ACCUPLACER Next Generation Reading Exams — ACCUPLACER Reading Next Generation
1. The description of the sunrise in the sixth paragraph (sentences 18-21) mainly serves to
Answer: B
The description of the sunrise in the sixth paragraph mainly serves to illustrate Helga's inattentiveness to her visitor.
The vivid imagery of the sunrise highlights Helga's preoccupation with her own thoughts rather than engaging with Margaret. This detail reflects her emotional state and indifference to the world around her, including her visitor’s concerns.
A) emphasize Helga's love of the outdoors
This option is incorrect because the passage does not indicate Helga's love for the outdoors. Instead, it focuses on her disinterest and detachment from her surroundings, including the beauty of the sunrise.
B) illustrate Helga's inattentiveness to her visitor
This option is correct as it directly relates to how Helga is absorbed in the changing light and her own thoughts, making her inattentive to Margaret's presence and the conversation at hand. Her distraction with the sunrise shows her emotional disengagement.
C) underscore Margaret's concern for Helga's well-being
While Margaret does express concern for Helga, the description of the sunrise does not serve this purpose. Instead, it emphasizes Helga's indifference rather than highlighting the concern of her visitor.
D) suggest Margaret's astonishment at Helga's behavior
This option is incorrect because the focus of the sunrise passage is not on Margaret's reactions or astonishment but rather on Helga's inner state and lack of attention. The description does not reflect Margaret's feelings directly.
Conclusion
The imagery of the sunrise distinctly illustrates Helga's inattentiveness to her visitor, showcasing her preoccupation with her own thoughts and feelings. This contrasts sharply with Margaret's concern, emphasizing Helga's emotional disengagement from her surroundings and the people in her life. The other options misinterpret the significance of the sunrise in relation to the characters' interactions.
Answer: A
Being able to meet others who speak Spanish has definitely made the city feel more like home.
Meeting others who speak Spanish has contributed to the author's sense of belonging in the city, enhancing their overall experience and comfort in a new environment.
A) made the city feel more like home
This option is correct as it reflects the author's growing comfort and sense of belonging in the city due to the connections made with other Spanish speakers. The phrase indicates a positive emotional impact, aligning with the author's experience of overcoming initial anxieties and developing friendships.
B) given me the chance to practice.
While this option suggests that meeting Spanish speakers could provide practice opportunities, it does not encapsulate the broader emotional significance of the experience. The author’s narrative focuses more on feeling at home rather than just practicing the language.
C) made the city sort of tolerable.
This choice implies a minimal improvement in the author’s experience, suggesting that living in the city is merely acceptable rather than enjoyable. The author's reflections indicate a deeper appreciation for their surroundings and relationships, making this option inaccurate.
D) been a nice surprise.
Although this option suggests a positive experience, it lacks the depth of emotional connection conveyed in the correct answer. The author explicitly states that meeting others who speak Spanish helped them feel at home, which is a more profound realization than simply being surprised by the experience.
Conclusion
The correct answer, "made the city feel more like home," effectively captures the transformation in the author's experience as they adapt to city life. Other options fail to convey the same level of emotional resonance and significance, focusing instead on superficial aspects of the experience. Thus, option A remains the most fitting replacement for the underlined portion in the context provided.
Answer: B
Change 'show' to 'shows'
To make sentence 11 grammatically correct, the verb should agree with its subject. In this case, the singular subject "two-thirds" requires the singular verb form "shows."
A) Change 'gotten' to 'got'
This option is incorrect because changing 'gotten' to 'got' does not address the subject-verb agreement issue present in the sentence. The verb 'gotten' is also appropriate in this context as it indicates a completed action.
B) Change 'show' to 'shows'
This option is correct as it resolves the subject-verb agreement issue. The phrase "two-thirds of them" is treated as a singular unit in this context, thus requiring the singular verb form "shows."
C) Change 'support' to 'supported'
This option is incorrect because changing 'support' to 'supported' alters the meaning of the sentence. The original sentence intends to convey current support, which is accurately expressed with the present tense 'support.'
D) Change 'lanes' to 'lane'
This option is incorrect as it changes the meaning of the sentence. The original sentence correctly refers to multiple bike lanes, and changing it to 'lane' would not reflect the context of the support being expressed for all bike lanes in the city.
Conclusion
The correct answer is B, as changing 'show' to 'shows' properly aligns the verb with its subject, ensuring grammatical accuracy. The other options either do not address the grammatical issue or misrepresent the intended meaning of the sentence. Therefore, B is the only option that fulfills the requirement.
4. The narrator primarily portrays the woman she is observing as someone who is
Answer: B
The narrator primarily portrays the woman she is observing as someone who is imposing and dignified.
The woman observed by the narrator is depicted as having a powerful presence, reminiscent of a mountain's peak, and her demeanor reflects dignity and strength, particularly in her defiance against the harsh weather.
A) modest and self-effacing
This option is incorrect because the woman does not exhibit characteristics of modesty or self-effacement. Instead, she stands erect and displays pride, suggesting she embraces her identity and presence rather than diminishing herself.
B) imposing and dignified
This option is correct as the narrator describes the woman as walking with the strength of a mountain peak and possessing an air of dignity. Her refusal to blink or falter in the face of rain emphasizes her commanding presence and the respect she demands.
C) youthful and energetic
While the woman may possess some youthful traits, the overall portrayal leans more toward strength and dignity rather than energy or youthfulness. The focus is on her imposing nature rather than a sense of vibrancy or liveliness.
D) angry and impatient
This option is incorrect as the text does not suggest any anger or impatience in the woman's demeanor. Instead, her calm and dignified presence contradicts these emotions, focusing instead on her pride and resilience.
Conclusion
The portrayal of the woman as imposing and dignified is clearly supported by the imagery and descriptions provided by the narrator. All other options fail to capture the strength and pride that characterize her presence, reinforcing the central theme of dignity against adversity.
5. According to researchers, what might some modern sleep disorders actually result from?
Answer: A
Some modern sleep disorders might actually result from the enforcement of unnatural consolidated sleep patterns.
Researchers argue that some modern sleep disorders, such as insomnia, may stem from the pressure to conform to a sleep schedule that does not align with our natural sleep patterns. This suggests that the expectation to sleep in a single, uninterrupted block is not in harmony with how humans are biologically designed to sleep.
A) The enforcement of unnatural consolidated sleep patterns
This option is correct as it directly reflects the findings from the extract, which indicate that the expectation of consolidated sleep may contribute to disorders like insomnia. The research emphasizes that humans may naturally sleep in two shifts rather than one long block, and forcing a single sleep pattern can lead to disruptions.
B) The popularity of coffeehouses
This option is incorrect because the extract does not mention coffeehouses as a factor in modern sleep disorders. While caffeine consumption may impact sleep, the text does not provide evidence linking coffeehouses to the enforcement of sleep patterns or disorders.
C) The invention of the alarm clock
This option is also incorrect. Although alarm clocks can disrupt natural sleep patterns by forcing people to wake up at set times, the extract specifically discusses the impact of enforced sleep patterns rather than the mechanical aspect of waking up at a certain time.
D) The stress of modern work
While stress from modern work might affect sleep quality, the extract does not attribute modern sleep disorders to work-related stress. Instead, it focuses on the unnatural enforcement of sleep schedules as a primary cause of issues like insomnia.
Conclusion
The evidence presented in the extract clearly supports the idea that the enforcement of unnatural consolidated sleep patterns is a significant factor contributing to modern sleep disorders. Other options, while they may influence sleep, are not substantiated by the context provided. Therefore, option A is the most accurate and relevant choice regarding the cause of some modern sleep disorders.
6. According to the passage about New Spain, why was painting not highly valued in the 1600s?
Answer: A
Painting was not highly valued in the 1600s because it was seen as manual labor similar to tailoring or blacksmithing.
In the 1600s, painting in the colonies of New Spain was regarded as an artisan activity, which was perceived to be more physical than intellectual. This perception stemmed from a rooted Spanish aristocratic prejudice against commerce and manual labor, correlating painting with trades like tailoring and blacksmithing.
A) Because it was seen as manual labor similar to tailoring or blacksmithing
This option is correct as the passage explicitly states that painting was considered an artisan activity akin to that of tailors or blacksmiths. The text highlights that this view was influenced by longstanding aristocratic prejudices and the structure of guilds, which reinforced the notion that painting was not an esteemed intellectual pursuit.
B) Because the quality of colonial painters was poor
This option is incorrect because the passage does not mention the quality of the painters' work as a reason for the low valuation of painting. Instead, it focuses on societal perceptions and prejudices surrounding the nature of the work rather than the skill level of the artists.
C) Because religious authorities discouraged painting
This option is also incorrect. The passage does not suggest that religious authorities had any role in discouraging painting. Instead, it emphasizes the societal views rooted in aristocratic prejudice and the influence of guilds, rather than any religious opposition.
D) Because artists lacked access to materials
This option is incorrect as well, since the passage does not reference any limitations regarding access to materials for artists. The lack of value attributed to painting was rooted in social perceptions rather than material shortages.
Conclusion
The correct answer, A, highlights the perception of painting as mere manual labor, which informed the societal valuation of the art form during the 1600s. All other options fail to address the core issue presented in the passage, which is the influence of aristocratic views and guild structures on the perception of painting in New Spain. Thus, A stands out as the only option that aligns with the passage's context and assertions.
7. The primary purpose of the passage is to:
Answer: D
Describe the influence of Spanish attitudes and practices on the painting of New Spain
The passage emphasizes how Spanish aristocratic prejudices against commerce and manual labor shaped the perception of painting in New Spain during the 1600s. It discusses the impact of guilds and the workshop system on the development of art, highlighting the influence of Spanish attitudes on local artistic practices.
A) Trace the history of guilds in New Spain
While the passage mentions guilds and their role in maintaining feudal beliefs, it does not primarily focus on tracing their history. Instead, it uses guilds as a context to illustrate broader Spanish attitudes towards painting, making this option incorrect.
B) Criticize the Spanish beliefs about manual labor
The passage does not explicitly criticize Spanish beliefs about manual labor; rather, it describes them as a historical context that affected the valuation of painting. Therefore, this option misrepresents the main intent of the passage.
C) Describe some particular works of art created in New Spain in the 1600s
Although the passage discusses the art produced in the colonies, it does not specifically describe particular works of art or their characteristics. Instead, it focuses on the broader influences on the art scene, making this option not aligned with the primary purpose of the text.
D) Describe the influence of Spanish attitudes and practices on the painting of New Spain
This option accurately captures the essence of the passage, which outlines how Spanish aristocratic prejudices and the guild system influenced the perception and production of painting in New Spain. The text clearly connects cultural beliefs to artistic practices, validating this choice as the correct answer.
Conclusion
Option D is the correct choice as it encapsulates the main theme of the passage, which is the influence of Spanish cultural attitudes on the artistic landscape of New Spain. Other options either misinterpret the focus of the passage or do not align with its central message, confirming that D is the most accurate answer.
8. In the first two sentences , scientists are presented as all of the following EXCEPT
Answer: C
Scientists are presented as inherently logical.
In the passage, scientists are depicted as being driven by temperament and hunches rather than purely logical reasoning, which indicates that they are not inherently logical in their initial approach to developing new ideas.
A) predisposed
This choice is correct because the passage describes scientists as being guided by their feelings and desires, suggesting a predisposition toward certain ideas or outcomes based on their initial hunches.
B) determined
This option is also accurate, as the passage implies that scientists persist in their beliefs and ideas despite contrary evidence, demonstrating a determination to pursue their initial thoughts even when data suggests otherwise.
C) inherently logical
This is the correct answer as the passage emphasizes that scientists start with hunches and emotions rather than purely logical thought processes. Therefore, they are not described as inherently logical.
D) overly zealous
This choice is appropriate because the passage indicates that scientists may cling to their beliefs with fervor, portraying them as overly zealous in their commitment to their initial ideas even when they are misguided.
Conclusion
The correct answer is C, as the passage illustrates that scientists begin their work with subjective feelings rather than objective logical reasoning, which contrasts with the notion of being inherently logical. Options A, B, and D align with the portrayal of scientists as emotional and driven by hunches, thus failing to capture the essence of their initial mindset.
Answer: D
After democratic rule was established in the 1990s, more steps were taken to strengthen Guarani
This revision effectively combines the two sentences by establishing a clear chronological sequence, indicating that the establishment of democratic rule directly preceded the actions taken to strengthen Guarani.
A) Democratic rule was established in the 1990s, more steps were taken, and Guarani was strengthened
This option lacks clarity and a logical flow. It combines the ideas but does not specify the relationship between the establishment of democratic rule and the subsequent actions regarding Guarani, making it less effective than the correct answer.
B) Democratic rule was established in the 1990s, and they took more steps to strengthen Guarani
While this option connects the two ideas, it uses the vague term "they," which does not specify who took the steps. This can lead to confusion and does not convey the direct cause-and-effect relationship found in the correct answer.
C) In the 1990s, more steps were taken to strengthen Guarani because democratic rule was established
This option implies that the establishment of democratic rule was the sole reason for the actions taken to strengthen Guarani. While this could be true, it alters the original meaning by suggesting causation rather than a simple chronological order, which misrepresents the context.
D) After democratic rule was established in the 1990s, more steps were taken to strengthen Guarani
This option accurately captures the sequence of events and clearly indicates that the strengthening of Guarani followed the establishment of democratic rule, making it the most precise and contextually appropriate choice.
Conclusion
Option D is the best choice as it maintains the chronological order and clarity of the original sentences while effectively linking the establishment of democratic rule with subsequent efforts to strengthen Guarani. The other options either lack clarity, introduce ambiguity, or misrepresent the relationship between the events.
Answer: B
Conserving open lands is the best way to revise 'it' in sentence 8.
Revising 'it' to 'conserving open lands' clearly specifies what is being referred to, enhancing the clarity of the sentence regarding the findings of the report.
A) a community
This option does not accurately capture the subject of the sentence. While communities may benefit from the findings, the report specifically addresses the impact of conserving open lands on property taxes, making this option less relevant.
B) conserving open lands
This option correctly identifies the subject of the report's findings. It directly links to the context provided, indicating that conserving open lands can indeed reduce the need for increased property taxes, thus improving the clarity and intent of the sentence.
C) the state of New York
While the state of New York is mentioned in the report's authorship, it does not accurately reflect the subject that 'it' refers to in the context of the sentence. This option fails to clarify the specific action that the report suggests can lessen property taxes.
D) the Comptroller’s report
Revising 'it' to refer to the report itself may create confusion. The focus of the sentence is on the action described in the report rather than the report as an entity, making this option less effective in conveying the intended message.
Conclusion
The revision to 'conserving open lands' is the most appropriate as it directly aligns with the content of the report and clarifies the subject matter related to property taxes. The other options either misinterpret the context or fail to provide clear communication regarding the findings of the report. Therefore, option B is definitively the best choice.