Reading Comprehension: Scientific Passages Flashcards

When a passage defines a technical term in parentheses, that definition is provided to:

Answer: Help the reader understand specialized vocabulary in context

In-text definitions clarify specialized terms for the reader.

A question asking 'the passage would be most useful to which audience' tests your ability to judge:

Answer: The passage's purpose and appropriate readership

Such questions require matching purpose and content to a likely audience.

If the passage presents data that contradicts an earlier-stated theory, the author is most likely:

Answer: Presenting evidence that weakens or revises the theory

Contradictory data serves to challenge or revise the earlier theory.

The most efficient way to handle a long DAT passage under time pressure is to:

Answer: Skim for structure first, then return to text for each question

Skim-then-locate balances speed with accuracy on timed passages.

A statement framed as 'researchers concluded' versus 'researchers hypothesized' differs because a conclusion is:

Answer: A judgment reached after analyzing evidence

A conclusion follows analysis, whereas a hypothesis precedes testing.

When a question offers two answers that are both true statements, the correct one is the choice that:

Answer: Best and most directly answers the specific question asked

Among true statements, pick the one that directly responds to the question.

An author who presents multiple viewpoints without endorsing one is best described as adopting a tone that is:

Answer: Objective or balanced

Presenting views neutrally reflects an objective, balanced tone.