ACCUPLACER Next Generation Reading Exams — ACCUPLACER Next Generation Reading
Answer: C
Compounding the problem is that food distribution system's currently require a lot of energy.
The best version of the underlined portion is "system's," which indicates possession, suggesting that the energy requirement belongs to the food distribution system.
A) (as it is now)
This option retains the original wording, which incorrectly uses "system's" in a possessive form that should not be there. The sentence lacks grammatical correctness and clarity in conveying the intended meaning about the food distribution systems.
B) systems
This choice incorrectly pluralizes "system" without the possessive form, which does not convey that the energy requirement is specifically attributed to the food distribution systems. The absence of possession alters the intended meaning of the sentence.
C) systems's
This option incorrectly adds an additional possessive marker to "systems," which is grammatically incorrect. The correct form should simply be "system's," referring to the energy requirement of a single food distribution system.
D) systems
Similar to choice B, this option pluralizes "system," losing the possessive aspect necessary for the sentence to clearly communicate that the energy requirement pertains to the food distribution system as a whole.
Conclusion
The correct choice is "system's," as it appropriately indicates possession and maintains the clarity of the sentence. All other options fail to convey the necessary meaning regarding the energy requirements of the food distribution system, resulting in grammatical errors or misinterpretation of the original context.
Answer: C
These elements created an effect of disillusionment and bitter realism, many were brought to Hollywood by German directors fleeing their war-torn land.
The best revision combines the two sentences effectively, maintaining the original meaning while improving clarity. The structure allows for a smooth transition between the effects of the elements and their origins.
A) Many of these elements created an effect of disillusionment and bitter realism they were brought to Hollywood by German directors fleeing their war-torn land.
This option is incorrect due to a grammatical error. The lack of proper punctuation between the two independent clauses makes this sentence confusing and difficult to read.
B) These elements, many of which were brought to Hollywood by German directors fleeing their war-torn land, created an effect of disillusionment and bitter realism.
While this option is grammatically correct and conveys the intended meaning, it alters the emphasis of the original sentences. It suggests that the elements were brought to Hollywood before discussing their effects, which slightly shifts the focus away from the cause-effect relationship.
C) These elements created an effect of disillusionment and bitter realism, many were brought to Hollywood by German directors fleeing their war-torn land.
This option effectively combines the two sentences by maintaining the original cause-effect relationship. The revised structure flows well, linking the creation of the effect directly to the introduction of the elements by German directors.
D) man directors fleeing their war-torn land, which created
This option is incorrect as it is incomplete and lacks coherence. It does not provide a full thought or connect the ideas in a meaningful way, failing to address the essence of the original sentences.
Conclusion
Option C stands out as the best revision because it retains the original meaning and maintains the logical flow between the elements' effects and their origins. Other options either introduce grammatical issues, shift emphasis, or fail to present a complete thought, making them less effective in conveying the intended message.
3. What assumption does the author of the passage make?
Answer: D
Readers do not associate the Department of Energy with algae research.
The author assumes that readers may not typically connect the Department of Energy with research on algae, which is a relatively niche scientific area. This assumption underlines the need to explain the relevance of such funding.
A) Gases produced by algae will be cheaper to produce than other gases.
This option is incorrect because the passage does not address cost comparisons between gases produced by algae and those produced by other methods. The focus is solely on the potential of hydrogen production from algae, without mentioning economic factors.
B) The Department of Energy is already using hydrogen-producing algae as a source of energy.
This option is incorrect as the passage does not state that the Department of Energy is currently using hydrogen-producing algae. Instead, it discusses ongoing research aimed at the future potential of using algae for energy.
C) Mutant versions of algae will not be capable of the process of photosynthesis.
This option is incorrect because the passage explicitly states that the mutant versions of algae still undergo photosynthesis while producing more hydrogen gas. There is no implication that these mutants would not be capable of photosynthesis.
D) Readers do not associate the Department of Energy with algae research.
This option is correct as the passage suggests that the funding for algae research by the Department of Energy might surprise readers. The author implies that a connection between the two is not commonly recognized, which supports the overall argument regarding the significance of this research.
Conclusion
The assumption that readers do not associate the Department of Energy with algae research is supported by the passage's context, which aims to highlight the unexpected nature of such funding. In contrast, the other options fail to align with the information provided, focusing instead on aspects not discussed in the passage. Thus, Option D stands out as the only valid assumption made by the author.
4. In context, 'Telemundo' and 'Ms. magazine' serve as examples of media that
Answer: D
Telemundo and Ms. magazine were designed to appeal to particular groups of consumers.
Both Telemundo and Ms. magazine exemplify the successful targeting of specific demographic niches in media, a concept championed by John H. Johnson. His innovative approach to marketing demonstrated that messages tailored to particular groups can be far more effective than a one-size-fits-all strategy.
A) devised similar marketing techniques
While Telemundo and Ms. magazine may utilize effective marketing strategies, the statement does not accurately reflect their primary function as examples of targeted media. The focus is on the audience they serve rather than the techniques they employ, making this option incorrect.
B) were created by the same media visionary
This option misrepresents the origins of Telemundo and Ms. magazine. Although both have roots in the evolution of targeted media, they were not created by the same individual nor do they share a direct lineage, thus making this statement inaccurate.
C) underwent profound changes as a result of Johnson's work
Although Johnson's influence on the media landscape is significant, this option suggests a direct transformation of Telemundo and Ms. magazine specifically due to his work. However, they represent the outcome of a broader shift in media rather than a direct change influenced by Johnson, rendering this choice incorrect.
D) were designed to appeal to particular groups of consumers
This is the accurate portrayal of both Telemundo and Ms. magazine, as they are tailored to meet the needs and interests of specific demographic groups. Johnson's pioneering work in niche marketing laid the groundwork for such targeted media, making this option the correct answer.
Conclusion
The correct answer, D, highlights the intentional design of Telemundo and Ms. magazine to appeal to specific consumer demographics, reflecting Johnson's impact on niche marketing. The other options either misinterpret the relationship between Johnson and these media outlets or do not align with the core concept of targeted marketing that Johnson exemplified.
Answer: D
The metaphor chiefly serves to place the Lewis and Clark expedition into a broad context.
The metaphor highlights that the Lewis and Clark expedition is just one part of a much larger historical narrative that encompasses thousands of years of history prior to their journey. This perspective emphasizes the importance of understanding the expedition within the broader continuum of the region's past.
A) call attention to the age of the United States as a nation
This option is incorrect because the metaphor does not focus on the age of the United States itself, but rather on the extensive history of the West before the expedition. The emphasis is on the depth of history in the region rather than on the relatively young age of the nation.
B) question the literary value of the writings by Lewis and Clark
This option is also incorrect as the metaphor does not critique or diminish the literary value of their writings. Instead, it places their accounts within a larger historical context, suggesting that while their writings are significant, they are not the entirety of the region's history.
C) trivialize the accomplishments of the Lewis and Clark expedition
This choice misinterprets the metaphor's intent. While it suggests that the expedition is a subplot, it does not trivialize their accomplishments; rather, it recognizes that their journey is part of a much larger historical framework. The expedition is acknowledged as important, but not the sole defining event.
D) place the Lewis and Clark expedition into a broad context
This option is correct as the metaphor effectively situates the expedition within a larger historical narrative. It suggests that the events surrounding the expedition are interconnected with a longer history of the West, thus providing a richer understanding of its significance.
Conclusion
The metaphor serves to effectively place the Lewis and Clark expedition within a broader historical context, illustrating that their journey is just one part of an extensive narrative that predates it. This interpretation underscores the importance of recognizing the historical depth of the American West, while the other options either misinterpret or fail to capture the main idea conveyed by the metaphor.
Answer: C
A rural community shows an increased rate of disease after local farmers adopt chemical-intensive techniques.
Increased rates of disease in a rural community due to the adoption of chemical-intensive techniques directly contradict the goal of increasing crop yields in ways that protect human health. This outcome highlights the negative health implications of relying heavily on agrochemicals, which is contrary to the expressed concern for protecting human health and the environment.
A) An international ban on the use of agrochemicals drives several multinational corporations out of business
While this scenario may have economic implications, it does not directly impact the goal of increasing crop yields in an environmentally sensitive manner. The ban could potentially lead to the development of alternative farming methods that align more closely with sustainability goals, making it somewhat compatible with the stated concern.
B) A species of bird becomes extinct after forests in which these birds nested are cleared to create farmland
This result is incompatible with the goal because the extinction of a species due to habitat loss is detrimental to biodiversity and environmental stability. Such an outcome indicates a failure to protect the ecological foundations that agriculture relies upon, thus directly opposing the stated priorities.
C) A rural community shows an increased rate of disease after local farmers adopt chemical-intensive techniques
The increase in disease among the community underscores a significant health risk associated with chemical-intensive farming practices. This directly contradicts the goal of protecting human health while increasing agricultural productivity, making it the least compatible result with the expressed concern.
D) Government subsidies to farmers encourage overproduction of certain crops to the detriment of others
This scenario may lead to unsustainable practices and affect crop diversity, but it does not necessarily result in direct harm to human health. While overproduction can have negative environmental impacts, it does not align as directly against the health-focused goal as the increase in disease does.
Conclusion
The result of a rural community experiencing increased disease rates due to chemical-intensive farming is least compatible with the goal of environmentally sensitive agricultural practices that protect human health. In contrast, the other options, while potentially problematic, do not directly undermine the health aspect as severely as this one does. Thus, the emphasis on human health makes option C the most incompatible with the stated aim.
7. Which point do both of the passages make?
Answer: A
Human beings can be prey.
Both passages emphasize the idea that human beings are not at the top of the food chain and can indeed be prey. This notion serves as a reminder of humanity's vulnerability in the natural world.
A) That human beings can be prey
This option is correct as both passages highlight the potential of humans being prey in the natural order. Passage 1 directly reflects on the fear and respect for predators like lions, while Passage 2 discusses the historical dominance of large predators and the humbling realization that humans can also be victims in the food chain.
B) That human beings have a duty to protect large predatory animals
This option is incorrect because neither passage explicitly states that humans have a duty to protect these animals. While there is an implication of the importance of these species, the focus is more on human vulnerability rather than a call to action for protection.
C) That large predatory animals are vanishing from the planet
This option is partially accurate but does not capture the central theme shared by both passages. Passage 2 touches on the extinction of predatory species, but the main point of commonality is the recognition of humans as potential prey, not the focus on extinction.
D) That big cats can never be tamed
This option is incorrect as it misrepresents the overarching message of both passages. While Passage 1 does mention that big cats like Josef are not tame, the primary focus is on the broader concept of human beings being prey rather than the taming of these animals.
Conclusion
The correct answer, that human beings can be prey, is supported by the insights provided in both passages, emphasizing the vulnerability of humans in the natural order. The other options either misinterpret the texts or fail to capture the core point regarding humanity's position in relation to predatory animals. This understanding of human vulnerability is crucial in acknowledging our place within the ecosystem.
8. What point do conservationists make when they say 'the last crop is always asphalt'?
Answer: A
Development permanently destroys open land
Conservationists argue that the phrase 'the last crop is always asphalt' highlights the irreversible nature of urban development, where land that could support agriculture is instead covered by roads and buildings.
A) That development permanently destroys open land
This option directly captures the essence of the conservationists' message. It reflects their concern that as urban areas expand, valuable agricultural land is paved over, leading to a loss of natural resources and biodiversity.
B) That asphalt is an important agricultural product
This option is incorrect as it misinterprets the meaning of the phrase. Asphalt is not an agricultural product; rather, it is a material used in construction and road building, which contradicts the idea of preserving farmland.
C) That conservation increases crop yields
While conservation can have positive effects on agriculture, this option does not address the specific concern raised by the phrase. The focus is on the loss of land due to development rather than the benefits of conservation.
D) That communities should build more farms before roads
This option suggests a potential solution but does not accurately reflect the warning conveyed by conservationists. The phrase emphasizes the negative consequences of development rather than advocating for a specific order of land use.
Conclusion
The correct answer, A, effectively encapsulates the critical warning that urban development results in the permanent loss of open land that could be used for agriculture. Other options fail to grasp this central theme, either misrepresenting it or diverting the focus away from the essential issue of land preservation.
Answer: A
Meal, highlighting the unusual weather
The most effective combination of the two sentences is option A, which utilizes the phrase "highlighting the unusual weather" to seamlessly connect the imagery of icicles forming on the breath of a mule and the context of the cold temperatures in Georgia.
A) meal, highlighting the unusual weather
This option effectively conveys the relationship between the visual imagery and the weather conditions. The use of "highlighting" indicates that the depiction of icicles is a direct reflection of the unusual weather, thus creating a clear and coherent sentence that enhances understanding.
B) meal, by the weather that was unusual
Option B introduces unnecessary wordiness and awkward phrasing with "by the weather that was unusual." This construction detracts from the clarity and fluidity of the sentence, making it less effective than option A.
C) meal, that the weather was unusual
While option C communicates the connection, the phrase "that the weather was unusual" is less direct and more cumbersome. It adds a layer of complexity that does not enhance the overall meaning, making it less effective than option A.
D) meal, when the unusual weather
Option D is incomplete and lacks the necessary context to create a full thought. The phrase "when the unusual weather" does not adequately link the two ideas, resulting in an ineffective combination.
Conclusion
Option A stands out as the most effective choice because it succinctly and clearly links the visual imagery of icicles to the context of the unusual weather. In contrast, the other options either introduce ambiguity or fail to create a complete thought, thereby diminishing their effectiveness in conveying the intended meaning.
10. Both authors indicate that meeting the world's food needs should not come at the expense of:
Answer: B
Meeting the world's food needs should not come at the expense of environmental integrity.
Both authors emphasize that addressing global food demands must prioritize the preservation of the environment, highlighting that ecological health is essential for sustainable food production.
A) innovative farming practices
While innovative farming practices are important for increasing food production and efficiency, the question specifically addresses the trade-offs that should not occur in the pursuit of meeting food needs. Therefore, this option, while relevant, does not directly align with the critical issue of environmental integrity emphasized by the authors.
B) environmental integrity
This option is correct as both authors clearly indicate that maintaining environmental integrity is crucial. They argue that food production should not compromise ecological systems, as a healthy environment is vital for sustaining agricultural practices and ensuring long-term food security.
C) humane treatment of animals
Humane treatment of animals is an important ethical consideration in food production; however, the authors' focus lies primarily on environmental concerns. Thus, while this is a significant issue, it is not the central theme that the authors highlight regarding the trade-offs in meeting food needs.
D) economic development
Economic development is often discussed in relation to food production and agricultural practices, but the authors do not suggest that meeting food needs should sacrifice economic growth. Instead, their focus is on ensuring that environmental integrity is preserved alongside economic and agricultural advancements.
Conclusion
In summary, the correct answer is B, as both authors assert that environmental integrity is paramount and should not be compromised to meet the world’s food needs. The other options, while relevant in discussions about food production, do not capture the authors' primary concern regarding the ecological impact of agricultural practices.