What source would be most useful in determining the reliability of Punxsutawney Phil's predictions over a number of years?
- A. A memoir from a former president of the Groundhog Club
- B. A record of weather patterns over the past decade
- C. An article on groundhog behavior in the northeast U.S
- D. A historical account of Groundhog Day traditions
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: A record of weather patterns over the past decade would be the most useful source in determining the reliability of Punxsutawney Phil's predictions. By comparing Phil's forecasts with the actual weather outcomes, one can analyze the accuracy of his predictions. Choices A, C, and D do not directly provide the necessary data on weather patterns to evaluate Phil's reliability.
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What is the main idea conveyed in the extract?
- A. Shia hears strange noises in the dark hallway
- B. Shia is working late at the office
- C. Shia is preparing for a presentation
- D. Shia encounters a terrifying situation in the CFO's office
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The main idea conveyed in the extract is that Shia encounters a terrifying situation in the CFO's office. The passage describes Shia hearing strange noises, feeling fear, and encountering alarming events like crashes and howls. This builds tension and indicates a dangerous situation unfolding. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect as they do not capture the central theme of Shia facing a frightening encounter in the CFO's office.
What is the tone of the passage?
- A. Witty
- B. Incredulous
- C. Aggressive
- D. Tense
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'Witty.' The tone of the passage is light-hearted and humorous, characterized by amusing details like the eccentric birthday party with zebras, monster trucks, and a limited buffet of boiled asparagus and pickled carrots. The mention of Dr. Creekstone planning an even bigger party with more zebras adds to the whimsical and humorous tone. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as there is no indication of disbelief, hostility, or anxiety in the passage; instead, it conveys a sense of fun and amusement.
Which of the following words are synonyms for 'erroneously' as used in the passage?
- A. Correctly
- B. Inconsequentially
- C. Mistakenly
- D. Extraneously
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: 'Erroneously' means incorrectly or mistakenly, which aligns with the context provided in the passage. Therefore, 'Incorrectly' and 'Mistakenly' are synonyms for 'erroneously.' 'Inconsequentially' means not resulting in any significant consequence, which is not synonymous with 'erroneously.' 'Extraneously' means irrelevant or unnecessary, which is also not a synonym for 'erroneously.'
Which of the following contains only key points of the passage?
- A. Dr. Creekstone's 90th birthday party with 3000 guests, zebras, monster trucks, bagpipe player, limited buffet, and fireworks display.
- B. There were shocking buffet items at Dr. Creekstone's birthday party.
- C. Dr. Creekstone plans to have an even bigger and more interesting birthday party next year.
- D. Dr. Creekstone's 90th birthday party had 3000 guests, zebras, monster trucks, bagpipe player, limited buffet, and fireworks display.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Choice A provides a comprehensive list of key points from the passage about Dr. Creekstone's 90th birthday party, including the number of guests, unique elements like zebras and monster trucks, the buffet contents, and the fireworks display. Choices B and C do not cover all the important details mentioned in the passage, making them incomplete and inaccurate. Choice D is a partial summary, missing essential details such as the unique elements and the limited buffet, so it is not the best option.
Which of the following words is a synonym for avian in this passage?
- A. Bird
- B. Flying
- C. Aerial
- D. Plane
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The word 'avian' refers to birds, so the synonym is 'Bird.' In the provided passage, the term 'avian' is used to refer to birds, making 'Bird' the correct synonym. 'Flying' and 'Aerial' are related to the concept of flight but do not specifically refer to birds. 'Plane' refers to an aircraft and is not synonymous with 'avian' or 'bird.' Therefore, 'Bird' is the most appropriate choice as a synonym for avian in this context.