Earth, scientists note, is a matter of considerable importance.
Correct Answer
D. The discovery of warm, wet places beneath the Martian surface that predate the beginnings of life on Earth, scientists note, is a matter of considerable importance.Explanation
The excerpt "The discovery of warm, wet places beneath the Martian surface that predate the beginnings of life on Earth, scientists note, is a matter of considerable importance" is a general statement because it presents a broad idea about the significance of the discovery of warm, wet places on Mars. It does not provide specific details or focus on any particular aspect of the discovery.Rate this question:
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- 3.
Which of the following lists of topicsbest summarizes the information as it ispresented in the passage?
- A.
1. atmospheric conditions near the Martian equator 2. discovery of an equatorial formation on Mars 3. discovery of deep cracks on the surface of Mars
- B.
1. reasons scientists believed life could not exist on Mars 2. new evidence produced by the Mars Express project 3. significance of the discovery of warm, wet places beneath the Martian surface
- C.
1. composition of the Martian polar caps 2. temperature of the Martian atmosphere 3. location of subsurface water on Mars
- D.
1. debates among scientists about the possibility of life on Mars 2. description of the area surveyed by the Mars Express project of the early 1990s 3. renewed debate among scientists about the existence of life on Mars
Correct Answer
B. 1. reasons scientists believed life could not exist on Mars 2. new evidence produced by the Mars Express project 3. significance of the discovery of warm, wet places beneath the Martian surfaceExplanation
The passage discusses the reasons scientists believed life could not exist on Mars, such as the extreme atmospheric conditions near the Martian equator. It also mentions new evidence produced by the Mars Express project, which discovered deep cracks on the surface of Mars. Additionally, the passage highlights the significance of the discovery of warm, wet places beneath the Martian surface. Therefore, the list of topics that best summarizes the information presented in the passage is 1. reasons scientists believed life could not exist on Mars, 2. new evidence produced by the Mars Express project, and 3. significance of the discovery of warm, wet places beneath the Martian surface.Rate this question:
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- 4.
Which of the following is a validinference that can be made from theinformation in the passage?
- A.
Scientists know less about Mars than they do about most other planets.
- B.
There are major disagreements among scientists on many issues.
- C.
Scientists often reassess existing theories as new evidence emerges.
- D.
It is impossible to anticipate major advances in scientific knowledge.
Correct Answer
C. Scientists often reassess existing theories as new evidence emerges.Explanation
The passage states that scientists often reassess existing theories as new evidence emerges. This implies that scientists are open to revising their theories based on new information. Therefore, it can be inferred that scientists often reassess existing theories as new evidence emerges.Rate this question:
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- 5.
Read the poem below by Li-Young Lee; then answer the question that follows.I Ask My Mother to SingShe begins, and my grandmother joins her.Mother and daughter sing like young girls.If my father were alive, he would playhis accordion and sway like a boat.I've never been in Peking, or the Summer Palace,nor stood on the great Stone Boat to watchthe rain begin on Kuen Ming Lake, the picnickersrunning away in the grass.But I love to hear it sung;how the waterlilies fill with rain untilthey overturn, spilling water into water,then rock back, and fill with more.Both women have begun to cry.But neither stops her song.The women's tears in the final stanza ofthe poem above are best described as anexpression of:
- A.
Joyous gratitude.
- B.
Indignant defiance.
- C.
Nostalgic longing.
- D.
Unbearable loneliness.
Correct Answer
C. Nostalgic longing.Explanation
The women's tears in the final stanza of the poem are best described as an expression of nostalgic longing. The speaker, who has never experienced the places and moments described in the poem, finds joy in hearing his mother and grandmother sing about them. The tears shed by the women suggest that they too are filled with nostalgia and longing for the places and memories they are singing about. It is a bittersweet emotion that evokes a sense of longing for something that cannot be fully experienced.Rate this question:
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- 6.
Read the excerpt below from A Room of One's Own, an essay by Virginia Woolf; then answer the two questions that follow.I told you in the course of this paper that Shakespeare had a sister; but do not look for her in Sir Sidney Lee's life of the poet. She died young—alas, she never wrote a word. She lies buried where the omnibuses now stop, opposite the Elephant and Castle. Now my belief is that this poet who never wrote a word and was buried at the crossroads still lives. She lives in you and in me, and in many other women who are not here tonight, for they are washing up the dishes and putting the children to bed. But she lives: for great poets do not die; they are continuing presences; they need only the opportunity to walk among us in the flesh. This opportunity, as I think, it is now coming within your power to give her. For my belief is that if we live another century or so—I am talking of the common life which is the real life and not of the separate lives which we live as individuals—and have five hundred a year each of us androoms of our own; if we have the habit of freedom and the courage to write exactly what we think; if we escape a little from the common sitting-room and see human beings not always in their relation to each other but in relation to reality; and the sky, too, and the trees or whatever it may be in themselves; if we look past Milton's bogey, for no human being should shut out the view; if we face the fact, for it is a fact, that there is no arm to cling to, but that we go alone and that our relation is to the world of reality and not only to the world of men and women, then the opportunity will come and the dead poet who was Shakespeare's sister will put on the body she has so often laid down.It can be inferred from the excerpt that theauthor was most likely addressing anaudience composed primarily of:
- A.
Women with knowledge of English literary history.
- B.
Working-class women hoping to make their personal lives easier.
- C.
Thoughtful readers with little or no interest in English literature.
- D.
Social scientists interested in the effects of poverty on women.
Correct Answer
A. Women with knowledge of English literary history.Explanation
The author's mention of Shakespeare's sister and her untimely death implies a familiarity with English literary history. Additionally, the author discusses the importance of having the opportunity to write and express oneself freely, which suggests a knowledge and appreciation for the literary world. Therefore, it can be inferred that the author was addressing an audience composed primarily of women with knowledge of English literary history.Rate this question:
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- 7.
In this excerpt, the author's purpose ismost likely to raise questions about:
- A.
The debilitating emotional trauma suffered by those who lose a sibling at a young age.
- B.
The waning influence that the works of Shakespeare are having on English culture.
- C.
The sometimes adversarial relationship between men and women in contemporary society.
- D.
The social and financial constraints that prevent women from producing literature and art.
Correct Answer
D. The social and financial constraints that prevent women from producing literature and art.Explanation
The author's purpose in this excerpt is most likely to raise questions about the social and financial constraints that prevent women from producing literature and art. This can be inferred from the context of the excerpt, which suggests that the author is discussing the challenges faced by women in pursuing creative endeavors due to societal and economic limitations. The other options, such as emotional trauma, influence of Shakespeare, and adversarial relationship between men and women, are not mentioned or implied in the given excerpt.Rate this question:
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- 8.
Read the passage below from Fire on the Mountain, a novel by Edward Abbey; then answer the question that follows.Those mountains—they seemed at once both close by and impossibly remote, an easy walk away and yet beyond the limits of the imagination. Between us lay the clear and empty wilderness of scattered mesquite trees and creosote shrubs and streambeds where water ran as seldom as the rain came down. Each summer for three years I had come to New Mexico; each time I gazed upon the moon-dead landscape and asked myself: what is out there? And each time I concluded: something is out there—maybe everything. To me the desert looked like a form of Paradise. And it always will.In the passage above, the author uses aseries of ambiguous expressions in hisdescription of the landscape to:
- A.
Hide his deep-seated aversion to the dry and desolate Southwest environment.
- B.
Convey the complicated and seemingly contradictory feelings he experiences when in the desert.
- C.
Avoid stating explicitly how he feels about having traveled to the Southwest for three years.
- D.
Reflect the severely anxious state he experiences when contemplating his relationship to nature.
Correct Answer
B. Convey the complicated and seemingly contradictory feelings he experiences when in the desert.Explanation
The passage describes the author's view of the desert landscape as both close by and remote, easy to reach yet beyond imagination. This use of ambiguous expressions suggests that the author has complicated and contradictory feelings about the desert. The author finds the desert to be a form of paradise, but also wonders what else is out there. This conveys the author's mixed emotions and the complex nature of his relationship with the desert.Rate this question:
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- 9.
When using the Internet to gatherinformation about a subject, a researchercould best ensure that information iscredible and sources are objective byrelying mainly on Web sites that:
- A.
Are frequently updated and edited.
- B.
Have clearly identified the authors of all information.
- C.
Are familiar and easy to use.
- D.
Have posted information for at least ten years.
Correct Answer
B. Have clearly identified the authors of all information.Explanation
When using the Internet to gather information about a subject, a researcher can best ensure that information is credible and sources are objective by relying mainly on web sites that have clearly identified the authors of all information. This is because knowing the author's identity allows the researcher to assess their expertise, credibility, and potential biases. It also enables the researcher to verify the author's credentials and qualifications in the subject matter. By relying on web sites with clearly identified authors, the researcher can make informed judgments about the reliability and objectivity of the information presented.Rate this question:
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- 10.
Read the poem below by Martín Espada; then answer the two questions that follow.Coca-Cola and Coco FríoOn his first visit to Puerto Rico,island of family folklore,the fat boy wanderedfrom table to tablewith his mouth open.At every table, some great-auntwould steer him with cool spotted handsto a glass of Coca-Cola.One even sang to him, in all the Englishshe could remember, a Coca-Cola jinglefrom the forties. He drank obediently, thoughhe was bored with this potion, familiarfrom soda fountains in Brooklyn.Then, at a roadside stand off the beach, the fat boyopened his mouth to coco frío, a coconutchilled, then scalped by a macheteso that a straw could inhale the clear milk.The boy tilted the green shell overheadand drooled coconut milk down his chin;suddenly, Puerto Rico was not Coca-Colaor Brooklyn, and neither was he.For years afterward, the boy marveled at an islandwhere the people drank Coca-Colaand sang jingles from World War IIin a language they did not speak,while so many coconuts in the treessagged heavy with milk, swollenand unsuckled.In the poem, repeating the image of theboy's "opened . . . mouth" is most likelyintended to evoke which of the followingideas?
- A.
The boredom that children endure when forced to attend social events consisting mainly of adults
- B.
The willingness of children to welcome experiences that are unfamiliar, unusual, or typically overlooked by others
- C.
The desire that children have for sweets and soda and most all other sugary foods usually forbidden to them
- D.
The tendency of children to speak their minds unhesitatingly, sometimes to the great embarrassment of adults
Correct Answer
B. The willingness of children to welcome experiences that are unfamiliar, unusual, or typically overlooked by othersExplanation
The repetition of the image of the boy's "opened . . . mouth" suggests the willingness of children to embrace new and unfamiliar experiences. Despite being bored with Coca-Cola, the boy obediently drinks it when offered by his relatives. However, when he encounters coco frío, a drink that is unique to Puerto Rico, his curiosity and openness lead him to eagerly try it. This highlights the idea that children are often more open-minded and receptive to new experiences, even those that may be overlooked or unfamiliar to others.Rate this question:
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- 11.
The use of language in this poem createsan overall mood best described as:
- A.
Somber and bored.
- B.
Anxious and excited.
- C.
Indifferent and withdrawn.
- D.
Reflective and curious.
Correct Answer
D. Reflective and curious.Explanation
The use of language in the poem suggests a tone that is thoughtful and inquisitive. The words and phrases used evoke a sense of introspection and a desire to understand and explore deeper meanings. The language used also creates a mood of curiosity, as the poem encourages the reader to contemplate and question the subject matter. Overall, the language in the poem creates an atmosphere that is reflective and curious.Rate this question:
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- 12.
Read the excerpt below from "A Vision Beyond Time and Place" by N. Scott Momaday; thenanswer the question that follows.When my father was a boy, an old man used to come to [my grandfather] Mammedaty's house and pay his respects. He was a lean old man in braids and was impressive in his age and bearing. His name was Cheney, and he was an arrowmaker. Every morning, my father tells me, Cheney would paint his wrinkled face, go out, and pray aloud to the rising sun.I often think of old man Cheney, and of his daily devotion to the sun. He was a man who saw very deeply into the distance, I believe, one whose vision extended far beyond the physical boundaries of his time and place. In his mind's eye he could integrate all the realities and illusions of the earth and sky; they became for him profoundly intelligible and whole.Most Indian people are able to see in these terms. It is indeed the basis upon which they identify themselves as individuals and as a race. When old man Cheney looked into the sunrise, he saw as far into himself, I suspect, as he saw into the distance. He knew certainly of his existence and of his place in the scheme of things.In contrast, most of us in this society are afflicted with a kind of cultural nearsightedness. . . . [W]e do not see beyond the buildings and billboards that seem at times to be the monuments of our civilization, and consequently we fail to see into the nature and meaning of our own humanity. Now, more than ever, we might do well to enter upon a vision quest of our own, that is, a quest after vision itself.Which of the following best describes theNative American "vision" the authordiscusses?
- A.
A firm conviction of the uniqueness of Native American culture
- B.
A unifying perception of the interconnectedness of all things
- C.
A psychological insight into the common needs of all human beings
- D.
A philosophical awareness of the illusion of the material world
Correct Answer
B. A unifying perception of the interconnectedness of all thingsExplanation
The author describes the Native American "vision" as a unifying perception of the interconnectedness of all things. This is evident in the excerpt where the author talks about how old man Cheney had a deep understanding of the earth and sky, and how Indian people are able to see in these terms. The author contrasts this with the cultural nearsightedness of society, where people fail to see the interconnectedness and meaning of their own humanity. Therefore, the Native American "vision" is characterized by a belief in the interconnectedness and unity of all things.Rate this question:
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- 13.
Read the passage below; then answer the two questions that follow.In colonial America, the Great Awakening of the 1730s and 1740s had important social and political consequences. In many locales, Protestant churches split into Old Light and New Light branches. Where such divisions occurred, Old Light churches attracted older and wealthier individuals who represented the traditional social establishment. Their members viewed the emotionalism of the Great Awakening as a threat to law and order and preferred a more restrained form of religion. By contrast, members of New Light congregations tended to be younger and less wealthy than their Old Light counterparts. Most strongly opposed state churches, which governments in colonies such as Massachusetts and Virginia forced them to support with their tax dollars.The New Light members were also more likely to link religious values with a concern for social justice. This did not make them social revolutionaries. Even the most radical revivalists did at no time urge their followers to overthrow the existing social order, and these followers never took any subversive actions on their own. What common people did take from the revivalist message was a conviction that under certain circumstances it was justifiable to act in their own behalf. For many, this was a new way of viewing society. Colonial America was a very deferential world in which power flowed in one direction: from the top down. Anything that challenged this conception of how the world worked created at least the potential for change.Which of the following rhetorical strategiesdoes the author use in the passageto convince the reader to accept his or herpoint of view?
- A.
Appealing to emotion
- B.
Reiterating reader concerns
- C.
Appealing to logic
- D.
Responding to reader skepticism
Correct Answer
C. Appealing to logicExplanation
The author uses the rhetorical strategy of appealing to logic in the passage to convince the reader to accept his or her point of view. The author presents a logical argument by providing evidence and reasoning to support their claims. They explain the social and political consequences of the Great Awakening, the divisions between Old Light and New Light churches, and the different perspectives of their members. The author also addresses potential skepticism by stating that the revivalists did not advocate for social revolution or take subversive actions. This logical approach helps to persuade the reader to accept the author's viewpoint.Rate this question:
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- 14.
Which of the following excerpts from thepassage expresses an opinion rather than afact?
- A.
The Great Awakening of the 1730s and 1740s had important social and political consequences.
- B.
In many locales, Protestant churches split into Old Light and New Light branches.
- C.
By contrast, members of New Light congregations tended to be younger and less wealthy than their Old Light counterparts.
- D.
Even the most radical revivalists did at no time urge their followers to overthrow the existing social order.
Correct Answer
A. The Great Awakening of the 1730s and 1740s had important social and political consequences.Explanation
The given answer expresses an opinion rather than a fact because the statement "The Great Awakening of the 1730s and 1740s had important social and political consequences" is subjective and open to interpretation. The term "important" is a value judgment and can vary depending on individual perspectives. It is not a verifiable fact that can be proven or disproven.Rate this question:
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- 15.
A proficient reader is most likely to readat a moderate to slow rate when:
- A.
Studying a journal article to learn about a topic for a research paper.
- B.
Scanning a textbook to find key terms and their definitions.
- C.
Skimming a newspaper to stay informed about current events.
- D.
Searching the Internet to locate information for a presentation.
Correct Answer
A. Studying a journal article to learn about a topic for a research paper.Explanation
When studying a journal article to learn about a topic for a research paper, a proficient reader is most likely to read at a moderate to slow rate. This is because journal articles are typically dense and contain complex information that requires careful reading and comprehension. Reading at a moderate to slow rate allows the reader to fully understand the content, analyze the arguments, and take notes for further reference. It also helps in retaining the information and integrating it into the research paper effectively.Rate this question:
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- 16.
Structural analysis would be the mostuseful strategy to apply to help a readerdetermine the meaning of which of thefollowing words?
- A.
Oxymoron
- B.
Antithesis
- C.
Onomatopoeia
- D.
Allegory
Correct Answer
B. AntithesisExplanation
Structural analysis would be the most useful strategy to apply to help a reader determine the meaning of the word "antithesis." This is because antithesis is a figure of speech that involves contrasting ideas in a balanced or parallel structure. By analyzing the structure of the sentence or phrase in which antithesis is used, the reader can identify the contrasting elements and understand the meaning of the word.Rate this question:
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- 17.
Before reading a chapter in a textbook,students write on a KWL chart what theyalready know and what they want to knowabout the topic of the chapter. Afterreading the chapter, the students thenrecord what they learned from the chapteron the chart. This activity is most likelyto promote the students' reading comprehensionby helping them:
- A.
Apply their knowledge of the features of expository texts.
- B.
Learn the meanings of unfamiliar words.
- C.
Connect their background knowledge to new information.
- D.
Adjust their reading rate based on text difficulty.
Correct Answer
C. Connect their background knowledge to new information.Explanation
This activity of writing on a KWL chart before and after reading a chapter helps students connect their background knowledge to new information. By identifying what they already know and what they want to know, students are able to activate their prior knowledge and make connections with the new information they will encounter in the chapter. This process enhances their understanding and comprehension of the text by bridging the gap between their existing knowledge and the new concepts presented in the chapter.Rate this question:
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- 18.
While reading a chapter in a textbook, astudent pauses periodically to summarizeand reflect on the contents of each passage.This strategy is likely to promotecomprehension most by helping thestudent:
- A.
Decode the text at a slow, steady rate.
- B.
Visualize concepts presented in the text.
- C.
Use context clues to interpret new words in the text.
- D.
Synthesize important ideas from the text.
Correct Answer
D. Synthesize important ideas from the text.Explanation
By pausing periodically to summarize and reflect on the contents of each passage, the student is actively engaging with the material and processing the information. This strategy allows the student to synthesize the important ideas from the text, which involves combining information from different parts of the passage to form a cohesive understanding. By doing so, the student is able to grasp the main concepts and connections within the text, leading to better comprehension overall.Rate this question:
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- 19.
During a play, the primary purpose of asoliloquy is to:
- A.
Establish a conflict between the protagonist and another major character.
- B.
Reveal the personal thoughts and emotions of a character.
- C.
Provide a resolution to the conflict in the play.
- D.
Allow the author to directly address the audience.
Correct Answer
B. Reveal the personal thoughts and emotions of a character.Explanation
During a play, a soliloquy serves as a tool for a character to express their innermost thoughts and emotions directly to the audience. It allows the character to reveal their personal struggles, desires, and intentions, providing insight into their psyche. This helps the audience to understand the character's motivations and adds depth to their portrayal. Therefore, the primary purpose of a soliloquy is to reveal the personal thoughts and emotions of a character.Rate this question:
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- 20.
Read the excerpt below from Our Town,a play by Thornton Wilder; thenanswer the question that follows.STAGE MANAGER. This play is called"Our Town." . . . The name of the town isGrover's Corners, New Hampshire—justacross the Massachusetts line: latitude42 degrees 40 minutes; longitude70 degrees 37 minutes. The First Actshows a day in our town. The day isMay 7, 1901. The time is just beforedawn.[A rooster crows.]The sky is beginning to show some streaksof light over in the East there, behind ourmount'in. The morning star always getswonderful bright the minute before it hasto go—doesn't it?In the excerpt above, the role of the stagemanager is most characteristic of which ofthe following traditional dramatic roles?
- A.
The hero
- B.
The fool
- C.
The antagonist
- D.
The chorus
Correct Answer
D. The chorusExplanation
The role of the stage manager in the excerpt is most characteristic of the chorus. The stage manager serves as a narrator and guide throughout the play, providing information about the setting, time, and events. Similar to the chorus in traditional dramas, the stage manager offers commentary and insight, helping to set the tone and provide context for the audience.Rate this question:
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- 21.
Biographers consider personal diariesspecially valuable as source materialbecause, unlike other kinds of nonfiction,these works characteristically contain:
- A.
A continuous narrative of events in the author's formative years.
- B.
Preliminary drafts of the author's correspondence.
- C.
An unbiased assessment of the author's accomplishments.
- D.
Candid accounts of the author's experiences and opinions.
Correct Answer
D. Candid accounts of the author's experiences and opinions.Explanation
Personal diaries are considered valuable as source material by biographers because they typically provide candid accounts of the author's experiences and opinions. Unlike other forms of nonfiction, diaries offer an intimate and unfiltered perspective on the author's life, allowing biographers to gain deeper insights into their thoughts, emotions, and personal experiences. These candid accounts can provide valuable context and understanding of the author's motivations, relationships, and personal growth, making diaries an invaluable resource for biographical research.Rate this question:
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- 22.
Read the poem below by Percy Bysshe Shelley; then answer the question that follows.To WordsworthPoet of Nature, thou hast wept to knowThat things depart which never may return:Childhood and youth, friendship and love's first glow,Have fled like sweet dreams, leaving thee to mourn.These common woes I feel. One loss is mineWhich thou too feel'st, yet I alone deplore.Thou wert as a lone star, whose light did shineOn some frail bark in winter's midnight roar:Thou hast like to a rock-built refuge stoodAbove the blind and battling multitude:In honoured poverty thy voice did weaveSongs consecrate to truth and liberty,—Deserting these, thou leavest me to grieve,Thus having been, that thou shouldst cease to be.The poem above best exemplifies whichof the following poetic forms?
- A.
Sonnet
- B.
Ode
- C.
Limerick
- D.
Ballad
Correct Answer
D. BalladExplanation
The poem "To Wordsworth" by Percy Bysshe Shelley is a ballad because it tells a story and has a narrative structure. It expresses the speaker's admiration for Wordsworth as a poet of nature and laments the loss of childhood, youth, friendship, and love. The poem also highlights Wordsworth's resilience and dedication to truth and liberty. The use of rhyme and regular meter further supports the classification of the poem as a ballad.Rate this question:
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- 23.
The experience of the Great Depressionand its influence on the culture of theUnited States are significant themes in theworks of which of the following writers?
- A.
Willa Cather
- B.
F. Scott Fitzgerald
- C.
Edith Wharton
- D.
John Steinbeck
Correct Answer
D. John SteinbeckExplanation
John Steinbeck is the correct answer because his works, such as "The Grapes of Wrath" and "Of Mice and Men," extensively explore the impact of the Great Depression on American society. Steinbeck's writings vividly depict the struggles of the working class and the social and economic hardships faced during this time period. His works provide a powerful commentary on the effects of the Great Depression and its lasting influence on the culture of the United States.Rate this question:
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- 24.
The nineteenth-century writings ofHarriet Jacobs and Frederick Douglassdemonstrate the ability of literature to:
- A.
Entertain readers with fantastic tales of imaginary worlds.
- B.
Transform public opinion and increase awareness of social issues.
- C.
Provide readers with utopian visions of a perfect society.
- D.
Reinterpret history through the use of allegory and symbolism.
Correct Answer
B. Transform public opinion and increase awareness of social issues.Explanation
The nineteenth-century writings of Harriet Jacobs and Frederick Douglass were influential in transforming public opinion and increasing awareness of social issues. Their autobiographical works, such as Jacobs' "Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl" and Douglass' "Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass," shed light on the harsh realities of slavery and the experiences of African Americans. These narratives exposed the cruelty and injustice of slavery, challenging the prevailing beliefs and attitudes of the time. Through their powerful storytelling and firsthand accounts, Jacobs and Douglass were able to effectively advocate for the abolition of slavery and inspire social change.Rate this question:
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- 25.
Read the excerpt below from TheWoman Warrior, a memoir by MaxineHong Kingston; then answer thequestion that follows.It was a woman who invented white craneboxing only two hundred years ago. Shewas already an expert pole fighter,daughter of a teacher trained at the Shaolintemple, where there lived an order offighting monks. She was combing herhair one morning when a white cranealighted outside her window. She teased itwith her pole, which it pushed aside with asoft brush of its wing. Amazed, shedashed outside and tried to knock thecrane off its perch. It snapped her pole intwo. Recognizing the presence of greatpower, she asked the spirit of the whitecrane if it would teach her to fight. Itanswered with a cry that white craneboxers imitate today. Later the birdreturned as an old man, and he guided herboxing for many years. Thus she gave theworld a new martial art.The story featured in the excerpt aboveprovides a contemporary variation onwhich of the following literary forms?
- A.
Lyric
- B.
Folktale
- C.
Comedy
- D.
Saga
Correct Answer
B. FolktaleExplanation
The story featured in the excerpt above is a folktale. It tells the tale of a woman who invents white crane boxing after encountering a white crane outside her window. The story includes elements of magic, transformation, and a lesson or moral. It is a traditional story that has been passed down through generations, making it a folktale.Rate this question:
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- 26.
Read the poem below by Aurora Levins Morales; then answer the question that follows.Child of the AmericasI am a child of the Americas,a light-skinned mestiza of the Caribbean,a child of many diaspora, born into this continent at a crossroads.I am a U.S. Puerto Rican Jew,a product of the ghettos of New York I have never known.An immigrant and the daughter and granddaughter of immigrants.I speak English with passion: it's the tongue of my consciousness,a flashing knife blade of crystal, my tool, my craft.I am Caribeña, island grown. Spanish is in my flesh,ripples from my tongue, lodges in my hips:the language of garlic and mangoes,the singing in my poetry, the flying gestures of my hands.I am of Latinoamerica, rooted in the history of my continent:I speak from that body.I am not african. Africa is in me, but I cannot return.I am taína.1 Taíno is in me, but there is no way back.I am not european. Europe lives in me, but I have no home there.I am new. History made me. My first language was spanglish.I was born at the crossroadsand I am whole.1taína: Taínos were the Indian tribe indigenous to Puerto Rico.The themes featured in this poem bestexemplify which of the followingcharacteristics of American literature?
- A.
American literature is heterogeneous with respect to language and culture and reflects the diversity of the American people.
- B.
Popular American literature conveys the mainstream, middle-class values of American society.
- C.
Twentieth-century American authors continue to embrace the influence of English and European literary traditions.
- D.
Conflict and upheaval in American politics are reflected through the use of nontraditional literary genres.
Correct Answer
A. American literature is heterogeneous with respect to language and culture and reflects the diversity of the American people.Explanation
The themes featured in the poem, such as being a mestiza of the Caribbean, an immigrant, and having multiple cultural and linguistic influences, highlight the diversity and heterogeneity of American literature. The poem emphasizes the intersectionality of different cultures and languages, reflecting the complex and diverse experiences of the American people. This aligns with the characteristic of American literature being heterogeneous with respect to language and culture, and showcasing the diversity of the American population.Rate this question:
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- 27.
In journalistic writing, it would generallybe most appropriate to use the invertedpyramid style for which of the followingtypes of stories?
- A.
A personality interview
- B.
A story that concludes with a surprise ending
- C.
An action story
- D.
A story in which the main facts are easily summarized
Correct Answer
D. A story in which the main facts are easily summarizedExplanation
The inverted pyramid style is a common writing structure in journalism where the most important information is presented at the beginning of the story, followed by supporting details in descending order of importance. This style is best suited for stories in which the main facts can be easily summarized, as it allows readers to quickly grasp the key information without having to read the entire article. It is not as effective for personality interviews or stories with surprise endings, as these types of stories often require a more narrative or suspenseful approach.Rate this question:
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- 28.
A writer is beginning an analytical essayon a literary text. Which of the followingsteps would be most appropriate for thewriter to take first?
- A.
Summarizing the key events in the text
- B.
Researching criticism on the text
- C.
Selecting favorite passages from the text
- D.
Identifying the main ideas in the text
Correct Answer
D. Identifying the main ideas in the textExplanation
To properly begin an analytical essay on a literary text, it is crucial for the writer to first identify the main ideas in the text. This step allows the writer to have a clear understanding of the central themes and concepts present in the text, which will serve as the foundation for their analysis. By identifying the main ideas, the writer can then proceed to develop their argument and provide evidence to support their analysis. This step is essential as it helps the writer establish a strong and focused direction for their essay.Rate this question:
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- 29.
Read the passage below; then answer the question that follows.The words "for purple mountain majesties" might well have been written with New York State's Catskill Mountains in mind. Well-wooded and replete with clear lakes, rushing streams, and roaring waterfalls dropping into deep gorges, the Catskills have long inspired artistic imaginations. During the nineteenth century, the artists of the Hudson River School struggled to depict the distinctive beauty of these spectacular mountains with their combination of misty light, brilliant color, and awesome topography.Which of the following additionaldetails would contribute most to thedevelopment of the main point of thepassage?
- A.
The Catskills are not particularly tall; Slide Mountain, their tallest peak, rises only 4,024 feet above sea level.
- B.
Asher B. Durand, in particular, experimented with the misty light and craggy views of the Catskills in his romantic representations of them.
- C.
During the early twentieth century, developers capitalized on the beauty of the Catskills by building posh resorts there.
- D.
Later artists such as Albert Bierstadt followed the example of the Hudson River School in painting landscapes of the American West.
Correct Answer
B. Asher B. Durand, in particular, experimented with the misty light and craggy views of the Catskills in his romantic representations of them.Explanation
The given answer contributes most to the development of the main point of the passage because it provides specific information about an artist, Asher B. Durand, who experimented with capturing the misty light and craggy views of the Catskills in his artistic representations. This detail supports the main point that the Catskills inspired artistic imaginations, particularly during the nineteenth century, and highlights the unique beauty of the mountains.Rate this question:
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- 30.
Read the passage below; then answer the two questions that follow.1The Native American novelist Leslie Marmon Silko grew up outside Albuquerque, New Mexico, on the margins of the Laguna Pueblo. 2Living on the margins has proved to be an apt metaphor for her life, and the differences between native and white culture are a major source of the tensions that characterize her work. 3In addition to writing, she teaches English at the University of Arizona. 4Silko's essays, poetry, and most importantly, her fiction, are steeped in Laguna cultural traditions. 5At the same time, her work reflects her encounters with mainstream U.S. culture. 6For the Laguna, storytelling is not simply a way to pass the time, it also provides a means of affirming their values, to preserve cherished traditions, and establishing spiritual connections with the whole of creation. 7Like the Laguna, Silko believes that her own kind of storytelling—the writing of fiction and poetry—is too important a gift to be used merely to entertain. 8In her work, she has attempted to tell sacred Laguna stories in ways that are so memorable and powerful that the stories themselves help to ensure the Laguna culture's survival while illustrating truths that can be applied to challenges the Laguna people face today. 9In her novel Ceremony, for example, the main character is a discharged soldier of mixed white–Laguna ancestry who returns to his pueblo after World War II suffering from posttraumatic stress disorder. 10Unlike other veterans who numb themselves with alcohol, he finds wholeness in a mystical Laguna tradition that heals him of his despair.Which of the following changes wouldimprove the effectiveness of the firstparagraph of the passage?
- A.
Delete Sentence 1.
- B.
Add a sentence before Sentence 2 that describes the Laguna Pueblo
- C.
Delete Sentence 3.
- D.
Add a sentence after Sentence 5 that lists Silko's major published works.
Correct Answer
C. Delete Sentence 3.Explanation
Deleting Sentence 3 would improve the effectiveness of the first paragraph because it is not directly related to the main topic of the paragraph, which is Leslie Marmon Silko's upbringing and the influence of native and white culture on her work. Deleting this sentence would help maintain a clear focus on the main ideas and themes being discussed.Rate this question:
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- 31.
Which of the following sentences shouldbe revised to correct an error in parallelstructure?
- A.
Sentence 6
- B.
Sentence 7
- C.
Sentence 9
- D.
Sentence 10
Correct Answer
A. Sentence 6 -
- 32.
Read the passage below from Heart of Darkness, a short novel by Joseph Conrad; then answer the two questions that follow.At night sometimes the roll of drums behind the curtain of trees would run up the river and remain sustained faintly, as if hovering in the air high over our heads, till the first break of day. Whether it meant war, peace, or prayer we could not tell. The dawns were heralded by the descent of a chill stillness; the woodcutters slept, their fires burned low; the snapping of a twig would make you start. We were wanderers on a prehistoric earth, on an earth that wore the aspect of an unknown planet. We could have fancied ourselves the first of men taking possession of an accursed inheritance, to be subdued at the cost of profound anguish and of excessive toil. But suddenly, as we struggled round a bend, there would be a glimpse of rush walls, of peaked grass-roofs, a burst of yells, a whirl of black limbs, a mass of handsclapping, of feet stamping, of bodies swaying, of eyes rolling, under the droop of heavy and motionless foliage.Which of the following would be the besttopic sentence for a short written analysisabout the author's use of setting in thepassage?
- A.
The strangeness and inscrutability of the primitive surroundings help reinforce a mood of fear and disorientation.
- B.
The sounds of drums rolling, hands clapping, and feet stamping create a sense of rhythm and order.
- C.
The stillness and quiet of dawn in this exotic place give an impression of peace, calm, and communion with nature.
- D.
The sight of grass roofs and people waving their arms generates a feeling of warm welcome.
Correct Answer
A. The strangeness and inscrutability of the primitive surroundings help reinforce a mood of fear and disorientation.Explanation
The passage describes the setting as strange and inscrutable, creating a sense of fear and disorientation. The author's use of words such as "unknown planet," "accursed inheritance," and "profound anguish" suggests that the environment is unfamiliar and unsettling. This contributes to the overall atmosphere of the story, emphasizing the sense of unease and uncertainty that the characters experience in this primitive setting.Rate this question:
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- 33.
Which of the following phrases from thepassage would provide the best support fora thesis statement that addresses theauthor's use of figurative language in thestory?
- A.
"Whether it meant war, peace, or prayer, we could not tell."
- B.
". . . the woodcutters slept; their fires burned low . . ."
- C.
"We were wanderers on a prehistoric earth . . ."
- D.
". . . there would be a glimpse of rush walls, of peaked grassroofs . . ."
Correct Answer
C. "We were wanderers on a prehistoric earth . . ."Explanation
The phrase "We were wanderers on a prehistoric earth" would provide the best support for a thesis statement addressing the author's use of figurative language in the story. This phrase uses figurative language to create a vivid image and convey a sense of time and place. It suggests that the characters in the story were exploring a primitive and ancient world, using the metaphor of being "wanderers" to emphasize their unfamiliarity and their journey through a foreign landscape. This use of figurative language adds depth and richness to the story's description of the setting.Rate this question:
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- 34.
Read the excerpt below from "Still IRise," a poem by Maya Angelou; thenanswer the two questions that follow.1You may write me down in history2With your bitter, twisted lies,3You may trod me in the very dirt4But still, like dust, I'll rise.5Does my sassiness upset you?6Why are you beset with gloom?7'Cause I walk like I've got oil wells8Pumping in my living room.9Just like moons and like suns,10With the certainty of tides,11Just like hopes springing high,12Still I'll rise.Use the information below to answerthe question that follows.The thesis statement below is developedfor an analytical essay on this excerpt ofthe poem.In her poem "Still I Rise," Maya Angelouuses vivid imagery to sustain the motif ofstrength, self-confidence, and resilience.Which of the following lines from thisexcerpt of the poem provides the bestsupport for the thesis statement above?
- A.
Lines 1 and 2
- B.
Lines 5 and 6
- C.
Lines 7 and 8
- D.
Lines 9 and 10
Correct Answer
C. Lines 7 and 8Explanation
Lines 7 and 8 provide the best support for the thesis statement. In these lines, the speaker questions why the person is upset by her sassiness and why they are filled with gloom. She then asserts that she walks as if she has oil wells pumping in her living room. This vivid imagery of abundance and confidence reinforces the motif of strength, self-confidence, and resilience, which is the focus of the thesis statement.Rate this question:
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- 35.
In an essay, a writer would be best able toreveal how a tone of defiance is created inthis poem by examining primarily the useof which of the following literary devices?
- A.
Rhythm
- B.
Personification
- C.
Alliteration
- D.
Symbolism
Correct Answer
A. RhythmExplanation
In this essay, the writer would be best able to reveal how a tone of defiance is created in the poem by examining primarily the use of rhythm. Rhythm refers to the pattern of stressed and unstressed syllables in a poem, which can create a sense of tension, resistance, or defiance. By analyzing the specific rhythmical patterns employed by the poet, the writer can uncover how the poem's structure contributes to the overall tone of defiance.Rate this question:
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- 36.
Read the paragraph below from a personal essay; then answer the question that follows.___________________________________________________________. It happened during my twelfth summer on the second day of camp. I usually resist my friends' dares or challenges, but something about that day made me feel strong, even invincible. With my newfound confidence, I took my best friend's challenge to jump from the little cliff at the edge of the lake onto a wooden raft fifteen feet away. She went first and seemed to glide effortlessly through the air, landing on her feet as if she had just jumped from her top bunk bed. With a final glance down at her on the raft, I closed my eyes and propelled myselfinto the air.Which of the following would be the mosteffective lead sentence for the paragraphabove?
- A.
Although I changed a great deal through this experience, I find it quite difficult to discuss.
- B.
Though it is hardly an experience most people would consider fortunate, breaking my arm changed my life forever.
- C.
They say everything happens for a reason, but I'm not sure they're right, since even today I can't figure out what good came of that stunt.
- D.
My best friend is such a great athlete that I wouldn't be surprised if she made the Olympic diving team someday.
Correct Answer
B. Though it is hardly an experience most people would consider fortunate, breaking my arm changed my life forever. -
- 37.
Which of the following topic sentenceswould be most effective to use in theexcerpt as Sentence 1?
- A.
While significant technological changes continue to occur, daily life remains the same for most people.
- B.
Because people often fear new technology, the Internet has taken a while to become popular.
- C.
Although change can have positive effects, some changes are not readily accepted by society.
- D.
Since the invention of the Internet, many new ways of conducting our daily routines have emerged.
Correct Answer
D. Since the invention of the Internet, many new ways of conducting our daily routines have emerged.Explanation
The given topic sentence would be most effective as Sentence 1 because it introduces the main idea of the paragraph, which is the impact of the Internet on daily routines. By stating that many new ways of conducting daily routines have emerged since the invention of the Internet, the reader is immediately informed of the focus of the paragraph and what to expect in the following sentences. This topic sentence sets the stage for discussing the changes brought about by the Internet and its significance in daily life.Rate this question:
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- 38.
Which of the following best describes thepurpose for using the expression "virtualmalt shops" in Sentence 6?
- A.
To introduce a new concept that provides a contrasting point of view
- B.
To encourage critical thinking about the main idea
- C.
To reinforce an important concept through familiar imagery
- D.
To provide an example that illustrates the main idea
Correct Answer
C. To reinforce an important concept through familiar imageryExplanation
The expression "virtual malt shops" is used in Sentence 6 to reinforce an important concept through familiar imagery. By comparing something abstract like "virtual malt shops" to something familiar like actual malt shops, the author helps the reader understand and visualize the concept more easily. This use of familiar imagery strengthens the understanding of the important concept being discussed.Rate this question:
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- 39.
Which of the following sentences containslanguage that would be appropriate to usein the expository essay from which theexcerpt is taken?
- A.
Students also use these networks to survey others' hobbies and interests and so identify prospective members for college special-interest clubs.
- B.
It is important that colleges monitor how much time students spend using these networks, since that time is not devoted to studying.
- C.
Students who use these networks to find dates or parties should be refused all future access to the networks.
- D.
It is fortunate that students have these networks as a resource, since without them, the social aspect of college life would be lost.
Correct Answer
A. Students also use these networks to survey others' hobbies and interests and so identify prospective members for college special-interest clubs.Explanation
This sentence would be appropriate to use in an expository essay because it provides information about how students use social networks to survey others' hobbies and interests, which helps them identify prospective members for college special-interest clubs. It presents a factual statement that supports the overall topic of the essay without expressing personal opinions or biases.Rate this question:
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- 40.
Read the passage below; then answerthe question that follows.The issue here could not be simpler. Thepresident has insisted that this bill bepassed. Either you support your chiefexecutive on this matter or you are not apatriotic American.The passage above best illustrates whichof the following fallacies in logic?
- A.
Circular reasoning
- B.
False authority
- C.
Irrelevant conclusion
- D.
False dilemma
Correct Answer
D. False dilemmaExplanation
The passage presents a false dilemma by stating that either one supports the president on this bill or they are not a patriotic American. This is a fallacy because it presents only two options when there could be other alternatives or perspectives to consider. It oversimplifies the issue and limits the possibilities for discussion or disagreement.Rate this question:
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- 41.
When preparing to write a persuasiveessay, a writer should take which of thefollowing steps first?
- A.
Outlining the major points that the essay will cover
- B.
Identifying relevant secondary sources
- C.
Developing a clearly defined position on an issue
- D.
Researching alternative perspectives on the subject matter
Correct Answer
C. Developing a clearly defined position on an issueExplanation
When preparing to write a persuasive essay, the first step should be developing a clearly defined position on an issue. This is important because it sets the foundation for the entire essay. By having a clear position, the writer can effectively structure their arguments and provide convincing evidence to support their viewpoint. Without a clearly defined position, the essay may lack focus and coherence. Once the position is established, the writer can then proceed to outlining the major points, identifying relevant secondary sources, and researching alternative perspectives to strengthen their argument.Rate this question:
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- 42.
Read the passage below; then answer the two questions that follow.To Langston Hughes, she was an eccentric, occasionally bizarre woman who had the nerve to approach strangers in Harlem and measure their heads. To the people in Eatonville, Florida, she was a daughter returning home to listen again to the stories she had first heard as a child. ________ the two sides of Zora Neale Hurston—the trained anthropologist and the child of the rural South—would come together in books such as Mules and Men and Tell My Horse, many of her fellow writers of the Harlem Renaissance never fully understood how they did so. They shared with her the benefits of a college education without knowing what it meant to have been nurtured on the folk culture and oral traditions of African American rural life. That lack of understanding became particularly apparent when they criticized her writing for being excessively pastoral and insufficiently attentive to the racial oppression they saw as central to the African American story. They could not see that Hurston was trying to capture and convey the life and folk ethos of a people. Nor did her critics fully comprehend the unique mode of expression she developed;________ it was this individuality that gave her writing an authenticity that has enabled it to stand the test of time. It is something that readers today can readily appreciate as they savor the insights and wisdom of a woman who insisted on charting her own course.Which of the following patterns oforganization does the author use todevelop the argument in the passage?
- A.
Chronological order
- B.
Comparison and contrast
- C.
Topical order
- D.
Order of importance
Correct Answer
B. Comparison and contrastExplanation
The author uses the pattern of comparison and contrast to develop the argument in the passage. The passage compares the two sides of Zora Neale Hurston - the trained anthropologist and the child of the rural South. It contrasts her understanding of African American folk culture and oral traditions with the lack of understanding from her fellow writers of the Harlem Renaissance. The passage also contrasts the criticism of her writing for being pastoral and insufficiently attentive to racial oppression with the unique mode of expression she developed. This pattern of comparison and contrast helps to highlight the different perspectives and misunderstandings surrounding Hurston's work.Rate this question:
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- 43.
Which of the following pairs of wordswould provide the best transitions ifinserted, in order, into the blank spacesin the passage?
- A.
Eventually; thus
- B.
Because; but
- C.
Nevertheless; still
- D.
Although; yet
Correct Answer
D. Although; yetExplanation
The correct answer is "Although; yet". This pair of words would provide the best transitions if inserted in the blank spaces of the passage. "Although" indicates a contrast or contradiction, while "yet" introduces a continuation or addition to the previous statement. This transition would effectively connect two contrasting ideas and emphasize the continuation of the argument.Rate this question:
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- 44.
Read the passage below; then answer the two questions that follow.1Through efforts to sanitize our world, we are creating additional—and perhaps even greater—health threats. 2Doctors have long known that an indiscriminant use of antibiotics often leads to the emergence of germs that are increasingly resistant to the drugs. 3It is now clear that the use of bacteria-killing chemicals produces much the same dilemma. 4More than 700 household products contain such chemicals. 5Hand cleaners, bathroom sprays, cutting boards, sponges, and other products are laced with triclosan and other chemicals that kill bacteria. 6Researchers have discovered that the bacteria have begun to fight back. 7With repeated exposure to these chemicals, they develop mutations that enable them to counter the chemicals' effects.Which of the following patterns oforganization does the author use todevelop the argument in the passage?
- A.
Problem–solution
- B.
Spatial order
- C.
Cause and effect
- D.
Sequential order
Correct Answer
C. Cause and effectExplanation
The author uses the cause and effect pattern of organization to develop the argument in the passage. The passage begins by stating the problem of creating health threats through efforts to sanitize our world. It then explains the cause of the problem, which is the indiscriminate use of antibiotics and bacteria-killing chemicals. The passage goes on to describe the effect of this cause, which is the emergence of germs that are resistant to drugs and the development of mutations in bacteria that enable them to counter the effects of the chemicals. Therefore, the author presents the cause and effect relationship between the use of these chemicals and the health threats that result.Rate this question:
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- 45.
Which of the following sentences containsdetails that best support the author'sargument in the passage?
- A.
Sentence 1
- B.
Sentence 3
- C.
Sentence 5
- D.
Sentence 7
Correct Answer
D. Sentence 7 -
- 46.
Read the passage below; then answer the three questions that follow.1Considered by many to be the soul of Argentina, the tango is a product of late nineteenth- and early twentieth-century Buenos Aires. 2During the period, Buenos Aires became one of the world's most culturally diverse urban centers. 3Between 1869 and 1914, as a vast flood of immigrants poured in from Cuba, Spain, Italy, Britain, Germany, Africa, and other parts of the globe; the city's population increased from 180,000 to 1.5 million. 4Situated at the mouth of the Río de la Plata, Buenos Aires today is one of the world's largest port cities. 5It was in the bars and dance halls frequented by the young men who made up the bulk of the newcomers that the tango evolved. 6Although members of the Argentine upper classes tended to view the tango with disdain, many of their more adventurous children quickly embraced the new dance. 7When they afterward traveled overseas, they brought the tango with them. 8By the 1910s, the dance was a sensation in Paris and had captured the hearts of people in New York, Rome, and London. 9During the culturally chaotic decade of the 1920s, the dance continued to increase in popularity as people from all walks of life in a growing number of countries learned how to move to the seductive pauses and accelerations of tango music.Which of the following best describes thewriter's main purpose in the passage?
- A.
To compare how different cultures responded to the tango
- B.
To describe the origins and diffusion of the tango
- C.
To explain upper-class opposition to the tango within Argentina
- D.
To analyze the growing popularity of the tango
Correct Answer
B. To describe the origins and diffusion of the tangoExplanation
The passage provides information about the origins and diffusion of the tango. It discusses how the tango evolved in Buenos Aires, influenced by the diverse immigrant population and embraced by the younger generation. It also mentions how the dance spread to other countries, such as Paris, New York, Rome, and London, becoming a sensation. Therefore, the main purpose of the writer in the passage is to describe the origins and diffusion of the tango.Rate this question:
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- 47.
Which of the following sentences drawsattention away from the main idea of thefirst paragraph in the passage?
- A.
Sentence 2
- B.
Sentence 3
- C.
Sentence 4
- D.
Sentence 5
Correct Answer
C. Sentence 4Explanation
Sentence 4 draws attention away from the main idea of the first paragraph because it introduces a new topic that is not directly related to the main idea. The other sentences in the passage are more closely related to the main idea and provide additional information or support for it. Sentence 4 disrupts the flow of the paragraph and diverts the reader's attention to a different topic.Rate this question:
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- 48.
Which of the following sentences in thepassage should be revised as indicated?
- A.
Sentence 3: Change the semicolon after "globe" to a comma.
- B.
Sentence 5: Insert a comma after "men."
- C.
Sentence 6: Change the comma after "disdain" to a semicolon.
- D.
Sentence 7: Delete the comma after "overseas."
Correct Answer
A. Sentence 3: Change the semicolon after "globe" to a comma.Explanation
In the given passage, the correct answer is Sentence 3: Change the semicolon after "globe" to a comma. This means that in Sentence 3, the punctuation mark should be revised from a semicolon to a comma after the word "globe".Rate this question:
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- 49.
Read the passage below; then answer the two questions that follow.1In Ernest Hemingway's novella, The Old Man and The Sea, a proud Cuban fisherman named Santiago fails to catch a fish for 84 days. 2Determined to do something about it, he sets out for waters far beyond where fishermen typically go, and after a long and grueling battle, he catches a marlin. 3Lashing it to his skiff, he heads home. 4An hour later, sharks smell blood in the water and begin to attack the marlin, tearing away huge chunks of its flesh. 5By the time he arrives in port, little more than the marlin's skeleton remains. 6Santiago repeatedly fights the sharks off, but he does not have the resources to keepthem at bay. 7Santiago displays tremendous respect for the marlin, which is a truly glorious fighting fish and thus a worthy opponent. 8By contrast, he considers the sharks contemptible predators that prey on other forms of marine life. 9However heroic, his struggle with the sharks means much less to him than his battle with the marlin. 10Literary critics believe that Hemingway used the marlin to symbolize those challenges in life that bring out the best in people and contribute to the development of self. 11The sharks, on the other hand, represent those dark forces that threaten personal destruction. 12That Santiago refuses to give up when fighting them shows that he will not allow himself to be destroyed.Which of the following changes wouldmake the sequence of ideas in the firstparagraph of the passage more clear?
- A.
Delete Sentence 3.
- B.
Reverse the order of Sentences 3 and 4.
- C.
Delete Sentence 5.
- D.
Reverse the order of Sentences 5 and 6.
Correct Answer
D. Reverse the order of Sentences 5 and 6.Explanation
Reversing the order of sentences 5 and 6 would make the sequence of ideas in the first paragraph more clear. Currently, sentence 5 describes the sharks attacking the marlin and tearing away its flesh, while sentence 6 mentions Santiago fighting off the sharks but lacking the resources to keep them away. By reversing the order, sentence 6 would come before sentence 5, making it clear that Santiago fights off the sharks before they attack the marlin. This change would create a more logical flow of events and improve the clarity of the paragraph.Rate this question:
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- 50.
Which of the following sentences shouldbe revised to eliminate a redundancy?
- A.
Sentence 2
- B.
Sentence 4
- C.
Sentence 8
- D.
Sentence 10
Correct Answer
C. Sentence 8 -
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Apr 28, 2023Quiz Edited by
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Jul 08, 2009Quiz Created by
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