Reading Comprehension & Analysis Flashcards

Two passages discuss climate change: Passage A uses peer-reviewed data, while Passage B uses personal anecdotes. A reader should conclude that:

Answer: Passage A provides stronger empirical support for its claims

Peer-reviewed data provides stronger empirical evidence than personal anecdotes, making Passage A more scientifically reliable.

The phrase 'a double-edged sword' in a passage about technology most likely means:

Answer: Technology has both benefits and drawbacks

The idiom 'double-edged sword' means something that has both positive and negative aspects or consequences.

An author writes: 'Millions of children go to bed hungry every night in this country.' In a persuasive essay, this sentence primarily appeals to:

Answer: Pathos, by evoking the reader's sympathy

The image of hungry children is designed to evoke emotional sympathy in the reader, making it a pathos appeal.

A passage uses the organizational pattern: problem → causes → effects → solution. This structure is most commonly associated with:

Answer: An analytical problem-solution essay

The problem-causes-effects-solution pattern is the hallmark of analytical problem-solution writing.

Which of the following best describes an 'implied main idea' in a passage?

Answer: A main idea the reader must infer from details and context

An implied main idea is not directly stated; the reader must synthesize clues from the text to identify it.

A paragraph reads: 'Some argue that remote work reduces productivity. However, studies show output increased 13% in remote settings.' The word 'however' indicates:

Answer: The second sentence contradicts or challenges the first

'However' is a contrast signal that introduces information opposing or challenging the preceding claim.

When a reader summarizes a passage, they should:

Answer: Restate the main ideas in their own words, omitting minor details

A summary captures the main ideas in the reader's own words while omitting supporting details and examples.