ACCUPLACER Next Generation Reading Exams — Next Generation ACCUPLACER Reading Practice
Answer: A
General Stroessner, the son of a Bavarian immigrant father and Guarani-speaking mother, made it an official language and rewarded rural Guarani speakers with land for their loyalty.
The best version of the underlined portion remains as it is now, as it clearly and accurately describes General Stroessner's background without unnecessary punctuation that could confuse the reader.
A) (As it is now)
This option is correct because it maintains clarity and coherence in the sentence. The phrase accurately identifies General Stroessner’s parentage and the actions he took regarding the Guarani language without introducing excessive commas that could disrupt the flow of information.
B) Bavarian, immigrant father, and Guarani-speaking mother, made it an official language, and rewarded rural Guarani speakers with land
This option is incorrect due to the use of unnecessary commas, which separate the elements inappropriately. The additional commas create confusion regarding the relationships between the terms, making the sentence harder to read and understand.
C) Bavarian immigrant father, and Guarani-speaking mother, made it an official language and rewarded rural Guarani speakers with land
This option is incorrect because it improperly includes a comma after "father," which disrupts the natural flow of the sentence. The relationship between "Bavarian immigrant father" and "Guarani-speaking mother" is clear without the comma, making this phrasing less effective.
D) Bavarian, immigrant father and Guarani-speaking mother, made it an official language, and rewarded rural Guarani speakers with land
This option is incorrect as it introduces unnecessary commas that fragment the sentence. The use of a comma after "Bavarian" and before "and Guarani-speaking mother" is misplaced, leading to ambiguity in understanding who the subjects are.
Conclusion
The correct answer is option A because it presents the information in a straightforward and comprehensible manner, effectively linking General Stroessner's heritage to his actions regarding the Guarani language. All other options introduce punctuation errors that compromise the clarity and readability of the sentence.
2. In context, the metaphor in the third sentence ('it was... years') chiefly serves to:
Answer: D
Place the Lewis and Clark expedition into a broad context
The metaphor in the third sentence emphasizes that the history of the West predates the Lewis and Clark expedition by thousands of years, thus situating their journey within a much larger historical narrative. This highlights the expedition as part of a continuum rather than the starting point of history in the region.
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. Instead, it underscores the pre-existing history of the West that existed long before the nation was established, thereby drawing attention away from the United States' age.
B) Question the literary value of the writings by Lewis and Clark
This choice is incorrect as the metaphor does not critique the literary merit of their writings. Rather, it serves to place their accounts within a historical framework, suggesting that while valuable, they do not mark the beginning of history in the West.
C) Trivialize the accomplishments of the Lewis and Clark expedition
This option misinterprets the metaphor's intent. While it suggests that the expedition was not the beginning of Western history, it does not trivialize their accomplishments; instead, it acknowledges them within a broader and richer historical context.
D) Place the Lewis and Clark expedition into a broad context
This choice is correct as it accurately reflects the metaphor's purpose. By stating that the events of the Lewis and Clark expedition occurred within a historical landscape that spans thousands of years, it effectively situates their journey as part of a larger narrative rather than an isolated event.
Conclusion
The correct answer is D, as the metaphor serves to contextualize the Lewis and Clark expedition within the extensive history of the West, illustrating that their exploration was just a moment in a much older story. Other options fail to recognize this broader historical significance, focusing instead on aspects that are not supported by the extract.
Answer: B
In the second sentence of the passage, the simile primarily emphasizes the rocket’s obsolescence.
The simile in the passage compares the rocket to a giant mythic serpent with dragon-like traits, suggesting that it is outdated and no longer relevant in the context of modern technology.
A) dominance
This option is incorrect because the simile does not highlight any sense of superiority or power associated with the rocket. Instead, it implies a sense of antiquity, as dragons and giant serpents are often associated with old myths rather than contemporary advancements.
B) obsolescence
This option is correct as it captures the essence of the simile by contrasting the majestic image of a giant serpent with the idea of being outmoded. The comparison suggests that the rocket, much like these ancient creatures, has become less significant in the face of modern innovations.
C) superior engineering
This choice is incorrect because the simile does not suggest that the rocket is a marvel of engineering. Rather, it implies a connection to something that is outdated, which contradicts the notion of superiority in engineering.
D) appeal to newcomers
This option is also incorrect as the simile does not convey any attractiveness or appeal to new audiences. Instead, it evokes a sense of something that has been surpassed, making it less appealing rather than more.
Conclusion
The correct answer is B) obsolescence, as the simile effectively communicates the idea that the rocket has lost its relevance in modern times, similar to ancient mythic creatures. The other options fail to capture this central theme, instead suggesting notions of power, superiority, or appeal that are not supported by the context of the simile presented.
Answer: B
Margaret indicates her concern for Helga’s well-being due to the state of her room.
Margaret expresses her concern for Helga when she sees her in a disheveled state, seated in a mass of cushions and still in her night robe, which suggests that she may not have been taking care of her living space.
A) will be late to meet her students
While Margaret does mention the time and implies that Helga should hurry to her first class, this is not the primary concern that leads her to check on Helga. The focus is more on Helga's overall state and well-being rather than her punctuality.
B) has allowed her room to become messy
This option is correct as it directly relates to the description of Helga's environment. Margaret's reaction to Helga's appearance and the state of her room indicates her concern that Helga has not been maintaining her space, which reflects her emotional state and overall well-being.
C) is upset with another teacher
There is no evidence in the passage to suggest that Margaret is concerned about Helga's feelings toward another teacher. The conversation centers around Helga's own condition and choices rather than interpersonal conflicts.
D) has decided to join the English department
This choice is incorrect as there is no indication in the text that Helga is considering joining the English department. Margaret's concern is more about Helga's current situation rather than any professional aspirations.
Conclusion
Option B is definitively correct as it captures Margaret's immediate concern regarding Helga's lack of care for her surroundings, which serves as a reflection of her emotional state. The other options, while related to Helga's situation, do not accurately represent the primary reason for Margaret's worry. Thus, the passage emphasizes Helga's neglect of her environment as a sign of her deeper dissatisfaction.
5. Which of the following sentences would best be inserted between sentences 11 and 12?
Answer: B
This rather implausible conclusion nonetheless persisted for years.
Inserting this sentence between sentences 11 and 12 effectively transitions from the long-standing belief about sauropod growth rates to the new findings that challenge that belief. It highlights the persistence of outdated assumptions in scientific research, setting the stage for the subsequent revelation about sauropod growth.
A) Like all dinosaurs, sauropods hatched from eggs.
This option, while true, does not relate to the discussion of growth rates and would not provide a relevant transition between the sentences. It does not address the implausibility of the previous growth rate conclusions, making it an unsuitable choice.
B) This rather implausible conclusion nonetheless persisted for years.
This statement directly addresses the flawed assumption regarding the growth rates of sauropods and emphasizes how deeply ingrained this misconception was among scientists. It is the most fitting choice because it connects the outdated belief to the subsequent analysis of sauropod bones, leading to the new understanding of their growth.
C) For decades, sauropods were considered emblematic of the phenomenon of extinction.
While this statement provides historical context about sauropods, it does not specifically connect to the discussion about growth rates. It shifts focus away from the core topic, making it less relevant for insertion between the two sentences.
D) Sauropod fossils continue to be discovered in regions spread across the globe.
This option introduces new information about recent fossil discoveries but does not relate to the discussion of growth rates. It does not serve as a logical bridge between the two sentences, thereby making it an inappropriate choice.
Conclusion
The correct answer, "This rather implausible conclusion nonetheless persisted for years," effectively captures the essence of the historical misunderstanding regarding sauropod growth rates. It provides a necessary transition that acknowledges the long-standing nature of the misconceptions before introducing the new insights gained from studying their fossils. The other options fail to connect with the main theme of growth rates, making them less suitable for inclusion.
Answer: C
Finding a previously unknown letter between Newton and Leibniz discussing calculus that predated its commonly assumed discovery
This option directly challenges Ogburn and Thomas's belief by suggesting that the discovery of calculus may not have been an independent simultaneous occurrence but rather a collaborative effort. A letter between Newton and Leibniz could imply prior knowledge or communication about calculus, undermining the notion of it being an inevitable discovery.
A) Uncovering the existence of a journal that Newton kept while working with calculus
While this might provide deeper insight into Newton's thought process, it does not indicate whether his discovery was independent or influenced by others. The existence of a journal alone does not challenge the idea of simultaneous discovery; it could merely document Newton's own development of calculus.
B) Learning that scientists other than Newton and Leibniz had also made substantial progress on calculus
This option suggests that multiple individuals were working on similar ideas, which aligns with the concept of simultaneous discovery. However, it does not directly challenge Ogburn and Thomas's claim, as it still supports the idea that the discovery was in the intellectual climate of the time.
C) Finding a previously unknown letter between Newton and Leibniz discussing calculus that predated its commonly assumed discovery
This option is the most effective challenge to Ogburn and Thomas's belief. It suggests that rather than being an independent discovery, calculus could have been influenced by prior communication, directly contradicting the notion of its inevitability and independence.
D) Identifying a minor error in Newton's original mathematical calculations
Identifying an error does not challenge the phenomenon of simultaneous discovery. Mistakes in calculation do not affect the validity of the idea that discoveries can occur independently; they simply reflect the imperfection of the process. This option does not address the central claim about the inevitability of the discovery itself.
Conclusion
Option C is the strongest challenge to Ogburn and Thomas's belief regarding the simultaneous discovery of calculus, as it introduces the possibility of prior communication between Newton and Leibniz. In contrast, the other options either support the idea of simultaneous discovery or do not address the independence of the discoveries, thus failing to undermine the core concept being tested.
Answer: C
For an environmental scientist, "making value judgments" is a civic duty.
The author of Passage 2 asserts that environmental scientists have an ethical obligation to advocate for their findings and inform the public about environmental issues. This perspective frames making value judgments not as a detriment, but as an essential responsibility of scientists in their role as advocates.
A) an ongoing concern
This option suggests that making value judgments is a persistent issue for environmental scientists. While there is concern about how these judgments might affect scientific credibility, the author of Passage 2 emphasizes the need for advocacy, indicating that they see value judgments as necessary rather than merely a concern.
B) a sign of political commitment
Labeling value judgments as a sign of political commitment implies that such judgments are primarily tied to political agendas. However, the author argues for the importance of advocacy in science, suggesting that these judgments stem from a duty to inform rather than a political stance.
C) a civic duty
The author of Passage 2 argues that environmental scientists ethically must advocate for the public by sharing their findings and conclusions. This aligns with the idea that making value judgments is a civic duty, as it reflects the responsibility of scientists to engage with the public on critical environmental issues.
D) an occupational hazard
Describing value judgments as an occupational hazard implies that they are a negative aspect of being an environmental scientist. In contrast, the author of Passage 2 views advocacy as a necessary part of their role, indicating that making value judgments is not a hazard but rather a crucial element of their professional responsibilities.
Conclusion
The correct answer, that making value judgments is a civic duty, is supported by the author’s argument that environmental scientists must engage in advocacy to inform the public. Other options fail to capture the author's positive framing of value judgments as an essential responsibility rather than a concern, commitment, or hazard. This emphasizes the importance of scientists actively participating in public discourse about environmental issues.
8. The sixth paragraph (sentences 14–17) suggests that on the first day of kindergarten, Evan felt:
Answer: D
Evan felt upset by unfamiliar circumstances and surroundings.
On the first day of kindergarten, Evan experienced distress characterized by crying for his mother, indicating that he was upset by the unfamiliar environment and the new situation he found himself in.
A) happy to be surrounded by so many other children for the first time
This option is incorrect as the passage does not describe Evan as feeling happy or excited about being around other children. Instead, it highlights his shyness and discomfort, which led to him crying for his mother.
B) excited by everything he expected to learn
Evan's feelings on his first day of kindergarten contrast sharply with excitement. The passage reveals that he was overwhelmed and upset rather than eager to learn, as evidenced by his tears and emotional distress.
C) resentful of being indoors after spending most of the summer outside
While Evan may have enjoyed his summer outdoors, the passage focuses on his emotional state during a new and challenging experience rather than any resentment toward being indoors. It is clear that his feelings are centered around anxiety and discomfort rather than physical location.
D) upset by unfamiliar circumstances and surroundings
This option accurately reflects Evan's emotional state during his first day of kindergarten. The passage explicitly states that he cried for his mother, indicating his distress in a new and unfamiliar situation, aligning perfectly with this choice.
Conclusion
Evan's emotional response on his first day of kindergarten is clearly characterized by upset feelings stemming from unfamiliar circumstances, making option D the only suitable choice. The other options incorrectly interpret his feelings or focus on aspects not supported by the text, thus failing to capture the essence of Evan's experience as described in the passage.
Answer: D
Change 'being' to 'were'
The sentence requires a change from 'being' to 'were' to correctly convey that Dashiell Hammett and James M. Cain were influential writers in the past. This grammatical adjustment aligns the verb tense with the context of the sentence.
A) Change 'such as' to 'like'
This option is incorrect because 'such as' is appropriately used in this context to introduce examples of influential writers. Changing it to 'like' would alter the formal tone and clarity of the sentence without addressing the grammatical issue.
B) Change 'whose' to 'which'
Changing 'whose' to 'which' is not a suitable correction. 'Whose' is the correct possessive form to refer to the novel written by Hammett, while 'which' would incorrectly imply a non-possessive relationship, thus distorting the intended meaning.
C) Change 'was made' to 'making'
This option does not resolve the grammatical error present in the sentence. While 'making' could change the structure of the sentence, it would create a different sentence construction that does not clarify the influence of Hammett and Cain effectively.
D) Change 'being' to 'were'
This is the correct choice as it corrects the verb tense, allowing the sentence to accurately state that both writers were influential in the past. Changing 'being' to 'were' maintains the subject-verb agreement and enhances the sentence's clarity.
Conclusion
The necessary change to 'were' from 'being' rectifies the grammatical issue and ensures that the sentence accurately reflects the past influence of Hammett and Cain. The other options either misinterpret the sentence's structure or fail to address the key grammatical error, making them unsuitable corrections.
Answer: D
That these resilient animals
The best version of the underlined portion of sentence 6 is "that these resilient animals," as it provides a clear connection without unnecessary commas, ensuring the sentence flows smoothly.
A) (as it is now)
This option retains the original phrasing, which includes a comma that disrupts the natural flow of the sentence. The presence of the comma between "that" and "these" is grammatically incorrect in this context, making this option unsuitable.
B) that, these resilient animals
This choice introduces an unnecessary comma after "that," creating a pause that is not needed. It interrupts the connection between the clause and the subject, resulting in awkward phrasing that does not adhere to standard grammatical rules.
C) that these resilient animals,
While this option removes the initial comma, it incorrectly places a comma at the end of the phrase. This creates a sentence fragment and implies a continuation, which is not appropriate in this context.
D) that these resilient animals
This option provides a clear and grammatically correct phrasing by removing any unnecessary punctuation. It allows for a smooth reading experience and maintains the integrity of the sentence structure.
Conclusion
The correct answer, "that these resilient animals," effectively communicates the intended meaning without the distractions of erroneous punctuation. Options A, B, and C fail to maintain the clarity and grammatical accuracy required for effective communication, making D the superior choice in this context.