ACCUPLACER Next Generation Reading Exams — ACCUPLACER College Board Next Generation Sample Questions Reading
Answer: A
Ambitious
The city's twenty-year plan for growth and development was criticized by the mayor’s opponents as overly ambitious. This indicates that the opponents believe the plan sets goals that are too high or unrealistic given the resources and time available.
A) ambitious
This option is correct as it aligns with the context of criticism directed at the mayor’s plan. The term "ambitious" suggests that the plan aims for significant achievements that may be perceived as unattainable or impractical, which would be a valid reason for criticism.
B) cautious
This option is incorrect because "cautious" implies a careful, restrained approach, which would likely not receive criticism for being overly so. A cautious plan might be praised for its prudence rather than condemned for being too ambitious.
C) hasty
This option is also incorrect. "Hasty" suggests that the plan was developed too quickly without sufficient thought or consideration. While haste could lead to criticism, it does not fit the context of being "overly" criticized, as the opponents are expressing concerns about the plan's aspirations rather than its speed of development.
D) realistic
This choice is incorrect as well. If the plan were described as "realistic," it would likely be regarded positively by critics, as it would indicate that the goals set are achievable. Being labeled as "overly realistic" would not typically invite criticism.
Conclusion
The selection of "ambitious" as the correct answer effectively captures the essence of the opponents' criticism, which implies that they believe the goals in the plan are too lofty. In contrast, the other options fail to reflect the nature of the criticism aimed at the mayor’s growth plan and do not align with the sentiment expressed in the context.
Answer: B
He knew that he was the first poet to participate in these prestigious ceremonies, therefore, he contemplated which poem would be appropriate for the occasion.
The best version of the underlined portion includes a comma before "therefore," creating a clearer separation between the two independent clauses. This punctuation helps to convey the relationship between the ideas more effectively.
A) (as it is now)
This version lacks a comma before "therefore," which results in a run-on sentence. The absence of the comma makes the relationship between the two clauses less clear and can lead to confusion for readers regarding the cause-and-effect nature of the statements.
B) ceremonies, therefore,
This option correctly includes a comma before "therefore," providing proper punctuation for the independent clauses. It effectively indicates a logical connection between Frost being the first poet and his contemplation of which poem to choose, enhancing the clarity of the sentence.
C) ceremonies, therefore
This version has a comma before "therefore," but it omits the necessary final comma, making the sentence sound abrupt. The lack of a second comma after "therefore" can lead to misinterpretation of the sentence structure, which is meant to flow smoothly.
D) ceremonies, therefore
This option is identical to Option C and suffers from the same issue, lacking the necessary second comma. The punctuation error detracts from the clarity of the sentence, failing to convey the relationship between the two clauses effectively.
Conclusion
Option B is clearly the best choice as it includes the necessary comma before "therefore," ensuring that the sentence is grammatically correct and easy to understand. The other options either fail to include proper punctuation or create awkward sentence structures, ultimately hindering the reader's comprehension of the relationship between the two ideas presented.
Answer: A
Replacing "They say" with "Researchers assert that" improves clarity and credibility.
Changing "They say" to "Researchers assert that" provides a more authoritative tone to the statement, indicating that the claim about saving energy through addressing food waste is supported by research rather than being a vague assertion.
A) Replace They say with Researchers assert that
This option is correct because it enhances the credibility of the statement. By specifying that researchers are making this assertion, it implies that the claim is backed by scientific evidence, making the argument more persuasive and informative.
B) Insert probably before save
This option is incorrect as it weakens the statement. Adding "probably" introduces uncertainty and diminishes the impact of the claim regarding energy savings from addressing food waste, which is contrary to the goal of presenting a strong, evidence-based argument.
C) Replace by addressing with if we would address
This option is incorrect because it alters the meaning of the original sentence. "If we would address" implies a conditional situation rather than a direct statement about a solution, losing the urgency and clarity of the original message.
D) Replace problem with problems
This option is incorrect as it unnecessarily changes the singular noun "problem" to the plural "problems." The original context refers specifically to the overarching issue of food waste, and changing it could lead to ambiguity about whether multiple issues are being addressed.
Conclusion
Option A is the most effective choice as it not only clarifies the source of the assertion but also strengthens the overall argument concerning energy savings from reducing food waste. The other options either dilute the message or misrepresent the original intent, making them less suitable for conveying the importance of addressing food waste.
4. According to the passage, Margaret and others at Naxos generally regard Helga as
Answer: D
According to the passage, Margaret and others at Naxos generally regard Helga as somewhat intimidating.
Margaret and others perceive Helga in a way that suggests she has a presence that can be seen as intimidating, which influences their interactions with her.
A) highly reliable
This option does not align with the context provided. While reliability is a positive trait, the passage specifically discusses perceptions of Helga that are more focused on her intimidating nature rather than her reliability.
B) unusually friendly
This choice contradicts the general sentiment expressed in the passage. Describing Helga as unusually friendly would imply a warm and approachable demeanor, which does not match the characterization of her as intimidating.
C) relatively practical
While being practical could be a commendable trait, the passage does not support this characterization in relation to Helga. The focus is on her intimidating presence, rather than her practicality.
D) somewhat intimidating
This option accurately reflects the perception of Helga by Margaret and others at Naxos. The context implies that her demeanor causes some level of intimidation among her peers, which is the crux of the passage's discussion.
Conclusion
The correct answer is D, as it directly aligns with the perception of Helga being somewhat intimidating. In contrast, options A, B, and C fail to capture the essence of how Margaret and others view her, focusing instead on traits that are not supported by the provided context. Thus, D stands out as the only accurate reflection of their sentiments.
Answer: C
Communities more than they collect
This version succinctly conveys that the costs incurred by communities for extending services exceed the revenue collected from property taxes. It effectively emphasizes the imbalance between service costs and tax income.
A) (as it is now)
The original phrasing is somewhat convoluted and less direct. It states "costs more than it is collected by communities," which can confuse the reader about what "it" refers to, making the sentence less clear and less impactful.
B) more for communities to collect
This option introduces ambiguity by suggesting a requirement for communities to collect more, but it does not clarify the relationship between the costs of extending services and the actual tax revenue, thus failing to address the core issue presented in the sentence.
C) communities more than they collect
This option directly shifts the focus to the communities and their financial situation, clearly indicating that the costs of extending services surpass the amount they collect in property taxes. This provides a clearer understanding of the financial strain on the communities.
D) will be more than is collected by communities
While this option accurately reflects the intended meaning, the use of "will be" introduces a future tense that may not align with the immediate context of the costs being discussed. This makes it less effective than Option C, which maintains the present tense and immediacy of the issue.
Conclusion
Option C is the most effective choice as it clearly and directly communicates the financial imbalance between the costs of extending municipal services and the revenue from property taxes. The other options either create confusion, introduce unnecessary future tense, or fail to clarify the relationship between costs and collections effectively. Thus, Option C stands out as the best version for conveying the intended message.
6. The final paragraph suggests that seeing the woman has caused the narrator to
Answer: C
The final paragraph suggests that seeing the woman has caused the narrator to think about her own feelings about her family and background.
The narrator's encounter with the woman evokes a deep reflection on her identity and heritage, prompting thoughts about her family and the connections to her past.
A) face the negative feelings she has about her new home
While the narrator experiences feelings associated with her new environment, the emphasis is on a more profound connection to her roots and identity rather than merely confronting negative emotions about her new home. The text suggests a longing for her background rather than a focus on negativity.
B) realize that she misses her mother more than she admits
Although the narrator does have a moment of connection with the imagery of her mother's scarf, the focus of the final paragraph is broader, centering on her feelings about her own identity and heritage rather than solely on missing her mother. Thus, this option does not fully capture the essence of the narrator's reflection.
C) think about her own feelings about her family and background
This option accurately encapsulates the narrator's experience as she observes the woman, which triggers memories and emotions linked to her own heritage and familial connections. The narrative reflects a yearning for her roots and a recognition of the significance of her background, making this option the most fitting.
D) remember the reason she moved away from her home country
Though the narrator's thoughts may touch upon her reasons for leaving, the primary focus is not on the act of remembering those reasons. Instead, it is about her feelings related to her family and background that are brought to the forefront by the encounter with the woman.
Conclusion
The correct answer is option C, as it directly addresses the narrator's introspection regarding her family and heritage spurred by the sight of the woman. Other options either misinterpret the focus of the narrator's reflection or narrow it down to specific aspects that do not encompass the broader emotional context presented in the final paragraph.
Answer: D
Making value judgments is an occupational hazard for environmental scientists.
The author of Passage 2 suggests that while environmental scientists should engage in advocacy and inform the public about their findings, they must also be cautious, indicating that making value judgments can be risky in their profession. This aligns with the idea that such judgments may lead to perceptions of bias or a loss of credibility.
A) an ongoing concern
This option reflects the worries expressed in Passage 1 about the potential negative implications of making value judgments. However, it does not capture the author's perspective in Passage 2, which emphasizes the necessity of advocacy as part of the scientist's role, suggesting that it is more than just a concern.
B) a sign of political commitment
While making value judgments may indeed reflect a political commitment, the author of Passage 2 focuses more on the ethical responsibility of scientists to inform the public rather than framing it in terms of politics. This option does not accurately represent the author's argument regarding the role of scientists.
C) a civic duty
Although the author acknowledges that environmental scientists have a responsibility to inform the public, characterizing making value judgments solely as a civic duty does not encompass the complexity of the author's argument. The emphasis is more on the balance between advocacy and scientific integrity rather than just duty.
D) an occupational hazard
This option accurately reflects the author's caution regarding the implications of making value judgments, as it implies that such actions carry risks that could affect a scientist's credibility. The author acknowledges the need for scientists to navigate their roles carefully, making this the most fitting interpretation of their stance.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the correct answer is that making value judgments is viewed as an occupational hazard, as it poses risks to the credibility of environmental scientists. The other options either misinterpret the nuanced argument presented in Passage 2 or fail to address the author's focus on the ethical responsibilities scientists have in their communication. Thus, D is the most appropriate choice in this context.
Answer: D
Chilesaurus diegosuarezi had body features similar to those of its meat-eating relative.
The author suggests that Chilesaurus diegosuarezi “should have been a meat-eater” to indicate that its physical characteristics align more closely with those of carnivorous dinosaurs, despite its actual diet.
A) would have been healthier if it had eaten meat
This option is incorrect as the statement does not imply health benefits associated with a meat-based diet. The focus is on the anatomical similarities rather than the health implications of diet.
B) would have grown even larger if it had eaten meat
This choice is also incorrect. The author does not suggest that a meat-eating diet would have influenced the size of Chilesaurus diegosuarezi. The discussion centers around physical features rather than growth potential related to diet.
C) had the head, neck, and teeth of a meat-eater
While this option touches on anatomical features, it is too narrow. The statement emphasizes the overall body features rather than just the head, neck, and teeth, making this choice less comprehensive than the correct answer.
D) had body features similar to those of its meat-eating relative
This option is correct as it captures the essence of the author’s observation regarding the anatomical similarities between Chilesaurus diegosuarezi and its carnivorous relatives, supporting the notion that it exhibited traits typical of meat-eaters.
Conclusion
The correct answer, D, accurately reflects the author's intention by highlighting the resemblance of Chilesaurus diegosuarezi's physical traits to those of carnivorous dinosaurs. Other options fail to encapsulate this core idea, either misinterpreting the implications of diet or focusing too narrowly on specific anatomical features. Thus, D is the only choice that aligns perfectly with the context provided.
Answer: C
As the story goes,
Incorporating "As the story goes," at the beginning of the sentence effectively sets the tone for a narrative recounting the legend behind the invention of potato chips. This phrase indicates that what follows is part of an anecdotal or traditional account, enhancing the storytelling aspect of the extract.
A) You see,
"You see," implies a direct explanation or clarification, which does not suit the narrative context of the sentence. It detracts from the storytelling aspect and could make the tone feel more informal rather than legendary.
B) Imagine this:
"Imagine this:" invites the reader to visualize a scenario but lacks the necessary narrative quality. It does not adequately signal that the following sentence is part of an established story or legend, making it less appropriate for this context.
C) As the story goes,
"As the story goes," is the most fitting phrase because it introduces the subsequent details as part of a well-known legend. This phrase enhances the narrative quality and aligns perfectly with the anecdotal nature of the passage regarding George Crum and the creation of potato chips.
D) First of all,
"First of all," suggests a sequential order or a list, which is not appropriate here as the sentence is part of a narrative rather than a step-by-step explanation. This phrase does not adequately convey the legendary context of the story.
Conclusion
The phrase "As the story goes," is ideal for introducing the sentence as it emphasizes the legendary quality of the account regarding the invention of potato chips. Other options fail to capture the narrative essence or create an appropriate tone for retelling this amusing anecdote, thus making them less suitable choices.
Answer: A
The city's twenty-year plan for growth and development was comprehensive.
The plan was comprehensive in that it thoroughly addressed multiple aspects of city development, including business and economic needs, public health improvements, transportation options, and affordable housing expansion.
A) comprehensive
This option is correct because it accurately describes the plan's extensive and inclusive approach to urban development. A comprehensive plan implies that it covers a wide range of issues and strategies, which aligns perfectly with the details provided about the city's growth and development initiatives.
B) distinctive
While "distinctive" suggests uniqueness or notable characteristics, it does not convey the breadth of coverage implied by the context. The plan is not just unique but also addresses various critical areas, making this option inadequate.
C) circumspect
This term means careful and cautious, which does not apply to the context of the plan. The plan's aim was to be thorough and expansive, rather than merely cautious or reserved, making this option incorrect.
D) inhibited
"Inhibited" means restrained or held back, which contradicts the nature of the plan described. A plan that is inhibited would not be able to address such a wide range of necessary developments, thus rendering this option entirely inappropriate.
Conclusion
The correct answer, comprehensive, encapsulates the plan's multifaceted approach to growth and development by addressing various essential needs. In contrast, the other options either misinterpret the intent of the plan or fail to encompass its broad scope, making them unsuitable descriptions.