Which of the following would weaken the author's argument?
- A. a report revealing that the cited study was funded by a company that provides discounted tutoring through schools
- B. a study demonstrating differences in standardized test scores among students at schools in various neighborhoods
- C. a statement signed by local teachers affirming that they do not give preferential treatment in the classroom or during grading
- D. a study indicating that GPA has a weak correlation with success in college
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Choice A weakens the author's argument by highlighting a potential conflict of interest. If the cited study was funded by a company offering discounted tutoring, it could introduce bias and question the credibility of the study's findings. This revelation could cast doubt on the objectivity and reliability of the research, ultimately undermining the argument based on the cited study. Choices B, C, and D do not directly impact the credibility or objectivity of the cited study, so they would not significantly weaken the author's argument.
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Which of the following conclusions is best supported by the passage?
- A. Julia will find a job closer to her home.
- B. Julia will lose her job.
- C. Julia will feel guilty and return to work.
- D. Julia will drive home and go to sleep.
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Based on the passage provided, there is no indication that Julia will find a job closer to her home, lose her job, or feel guilty and return to work. The passage simply states that Julia is tired and ready to go home, indicating that she will likely drive home and go to sleep. Throughout the passage, Julia faces a series of frustrating events that culminate in her decision to leave work and head home. There is no mention of job hunting, job loss, or feelings of guilt, making these options unsupported by the text.
Based on the context, which of the following is the meaning of the word move in the passage?
- A. drive
- B. sell
- C. advance forward
- D. change location
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: In the context provided, the word 'move' is used to indicate that the vehicles are 'marked to move quickly,' which implies that they are intended to be sold rapidly. Therefore, the correct meaning of 'move' in this context is 'sell.' Options A, C, and D do not accurately capture the intention of the word as it is used in the passage. While 'advance forward' (Option C) might seem plausible, the context of a sales event and the urgency to buy due to low prices indicate that 'sell' is the most fitting interpretation.
Based on the context, which of the following is the meaning of the word match in the sentence?
- A. a competitive event
- B. a suitable pair
- C. a slender piece of wood used to start a fire
- D. a prospective marriage partner
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: In the context of the sentence, the word 'match' refers to a competitive event, likely a sports match or game that Victoria participated in and won easily. This is the most appropriate interpretation based on the context provided. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they do not fit the context of the sentence. 'A suitable pair,' 'a slender piece of wood used to start a fire,' and 'a prospective marriage partner' do not relate to Victoria winning a match in a sports context.
According to the guide, in which of the following seasons would ginger be harvested?
- A. spring
- B. summer
- C. fall
- D. winter
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Ginger is typically harvested in the fall season because ginger roots mature in about 8-10 months after planting. This makes the fall season optimal for harvesting when the roots have reached their full potential. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because ginger is not harvested in spring, summer, or winter according to the guide provided.
What can the reader conclude from the passage above?
- A. The kingsnake is dangerous to humans.
- B. The coral snake and the kingsnake are both hunted by the same predators.
- C. It's safe to handle snakes in the woods because you can easily tell whether they're poisonous.
- D. The kingsnake changes its markings when hawks or eagles are close by.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B. The passage explains that the kingsnake mimics the venomous coral snake's markings to deter predators, particularly hawks and eagles, which cannot differentiate between the two species. This implies that both the coral snake and the kingsnake face similar threats from predators in their shared habitat. Choice A is incorrect because the passage clearly states that the kingsnake is nonvenomous, so it is not dangerous to humans. Choice C is incorrect as the passage highlights that not all snakes with flashy markings are venomous, emphasizing the need for caution. Choice D is incorrect as there is no mention of the kingsnake changing its markings in response to the presence of hawks or eagles in the passage.