Which of the following best captures the author's purpose?
- A. to advocate for specific ideals and beliefs
- B. to discuss the role of skin coloration and markings in snakes
- C. to explain the influence of idealism on American social and political discourse
- D. to examine the impact of snake behavior on the ecosystem
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The author's main purpose in the passage is to explain the influence of idealism on American social and political discourse. The passage discusses how idealistic viewpoints shape the discourse in America, advocating for specific ideals and beliefs (A) rather than explaining the beliefs of an idealist (B) or examining the impact of snake behavior on the ecosystem (D).
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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.
Based on the pattern in the headings, which of the following is a reasonable heading to insert in the blank spot?
- A. Gray Tree Frog
- B. Tropical Frogs
- C. Newts
- D. Spadefoot Toads
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: By observing the headings provided in the extract, we can see that they are sorted alphabetically starting from 'Gray Tree Frog.' Following this alphabetical order, the next heading to be inserted in the blank spot would also come alphabetically next, which is 'Gray Tree Frog.' Choices B, C, and D do not follow the alphabetical pattern established by the existing headings and are therefore incorrect.
Which of the following conclusions is well supported by the passage?
- A. The Human Resources team will take longer than initially stated to review candidates and schedule interviews for the position of Lead Technician.
- B. Mr. Morgan is well qualified for the position of Lead Technician and will likely be offered an interview.
- C. The Human Resources team may struggle to find a suitable candidate for the position of Lead Technician due to the high number of applications received.
- D. Mr. Morgan will patiently wait for further communication from the Human Resources team regarding his application for the position of Lead Technician.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The passage mentions that Mr. Morgan's application for the position of Lead Technician has been received, along with a higher-than-expected number of applications. It also states that the Human Resources team will take longer than previously stated to review candidates and schedule interviews. While there is no direct mention of Mr. Morgan's qualifications or the likelihood of him being offered an interview, it can be inferred that his interest in the position and the competitive application pool suggest that he is well qualified and stands a good chance of being offered an interview. Therefore, the most supported conclusion is that Mr. Morgan is well qualified for the position of Lead Technician and will likely be offered an interview. Choice A is incorrect because the passage does not mention the specific timeframe within which Mr. Morgan was informed about receiving feedback. Choice C is not directly supported by the passage as it does not indicate any challenges in finding a qualified candidate. Choice D is not directly addressed in the passage and is speculative.
What is the best summary of this passage?
- A. Humans can use coloration and markings on snakes to determine whether they're venomous.
- B. Animals use coloration to hide from predators.
- C. The scarlet kingsnake and the coral snake have nearly identical markings.
- D. Venomous snakes often have bright markings, although nonvenomous snakes can also mimic those colors.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The best summary of the passage is that humans can use coloration and markings on snakes to determine whether they're venomous. The passage discusses how snake markings serve the purpose of warning predators and helping humans identify venomous snakes by their bright coloration. Choice B is incorrect because the passage focuses on how coloration helps snakes evade predators rather than hide from them. Choice C is incorrect as it only mentions two specific snakes with similar markings, which is a minor detail compared to the main point of identifying venomous snakes. Choice D is incorrect because it only partially reflects the passage, focusing solely on the relationship between markings and venom in snakes, missing the crucial aspect of human ability to discern venomous snakes based on their coloration.
Which of the following is the meaning of the word bestowed as it is used in the passage?
- A. purchased
- B. forgotten
- C. accepted
- D. given
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The word 'bestowed' in this context means to be given or presented with something. In the passage, it is mentioned that good powers were bestowed upon different animals by Epimetheus. This implies that these powers were given or presented to the animals. Choice A, 'purchased,' does not align with the context of the passage as the animals did not buy or acquire these powers. Choice B, 'forgotten,' is incorrect as it does not relate to the act of giving. Choice C, 'accepted,' is also incorrect as it implies that the animals willingly received these powers, which is not the case in the passage. Therefore, the correct answer is 'D: given.'