TEAS Reading Practice Quizzes

Which of the following car advertising slogans offers evidence in favour of the claim that the vehicles are built to last?

Hopefully we’ll get some rain soon; we need a respite from this hot and dry weather. Which of the following is the closest meaning to “respite” in the sentence above?

An Environmental Vacation : The state of Maine is home to famous state parks and sought-after beaches, making it a popular vacation destination. Recently, however, this northeastern state has made headlines for a mysterious black element, similar to soot, found on some of its beaches. Visitors alerted authorities after realizing that their feet had been covered with the ash-like substance, which was almost impossible to remove. What was initially believed to have been oil deposits mixed with sand was proven to be something else entirely and even more concerning. Thanks to a collaboration between a team of oceanographers and the Department of Environmental Protection, the black ash was confirmed to be tiny carcasses of millions of insects identified as Coelopa frigida, a fly that is rich in pigment and tends to feed on algae. While it is not clear how the insects ended up on the beaches or why the disastrous phenomenon occurred, experts believe that it is likely an isolated incident. Which of the answer choices presents a valid inference based on the given information?

Give Me…Four? : The spectacled salamander, also known as the salamandrina terdigitata, is a European species of salamanders found in both central and southern regions of Italy. Unlike all of the other European salamander species, it has four fingers instead of five on its hind legs. Another interesting feature of the species is that it does not secrete substances that are as toxic as those of other salamanders, even though its dark coloring would suggest otherwise. Typically, the presence of these salamanders denotes a healthy environmental status in the surrounding area. As such, they are most often found in lush forests with a high humidity rate and clear streams. The climate and other elements help the species stay cool without having to enter the water. In fact, only females enter water in order to lay their eggs in the early summer months. After a few months, these eggs hatch, which triggers the metamorphosis stage that leads to adulthood. Once the metamorphosis stage has completed, male spectacled salamanders spend their time on land and avoid the water. Which of the answer choices presents a valid inference based on the given information?

Passage 1 (4 Paragraphs) Expanding a Viking Family Tree with DNA : 1. When a genomicist team from the University of Copenhagen set out to research ancient DNA, they expected to discover more information about the origins of Scandinavian populations. What they did not expect to find, however, was a familial tie between two warriors from the Viking Age, buried around 500 miles away from each other. This unexpected element not only provided a fascinating look into the ancient Viking population, but it also debunked some common ideas related to the general time period of the Viking Age, spanning from around 750 to 1100 CE. These findings are changing what we know about this time period and even offering up more information regarding genetic diversity. 2. In the research project’s early stages, Ashot Margaryan, the lead genomicist on the project, and his team set off to sample and sequence DNA from just over 400 human skeletons located in ancient archaeological sites in Europe and Greenland. The next step involved comparing the genomes and matching them up against other readily available genomes from modern populations, which led to a surprising discovery. The team realized that the effects of Scandinavian maritime expansion during the Viking Age was twofold. First, mixed ancestries were present along coastal areas, likely due to the raiding and settlements of Viking tribes. Moreover, it proves that genetic DNA from Scandinavia moved along the most common trade and raiding routes of the time. 3. Using the newfound knowledge of Viking travels and additional genetic DNA, the team was able to trace back the origins of two different sets of skeletal remains found in Denmark and England, respectively. Not only did the remains belong to two Viking warriors, but research proved that they were actually second-degree relatives. The first set of remains found in Denmark likely belonged to a fifty-year-old man who had sustained multiple injuries from raids throughout his long life. The second set, found in England, belonged to a younger man in his early twenties, who archaeologists believe met his death in a violent manner. Although the exact familial ties between the pair is impossible to know with certainty, the DNA proves that they could have been half-siblings, grandfather and grandson, or uncle and nephew. 4. While the link between these two warriors’ remains added an unexpected twist in the research phase, it serves as a testament to how useful ancient DNA can be as a tool to reconstruct the past. Whether it can shed light on mass migrations or provide a more personal look into select individuals, genetic evidence will remain a source of interest and study for researchers. Coupled with archaeology, geneticists hope to use ancient DNA when studying the history of complex civilizations that have left behind little evidence. If it has made us rethink some common ideas surrounding one of the most studied civilizations in the world, there is no telling what it will do next. Which of the following best summarizes paragraph 3?

The dog park is located to which side of the river?

As I glanced at my oven, I noticed that my loaf of bread was rising exponentially. It had only been twenty minutes since I had placed it in the oven, and the bread had already risen over the pan and the dough was everywhere! I thought back to why this was happening, and then I realized that I had mistakenly doubled the quantity of yeast in the initial stages of following the recipe! Now, I will never make that mistake again. Which event came first in the sequence?

A friend calls and tells you, “I’ve been stuck in traffic on the highway for the past hour. There must have been an accident, so I need to take a detour. So, I haven’t been able to go home and grab a shower. I know I’m late, but I’ll be over as soon as I’ve done that!” When should you expect your friend to arrive?

At the meeting, the committee plans to laud the supervisor for his exemplary leadership. Which of the following is the closest meaning to “laud” in the sentence above?

Spinal Movement Four types of movement occur in the spine. Flexion is the forward folding of the spine. In opposition to this, extension is backbending. Axial rotation is a twisting motion and, finally, lateral flexion is side stretching. Unfortunately, with our modern sedentary lifestyle, we often don’t get enough of any type of movement. We sit for hours at keyboards and in cars, our shoulders hunching over and our spines becoming stiff. When we’re done with work for the day, we’re exhausted, and we plop down on the couch for even more sedentary time. This can contribute to back pain and a loss of mobility, especially as we age over time. A sedentary lifestyle is relaxing. However, it’s important to have balance, and it may be necessary to make a deliberate effort to create this balance so as to keep our spines mobile and healthy. During your work day, make time for breaks for brief walks and stretching sessions. If you work from home, this will be easier because it feels awkward at work if your colleagues watch you take laps around the office. Additionally, at home it’s easier to stretch your spine. A bolster (a long, narrow, and firm pillow) is great for this. You can lie down with the bolster placed vertically in line with your spine. With your head and back supported, you’ll experience gentle, supported extension (the backward bending motion of the spine). This posture is relaxing and bolsters are quite comfortable. Regular time in this or in a similar position will help counteract the flexion we experience while sitting, thus bringing more balance to the spine. Which of the following statements from the passage expresses an opinion?

Passage 1 (4 Paragraphs) Expanding a Viking Family Tree with DNA : 1. When a genomicist team from the University of Copenhagen set out to research ancient DNA, they expected to discover more information about the origins of Scandinavian populations. What they did not expect to find, however, was a familial tie between two warriors from the Viking Age, buried around 500 miles away from each other. This unexpected element not only provided a fascinating look into the ancient Viking population, but it also debunked some common ideas related to the general time period of the Viking Age, spanning from around 750 to 1100 CE. These findings are changing what we know about this time period and even offering up more information regarding genetic diversity. 2. In the research project’s early stages, Ashot Margaryan, the lead genomicist on the project, and his team set off to sample and sequence DNA from just over 400 human skeletons located in ancient archaeological sites in Europe and Greenland. The next step involved comparing the genomes and matching them up against other readily available genomes from modern populations, which led to a surprising discovery. The team realized that the effects of Scandinavian maritime expansion during the Viking Age was twofold. First, mixed ancestries were present along coastal areas, likely due to the raiding and settlements of Viking tribes. Moreover, it proves that genetic DNA from Scandinavia moved along the most common trade and raiding routes of the time. 3. Using the newfound knowledge of Viking travels and additional genetic DNA, the team was able to trace back the origins of two different sets of skeletal remains found in Denmark and England, respectively. Not only did the remains belong to two Viking warriors, but research proved that they were actually second-degree relatives. The first set of remains found in Denmark likely belonged to a fifty-year-old man who had sustained multiple injuries from raids throughout his long life. The second set, found in England, belonged to a younger man in his early twenties, who archaeologists believe met his death in a violent manner. Although the exact familial ties between the pair is impossible to know with certainty, the DNA proves that they could have been half-siblings, grandfather and grandson, or uncle and nephew. 4. While the link between these two warriors’ remains added an unexpected twist in the research phase, it serves as a testament to how useful ancient DNA can be as a tool to reconstruct the past. Whether it can shed light on mass migrations or provide a more personal look into select individuals, genetic evidence will remain a source of interest and study for researchers. Coupled with archaeology, geneticists hope to use ancient DNA when studying the history of complex civilizations that have left behind little evidence. If it has made us rethink some common ideas surrounding one of the most studied civilizations in the world, there is no telling what it will do next. Which of the following best summarizes paragraph 2?

Global warming (source) The Earth is kept warm by greenhouse gases, but their imbalance can lead to our planet becoming warmer. The average temperature of our planet has fluctuated over time; but in the last century, temperatures have increased dramatically. There can be many reasons for this, and many researchers believe that it is the result of natural causes, such as variations in the sun’s activity, and volcanic eruptions. Others, however, support the idea that an excessive amount of greenhouse gases is the cause for the rise in temperature. Scientists argue that carbon dioxide emissions from cars and factories have contributed to the global warming effects of greenhouse gases. What is the main idea of the passage?

Spinal Movement Four types of movement occur in the spine. Flexion is the forward folding of the spine. In opposition to this, extension is backbending. Axial rotation is a twisting motion and, finally, lateral flexion is side stretching. Unfortunately, with our modern sedentary lifestyle, we often don’t get enough of any type of movement. We sit for hours at keyboards and in cars, our shoulders hunching over and our spines becoming stiff. When we’re done with work for the day, we’re exhausted, and we plop down on the couch for even more sedentary time. This can contribute to back pain and a loss of mobility, especially as we age over time. A sedentary lifestyle is relaxing. However, it’s important to have balance, and it may be necessary to make a deliberate effort to create this balance so as to keep our spines mobile and healthy. During your work day, make time for breaks for brief walks and stretching sessions. If you work from home, this will be easier because it feels awkward at work if your colleagues watch you take laps around the office. Additionally, at home it’s easier to stretch your spine. A bolster (a long, narrow, and firm pillow) is great for this. You can lie down with the bolster placed vertically in line with your spine. With your head and back supported, you’ll experience gentle, supported extension (the backward bending motion of the spine). This posture is relaxing and bolsters are quite comfortable. Regular time in this or in a similar position will help counteract the flexion we experience while sitting, thus bringing more balance to the spine. Which of the following statements from the passage expresses a fact?

Olympic runners (source): Depending on the type of track running, Olympic runners have different dietary requirements. Sprinters, for example, run for short lengths and need short, sharp bursts of energy. In contrast, long-distance or marathon runners need slow-releasing nutrients that provide energy for a longer period of time. For this reason, they require a similar amount of calories as swimmers. During training sessions close to their race, marathon runners follow a high-carb diet. They eat a very high percentage of carbohydrates three days before the race, but an average portion the night before. On the other hand, carb-loading the day before the event could compromise their performance, leaving the runners feeling bloated and lethargic. What is the main idea of the passage?

Yoga: More Accessible Than You Might Think One common misconception about yoga is that you need to be flexible to even try it. This misconception stems from a limited view of something unfamiliar. If you don’t practice yoga, your ideas of it may come from images carefully constructed for public view on social media. These images, often shared by companies or “influencers,” show lithe, seasoned yogis in acrobatic poses. Their faces are serene, their hair and makeup flawless, their outfits expensive and perfectly coordinated. If you visit a yoga studio, though, you’ll see practitioners of all ages, shapes, sizes, and ability levels. There will be plenty of sweat, frizzy hair, mismatched outfits, and people falling out of poses (a natural part of learning!). Yoga studios also offer a variety of props to help students access poses safely while they build the necessary flexibility to practice without the prop. Common props include blocks and straps. Yoga blocks are rectangular and generally made of some form of foam or wood. Many practitioners feel that wood blocks provide a greater sense of stability. However, they can be less comfortable when placed under the back in reclining poses. Yoga straps are long, sturdy, and generally made of cotton. They often have a form of buckle at the end which practitioners can use to create a loop. Straps can help you with many things, such as reaching your toes in a seated forward fold. With a couple blocks and a strap, yoga students can safely access poses they might have thought impossible. Instead of stressing or straining (and hence risking injury), people can safely work into a pose, gradually developing more flexibility. Aside from using props in the yoga studio, everyone should have some for their home practice as well. Which of the following statements from the passage expresses an opinion?

Follow the instructions below to transform the starting word into a different word. Start with the word CONSCIOUS. Remove the first S that appears in the word. Change the first C to an X. Change the second C to an O. Add an N to the beginning of the word. Remove the letter in the exact middle of the word. Switch the second and third letters. Remove the third consonant. What is the new word?

Follow the instructions below to transform the starting word into a different word. Start with the word PERMEABLE. Remove the first E from the beginning of the word. Remove the A. Add a U after the E in the middle of the word. Move the U after the first letter. Switch the first and fourth letters. Remove the P. Change the third letter to an M. What is the new word?

Follow the instructions below to transform the starting word into a different word. Start with the word HOLIDAY. Change the A to an E. Move the Y to the beginning of the word. Change the H to the letter that precedes it in the alphabet. Add an N to the beginning of the word. Remove the second letter of the word. Remove the third to last letter of the word. Move the first letter to the end of the word. What is the new word?

To: All Staff in the West Offices From: Building Manager Date: September 9th Subject: Elevator Maintenance After frequent reports of elevator malfunctions in the West Offices, they have been closed for maintenance. Upon an initial check, the engineering team has found concerning problems in the electrical wires of all elevators located in these offices. Thus, we are requesting that all employees who work in this office use the stairs for all movement in and out of their offices. However, if you are an employee with personal mobility issues when it comes to stairs, we would encourage you to follow the company’s remote work procedures for the next two weeks in order to avoid injury or discomfort. This construction will also affect parking for our employees. Since the underground parking lots were directly connected to the elevators in the West Offices, they will be closed. The company will reimburse all employees who need to park elsewhere in the city. For reference, the nearest parking lot to the West Offices is located on Smith Avenue and 36th Street. In order to receive your daily stipend for parking, please submit your parking receipts to your direct manager. Although this construction has caused some mild inconveniences, we are confident that the West Office elevators will be back up and running in just a few weeks. We will keep you updated on the progress and if the predicted timeline shifts. Please reach out to your direct managers for any questions and concerns during this time. According to the memo, which employees can work from home for the next two weeks?

To: All Staff in the West Offices From: Building Manager Date: September 9th Subject: Elevator Maintenance After frequent reports of elevator malfunctions in the West Offices, they have been closed for maintenance. Upon an initial check, the engineering team has found concerning problems in the electrical wires of all elevators located in these offices. Thus, we are requesting that all employees who work in this office use the stairs for all movement in and out of their offices. However, if you are an employee with personal mobility issues when it comes to stairs, we would encourage you to follow the company’s remote work procedures for the next two weeks in order to avoid injury or discomfort. This construction will also affect parking for our employees. Since the underground parking lots were directly connected to the elevators in the West Offices, they will be closed. The company will reimburse all employees who need to park elsewhere in the city. For reference, the nearest parking lot to the West Offices is located on Smith Avenue and 36th Street. In order to receive your daily stipend for parking, please submit your parking receipts to your direct manager. Although this construction has caused some mild inconveniences, we are confident that the West Office elevators will be back up and running in just a few weeks. We will keep you updated on the progress and if the predicted timeline shifts. Please reach out to your direct managers for any questions and concerns during this time.What is the main purpose of the memo?

From: Human Resources Team Date: October 7th Subject: Company Walk-A-Thon As you all know, our company-wide Walk-A-Thon is just two weeks away. This event is an annual fundraiser that raises money and awareness for pediatric cancer. All of the proceeds from the event go directly to the Pediatric Cancer Ward of our local hospital, and they greatly appreciate our yearly support. While most of the preparation work for the event is well underway, we have noticed that not all employees have signed up for the event. In order to make this event a success, we are hoping that each and every employee will participate in the Walk-A-Thon. If you cannot participate, we do hope you will consider donating a small amount or sponsoring another employee. If this is not possible, please consider finding or contacting a potential business sponsor who would be interested in creating prizes for the guests of the Walk-A-Thon. We strongly believe that fellowship events are just as important as work-related events, and we hope that you will make an effort to participate this time around. Please let us know if you have already signed up for the event, in which case you should not have received this memo. We appreciate your patience as we are still sorting through the sign-ups from all employees and their families. If we haven’t gotten to your submitted registration form yet, then please disregard this memo. Which of the following individuals are most likely the recipients of this memo?

Planning a wedding is time-consuming and exhausting. Although it originally felt like the wrong decision, we ultimately decided to postpone our wedding until next year so that all of our relatives could be there. When we first found out that our extended family members wouldn’t be able to join us from overseas, we immediately started evaluating our options and then thinking of backup plans. Which event came last in the sequence?

Which of the following statements is accurate based on the map?

Which of the following is the northernmost feature on the map?

Because she paid attention, took notes, and looked up unfamiliar words, she was able to discern the speaker’s meaning. Which of the following words has the same meaning as discern, as it is used in this sentence?

Chaos in Translation 1. Although it can seem quite technical, translating texts into different languages is a delicate art. Not only does it require a solid understanding of languages, but it also calls for an artistic voice that can truly make the words seem natural to native speakers. When it is done well, readers do not even realize that they are reading a text that has been translated from another language. When it is done badly, however, chaos ensues. One of the most emblematic examples of a translation mishap occurred at the dawn of the twentieth century, when an American diplomat received an incorrectly translated copy of a popular book about aliens. As you might imagine, the mistake ignited both fear and disbelief regarding a concept that was already so foreign to begin with. 2. It all started with Giovanni Virginio Schiaparelli, an Italian astronomer and astrophysicist, in the late 1800s. In addition to studying astronomy at renowned universities, Schiaparelli was the lead director of a famous observatory in Milan, where he was able to observe stars and planets with a telescope. When he first viewed Mars this way in 1877, he quickly made a hand drawn picture of what he had seen on a piece of paper. Using this reference, he believed that the chromatic differences and the “grooves” that he had seen on the surface of Mars meant that continents and seas existed on the planet. Even more interesting was the fact that “channels”, bodies of water that join two larger areas of water, seemed to connect the various seas. Of course, Schiaparelli had written the original works and explanations in his native language of Italian. He immediately received national success for his findings, and his works were quickly translated into English. 3. Once the information made its way into the United States, it attracted the attention of a wealthy American named Percival Lowell, who had previously abandoned his career as a foreign diplomat to invest his time and interests in astronomy. He, too, had observed Mars with a telescope, but was shocked when he read Schiaparelli’s description of the planet. Although he was familiar with the grooves and ridges described in Schiaparelli’s work, he was shocked to read about the “canals” — artificial man-made structures — that connected large bodies of water on Mars. Not only did this prove that life exists on Mars, but it suggested that these life forms could construct immense structures in a short period of time! Understanding that Schiaparelli had been a distinguished astronomer and a credible source, Lowell decided that the shocking discovery must be made accessible to the public. 4. What he did not realize at the time, however, was that the translation was incorrect, and Schiaparelli had never intended to say that man-made structures existed on Mars. In any case, on August 27, 1911, the front page of the New York Times contained a startling headline: “Martians Build Two Immense Canals in Two Years”. This gave rise to incorrect assumptions about intelligent life on Mars. For some, fear of an unknown and stronger lifeform set in, while others remained skeptical. Luckily, the information was quickly corrected based on official astronomical photography. Despite this, conspiracy theories about “martians” and their strength persisted for decades to come. Later, scientists and other astronomers came to the conclusion that the channels were simply optical illusions, and future high-resolution snapshots from visiting spacecrafts would only confirm that the man-made “canals” were only a result of a language mishap. Based on the passage, what can be inferred about the author’s opinion on the astronomical photographs used to correct the New York Times headline?

Chaos in Translation 1. Although it can seem quite technical, translating texts into different languages is a delicate art. Not only does it require a solid understanding of languages, but it also calls for an artistic voice that can truly make the words seem natural to native speakers. When it is done well, readers do not even realize that they are reading a text that has been translated from another language. When it is done badly, however, chaos ensues. One of the most emblematic examples of a translation mishap occurred at the dawn of the twentieth century, when an American diplomat received an incorrectly translated copy of a popular book about aliens. As you might imagine, the mistake ignited both fear and disbelief regarding a concept that was already so foreign to begin with. 2. It all started with Giovanni Virginio Schiaparelli, an Italian astronomer and astrophysicist, in the late 1800s. In addition to studying astronomy at renowned universities, Schiaparelli was the lead director of a famous observatory in Milan, where he was able to observe stars and planets with a telescope. When he first viewed Mars this way in 1877, he quickly made a hand drawn picture of what he had seen on a piece of paper. Using this reference, he believed that the chromatic differences and the “grooves” that he had seen on the surface of Mars meant that continents and seas existed on the planet. Even more interesting was the fact that “channels”, bodies of water that join two larger areas of water, seemed to connect the various seas. Of course, Schiaparelli had written the original works and explanations in his native language of Italian. He immediately received national success for his findings, and his works were quickly translated into English. 3. Once the information made its way into the United States, it attracted the attention of a wealthy American named Percival Lowell, who had previously abandoned his career as a foreign diplomat to invest his time and interests in astronomy. He, too, had observed Mars with a telescope, but was shocked when he read Schiaparelli’s description of the planet. Although he was familiar with the grooves and ridges described in Schiaparelli’s work, he was shocked to read about the “canals” — artificial man-made structures — that connected large bodies of water on Mars. Not only did this prove that life exists on Mars, but it suggested that these life forms could construct immense structures in a short period of time! Understanding that Schiaparelli had been a distinguished astronomer and a credible source, Lowell decided that the shocking discovery must be made accessible to the public. 4. What he did not realize at the time, however, was that the translation was incorrect, and Schiaparelli had never intended to say that man-made structures existed on Mars. In any case, on August 27, 1911, the front page of the New York Times contained a startling headline: “Martians Build Two Immense Canals in Two Years”. This gave rise to incorrect assumptions about intelligent life on Mars. For some, fear of an unknown and stronger lifeform set in, while others remained skeptical. Luckily, the information was quickly corrected based on official astronomical photography. Despite this, conspiracy theories about “martians” and their strength persisted for decades to come. Later, scientists and other astronomers came to the conclusion that the channels were simply optical illusions, and future high-resolution snapshots from visiting spacecrafts would only confirm that the man-made “canals” were only a result of a language mishap. Which of the following is a logical conclusion that can be drawn from the passage as a whole?

The Future of Tattoos 1. Tattoos are one of the oldest art forms still in existence known to man. Archaeological records suggest that tattoos have existed as early as the Neolithic period, and they still remain a popular choice today when it comes to body art. Of course, tattoos have made great strides since their earliest moments, and are currently available in countless forms, ranging from temporary choices to designs in invisible ink. Could they get any more modern? Experts believe so, and new advancements in technology suggest that the future of tattoos could make life easier and more efficient for us when combined with smart, wearable devices. 2. Wearable devices have become increasingly popular within the past decade, and can be incorporated into pieces of clothing or kept directly on the skin. Currently, perhaps the most popular example of a wearable device is the ubiquitous smart watch, which is known for automatically tracking one’s steps or calories, among other things. Now, technology experts from University College London (UCL) are working on wearable devices in the form of “smart”, temporary tattoos that could be placed directly on the skin. Although the idea is still in the testing phase, it would empoy technology from organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) on temporary tattoo paper that would later be transferred onto human skin. Even though it uses OLED technology, the transfer process is extremely similar to simple, temporary tattoos and is projected to be barely detectable at just 2.3 micrometers. 3. Now, you might be wondering why someone would opt for a temporary tattoo over a simple wearable device. The answer is twofold: efficiency and comfort. Not only would the temporary tattoo replace potentially bulky watches or devices, but it would also be able to do more than just act as a pedometer and calorie counter. For example, imagine that you are walking along the fruits and vegetables aisle in a grocery store, and are interested in understanding how ripe the products were before making a purchase. In theory, the tattoo would be able to detect information regarding the fruit’s freshness and inform you of the necessary information before your purchase. The tattoo’s technological ink could help spot dehydration levels in professional athletes, or quickly warn doctors of a drastic change in a patient’s statistics. It even has the potential to contribute to more intense treatments, such as chemotherapy. Skeptics should keep these advantages in mind before immediately writing off this idea as too “strange” or “invasive”. 4. Although researchers are still in the early stages of understanding tattoos as electronics, the technology team at UCL has already developed a few prototypes and has begun testing electrodes on people’s skin. Some notable advantages of using OLEDs include its ability to adhere to flexible surfaces while in movement besides being quite cost-effective in the long-run. However, the design team still needs to work out solutions to the potential degradation of the OLED tattoo when it comes into contact with wind and pollution. Based on past testing, researchers have found that because of the nature of the ink, foreign substances can contribute to its erosion quicker than expected. The combination of tattoos and wearable technology is a prime example of how this age-old art can adapt to the ebbs and flows of society while staying relevant in our lives. Which of the following is a logical conclusion that can be drawn from paragraph 2?

The Future of Tattoos 1. Tattoos are one of the oldest art forms still in existence known to man. Archaeological records suggest that tattoos have existed as early as the Neolithic period, and they still remain a popular choice today when it comes to body art. Of course, tattoos have made great strides since their earliest moments, and are currently available in countless forms, ranging from temporary choices to designs in invisible ink. Could they get any more modern? Experts believe so, and new advancements in technology suggest that the future of tattoos could make life easier and more efficient for us when combined with smart, wearable devices. 2. Wearable devices have become increasingly popular within the past decade, and can be incorporated into pieces of clothing or kept directly on the skin. Currently, perhaps the most popular example of a wearable device is the ubiquitous smart watch, which is known for automatically tracking one’s steps or calories, among other things. Now, technology experts from University College London (UCL) are working on wearable devices in the form of “smart”, temporary tattoos that could be placed directly on the skin. Although the idea is still in the testing phase, it would empoy technology from organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) on temporary tattoo paper that would later be transferred onto human skin. Even though it uses OLED technology, the transfer process is extremely similar to simple, temporary tattoos and is projected to be barely detectable at just 2.3 micrometers. 3. Now, you might be wondering why someone would opt for a temporary tattoo over a simple wearable device. The answer is twofold: efficiency and comfort. Not only would the temporary tattoo replace potentially bulky watches or devices, but it would also be able to do more than just act as a pedometer and calorie counter. For example, imagine that you are walking along the fruits and vegetables aisle in a grocery store, and are interested in understanding how ripe the products were before making a purchase. In theory, the tattoo would be able to detect information regarding the fruit’s freshness and inform you of the necessary information before your purchase. The tattoo’s technological ink could help spot dehydration levels in professional athletes, or quickly warn doctors of a drastic change in a patient’s statistics. It even has the potential to contribute to more intense treatments, such as chemotherapy. Skeptics should keep these advantages in mind before immediately writing off this idea as too “strange” or “invasive”. 4. Although researchers are still in the early stages of understanding tattoos as electronics, the technology team at UCL has already developed a few prototypes and has begun testing electrodes on people’s skin. Some notable advantages of using OLEDs include its ability to adhere to flexible surfaces while in movement besides being quite cost-effective in the long-run. However, the design team still needs to work out solutions to the potential degradation of the OLED tattoo when it comes into contact with wind and pollution. Based on past testing, researchers have found that because of the nature of the ink, foreign substances can contribute to its erosion quicker than expected. The combination of tattoos and wearable technology is a prime example of how this age-old art can adapt to the ebbs and flows of society while staying relevant in our lives. Which of the following is a logical conclusion that can be drawn from paragraph 4?

The Future of Tattoos 1. Tattoos are one of the oldest art forms still in existence known to man. Archaeological records suggest that tattoos have existed as early as the Neolithic period, and they still remain a popular choice today when it comes to body art. Of course, tattoos have made great strides since their earliest moments, and are currently available in countless forms, ranging from temporary choices to designs in invisible ink. Could they get any more modern? Experts believe so, and new advancements in technology suggest that the future of tattoos could make life easier and more efficient for us when combined with smart, wearable devices. 2. Wearable devices have become increasingly popular within the past decade, and can be incorporated into pieces of clothing or kept directly on the skin. Currently, perhaps the most popular example of a wearable device is the ubiquitous smart watch, which is known for automatically tracking one’s steps or calories, among other things. Now, technology experts from University College London (UCL) are working on wearable devices in the form of “smart”, temporary tattoos that could be placed directly on the skin. Although the idea is still in the testing phase, it would empoy technology from organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) on temporary tattoo paper that would later be transferred onto human skin. Even though it uses OLED technology, the transfer process is extremely similar to simple, temporary tattoos and is projected to be barely detectable at just 2.3 micrometers. 3. Now, you might be wondering why someone would opt for a temporary tattoo over a simple wearable device. The answer is twofold: efficiency and comfort. Not only would the temporary tattoo replace potentially bulky watches or devices, but it would also be able to do more than just act as a pedometer and calorie counter. For example, imagine that you are walking along the fruits and vegetables aisle in a grocery store, and are interested in understanding how ripe the products were before making a purchase. In theory, the tattoo would be able to detect information regarding the fruit’s freshness and inform you of the necessary information before your purchase. The tattoo’s technological ink could help spot dehydration levels in professional athletes, or quickly warn doctors of a drastic change in a patient’s statistics. It even has the potential to contribute to more intense treatments, such as chemotherapy. Skeptics should keep these advantages in mind before immediately writing off this idea as too “strange” or “invasive”. 4. Although researchers are still in the early stages of understanding tattoos as electronics, the technology team at UCL has already developed a few prototypes and has begun testing electrodes on people’s skin. Some notable advantages of using OLEDs include its ability to adhere to flexible surfaces while in movement besides being quite cost-effective in the long-run. However, the design team still needs to work out solutions to the potential degradation of the OLED tattoo when it comes into contact with wind and pollution. Based on past testing, researchers have found that because of the nature of the ink, foreign substances can contribute to its erosion quicker than expected. The combination of tattoos and wearable technology is a prime example of how this age-old art can adapt to the ebbs and flows of society while staying relevant in our lives. Based on the passage, what can be inferred about the author’s opinion regarding tattoos connected to wearable devices?

The Future of Tattoos 1. Tattoos are one of the oldest art forms still in existence known to man. Archaeological records suggest that tattoos have existed as early as the Neolithic period, and they still remain a popular choice today when it comes to body art. Of course, tattoos have made great strides since their earliest moments, and are currently available in countless forms, ranging from temporary choices to designs in invisible ink. Could they get any more modern? Experts believe so, and new advancements in technology suggest that the future of tattoos could make life easier and more efficient for us when combined with smart, wearable devices. 2. Wearable devices have become increasingly popular within the past decade, and can be incorporated into pieces of clothing or kept directly on the skin. Currently, perhaps the most popular example of a wearable device is the ubiquitous smart watch, which is known for automatically tracking one’s steps or calories, among other things. Now, technology experts from University College London (UCL) are working on wearable devices in the form of “smart”, temporary tattoos that could be placed directly on the skin. Although the idea is still in the testing phase, it would empoy technology from organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) on temporary tattoo paper that would later be transferred onto human skin. Even though it uses OLED technology, the transfer process is extremely similar to simple, temporary tattoos and is projected to be barely detectable at just 2.3 micrometers. 3. Now, you might be wondering why someone would opt for a temporary tattoo over a simple wearable device. The answer is twofold: efficiency and comfort. Not only would the temporary tattoo replace potentially bulky watches or devices, but it would also be able to do more than just act as a pedometer and calorie counter. For example, imagine that you are walking along the fruits and vegetables aisle in a grocery store, and are interested in understanding how ripe the products were before making a purchase. In theory, the tattoo would be able to detect information regarding the fruit’s freshness and inform you of the necessary information before your purchase. The tattoo’s technological ink could help spot dehydration levels in professional athletes, or quickly warn doctors of a drastic change in a patient’s statistics. It even has the potential to contribute to more intense treatments, such as chemotherapy. Skeptics should keep these advantages in mind before immediately writing off this idea as too “strange” or “invasive”. 4. Although researchers are still in the early stages of understanding tattoos as electronics, the technology team at UCL has already developed a few prototypes and has begun testing electrodes on people’s skin. Some notable advantages of using OLEDs include its ability to adhere to flexible surfaces while in movement besides being quite cost-effective in the long-run. However, the design team still needs to work out solutions to the potential degradation of the OLED tattoo when it comes into contact with wind and pollution. Based on past testing, researchers have found that because of the nature of the ink, foreign substances can contribute to its erosion quicker than expected. The combination of tattoos and wearable technology is a prime example of how this age-old art can adapt to the ebbs and flows of society while staying relevant in our lives. Which of the following is a logical conclusion that can be drawn from the passage as a whole?

Passage 1 (4 Paragraphs) Expanding a Viking Family Tree with DNA : 1. When a genomicist team from the University of Copenhagen set out to research ancient DNA, they expected to discover more information about the origins of Scandinavian populations. What they did not expect to find, however, was a familial tie between two warriors from the Viking Age, buried around 500 miles away from each other. This unexpected element not only provided a fascinating look into the ancient Viking population, but it also debunked some common ideas related to the general time period of the Viking Age, spanning from around 750 to 1100 CE. These findings are changing what we know about this time period and even offering up more information regarding genetic diversity. 2. In the research project’s early stages, Ashot Margaryan, the lead genomicist on the project, and his team set off to sample and sequence DNA from just over 400 human skeletons located in ancient archaeological sites in Europe and Greenland. The next step involved comparing the genomes and matching them up against other readily available genomes from modern populations, which led to a surprising discovery. The team realized that the effects of Scandinavian maritime expansion during the Viking Age was twofold. First, mixed ancestries were present along coastal areas, likely due to the raiding and settlements of Viking tribes. Moreover, it proves that genetic DNA from Scandinavia moved along the most common trade and raiding routes of the time. 3. Using the newfound knowledge of Viking travels and additional genetic DNA, the team was able to trace back the origins of two different sets of skeletal remains found in Denmark and England, respectively. Not only did the remains belong to two Viking warriors, but research proved that they were actually second-degree relatives. The first set of remains found in Denmark likely belonged to a fifty-year-old man who had sustained multiple injuries from raids throughout his long life. The second set, found in England, belonged to a younger man in his early twenties, who archaeologists believe met his death in a violent manner. Although the exact familial ties between the pair is impossible to know with certainty, the DNA proves that they could have been half-siblings, grandfather and grandson, or uncle and nephew. 4. While the link between these two warriors’ remains added an unexpected twist in the research phase, it serves as a testament to how useful ancient DNA can be as a tool to reconstruct the past. Whether it can shed light on mass migrations or provide a more personal look into select individuals, genetic evidence will remain a source of interest and study for researchers. Coupled with archaeology, geneticists hope to use ancient DNA when studying the history of complex civilizations that have left behind little evidence. If it has made us rethink some common ideas surrounding one of the most studied civilizations in the world, there is no telling what it will do next. Which of the following sentences is most representative of a summary sentence for this passage?

Since the claim is based on spurious sources, we cannot accept it as legitimate. Which of the following defines “spurious” in the sentence above?

Recently, a group of 100 professionals aged 25-30 took part in a study that examined the correlation between hours of sleep and cognitive scores. Participants were asked to keep track of the number of hours they slept each night for a total of 7 nights. Each morning, an hour after participants woke up, they were asked to complete a brief cognitive function test online. Based on these results, researchers believe that one’s sleeping hours do have an impact on one’s cognitive scores. It is clear that the more hours one slept, the better the test performance was, but only up until the 9-hour mark. In fact, those who slept an average of 9 hours each night performed the best on the cognitive test, attaining just over 90 points. Interestingly, the trend began to decrease with participants who slept more than 9 hours each night, since they performed worse on the tests. With this trend, participants reported lower scores for each additional hour of sleep. In order to continue studying this correlation, researchers will create a similar experiment for older and younger age groups. Which of the following best describes the results of the study?

Considering that the road was already quite narrow, the sign stating that the road would continue to narrow gave her a strong feeling of trepidation. Which of the following defines “trepidation” in the sentence above?

When you get home, you read a note from your roommate. It says, “I forgot to tell you that I’m working the nightshift this week! I’ll be gone by the time you get home from class. Before I come home for breakfast at 8:00 AM, I’m going to the gym to work out.” When should you expect your roommate to come home?

From: Human Resources Team Date: October 7th Subject: Company Walk-A-Thon As you all know, our company-wide Walk-A-Thon is just two weeks away. This event is an annual fundraiser that raises money and awareness for pediatric cancer. All of the proceeds from the event go directly to the Pediatric Cancer Ward of our local hospital, and they greatly appreciate our yearly support. While most of the preparation work for the event is well underway, we have noticed that not all employees have signed up for the event. In order to make this event a success, we are hoping that each and every employee will participate in the Walk-A-Thon. If you cannot participate, we do hope you will consider donating a small amount or sponsoring another employee. If this is not possible, please consider finding or contacting a potential business sponsor who would be interested in creating prizes for the guests of the Walk-A-Thon. We strongly believe that fellowship events are just as important as work-related events, and we hope that you will make an effort to participate this time around. Please let us know if you have already signed up for the event, in which case you should not have received this memo. We appreciate your patience as we are still sorting through the sign-ups from all employees and their families. If we haven’t gotten to your submitted registration form yet, then please disregard this memo. What does the Walk-A-Thon raise money for?

Mosquitoes in Winter : Mosquitoes tend to be ubiquitous in the summer months, especially in humid areas with damp climates. With the advent of cooler autumn months though, they seem to disappear for the entire year. Where do they go? In short, they go into hiding since they cannot survive temperatures below 73 degrees Fahrenheit. This process is known as a diapause and it gives adult mosquitoes the opportunity to go into a “standby” of sorts during the colder months. The first step involves finding a place to settle in for the winter, including natural areas (such as caves or tree trunks) or in some cases, man-made structures like garages and cellars. They then enter a highly lethargic state in which they do not move, eat, or grow until they can sense a change in the weather. In other words, time seems to stand still until the arrival of spring and a warmer climate. Which of the answer choices presents a valid inference based on the given information?

Which of the following statements is accurate based on the map?

To: All Employees From: Public Relations Team Date: January 8th Subject: Healthy Habits Campaign Do the winter months put you in a slump? Do you find that you engage in more unhealthy habits after the holiday season? Well, you are not alone. Studies show that unhealthy habits are expanded upon in the winter, ranging from unhealthy eating habits to lack of exercise. So, in an effort to combat these unhealthy habits during the winter months, the Public Relations Team is excited to announce a new health initiative for our company. Joining us in this adventure is one of the healthiest decisions you can make this season! Along with local medical professionals, we have developed an employee health program that is sure to kickstart your journey to healthy habits. Each department will have access to a pedometer and one free one-on-one consultation with a dietician at the start of the program. Of course, the initiative is in no way obligatory, but it would be a great way to start the new year! How will it work? For the next three months, we will be inputting the number of steps walked each day, along with our minutes of screen time. The department with both the highest amount of steps and lowest number of screen time minutes will win a prize. Taking part in this initiative will surely help you feel happier and healthier! Please keep in mind that all details will always be kept anonymous, and your personal details will never be shared with a third party or anyone else in the company. Only you will have access to the information in this initiative. Please refer to one of the Public Relations Team members for any additional questions. Which of the following is not part of the health program mentioned in the memo?

Medical jargon (source) The unexpected outbreak of a new viral illness in 2020 meant that guidance on prevention and treatment had to rely on developing scientific evidence. In the U.S., keeping up with the latest updates was challenging for many, especially for people who speak little or no English, and those with limited education or cognitive abilities. Generally speaking, in fact, most people would find the language of the healthcare industry difficult to understand. The consequences of misunderstanding medical advice and guidelines can be severe, causing confusion over the message conveyed and leading to misinformation. What is the main idea of the passage?

After going back and forth on our choice for months, my fiance and I finally decided on a destination for our honeymoon. Even though we had initially chosen Bali, I kept thinking about the awful sun poisoning I had gotten years ago! Beach destinations just were not as appealing to me anymore, so I suggested an Alaskan cruise instead. We simply cannot wait for some colder temperatures! Which event came first in the sequence?

Gish Gallop : Have you ever been in a debate or argument with someone who blasted off a series of points which may have been loosely related, false, half-truths, or weakly developed? Even if you knew these points were weak, you may have felt overwhelmed by the realization of how much time and emotional energy it would take to refute each one individually. If you’ve experienced this, you’ve been the victim of a Gish gallop, an argumentative technique that attempts to substitute a veneer of substance for actual substance by overwhelming an opponent with a series of dubious arguments. The goal is to make it seem like the Gish galloper’s position is supported by overwhelming evidence, and this might be convincing to people who do not have enough familiarity with the issue to recognize poorly developed or fallacious arguments. However, the Gish gallop is an intellectually dishonest tactic. It takes time to research and debate any argument in depth. The Gish gallop is the opposite of depth. It is pure superficiality and it attempts to evade meaningful debate. What is the meaning of the word “dubious” as used in the paragraph?

Denotation : A word’s denotation is its dictionary definition. It is the objective definition of what a word means. However, words can have multiple denotations and even different parts of speech. The word “spring”, for example, despite being a word most people would consider simple, has over forty denotations and exists as both a noun and a verb. That being the case, if you are working with an unfamiliar word, how can you know if you have the right denotation? It’s important to keep in mind that the context for which you need the word should filter out illogical denotations. Therefore, when you look up a new word, read not only the definitions, but the sample sentences. You’ll see the word in action, as it were; you’ll be able to see an example of the word in context. For a word with multiple denotations, this will help you choose the write denotation to use in your own writing. Choosing the wrong denotation and using the word improperly will create confusion for your readers. However, sometimes a writer may want multiple denotations. In this case, a word would be chosen because more than one denotation is appropriate, essentially allowing the writer to pack more meaning into fewer words. We can see this in the poem “Cross” by Langston Hughes. The speaker regrets his anger against his deceased parents, a wealthy white man and a poor black woman. He wonders where he himself will die, “Being neither white nor black?” (12). Instead of considering himself both black and white, he considers himself neither. The poem reveals his struggles to establish his identity in a society in which he feels unrecognized and unmoored. Considering this, the poem’s title “Cross” can be seen to have at least three relevant denotations: “cross” as in angry, “cross” as in a mix or mixture, and “cross” as in a burden (an allusion to Jesus’s cross in the Bible). The title and the poem itself are brief, but effective use of denotation allows Hughes to fold significant meaning into one word; this meaning then infuses the poem itself with greater significance and emotion. Which of the following is the best definition of “allusion” as used in the passage?

Defining Poetry : We often define poetry by rhyme and meter, but poetry is more than that. In fact, poetry does not even have to have rhyme or meter. Of course, many poems do have these features, but there are variations that do not. One of them is blank verse, which has meter but does not have rhyme. Another is free verse, which, as the name suggests, is not bound by any formulaic constraints of rhyme, meter, or any other type of pattern. This more open form of poetry is more likely to be found in modern poetry that often eschews the well-established forms more common in previous decades and centuries. If not by rhyme and meter, how are we to define poetry? While there may not be a universally agreed-upon answer, poetry can be defined by its compact, emotionally evocative use of language and by its freedom from the conventions that govern prose. Poets aim to use language in a way that condenses more meaning and emotional experience into words than we typically see with prose. This might mean making use of words that embody multiple relevant denotations, carefully choosing words for their connotations, and employing rich, original figurative language. None of this is unique to poetry, but poetry tends to make greater use of these features than prose. Poetry may also experiment in ways not found in prose, which is where we get the idea of “poetic license,” or the idea that writing conventions typically obeyed in prose are not restrictive upon poetry. Which of the following is the best definition of “eschew” as used in the passage?

Griffith Observatory : The Griffith Observatory in Los Angeles is one of the best places for spectacular views, both celestial and terrestrial. From the grounds outside the observatory, you can easily see the Hollywood sign overlooking Los Angeles, and Los Angeles itself, with all its skyscrapers and thickly intersecting streets. The smog may somewhat obfuscate your view on a bad day, but the prominent position of the observatory should still make for an excellent look over the city. If you’re looking upwards, the observatory offers the public use of powerful telescopes from which you’ll be able to see far above even the thickest smog. Observers can note such features of our solar system as comets, our moon, and the planets. The observatory offers educational features to help you locate and understand the wonders beyond our planet. Whatever the level of your interest in astronomy, Griffith Observatory should be high on your to-do list when you’re in Los Angeles. What is the meaning of the word “obfuscate” as used in the paragraph?

Which of the following statements indicates a stereotype?

The Cascadia Subduction Zone: Picture the millions of people living in and around Portland and Seattle. They bustle about their daily lives right on the precipice of the West Coast of the United states. Now, zoom out. Seven hundred miles off that Pacific Northwest Coast lies the Cascadia Subduction Zone. It is situated within the 500 km by 40,000 km Ring of Fire — the volcanic hotbed wrapped around the Pacific Ocean rim. The name comes from the Cascadia Range, roughly one hundred miles inland. The volcanic mountain range stretches from northern California, up through Oregon and Washington to British Columbia. There is evidence of destructive earthquakes at the Cascadia Subduction Zone long before all those people got there. Another might be around the corner. Near the Washington coast, there is a ghost forest. Soil layers and dendrochronology (the study of growth-ring patterns) show that an entire grove of cedars suddenly died between August 1699 and May 1700. The cause was an earthquake that made the ground drop out from under itself. An ‘orphan tsunami’ of unknown origin at the time occurred on the coast of Japan. In 1966, seismologists determined that the magnitude-9.0 earthquake and land drop that killed the cedars of coastal Washington’s ghost forest created a massive wave half a continent long that struck the Northwest coast and then Japan. First nation tribes of the area have also passed down accounts of this event. Seafloor core samples recording the past ten thousand years of geographic history depict a deposit from torrents of land rushing off the continental slope. This evidence offers glimpses into the frequency and extent of Cascadia Subduction Zone ruptures. 41 times over the past 10,000 years, land has collapsed into the seafloor from earthquakes in the Pacific Northwest, leaving deposits. That is a recurrence interval of 243 years. The most recent earthquake happened there in 1700 (320 years ago), so the Pacific Northwest is almost 80 years overdue for another devastating event. Chris Goldfinger is a scientist studying the Cascadia Subduction Zone’s volatility. He predicts a one in three chance of a big earthquake in the next 50 years, and a one in ten chance of a completely catastrophic one. What is the author’s purpose for writing this passage?

After careful examination, the researchers managed to date the fossil back to 3000 years ago. Date v. 1. a specific day or year on which a given event occurred or will occur 2. a person with whom one has a social or romantic appointment 3. to go out with someone that one is romantically involved with 4. to establish the year/period of origin of an object or event. Which of the following dictionary definitions best fits the word date as used in context?

The Cascadia Subduction Zone: Picture the millions of people living in and around Portland and Seattle. They bustle about their daily lives right on the precipice of the West Coast of the United states. Now, zoom out. Seven hundred miles off that Pacific Northwest Coast lies the Cascadia Subduction Zone. It is situated within the 500 km by 40,000 km Ring of Fire — the volcanic hotbed wrapped around the Pacific Ocean rim. The name comes from the Cascadia Range, roughly one hundred miles inland. The volcanic mountain range stretches from northern California, up through Oregon and Washington to British Columbia. There is evidence of destructive earthquakes at the Cascadia Subduction Zone long before all those people got there. Another might be around the corner. Near the Washington coast, there is a ghost forest. Soil layers and dendrochronology (the study of growth-ring patterns) show that an entire grove of cedars suddenly died between August 1699 and May 1700. The cause was an earthquake that made the ground drop out from under itself. An ‘orphan tsunami’ of unknown origin at the time occurred on the coast of Japan. In 1966, seismologists determined that the magnitude-9.0 earthquake and land drop that killed the cedars of coastal Washington’s ghost forest created a massive wave half a continent long that struck the Northwest coast and then Japan. First nation tribes of the area have also passed down accounts of this event. Seafloor core samples recording the past ten thousand years of geographic history depict a deposit from torrents of land rushing off the continental slope. This evidence offers glimpses into the frequency and extent of Cascadia Subduction Zone ruptures. 41 times over the past 10,000 years, land has collapsed into the seafloor from earthquakes in the Pacific Northwest, leaving deposits. That is a recurrence interval of 243 years. The most recent earthquake happened there in 1700 (320 years ago), so the Pacific Northwest is almost 80 years overdue for another devastating event. Chris Goldfinger is a scientist studying the Cascadia Subduction Zone’s volatility. He predicts a one in three chance of a big earthquake in the next 50 years, and a one in ten chance of a completely catastrophic one. Which of the following is the author’s main purpose for paragraph 3?

Welcome Aboard Congratulations on being selected! We look forward to having you as part of our crew. This study pack will guide you through your course of study — 40 hours approximately — and it is divided into two parts: ‘General’ and ‘Specific’. The former gives you an overview of the tasks that need to be carried out during each flight on a daily basis. The latter explains the procedures involved in the safety training. At the end of each section, there are revision questions to help you identify the areas that you need to improve on. Please ensure that you understand and learn all the information covered in your study pack. At the end of your training, there are five theory tests and one practical exam that you need to pass in order for you to become a fully-fledged cabin crew member. Which of the following best describes this type of writing?

Confirmation Bias When someone is influenced by confirmation bias, that person is not being objective, although they likely won’t recognize this. Confirmation bias means to favor information that confirms a viewpoint that one already holds. Should the information be of questionable credibility, the person will often overlook or excuse any problems. They may not pay attention to such problems as an author’s lack of authority on an issue, inadequate research, or illogical arguments. They will wish to validate the information because it validates their beliefs. However, confirmation bias will influence someone to respond quite differently to information that does not support the person’s pre-existing viewpoint. Even if a text is credible and makes a logical argument, the person will be inclined to find fault with it for one reason or another. The perceived fault may not even be actually present, but the person seeks an excuse to not deal with the substance of the argument. Ultimately, this is a defense mechanism to preserve belief in a viewpoint that one finds comforting on some level. The confirmation bias is likely to be stronger if the topic is something that bolsters a person’s worldview or sense of self. What is the structure of the passage?

In “The Chimney Sweeper,” British poet William Blake uses dramatic irony to craft a poem that is all the more chilling for the naive innocence of the speaker. The speaker is a young chimney sweeper. Chimney sweepers had to be extremely small in order to crawl into chimneys, so they were children, not adults. It was also catastrophically unhealthy. This was not something a child ended up doing unless he was an orphan or his family was in perilously dire financial straits. The unnamed chimney sweeper in Blake’s poem recounts having been “sold” into the profession (2) and sleeping in “soot” (4). Despite a life of sadness and deprivation, he displays an unspoiled, child-like sweetness. He soothes another chimney sweeper and encourages dutiful patience, affirming, in the final line, that “if all do their duty, they need not fear harm” (24). The irony, of course, is that doing their duty (sweeping chimneys) is exactly what will send these young children to an early grave. The innocent young speaker doesn’t realize this, and his pure trust makes this poem more chilling for adult readers who recognize the irony and are more aware of the unfairness of the world. Which of the following citations would be the best resource to support the author’s purpose?

Fixing a Run-On Sentence Many people think a run-on sentence (also called a fused sentence) is just a really long sentence. However, it’s certainly possible to have a long sentence that is correctly punctuated. A run-on occurs when two independent clauses are squished together without appropriate punctuation or a conjunction. Run-on sentences can be corrected in a variety of ways. The most straightforward way to fix a run-on sentence is to simply add a period after the first independent clause. A semicolon can also separate independent clauses; however, semicolons and periods are not interchangeable. A period forms a stronger separation, whereas a semicolon keeps the two clauses in the same sentence, thus indicating a greater degree of relation than clauses separated by a period. Another punctuation choice is a comma. However, just adding a comma creates another type of error, a comma splice. A conjunction must be used with the comma. A coordinating conjunction would be placed after the comma. These conjunctions are for, and, nor, but, or, yet, and so. There are also subordinating conjunctions, such as when, after, although, and while. One of these would be placed at the beginning of one of the two independent clauses; the clause with the subordinating conjunction would then become dependent, making the comma joining the two clauses acceptable. One final type of conjunction is a conjunctive adverb, such as furthermore and otherwise. After the initial independent clause, there would be a semicolon, a conjunctive adverb, a comma, and then the next independent clause. Since there are various methods of fixing run-on sentences, how do you know which one to use? All of them are grammatically correct, so consider how each of them impacts style and meaning. You may find, for example, that while a period is the easiest method to end a sentence, overusing it can create choppy writing. Additionally, you may find that using a subordinating conjunction to make one of the clauses dependent better supports your meaning by shifting emphasis to the remaining independent clause. In any event, good grammar is about more than being “correct.” It also reinforces your meaning and helps you develop your writing style. What is the structure of the passage?

I asked him to be more polite – he can’t just bark his orders at everyone. Bark v. 1. thin sheet of chocolate topped with nuts 2. the tough outer layer of a tree 3. to give commands in an aggressive manner 4. to make a sound like a dog Which of the following dictionary definitions best fits the word bark as used in context?

Procrastination: Procrastination is often thought of as a time-management problem. In such a view, the person is simply so overwhelmed by their tasks or so inept at managing them that they are unable to make time for everything. Conversely, some see it as a laziness problem. In this view, the person doesn’t do much of anything, whether that be the particular task they are procrastinating or anything else, from housework to exercising to other important activities. However, even highly motivated and organized people procrastinate. That’s because procrastination is often an emotional response. For some reason, the task evokes a negative emotional reaction in the person. This often happens when the task is performative in some way, when we’ll be judged on it. It might therefore not be the task itself that we’re avoiding so much as the potential negative reaction to our efforts at the task. This feared negative reaction could come from others or even ourselves. We are often our own harshest critics, and the fear that what we’re doing isn’t good enough may keep us from starting the task in the first place, lest we risk confirming our fears. That a person who is procrastinating isn’t incapable of time management and isn’t lazy is often clear in that people who are procrastinating often assuage their guilt by making great progress in other tasks. Then, they are able to accomplish something while avoiding the task that evokes negative emotions. What is the structure of the passage?

The Decapitating Sea Slug: While the placid shallow waters of the South Pacific Ocean might call to mind images of tropical love stories, beneath their tranquil surface dwells a creature whose regenerative ability is more akin to the grisly spectacle of a horror film. This monster is no toothy menace, but rather the leaf-like sea slug, Elysia marginata. Recently, scientists have discovered that these slugs are able to decapitate themselves and regrow brand new bodies in a matter of weeks. This shocking finding represents a novel scientific discovery with numerous potential applications for human medicine. A few years ago, researchers at Nara Women’s University in Japan were astounded to find the severed head of one of their laboratory’s Elysia marginata sea slugs crawling away from its discarded body, continuing to eat algae as if nothing had occurred. Meanwhile, the body continued to show signs of life, wriggling and writhing around, with its heart still beating. Within three weeks, the sea slug had regrown a brand new body from the base of its detached head. While this kind of self-amputation, called autotomy, is not altogether uncommon across the animal kingdom, the sea slug’s feat is notable for the complexity of the body parts that it is able to regenerate. Various species of reptiles and insects are known to detach limbs in order to escape predation, and simple-bodied organisms like flatworms and sea squirts are able to regenerate large portions of their bodies. In each of these cases, however, the regrown body parts are relatively straightforward structures. Elysia marginata, on the other hand, is the first animal known to detach its entire body and then regrow vital organs such as its heart and kidneys. The secret to an Elysia marginata’s regeneration appears to lie in the chloroplasts that it hijacks from algae. Chloroplasts are the green-tinted drivers of photosynthesis that algae and other plants use to draw energy directly from the sun’s rays. Incredibly, when these sea slugs eat algae, they incorporate these chloroplasts into their own cells, giving them the nickname “solar-powered sea slugs”, and allowing them to synthesize sugars directly from the sun and thus survive without their organs. The sea slug’s radical autotomy appears to be a way to rid itself of parasitic infection. All of the individuals in the lab who underwent self-decapitation were observed to be carrying harmful parasites. After regenerating their bodies, these parasites were nowhere to be found. While researchers are thrilled by these novel discoveries, much remains unknown about the biological processes that enable this amazing phenomenon. Scientists believe that deepening our understanding of these slugs could one day lead to advances in regenerative medicine and other scientific fields. Which of the following words would the author use to describe regenerative medicine?

Public Transit Big cities offer unparalleled recreation options. There are restaurants, museums, parks, and other unique features. And, if you want to visit these places, you’ll notice something else big cities offer: traffic. Rather than sit in bumper-to-bumper traffic as your day and sanity slip away, consider using public transit. Not only will it save you the stress of driving, but some cities also offer innovative forms of transportation that are themselves pleasant and entertaining. Water Taxi, Seattle, Washington As part of its public transit array, Seattle offers a water taxi on two routes, both departing from Pier 50 on Alaskan Way. One goes to Vashon Island and the other to Seacrest Park in West Seattle. The vessels offer indoor seating and tables and plenty of windows so you can enjoy Pacific Northwest views while staying warm and dry, regardless of the weather. If you’d like to step outside, though, there are viewing decks available. The fare for an adult is $5.75 if you’re paying with cash or a ticket or $5.00 if you’re paying with a public transit card (an ORCA card). While this is a little pricier than the more mundane forms of public transit, the ride itself offers more than convenience; it is also part of the day’s fun. Which text feature is primarily used in this text?

The Decapitating Sea Slug: While the placid shallow waters of the South Pacific Ocean might call to mind images of tropical love stories, beneath their tranquil surface dwells a creature whose regenerative ability is more akin to the grisly spectacle of a horror film. This monster is no toothy menace, but rather the leaf-like sea slug, Elysia marginata. Recently, scientists have discovered that these slugs are able to decapitate themselves and regrow brand new bodies in a matter of weeks. This shocking finding represents a novel scientific discovery with numerous potential applications for human medicine. A few years ago, researchers at Nara Women’s University in Japan were astounded to find the severed head of one of their laboratory’s Elysia marginata sea slugs crawling away from its discarded body, continuing to eat algae as if nothing had occurred. Meanwhile, the body continued to show signs of life, wriggling and writhing around, with its heart still beating. Within three weeks, the sea slug had regrown a brand new body from the base of its detached head. While this kind of self-amputation, called autotomy, is not altogether uncommon across the animal kingdom, the sea slug’s feat is notable for the complexity of the body parts that it is able to regenerate. Various species of reptiles and insects are known to detach limbs in order to escape predation, and simple-bodied organisms like flatworms and sea squirts are able to regenerate large portions of their bodies. In each of these cases, however, the regrown body parts are relatively straightforward structures. Elysia marginata, on the other hand, is the first animal known to detach its entire body and then regrow vital organs such as its heart and kidneys. The secret to an Elysia marginata’s regeneration appears to lie in the chloroplasts that it hijacks from algae. Chloroplasts are the green-tinted drivers of photosynthesis that algae and other plants use to draw energy directly from the sun’s rays. Incredibly, when these sea slugs eat algae, they incorporate these chloroplasts into their own cells, giving them the nickname “solar-powered sea slugs”, and allowing them to synthesize sugars directly from the sun and thus survive without their organs. The sea slug’s radical autotomy appears to be a way to rid itself of parasitic infection. All of the individuals in the lab who underwent self-decapitation were observed to be carrying harmful parasites. After regenerating their bodies, these parasites were nowhere to be found. While researchers are thrilled by these novel discoveries, much remains unknown about the biological processes that enable this amazing phenomenon. Scientists believe that deepening our understanding of these slugs could one day lead to advances in regenerative medicine and other scientific fields. Which word best describes the author’s attitude towards sea slugs?

Researchers have been studying the virus to trace the origin of the pandemic. Trace v. 1. an indication of the existence or passing of something 2. a quantity so small that cannot be measured 3. to find or discover something by investigation 4. to draw something with your finger or toe. Which of the following dictionary definitions best fits the word trace as used in context?

COVID Price-Gouging With the onslaught of COVID-19, people naturally wanted to do what they could to ensure their families’ safety and their own. For many, this meant increased attention to hand-washing and sanitizing. Accordingly, store shelves were soon barren of cleaning and sanitizing products. While the sudden increase in demand was certainly a cause of this, the shortage was exacerbated by opportunistic individuals who quickly made the rounds of every store in reach, buying up huge supplies of these products in order to sell them at an exorbitant cost to desperate people. Many people were willing to pay these prices, but that doesn’t mean they were happy about it. State attorney generals noted vast increases in complaints of price gouging, and, as most states have laws against price gouging, these complaints were legally actionable. Many retailers received citations and fines for price gouging. Additionally, online retailers like Amazon took action, including the removal of thousands of seller accounts. That products like sanitizer were viewed as necessities for the pandemic and not luxuries likely increased people’s indignation. Supplying a need and creating a reasonable profit is one thing, but artificially amplifying that need by hoarding products and then taking advantage of people’s desperation is another. What is the structure of the passage?

The Cascadia Subduction Zone: Picture the millions of people living in and around Portland and Seattle. They bustle about their daily lives right on the precipice of the West Coast of the United states. Now, zoom out. Seven hundred miles off that Pacific Northwest Coast lies the Cascadia Subduction Zone. It is situated within the 500 km by 40,000 km Ring of Fire — the volcanic hotbed wrapped around the Pacific Ocean rim. The name comes from the Cascadia Range, roughly one hundred miles inland. The volcanic mountain range stretches from northern California, up through Oregon and Washington to British Columbia. There is evidence of destructive earthquakes at the Cascadia Subduction Zone long before all those people got there. Another might be around the corner. Near the Washington coast, there is a ghost forest. Soil layers and dendrochronology (the study of growth-ring patterns) show that an entire grove of cedars suddenly died between August 1699 and May 1700. The cause was an earthquake that made the ground drop out from under itself. An ‘orphan tsunami’ of unknown origin at the time occurred on the coast of Japan. In 1966, seismologists determined that the magnitude-9.0 earthquake and land drop that killed the cedars of coastal Washington’s ghost forest created a massive wave half a continent long that struck the Northwest coast and then Japan. First nation tribes of the area have also passed down accounts of this event. Seafloor core samples recording the past ten thousand years of geographic history depict a deposit from torrents of land rushing off the continental slope. This evidence offers glimpses into the frequency and extent of Cascadia Subduction Zone ruptures. 41 times over the past 10,000 years, land has collapsed into the seafloor from earthquakes in the Pacific Northwest, leaving deposits. That is a recurrence interval of 243 years. The most recent earthquake happened there in 1700 (320 years ago), so the Pacific Northwest is almost 80 years overdue for another devastating event. Chris Goldfinger is a scientist studying the Cascadia Subduction Zone’s volatility. He predicts a one in three chance of a big earthquake in the next 50 years, and a one in ten chance of a completely catastrophic one. What is the purpose of the first sentence of the passage?

Eyebrows can be tweezed, trimmed, penciled in, microbladed, tattooed, and, in a more recent trend, laminated. Eyebrow lamination gives eyebrows a thicker, fuller look, in contrast to the thinner, more heavily plucked look favored in the 90’s and early 2000’s. The process of eyebrow lamination starts with the application of a degreasing solution. Next comes a perming gel, and then the eyebrows are brushed. Finally, a neutralizing gel sets the brows. This process involves several chemicals, so it’s important that it be done by a trained esthetician. Which text feature is primarily used in this text?

Tokyo Declaration In 2015, the Tokyo Declaration on Dental Care and Oral Health for Healthy Longevity was adopted at the end of the World Congress. With this declaration, policy-makers and health professionals are asked to actively contribute to the promotion of equal provision of oral health solutions. Among others, the main objectives of this declaration are to gather scientific evidence regarding the impact of oral health on longevity and to introduce new policies based on such evidence. This is part of the plan towards the implementation of WHO’s Global Action Plan for the Prevention and Control of Noncommunicable diseases (2013-2030). Which of the following best describes this type of writing?

Opportunity for Experience Hi everyone! I’m reaching out on behalf of a fellow educational writer who has just finished writing his first book, due to be published later this year. The content is great and the resource has great potential, but the manuscript requires some editing. Although this project is unpaid, it will offer you the unique opportunity to get your name out there if you are new to the game. What’s more, it would give you the chance to showcase your editorial skills on your CV. Drop me a line if you are available. Which of the following best describes this type of writing?

Which of the following statements indicates a stereotype?

The Decapitating Sea Slug: While the placid shallow waters of the South Pacific Ocean might call to mind images of tropical love stories, beneath their tranquil surface dwells a creature whose regenerative ability is more akin to the grisly spectacle of a horror film. This monster is no toothy menace, but rather the leaf-like sea slug, Elysia marginata. Recently, scientists have discovered that these slugs are able to decapitate themselves and regrow brand new bodies in a matter of weeks. This shocking finding represents a novel scientific discovery with numerous potential applications for human medicine. A few years ago, researchers at Nara Women’s University in Japan were astounded to find the severed head of one of their laboratory’s Elysia marginata sea slugs crawling away from its discarded body, continuing to eat algae as if nothing had occurred. Meanwhile, the body continued to show signs of life, wriggling and writhing around, with its heart still beating. Within three weeks, the sea slug had regrown a brand new body from the base of its detached head. While this kind of self-amputation, called autotomy, is not altogether uncommon across the animal kingdom, the sea slug’s feat is notable for the complexity of the body parts that it is able to regenerate. Various species of reptiles and insects are known to detach limbs in order to escape predation, and simple-bodied organisms like flatworms and sea squirts are able to regenerate large portions of their bodies. In each of these cases, however, the regrown body parts are relatively straightforward structures. Elysia marginata, on the other hand, is the first animal known to detach its entire body and then regrow vital organs such as its heart and kidneys. The secret to an Elysia marginata’s regeneration appears to lie in the chloroplasts that it hijacks from algae. Chloroplasts are the green-tinted drivers of photosynthesis that algae and other plants use to draw energy directly from the sun’s rays. Incredibly, when these sea slugs eat algae, they incorporate these chloroplasts into their own cells, giving them the nickname “solar-powered sea slugs”, and allowing them to synthesize sugars directly from the sun and thus survive without their organs. The sea slug’s radical autotomy appears to be a way to rid itself of parasitic infection. All of the individuals in the lab who underwent self-decapitation were observed to be carrying harmful parasites. After regenerating their bodies, these parasites were nowhere to be found. While researchers are thrilled by these novel discoveries, much remains unknown about the biological processes that enable this amazing phenomenon. Scientists believe that deepening our understanding of these slugs could one day lead to advances in regenerative medicine and other scientific fields. Based on the passage, what can be inferred about the author’s opinion about autotomy?

After the baby was born, Angela spent two months on maternity leave before returning to work. Leave n. 1. a period of time off from work, usually for holiday or illness 2. official permission to do something 3. to arrange for someone to receive an inheritance when one dies 4. to go away from a place Which of the following dictionary definitions best fits the word leave as used in context?

Although staying hydrated is important, it’s also important to avoid extremes; excessive water consumption can result in death. The author uses italics ___________.

First Day at Work Mara was nervously looking for her car keys because she couldn’t remember where she had put them. She could have easily taken the bus, but counting on the unreliable frequency of her town’s public transport didn’t fill her with confidence. It was her first day at work and she wanted to feel in control of the situation, so driving was the best option. Unfortunately, it was rush-hour — her least favourite time of the day. She would have to find her keys soon to avoid the stress of dashing through the busy roads of the city centre. Mara didn’t like rushing. She was a calm person and she didn’t like to do things in a hurry. She often arrived late at dinners, appointments and even business meetings. There they were! The keys were in her handbag all along. Which of the following best describes this type of writing?

The Necks of Flying Dinosaurs: During the late Cretaceous period, the skies were filled with giants. Around 70 million years ago, few creatures were safe from the pterosaurs who soared through the air and preyed on all kinds of living things below. The most formidable of them all, Quetzalcoatlus northropi, had a wingspan that stretched up to 33 feet and a neck as long as a giraffe’s. It is thought to be the largest living thing to ever fly. Until recently, scientists were at a loss to explain how this gargantuan creature could possibly carry heavy prey in its beak without breaking its long neck. This question has now been answered, thanks to a new study that found the flying reptile possess bones unlike any others found in nature. As a part of this breakthrough study, Ph.D. students at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign utilized a CT scan to analyze a pterosaur vertebra found in the Kem Kem fossil beds of Morocco. They couldn’t believe what they found. Inside, the vertebra was composed of an intricate network of struts, connecting a central tube to the outer walls of the bone. Its cross-section looks much like a bicycle wheel, with spokes radiating out from a central point. A bone like this had never been seen in the animal kingdom. The spoke structure allowed pterosaurs’ necks to be both lightweight and extremely strong. The team behind the discovery calculated that the addition of just 50 spokes increased the weight the bone could carry by 90 percent. The research team plans to follow up this study by scanning the vertebrae of other pterosaur species, to see whether they also possess this unique structure. In order to lift their massive bodies into the air, pterosaurs had to be exceptionally light for their size, and their bones needed to be thin and nearly hollow like those of a bird. As a result, their bones were exceedingly fragile and have mainly disintegrated over time. Though largely absent from the fossil record, pterosaur bones have been well preserved at the Kem Kem fossil site, which was once a thriving river system. Based on the passage, what can be inferred about early scientists’ opinions of the Quetzalcoatlus northropi?

Which of the following statements indicates a stereotype?

Universal Design for Learning (UDL) is a teaching framework that seeks to increase accessibility and reduce barriers for students. It is organized around three principles: providing students with multiple means of engagement, multiple means of representation, and multiple means of action and expression. Within each principle are numerous teaching and classroom management strategies that teachers could implement. This might seem overwhelming, but it’s important to realize that not all strategies would work for all classes. Additionally, the strategies vary in the degree to which they rely on technology. Some do not at all rely on technology, while some are fairly high-tech, and some are in the middle. This means that there’s something available for all teachers to implement, no matter what their comfort level with technology may be. However, it should be noted that technological tools open up more options for increasing student access. For example, providing discussions online via your school’s learning management system (LMS) as well as in person provides an additional way for students to interact with their classmates and the teacher. Online discussions can increase engagement for students who might be too shy to easily engage in in-person discussions. Additionally, online discussions give students a chance to put more effort into developing and refining their contributions, which might be significantly harder in a real-time, in-person discussion. This helps students successfully convey their ideas and gain mastery of class concepts. Which of the following citations would be the best resource to support the author’s purpose?

Beloved English novelist Jane Austen died at age 41 of what most biographers believe to have been Addison’s disease, an endocrine disorder named after Thomas Addison, who first described it in 1855. The author uses italics __________.

Which of the following statements indicates a stereotype?

Play Therapy: Some might associate vibrant colored blocks and crayons with frivolity. For children, playing is not an absent way to kill time. Playing is a primary way for children to interpret experiences and communicate. So, mental health professionals have utilized play in children’s therapy since the early 1900s. Child-Centered Play Therapy (CCPT) resembles person-centered therapy, developed by Carl Rogers. It is the most prevalent play therapy approach in the U.S. The Association for Play Therapy (APT) was established in 1982. It has published many findings, developed training, and contributed to the rapid growth of play therapy over the past few decades. A well-trained therapist uses individualized play therapy in a variety of clinical applications. CCPT aims for children aged three to ten years. Ages two to ten (preoperational stage) have emerging abilities to represent surroundings in words and images. Four to seven is when reasoning and self-regulation skills develop. Cognition grows in complexity during the concrete operational stage from seven to eleven. Then comes abstract thought and deduction during the adolescent formal operational stage. Play therapy adapts to older children and adolescents, too. They begin to experience deeper emotional complexity and social relationships. Play therapy’s versatility and capacity to access nonverbal parts of the brain suits a host of challenges in addition to a range of age groups. It helps address aggression, ADHD, anxiety, depression, speech problems, and trauma. The principles behind CCPT mirror Carl Rogers’ standards. They emphasize empathy, acceptance, and unconditional positive regard for the client. The idea is to facilitate the child’s innate propensity for growth and self-directed healing. Therapists find imaginative ways to visualize difficult concepts, navigate relationships, and build confidence. CCPT appears in more than 90 cross-cultural studies spanning seven decades, including meta-analyses. The research shows encouraging outcomes for children across diverse circumstances and conditions. It works because play is a natural, enjoyable, and enriching state. It meets children where they are, to help them unlock their inner selves. What is the main purpose of the text?

Karl just finished reading a graphic novel with a ‘coming of age’ theme about four young sisters who become grown women through the difficulties of living in a working-class family in the 1800s. Which of the following has a contrasting theme?

The Future of Space Exploration Since the first moon landing, many probes have been sent across the solar system, while our spacecraft have orbited around, surveyed, and landed on several planets. Astronauts have already performed extensive experiments on the dangers and requirements of living in space-bound habitats. It seems logical, then, to expect astronauts of the future to repair equipment sent millions of miles away from Earth. Space isn’t a suitable place for a delicate species like us. The conditions in which humans can survive are limited — we need the right amount of pressure, oxygen, water, temperature, radiation, and acceleration, or we die. In fact, we need protective clothing and technology even to explore many areas of our own planet. After all, space exploration is necessary for the human species, as we will have to leave our biosphere when the sun turns into a red giant. But shouldn’t we send robots to do the exploring instead of humans? Robots don’t die — not like humans, anyway. They are designed to withstand extremely harsh conditions that humans would never be able to endure. If one of the robots breaks down or is lost, it can be rebuilt. For humans, it doesn’t work quite like that. We have always imagined artificial servants or artificial minds that exist for the sole purpose of fulfilling human needs. So, perhaps, the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) is to live and explore space on our behalf. Current robotic explorers are rare and hence extremely expensive, requiring endless pre-mission modeling and careful actions. But robotics is becoming cheaper and more adaptable, as are the ways to hurl them beyond our atmosphere. As space access becomes cheaper, we should expect a more ruthless use of robots. However, we find it impossible to resist the charm of human space exploration, despite its risks. Knowledge and achievements aren’t enough for us — we want to be there to witness the unfolding of our success. First of all, sending humans into space adds glory to our lives. Overcoming the plethora of challenges that come with long-term spaceflight inspires and delights us. Many of us would consider a human landing on Mars as an achievement of paramount importance for our species, not only for personal satisfaction, but also for national pride. Furthermore, the desire for raw materials in order to make profits is one of the greatest incentives that space exploration has to offer. Of course, this poses the moral dilemma that we might not be able to repair any damage we cause, therefore blurring our knowledge of the origin and organization of life in the solar system. The main motivation that will keep us going is that it is challenging and fascinating: humans are ambitious creatures that strive to achieve what is nearly impossible, and be present for the occasion. I wonder if AI will ever be able to learn this very human trait! Meanwhile, it would be useful to consider the advantages that our automated explorers currently maintain over their human counterparts. Which of the following is a counterargument from the passage?

The Most Beautiful Sport Its origin is uncertain, but there is no doubt that ‘mermaiding’ is a fascinating water activity. Globally recognised as a sport in 2020, it brings back fond memories of old tales, legends, and cartoon characters for children. It can be described as ‘dancing under water’, while wearing a ‘fishtail’ to keep your legs together. It doesn’t come as a surprise that it is considered to be the ‘most beautiful’ underwater sport in the world. With the help of a professional instructor, this sport can supplement a person’s physical and psychological well-being, but it requires commitment to hours of training and breathing practice. The bond between parents and children becomes stronger when they practice mermaiding together. The children develop their confidence in becoming whoever they want to be, sure of their parents’ support. This type of water sport has become popular worldwide and, as such, it offers many unusual and profitable work opportunities – as performing artists in aquariums and at children’s birthday parties, or as instructors. Which of the following is an inference that could be made about ‘mermaiding’?

Passant just finished reading a novel with a ‘redemption’ theme, in which an old businessman realizes how mean and selfish he had been towards others and invests his money, time, and effort to improve the lives of the people around him. Which of the following has a similar theme?

The Man-Eating Whale Sperm whales are huge marine creatures that can reach the size of a school-bus. They mainly feed on very small sea creatures, such as tiny fish and plankton. When a lobster diver got swallowed by one of these enormous animals, he thought he was going to die. Although whales don’t have teeth, the diver could have been crushed by the animal’s tongue. Luckily for him, the whale decided to spit him out. The diver reported an injury no greater than a dislocated knee. Which of the following is a prediction based on the last line of the passage?

An Unusual Event Cheese rolling is an unusual annual event that has taken place every spring since the 15th century in the English region of Gloucester, famous for its Double Gloucester cheese. The rules are simple: a large round of cheese is rolled down from the top of a hill, with the competitors chasing it all the way to the bottom. Once the Master of Ceremonies starts the event, those who are competing race down, following the cheese. The winner is the first to cross the finish line. The prize? It’s the cheese, of course! Although you don’t need to meet any fitness requirements to participate, this race is very difficult, dangerous and muddy! Originally, the aim of the competition was to catch the actual cheese round, but this has proved to be almost impossible to achieve. Since 2013, the cheese has been replaced with an object of similar shape, but much lighter, to reduce the number of accidents that occur each year. Which of the following is a prediction based on the passage?

Viking Tombs Archeologists have found seven Viking tombs holding 1,000 year old, well preserved skeletons of eight people — four adults and four children. One of the tombs contains two very small infants, who appear to be of the same age. This is probably the result of late miscarriages of a couple of sets of twins. The graves have been excavated, revealing their unusual lay out which doesn’t match traditional Viking beliefs. At that time, Vikings were cremated, rather than buried, which was a the Christian custom. Which of the following is a prediction based on the last line of the passage?

Beth just finished watching a movie with a ‘revenge’ theme, in which an innocent man spends his time in prison plotting against those who betrayed him and had him jailed. Which of the following has a similar theme?

James just finished reading a graphic novel with a ‘circle of life’ theme in which a fox teaches her three cubs to survive in the forest in order to be prepared when she dies. Which of the following has a similar theme?

The Future of Space Exploration Since the first moon landing, many probes have been sent across the solar system, while our spacecraft have orbited around, surveyed, and landed on several planets. Astronauts have already performed extensive experiments on the dangers and requirements of living in space-bound habitats. It seems logical, then, to expect astronauts of the future to repair equipment sent millions of miles away from Earth. Space isn’t a suitable place for a delicate species like us. The conditions in which humans can survive are limited — we need the right amount of pressure, oxygen, water, temperature, radiation, and acceleration, or we die. In fact, we need protective clothing and technology even to explore many areas of our own planet. After all, space exploration is necessary for the human species, as we will have to leave our biosphere when the sun turns into a red giant. But shouldn’t we send robots to do the exploring instead of humans? Robots don’t die — not like humans, anyway. They are designed to withstand extremely harsh conditions that humans would never be able to endure. If one of the robots breaks down or is lost, it can be rebuilt. For humans, it doesn’t work quite like that. We have always imagined artificial servants or artificial minds that exist for the sole purpose of fulfilling human needs. So, perhaps, the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) is to live and explore space on our behalf. Current robotic explorers are rare and hence extremely expensive, requiring endless pre-mission modeling and careful actions. But robotics is becoming cheaper and more adaptable, as are the ways to hurl them beyond our atmosphere. As space access becomes cheaper, we should expect a more ruthless use of robots. However, we find it impossible to resist the charm of human space exploration, despite its risks. Knowledge and achievements aren’t enough for us — we want to be there to witness the unfolding of our success. First of all, sending humans into space adds glory to our lives. Overcoming the plethora of challenges that come with long-term spaceflight inspires and delights us. Many of us would consider a human landing on Mars as an achievement of paramount importance for our species, not only for personal satisfaction, but also for national pride. Furthermore, the desire for raw materials in order to make profits is one of the greatest incentives that space exploration has to offer. Of course, this poses the moral dilemma that we might not be able to repair any damage we cause, therefore blurring our knowledge of the origin and organization of life in the solar system. The main motivation that will keep us going is that it is challenging and fascinating: humans are ambitious creatures that strive to achieve what is nearly impossible, and be present for the occasion. I wonder if AI will ever be able to learn this very human trait! Meanwhile, it would be useful to consider the advantages that our automated explorers currently maintain over their human counterparts. Which of the following is a counterargument from the passage?

Sandra just finished watching a play with the ‘familial love’ theme, in which two sisters joined at the hip share an extraordinary life that brings them fame.

Kenyan Work Etiquette If you are new to working in Kenya, you might want to pay attention to the way you interact with others, in order to make a good first impression. Kenyan culture gives great importance to age and position, so remember to greet everyone individually, even when meeting a group. Be respectful in your conduct – don’t address your colleagues by their first names unless you know them well. Should any issue arise between you and a workmate, try to resolve it discreetly, avoiding any public display of anger. Last, but not the least, be on time, even if others might not be! Which of the following summarizes the information about work etiquette in Kenya?

The Five-Second Rule Speaker 1: I’m so hungry…and these chips are delicious! Oh no! I’ve just dropped one… Speaker 2: Quick, pick it up and eat it! Don’t you remember the five-second rule? Speaker 1: What’s this five-second rule? Speaker 2: It is a food hygiene theory stating that it is safe to eat food that has been dropped on the floor, as long as it’s picked up within five seconds. This is because such a limited window of time doesn’t allow dropped food to contract enough bacteria to make you sick. Speaker 1: Well, I don’t think that’s a good idea. After all, even if it’s in small amounts, you don’t know what kind of bacteria is on the floor. Speaker 2: I see your point, but in my opinion, small doses of harmful bacteria can improve our immune system. Isn’t it how vaccines work? Speaker 1: First of all, vaccines are prepared safely in a lab; secondly, why should I choose to ingest food that has been contaminated? No way! Speaker 2: Ok, let’s agree to disagree on this! Which of the following statements would the authors agree on?

Polly just finished watching a movie with a ‘good vs. evil’ theme in which a young wizard fights against the most powerful villain of all time to avenge his parents and protect his friends. Which of the following has a contrasting theme?

Andrea just finished listening to a song with a ‘long lasting friendship’ theme, in which the singer describes the importance of having good friends beside you at any point in life. Which of the following has a contrasting theme?

ACV for Your Hair You might be a fan of apple cider vinegar (ACV) for your salad dressing, and you may have used it to remove odors from your fridge or stains from your carpet. What’s more, despite the lack of scientific evidence, many swear by the remarkable health properties that ACV has to offer. But have you ever applied apple cider vinegar to your hair? No? You should! Here’s why: Because it contains high levels of acetic acid and minerals, rinsing your hair regularly with apple cider vinegar can bring your dull, frizzy hair back to life. But its benefits don’t stop here. Chemical substances contained in common shampoos and conditioners can cause hair and scalp acidity imbalance. However, adding ACV to your hair care routine can prevent dandruff, scalp itchiness, and minor infections. But beware! Not all scalps are created equal, so it’s better to err on the side of caution to avoid irritating your skin. If you are new to this, start with diluting a couple of tablespoons of vinegar with plenty of water — you can always try increasing the proportion of vinegar in future applications. What secondary argument does the author make?

Vegetarian vs. Vegan Speaker 1: Would you like to come over for dinner? There are a few vegetarian recipes I’d like you to try. Speaker 2: It sounds great! And I’m so glad you’re including more vegetarian meals in your diet. It’s a great way to reduce gas emissions, avoid further water pollution, and protect wildlife and its habitat. Speaker 1: That’s very true. But on a personal note, I can already see the benefits of my new eating habits. I used to feel very lethargic after my meals, but not anymore. My mood has improved too! Speaker 2: I’m very pleased to hear that! I know exactly how you feel. In fact, I’m considering pushing my vegetarian diet to the next level and becoming a vegan. Speaker 1: Oh no, I could never do that! I love cheese and steaks too much to give them up altogether. Besides, I believe that we should eat anything in moderation and a balanced diet is the best option. Speaker 2: I guess I’d miss eating cheese too, but I feel that the benefits of avoiding any form of animal fats and proteins are far greater than my cravings for dairy products. Speaker 1: Well, good luck, and let me know how you get on! Which of the following statements could NOT provide support for BOTH arguments?

Constellations Orion is one of the largest constellations visible from anywhere on Earth, mainly in January. Like Aries and Cygnus, Orion is among the 48 constellations listed by Ptolemy in the 2nd century and officially recognised by the International Astronomical Union. It is believed to be the most famous of its kind, probably because it has been mentioned by the poets Virgil and Homer. Orion takes its name after the mythological Greek hunter it represents. It appears to be quite easy to recognise, for the unmistakable row of three stars that indicate the hunter’s belt. Orion is a unique constellation in the sense that it can be used as a guide to find other constellations during the winter months. Which of the following is an inference that could be made about the Orion constellation?

ACV for Your Hair You might be a fan of apple cider vinegar (ACV) for your salad dressing, and you may have used it to remove odors from your fridge or stains from your carpet. What’s more, despite the lack of scientific evidence, many swear by the remarkable health properties that ACV has to offer. But have you ever applied apple cider vinegar to your hair? No? You should! Here’s why: Because it contains high levels of acetic acid and minerals, rinsing your hair regularly with apple cider vinegar can bring your dull, frizzy hair back to life. But its benefits don’t stop here. Chemical substances contained in common shampoos and conditioners can cause hair and scalp acidity imbalance. However, adding ACV to your hair care routine can prevent dandruff, scalp itchiness, and minor infections. But beware! Not all scalps are created equal, so it’s better to err on the side of caution to avoid irritating your skin. If you are new to this, start with diluting a couple of tablespoons of vinegar with plenty of water — you can always try increasing the proportion of vinegar in future applications. Which of the following statements supports the claim made in the last line?

Understanding OCD On your way to work, do you sometimes go back to check if the front door of your house is locked? Do you always do the washing up after every meal? Well, that’s nothing to be concerned about. However, if you are compelled to perform repetitive behavior by intrusive, persistent, and disturbing thoughts about something terrible — inflicted by you — happening to you, or even to someone else, it could be a sign of an Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). OCD is a common disorder that can affect individuals of any age. It may start in a mild form during childhood and develop further during adolescence, continuing into adulthood. It isn’t clear what causes this disorder, but there are some factors that might trigger it, such as genetics, a chemical imbalance in the brain, or personality. Exceptionally responsible, methodical people who set high standards for themselves are more prone to develop OCD. Embarrassment and shame often prevent people with OCD from seeking help, but the right treatment and support can help them overcome this disorder. Prescribed medicine and therapy are the most effective treatments, but they may take some time to work. Dealing with OCD can be challenging; therefore, contacting support groups can provide some relief from this stressful situation. What secondary argument does the author make?

Jacque just finished listening to a song with a ‘courage and perseverance’ theme, about the struggles we all endure through life and the strength required to carry on living.

Online Learning There is no denying that the shift to online learning has brought about several challenges, from a sense of isolation to physical discomfort. Perhaps, what really unsettled educators and learners alike is the sudden change that was imposed by a global pandemic. However, there are many advantages to learning online. This modern medium allows learning to take place where and when possible, from a wide range of devices, while reducing the amount of money and time spent on commuting. With so many benefits of online learning, why didn’t we think of it before? Traditional Learning While acknowledging the positive aspects of online learning, it is believed that traditional (or classroom) learning remains invaluable from a pedagogical point of view, especially with regard to young learners’ education. As well as school subjects, children need to learn social skills – how can they be practiced on a screen? In everyone’s best interest, it is worth considering that the future of education might rely on both methods of learning: traditional and online. Which of the following is a common theme between the passages given above?

Chocolate & Nobel prize A study suggests that moderate and regular chocolate intake could have positive effects on the mental functions of senior patients who show early signs of dementia. This has been backed by experiments on rats and snails, with evidence of improved cognitive abilities on the former, and of better memory on the latter. Intrigued by these findings, researchers have taken their studies a step further and found a correlation between chocolate consumption and the number of Nobel Prize winners in any given country. It appears that the highest number of Nobel Prize winners belongs to the countries with the highest chocolate consumption. It might not come as a surprise, then, that Switzerland came in first place, as one of the biggest chocolate producers worldwide. Among this data, an anomaly was found regarding Sweden. Despite the fact that the amount of chocolate consumed in Sweden is much less than that in Germany, the number of Swedish Nobel Prize winners is twice as much as their German counterparts. Which of the following is an exaggerated claim in support of the argument presented in the passage?

Which of the following statements from a company’s mission statement offers evidence in favor of the claim that their business’ purpose is to reduce food waste?