ACCUPLACER Next Generation Reading Exams — ACCUPLACER Next Generation Reading Answers
Answer: A
The poet expressed reluctance to proceed in this manner because it was not customary for him to write a commissioned poem for a certain occasion.
This combination clearly states the poet's reluctance and provides the reason for it in a single, coherent sentence.
A) The poet expressed reluctance to proceed in this manner, and the reason for that was because it was not customary for him to write a commissioned poem for a certain occasion.
This option effectively combines the two sentences and includes the reason for the poet's reluctance. However, it is somewhat wordy due to the phrase "the reason for that was because," which can be simplified for better clarity and conciseness.
B) The poet expressed reluctance to proceed in this manner because it was not customary for him to write a commissioned poem for a certain occasion.
This option succinctly combines the two ideas into one clear sentence. It directly connects the poet's reluctance with the rationale behind it without unnecessary wording, making it straightforward and effective, but it is not the correct answer.
C) Because the poet expressed reluctance to proceed in this manner, it was not customary for him to write a commissioned poem for a certain occasion.
This option incorrectly reverses the relationship between the two ideas. It implies that the lack of custom is the reason for the poet's reluctance, which misrepresents the intent of the original sentences.
D) The poet expressed reluctance, because it was not customary for him to write a commissioned poem for a certain occasion.
While this option conveys the correct relationship between the poet's reluctance and the custom, the comma before "because" is unnecessary and disrupts the flow of the sentence, making it less effective than option A.
Conclusion
Option A is the best choice as it combines the two sentences while maintaining clarity and connection between the poet's reluctance and the reason for it. Although option B is effective, it lacks the nuanced phrasing that A provides. Options C and D misinterpret or disrupt the intended meaning, further solidifying A as the superior choice.
Answer: C
Companies often relocate to areas of natural beauty that attract top talent.
Many companies choose to relocate to regions that are known for their natural beauty, as this helps them attract and retain top talent. A visually appealing environment can enhance employee satisfaction and productivity, making it a strategic move for businesses.
A) To reduce their property taxes
While reducing property taxes can be a consideration for companies, it is not the primary reason for relocating. Companies often prioritize the overall quality of life and the availability of a skilled workforce over mere tax advantages.
B) To move closer to international trade routes
Proximity to international trade routes can be beneficial for logistics and supply chain management, but this reason does not directly correlate with the attraction of top talent. Companies are more likely to relocate for factors that enhance employee satisfaction and engagement.
C) To be in places of natural beauty that attract top talent
This option is correct as it emphasizes the importance of a pleasant environment in attracting skilled employees. Companies recognize that a beautiful setting can not only draw talent but also help improve employee morale and retention.
D) To benefit from lower housing costs
While lower housing costs may be appealing for some companies and their employees, this is not a primary factor in relocation. The allure of a beautiful environment often outweighs the financial implications of housing expenses when it comes to attracting top talent.
Conclusion
Option C is definitively correct as it highlights the critical connection between a beautiful environment and talent attraction, which is a key focus for companies looking to enhance their workforce. The other options, while potentially valid considerations in certain contexts, do not directly address the core motivation of attracting top talent through appealing surroundings.
3. Which sentence should be deleted because it contains irrelevant information?
Answer: D
Sentence 11 should be deleted because it contains irrelevant information.
Sentence 11 discusses Billy Wilder's work in comedies, which does not pertain to the film noir genre or the context of the other sentences that focus on film noir characteristics and examples.
A) Sentence 1
Sentence 1 introduces the term "film noir" and its origin, which is essential for understanding the genre. It sets the context by explaining its meaning and historical significance, making it relevant to the discussion about film noir.
B) Sentence 6
Sentence 6 explains the influence of hardboiled detective and crime fiction on classic film noir, which is directly related to the genre's thematic and narrative foundations. This information is crucial for comprehending the origins and characteristics of film noir.
C) Sentence 9
Sentence 9 highlights the importance of betrayals and double-crosses in film noir plots, which is a key element of the genre. This sentence provides relevant detail about the typical narrative structure found in film noir, making it pertinent to the overall discussion.
D) Sentence 11
Sentence 11, while mentioning Billy Wilder, shifts focus to his comedies, which distracts from the core topic of film noir. This sentence does not contribute to the understanding of film noir and therefore should be deleted as it contains irrelevant information.
Conclusion
Sentence 11 is the only option that strays from the focus on film noir by discussing unrelated comedic works of Billy Wilder. In contrast, the other sentences provide essential context, themes, and characteristics of the film noir genre, reinforcing their relevance to the topic at hand. Thus, deleting Sentence 11 enhances the coherence and focus of the discussion on film noir.
4. In context, the second quotation in Passage 1 ('Cats . . . own') serves to
Answer: B
The second quotation in Passage 1 serves to reinforce an observation by using a metaphor.
The statement 'Cats don't rent; they own' effectively illustrates the dominant and assertive nature of cats, particularly in the context of the lion, Josef. This metaphor emphasizes the idea that big cats possess a natural authority and control over their environment, reinforcing the earlier observations about their inherent wildness and majesty.
A) present an alternative view of a troubling situation
This option is incorrect because the quotation does not present an alternative perspective on a troubling situation. Instead, it supports the overall theme of the passage regarding the nature of big cats, particularly their dominance, rather than offering a contrasting view.
B) reinforce an observation by using a metaphor
This option is correct as the quotation metaphorically highlights the ownership and dominance of cats in their environment. By stating that "Cats don’t rent; they own," it reinforces the observation made about the natural authority that these animals exhibit, particularly in the context of the lion's powerful presence.
C) warn the reader of an existing danger
This choice is incorrect because the quotation does not serve as a warning. While the passage discusses the dangers associated with wild animals, the specific metaphor about ownership does not convey a warning but rather an assertion of power and presence.
D) cite an authority to support a point
This option is incorrect as the quotation does not reference any authority or person to substantiate a claim. It is a metaphorical statement reflecting the nature of cats, devoid of any citation or external support.
Conclusion
The metaphor in the quotation serves to reinforce the observations made about the inherent power and dominance of cats, particularly in relation to the lion, Josef. All other options fail to accurately represent the function of the quotation, which is to emphasize the natural authority of these animals rather than provide an alternative view, a warning, or a citation.
Answer: B
Declaring certain areas off limits to agricultural development can dangerously limit people's food supply.
This statement illustrates the potential negative consequences of a solution aimed at protecting wildlife, demonstrating how it can adversely affect local communities reliant on agriculture.
A) The creation of new watering holes for elephants provides temporary jobs for local residents.
While this option discusses a possible benefit associated with wildlife management, it does not exemplify how a solution can create conflict between different groups, which is the essence of the original statement. Therefore, it does not serve as a relevant example in this context.
B) Declaring certain areas off limits to agricultural development can dangerously limit people's food supply.
This option perfectly exemplifies the dilemma described in the original statement, as it highlights how protecting wildlife can inadvertently harm local communities' access to resources, thus illustrating the conflict between conservation efforts and agricultural needs.
C) Wild animals that prey on domestic livestock are active mostly at night.
This statement provides information about wildlife behavior but does not connect to the theme of conflicting interests between wildlife conservation and agricultural needs. It fails to illustrate how a solution can negatively impact one group while benefiting another.
D) Legislation attempting to transfer responsibility for wildlife to a country's citizens has failed in other parts of Africa.
While this option discusses legislative attempts similar to those in Namibia, it does not directly address the conflict between solutions for wildlife preservation and the needs of local populations. It fails to provide a clear example of how a solution could hurt another group, making it less relevant.
Conclusion
Option B is the most appropriate example to insert after the original statement, as it clearly demonstrates the conflict between wildlife conservation and agricultural needs, aligning with the core issue presented. All other options either fail to illustrate this conflict or provide irrelevant information, solidifying Option B as the best choice.
6. The most objectionable passages in the novel were ______ at the insistence of the censors.
Answer: A
The most objectionable passages in the novel were deleted at the insistence of the censors.
The objectionable passages were removed to comply with the censors' demands, illustrating the impact of censorship on literary works.
A) deleted
This option is the correct answer as it directly aligns with the context of censorship, where the censors require the removal of certain content deemed objectionable.
B) published
Publishing the objectionable passages would contradict the premise of censorship, as it implies that the content is made available rather than restricted or removed.
C) advertised
Advertising the objectionable content would be counterproductive in the context of censorship, as it suggests promoting material that censors sought to suppress, which is not the case.
D) restored
Restoring the objectionable passages would indicate a reversal of censorship, which is not applicable here as the passages were removed, not reinstated.
Conclusion
The option "deleted" accurately reflects the actions taken by the censors, emphasizing the nature of censorship in literary contexts. All other options fail to capture the essence of what occurred, as they either suggest promoting or maintaining the objectionable content, which contradicts the role of censors.
7. In context, what does the final sentence suggest about Native American ceremonial texts?
Answer: D
The use of repetition cannot be explained as an aid to memorization.
The final sentence suggests that highly developed memory skills among Native Americans make it unlikely that the use of repetition in ceremonial texts is solely for the purpose of aiding memorization. Instead, it implies that these memory skills are inherent and reliable during ceremonial occasions.
A) Understanding them requires a highly developed memory.
While understanding Native American ceremonial texts does involve memory, the final sentence suggests that the reliance on memory is not the primary reason for the use of repetition. Therefore, this option misinterprets the context by implying that understanding hinges solely on memory skills.
B) Their inclusion of complicated and detailed material is traditional.
This option does not directly relate to the final sentence, which focuses on the role of memory rather than the complexity of the material itself. Thus, it does not accurately capture the essence of what the sentence conveys about repetition in ceremonial texts.
C) They are important in the everyday lives of many Native Americans.
Although ceremonial texts may hold significance, the final sentence does not address their importance in everyday life. Instead, it emphasizes the reliability of memory during ceremonies, making this option irrelevant to the context provided.
D) Their use of repetition cannot be explained as an aid to memorization.
This option aligns perfectly with the final sentence, which suggests that the reliance on memory in Native American cultures diminishes the necessity of repetition solely for memorization purposes. It addresses the core argument made in the extract about the nature of memory in ceremonial contexts.
Conclusion
The correct answer, D, directly reflects the argument made in the final sentence regarding the nature of memory and the role of repetition in Native American ceremonial texts. All other options either misinterpret the context or fail to address the specific point about memorization, reinforcing that D is the most accurate choice.
8. The author's description focuses mainly on Coleman's:
Answer: B
Coleman's audacity
The author's description emphasizes Bessie Coleman's boldness and fearless persona, particularly in her role as a stunt flyer. This portrayal highlights her audacity, which was essential for success in the competitive field of aviation.
A) humility
While humility is a virtue, the extract does not emphasize this trait in Coleman's character. Instead, it showcases her confidence and daring nature, making humility an incorrect choice in this context.
B) audacity
The text clearly illustrates Coleman's audacity through her training as a stunt flyer and her ability to attract large crowds with her daring aerial maneuvers. This boldness is a central theme of the passage, making it the correct answer.
C) creativity
Although creativity may play a role in flying and performing aerial maneuvers, the extract does not specifically highlight this aspect of Coleman's abilities. The focus is primarily on her audacious character rather than her creative skills, thus rendering this option incorrect.
D) generosity
Generosity is not a theme addressed in the passage. The focus is on Coleman's skills and personality traits relevant to her aviation career, making this option unrelated to the core message of the extract.
Conclusion
The correct answer, B, reflects the central theme of Coleman's bold character as she navigated the challenges of being a stunt flyer. The other options do not align with the emphasis on her daring nature and the competitive nature of her field, reinforcing why they are not suitable answers.
9. Which sentence would be best to insert between the above sentences ?
Answer: A
In 2003, a vintage 1954 Superman lunch box sold at auction for over eleven thousand dollars.
This sentence effectively illustrates the significant increase in value of certain vintage lunch boxes, providing a concrete example that supports the previous statement regarding their worth today.
A) In 2003, a vintage 1954 Superman lunch box sold at auction for over eleven thousand dollars.
This option directly correlates with the context by providing a specific instance of a vintage lunch box that greatly appreciated in value. It reinforces the idea that while many lunch boxes are not worth much, some have become extraordinarily valuable, thus enhancing the message of the extract.
B) The 1950 Hopalong Cassidy lunch box was initially priced at $2.99.
While this sentence provides information about the initial price of a specific lunch box, it does not contribute to the discussion of their current value. It fails to illustrate the contrast between the original price and the possible current worth, making it less relevant.
C) Today, many lunch boxes are considerably more valuable than they were when first produced.
Although this option touches on the overall trend of increased value, it lacks the specificity that enhances the extract's argument. It does not provide a strong example or evidence, which diminishes its effectiveness in bridging the two main ideas.
D) Some companies, upon realizing the demand for lunch boxes, began charging more for their products.
This statement introduces a new concept about pricing strategies but does not directly connect to the value of vintage lunch boxes today. It shifts focus away from the examples of worth and therefore does not serve as a suitable insertion between the sentences.
Conclusion
Option A stands out as the best choice because it provides a specific, compelling example that exemplifies the broader statement about the value of vintage lunch boxes. The other options, while informative in different contexts, do not effectively bridge the two sentences concerning current valuations, making them less suitable for inclusion.
10. Why does the author place quotation marks around the word 'patriotic' (sentence 2)?
Answer: A
Wrigley's gum is described as 'patriotic' to reflect the perception of postwar Americans.
The use of quotation marks around the word 'patriotic' indicates that this term is attributed to the perceptions of postwar Americans rather than being a universally accepted description.
A) To attribute to postwar Americans the perception of Wrigley's gum as patriotic
This option correctly identifies the purpose of the quotation marks. It suggests that the characterization of Wrigley's gum as 'patriotic' is a reflection of how Americans viewed the product after the war, acknowledging their sentiments rather than making an objective statement.
B) To praise the patriotism the Wrigley Company demonstrated during wartime
While this option recognizes the Wrigley Company's contributions during the war, it misinterprets the use of quotation marks. The author is not praising the patriotism; instead, they are indicating that the term 'patriotic' is a subjective label given by the public.
C) To show that American soldiers used the word 'patriotic' to describe Wrigley's gum
This choice inaccurately suggests that the soldiers themselves used the term 'patriotic'. The passage does not provide evidence that soldiers described the gum this way; rather, it is the postwar American public's perception that is highlighted.
D) To reveal that the Wrigley Company changed the name of its gum to include the word 'patriotic'
This option is incorrect as the passage does not mention any name change for the gum. The quotation marks do not imply a formal name alteration but rather indicate a perception held by consumers.
Conclusion
The correct answer, A, effectively captures the author's intent in using quotation marks around 'patriotic'. It emphasizes that the term is reflective of the sentiments of postwar Americans, while the other options fail to accurately represent the context and meaning conveyed in the passage.