Reading Comprehension Flashcards

A passage describes a reformer who 'labored tirelessly despite repeated setbacks.' This portrayal characterizes the reformer as:

Answer: Persistent

Working tirelessly through setbacks defines persistence and determination.

In a question about an author's main purpose, a passage that defines a problem, reviews failed fixes, and proposes a new solution is mainly written to:

Answer: Advocate for a particular solution

Building toward a proposed solution signals a persuasive, advocacy purpose.

An author refers to an opponent's argument as 'a house built on sand.' This metaphor implies the argument is:

Answer: Unstable and poorly founded

A house on sand lacks a firm foundation, suggesting the argument is weak.

A passage states findings were 'preliminary and require replication.' This phrasing indicates the author wants readers to treat the results as:

Answer: Tentative pending further study

'Preliminary' and needing 'replication' mark the results as not yet confirmed.

When asked what a pronoun like 'it' refers to, the best strategy is to:

Answer: Reread the sentence to find the noun that makes sense

Correct antecedents are determined by meaning and context, not just proximity.

The word 'temper' in 'the editor sought to temper the harsh review' most nearly means:

Answer: Soften

As a verb, 'temper' means to moderate or soften something's intensity.

A passage opens with a vivid description of a storm before discussing climate policy. This opening most likely functions to:

Answer: Engage readers and set up the topic

A vivid scene draws readers in and introduces the subject the passage will address.