NLN NEX Verbal Ability Exams — NLN NEX Verbal
1. Which sentence from the passage expresses its main idea?
Answer: A
The book examines the roles of race, class, gender, and ethics in medical research.
The main idea of the passage is conveyed through the examination of Henrietta Lacks's life and the broader implications of her contributions to medical research, particularly regarding race, class, and ethics.
A) The book, an immediate bestseller, examines the roles of race, class, gender, and ethics in medical research and considers the implications, both positive and negative, of Henrietta Lacks's remarkable but inadvertent role in some of the most significant medical advances of the twentieth century.
This option accurately captures the essence of the passage, highlighting the central themes of race, class, gender, and ethics in medical research as they relate to Henrietta Lacks's contributions. It encapsulates both the significance of her story and the complex issues surrounding her legacy.
B) While there is no doubt that the Lacks family was first dismissed and later exploited, this bioethical debate is far from settled.
Although this sentence addresses an important aspect of the story, focusing on the exploitation of the Lacks family and ongoing bioethical debates, it does not encompass the broader themes of race, class, and gender in medical research that are central to the main idea of the passage.
C) Sadly, cervical cancer is a particularly pernicious disease, and Henrietta succumbed in October 1951 after a brief but terribly painful struggle, leaving behind her young children.
This option provides specific details about Henrietta Lacks's illness and personal struggles but does not reflect the overarching themes of the passage regarding her impact on medical research or the ethical considerations involved.
D) The production and sale of HeLa cells became a multi-million-dollar industry.
While this statement discusses the commercial aspect of HeLa cells, it is a narrower focus and does not capture the broader implications of race, class, and ethics in medical research that define the main idea of the passage.
Conclusion
Option A is definitively the correct choice as it encapsulates the main themes of the passage, addressing the multifaceted issues surrounding Henrietta Lacks's contributions to medical research. The other options, while relevant to specific elements of her story, fail to convey the comprehensive examination of race, class, and ethics that the passage emphasizes. Thus, they do not fully represent the main idea.
2. The company interviewed twelve…………... candidates for the new management position.
Answer: A
The company interviewed twelve prospective candidates for the new management position.
Using the term "prospective" accurately describes candidates who are considered for a position, indicating they are potential hires for the management role.
A) prospective
This option is correct as it refers to candidates who are likely to be considered for a future role. "Prospective" is commonly used in hiring contexts to denote individuals who have the potential to fill a position.
B) perceptive
This option is incorrect because "perceptive" describes someone who is able to notice or understand things quickly. It does not relate to candidates in a hiring context and does not imply anything about their suitability for the position.
C) perspective
This option is incorrect as "perspective" refers to a point of view or a way of regarding something. It does not apply to candidates in terms of their potential to be hired and lacks relevance in the context of a job interview.
D) accepted
This option is incorrect since "accepted" refers to candidates who have been approved or received positively. It does not convey the idea of individuals who are being considered for a position, which is necessary for the context of the question.
Conclusion
The term "prospective" is the only option that accurately describes candidates who are being considered for a new management position, while the other options either misrepresent the candidates' status or are irrelevant in the context of hiring. Thus, "prospective" is the definitive choice in this scenario.
3. Choose the pair of words that represent antonyms.
Answer: A
Pacify and provoke represent antonyms.
The words "pacify" and "provoke" are opposites; to pacify means to calm or soothe, while to provoke means to stir up or incite anger or disturbance.
A) pacify-provoke
This pair is correctly identified as antonyms. "Pacify" refers to the act of calming someone down or bringing peace, whereas "provoke" means to instigate or incite, which is directly opposing the calming effect of pacifying.
B) punitive-incentive
While "punitive" refers to imposing penalties or punishment, and "incentive" refers to a motivator for action, these terms do not serve as direct antonyms. They relate to different concepts within the realm of consequences but do not represent opposing ideas.
C) retaliate-sabotage
"Retaliate" means to take revenge, while "sabotage" refers to deliberately damaging or obstructing something. Although both involve aggressive actions, they do not convey opposing meanings, making this pair incorrect in terms of being antonyms.
D) squander-dissipate
Both "squander" and "dissipate" imply the waste of resources, often in a careless manner. Since they share a similar meaning rather than opposing meanings, this pair does not fit the criteria for antonyms.
Conclusion
The pair "pacify-provoke" is the only correct choice as they clearly represent opposing actions. The other options either relate to similar concepts or do not convey direct opposites, reinforcing that A is the definitive answer.
4. Court decisions focusing on student free speech in the 1980s largely
Answer: A
Court decisions focusing on student free speech in the 1980s largely diverged from the Tinker ruling.
During the 1980s, court decisions began to take a different approach to student free speech, moving away from the precedents established in the Tinker case. This shift indicated a change in the judicial interpretation of students' rights within educational settings.
A) diverged from the Tinker ruling.
This option is correct as it accurately reflects the trend observed in the 1980s regarding student free speech cases. Courts increasingly interpreted the Tinker decision in a manner that limited students' rights, indicating a departure from the protections established in the landmark case.
B) ignored the Tinker ruling.
While some cases may not have explicitly referenced Tinker, this option is incorrect because courts did not completely disregard its principles; rather, they reinterpreted them. The decisions of the 1980s engaged with Tinker but often concluded in a way that diminished its impact on student rights.
C) supported the Tinker ruling.
This option is incorrect as the decisions made during the 1980s did not uphold Tinker's protective stance regarding student speech. Instead, the courts tended to impose restrictions that were contrary to the spirit of the Tinker decision.
D) forgot about the Tinker decision.
This choice is also incorrect. While the essence of Tinker may have been diminished in subsequent rulings, it was not forgotten. Courts were still grappling with its implications but often arrived at conclusions that conflicted with its core principles.
Conclusion
The correct answer, A, reflects the judicial trend of the 1980s, which saw a significant shift away from the protections provided by Tinker v. Des Moines. Other options either misrepresent the engagement with Tinker or inaccurately describe the realities of the judicial landscape during that decade, emphasizing the evolving interpretation of student rights within public schools.
5. When at a family event, we may call it a gathering of our
Answer: A
When at a family event, we may call it a gathering of our kindred.
A family event is often characterized by the presence of relatives who are connected by blood or marriage, which is the essence of the term "kindred."
A) kindred.
Option A is correct because "kindred" specifically refers to one's family or relatives. In the context of a family event, this term perfectly captures the gathering of individuals who share familial bonds.
B) acquaintances.
Option B is incorrect as "acquaintances" refers to people one knows casually, lacking the deeper familial ties that define a family gathering. While acquaintances may attend social events, they do not encompass the essence of a family event.
C) neighbors.
Option C is also incorrect because "neighbors" denotes people living nearby, which does not imply any familial relationship. A family event focuses on relatives rather than those who may simply reside in proximity.
D) friends.
Option D is incorrect since "friends" refers to individuals with whom one has a personal bond but are not necessarily related by family. Although friends may be included in some family gatherings, the term does not specifically represent the familial nature of such events.
Conclusion
The term "kindred" is definitively the right choice as it directly relates to the familial connections present at a family gathering. All other options fail to capture the essence of a family event, as they refer to non-familial relationships. Thus, "kindred" accurately reflects the nature of the gathering in question.
6. Based on the passage, it can be concluded that
Answer: A
Advances in technology, such as the hybrid, closed loop system, don't replace the need for a cure.
The extract emphasizes that while recent technological advancements, such as hybrid closed-loop systems, have significantly improved the management of type 1 diabetes (T1D), they do not eliminate the need for a cure. These innovations enhance patients' quality of life but are not a substitute for a definitive solution to the disease.
A) advances in technology, such as the hybrid, closed loop system, don't replace the need for a cure.
This option is correct as the passage states that while modern technology has improved the management of T1D, a cure for the disease remains the ultimate goal of researchers. The text highlights the importance of ongoing technological advancements, but it implies that they are interim solutions rather than complete answers to the condition.
B) patients with T1D who use hybrid closed-loop systems will have the same lifespan as those without T1D.
This option is incorrect because the passage does not provide any evidence or claims regarding lifespan comparisons between patients with T1D using hybrid closed-loop systems and those without the condition. It focuses primarily on management improvements rather than mortality rates.
C) hybrid closed-loop systems will not be widely used in the future.
This option is incorrect as the passage discusses the FDA's approval of hybrid closed-loop systems and implies their growing acceptance and use among individuals with T1D. There is no indication in the text that these systems will decline in use in the future.
D) new technology allows people with T1D to no longer have to monitor their condition.
This option is incorrect. The passage clearly states that while new technologies facilitate better management of T1D, patients still need to monitor their condition actively. Continuous glucose monitors and insulin pumps enhance management but do not eliminate the necessity for monitoring.
Conclusion
The correct answer, option A, accurately reflects the passage's main point that advances in technology improve life for those with T1D but do not replace the need for a cure. The other options fail to capture the essence of the text, either misrepresenting the relationship between technology and the need for a cure or making unsupported claims about lifespan and future technology use. Thus, A stands out as the only option that aligns with the passage's message.
7. Which pair of words below represents antonyms?
Answer: B
Ambivalent and decisive represent antonyms.
The pair of words "ambivalent" and "decisive" represents antonyms because "ambivalent" refers to having mixed feelings or contradictory ideas about something, while "decisive" implies a clear and firm decision-making ability.
A) unfettered -loosened
This pair does not represent antonyms. "Unfettered" means free from restrictions, and "loosened" implies making something less tight or rigid, which are not opposing concepts.
B) ambivalent -decisive
This pair is correct as "ambivalent" indicates uncertainty or mixed feelings, contrasting with "decisive," which suggests clarity and firmness in decision-making.
C) ambitious - determined
These words are not antonyms. "Ambitious" refers to having a strong desire to achieve success, while "determined" suggests a resolute mindset; both convey positive traits related to goal achievement.
D) lucrative-profitable
This pair also does not represent antonyms. Both "lucrative" and "profitable" describe something that is financially rewarding, making them synonymous rather than opposite in meaning.
Conclusion
The correct answer, "ambivalent - decisive," is definitive as these words convey opposing meanings regarding clarity and emotional response. In contrast, the other options either represent synonyms or unrelated concepts, failing to meet the criteria for antonyms.
Answer: B
Parents should seek medical intervention for a child's picky eating if the child is suffering physical effects from overly restrictive eating.
When a child exhibits symptoms of physical distress due to their eating habits, such as malnutrition or health deterioration, it is crucial for parents to seek medical intervention. This aligns with the understanding that Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) can lead to serious health issues if left untreated.
A) refuses to try something the parent knows they like.
While a child refusing to try familiar foods may indicate pickiness, it does not necessarily suggest a medical concern. Children can be selective eaters without experiencing significant health implications, which is different from the severe consequences associated with ARFID.
B) is suffering physical effects from overly restrictive eating.
This option is correct as it directly addresses the need for medical intervention when a child's eating habits lead to negative health outcomes. The extract emphasizes that individuals with ARFID may suffer from malnutrition and failure to thrive, highlighting the importance of seeking treatment in such cases.
C) insists on having food presented in a certain way.
A preference for the presentation of food is typical in many children and does not, by itself, warrant medical intervention. Such behavior may reflect normal developmental tendencies rather than the serious implications of ARFID or another eating disorder.
D) throws a tantrum at meal times.
Tantrums during meals can be a sign of frustration or a behavioral response rather than an indication of a serious underlying condition. While such behaviors may require attention, they do not inherently suggest the need for medical intervention as physical health issues do.
Conclusion
Seeking medical intervention is vital when a child shows signs of suffering from physical effects due to restrictive eating, as highlighted in option B. The other options, while indicative of certain behaviors or preferences, do not reflect the serious health risks associated with ARFID. Therefore, understanding the context of ARFID allows parents to make informed decisions about their children's eating habits and health.
9. The administration of government through departments and subdivisions is called
Answer: A
Bureaucracy
Bureaucracy refers to the administration of government through various departments and subdivisions, which enables orderly and efficient management of public affairs. This structure is essential for implementing policies and regulations within a government framework.
A) bureaucracy.
This option is correct as it directly defines the system of administration characterized by a hierarchical structure of departments and subdivisions that manage governmental functions. Bureaucracy is fundamental to the operation of modern governments, ensuring that public administration is organized and systematic.
B) diplomacy.
Diplomacy involves the management of international relations and negotiations between countries. While it plays a critical role in foreign affairs, it does not pertain to the internal administration of government through departments, making this option incorrect.
C) democracy.
Democracy refers to a system of government in which power is vested in the people, who exercise that power directly or through elected representatives. Although a democratic system may use bureaucracy, the term itself does not describe the administrative structure of government, rendering this option incorrect.
D) autocracy.
Autocracy is a form of government in which one person holds absolute power. While autocracies may have bureaucratic structures, the term does not specifically refer to the administrative system of departments and subdivisions, making this option incorrect.
Conclusion
Bureaucracy is the only option that accurately describes the administration of government through various departments and subdivisions. The other options—diplomacy, democracy, and autocracy—relate to different aspects of governance and do not define the administrative structure in question. Thus, A is the definitive correct answer.
10. Journaling, exercising, and crafting are examples of Which word should go in the blank?
Answer: D
Cathartic
Journaling, exercising, and crafting are examples of activities that can be described as cathartic, as they provide emotional release and relief from stress.
A) Impregnable
Impregnable refers to something that cannot be penetrated or overcome, typically used in the context of security or defenses. This term does not relate to the emotional or therapeutic aspects of activities like journaling, exercising, and crafting.
B) Ambivalent
Ambivalent describes a state of having mixed feelings or contradictory ideas about something or someone. While one might feel ambivalent about engaging in certain activities, it does not accurately reflect the positive emotional release that journaling, exercising, and crafting provide.
C) Despondent
Despondent means in low spirits or feeling hopeless. This term is contrary to the uplifting nature of journaling, exercising, and crafting, which are intended to boost mood and promote well-being.
D) Cathartic
Cathartic describes experiences that provide emotional release and relief. Journaling, exercising, and crafting are all activities that help individuals process emotions, reduce stress, and achieve a sense of clarity and fulfillment, making this option the most appropriate.
Conclusion
The correct answer, cathartic, encapsulates the essence of journaling, exercising, and crafting as activities that facilitate emotional release and psychological healing. In contrast, the other options—impregnable, ambivalent, and despondent—fail to capture the positive and therapeutic nature of these activities, making them unsuitable in this context.