Fig Lang
The storm arrived like an uninvited guest, slamming doors and rattling windows as if it owned the house. Lightning stitched the sky together in jagged lines, while thunder argued loudly with itself in the distance.
Which statement best explains the figurative language and its effect?
A. A metaphor emphasizes stress and creates an anxious tone
B. Personification suggests chaos and creates an intense tone
C. Hyperbole highlights humor and creates a playful tone
D. Allusion references history and creates a reflective tone
Answer: B
Explanation: The storm is given human actions (slamming doors, arguing), which is personification. These descriptions create a sense of disorder and power, contributing to an intense, chaotic tone. The other options misidentify the figurative language or tone.
Dr. Alvarez, who has studied marine ecosystems for over 25 years, explains that reducing plastic waste can significantly improve ocean health. Her research has been published in multiple scientific journals.
Which appeal is primarily used?
A. Pathos
B. Logos
C. Ethos
D. Anecdote
Answer: C
Explanation: The author builds credibility through expertise, which is ethos.
Paragraph 1:
First, the mixture was heated to a precise temperature. Next, it was cooled rapidly to lock in its structure. Finally, the material was tested for durability under extreme conditions.
Paragraph 2:
Because of this process, the material became significantly stronger and more resistant to damage. As a result, it could be used in environments where traditional materials would fail.
Which structures are used?
A. Paragraph 1: Chronological; Paragraph 2: Cause and effect
B. Paragraph 1: Description; Paragraph 2: Compare and contrast
C. Paragraph 1: Problem and solution; Paragraph 2: Sequence
D. Paragraph 1: Cause and effect; Paragraph 2: Description
Answer: A
Explanation: Paragraph 1 shows steps in order (chronological). Paragraph 2 explains results (cause and effect).
Although the scientist initially supported the theory, she later recanted her position after discovering contradictory evidence in her data.
What does recanted most nearly mean?
A. Repeated a claim with more detail
B. Withdrew a previously stated belief
C. Ignored opposing viewpoints
D. Strengthened an original argument
Answer: B
Explanation: The prefix re- can mean “back,” and cant relates to speaking. In context, the scientist changes her stance after new evidence, meaning she takes back or withdraws her earlier claim.
Giuseppe gripped the edge of the desk, certain everyone could hear his heartbeat. He avoided looking at the clock, afraid that time was slipping away faster than he could think. Across the room, pencils scratched steadily, but Giuseppe could only focus on the growing panic in his chest.
What point of view is used, and how does it affect the reader?
A. Third-person omniscient; it reveals the thoughts of all students
B. Third-person objective; it limits the reader to observable actions
C. Third-person limited; it reveals Joseph's internal thoughts only
D. First-person; it creates a personal narrative voice
Answer: C
Explanation: The narrator focuses only on Giuseppe thoughts and feelings, which is third-person limited. The reader gains insight into his anxiety but not others’ thoughts.
“Hope is the thing with feathers
That perches in the soul…”
Which option best identifies the figurative language, its meaning, and its effect on tone?
A. Simile; hope is fragile and temporary; tone is uncertain
B. Personification; hope acts like a human; tone is anxious
C. Metaphor; hope is compared to a bird; it endures; tone uplifting
D. Allusion; hope references a historical symbol; tone is formal
Answer: C
Explanation: Hope is directly compared to a bird → metaphor. It suggests resilience and persistence, creating an encouraging, hopeful tone.
Imagine a sea turtle struggling to swim, tangled in debris left behind by humans. Every year, thousands of animals suffer because of careless waste.
Which appeal is used?
A. Logos
B. Pathos
C. Ethos
D. Counterclaim
Answer: B
Explanation: The imagery is designed to evoke emotion, making it pathos.
Paragraph 1:
At first, the experiment showed little promise. The solution remained unchanged, and several researchers questioned whether the approach was worth continuing.
Paragraph 2:
After adjusting the temperature and timing, however, the team began to see measurable results. The substance reacted as predicted, confirming their revised hypothesis.
How does the structure of paragraph 2 contribute to the development of ideas in the text?
A. It introduces an unrelated idea that shifts the topic
B. It explains the initial failure in greater detail
C. It shows a contrast that highlights improvement after changes
D. It repeats earlier information to emphasize confusion
Answer: C
Explanation: Paragraph 2 contrasts the earlier lack of success by showing progress after adjustments, helping develop the idea that persistence and revision lead to results.
The committee’s decision was considered controversial because it seemed to contradict the organization’s longstanding principles.
The root vers means" "turn" and contr means "against."
What does controversial most nearly mean?
A. Easily accepted without question
B. Based on clear and simple reasoning
C. Likely to cause disagreement or debate
D. Focused on minor and unimportant issues
Answer: C
Explanation: The root vers means “turn,” and controversial ideas often “turn against” each other, meaning they spark disagreement or debate.
Lena crossed the finish line first, raising her arms in victory. Behind her, Marcus slowed to a walk, frustrated that he had pushed too hard at the start. Their coach smiled, knowing both runners had learned something valuable about pacing.
What point of view is used?
A. Third-person objective
B. Third-person limited
C. First-person
D. Third-person omniscient
Answer: D
Explanation: The narrator reveals the thoughts of multiple characters (Marcus and the coach), which indicates third-person omniscient.
The coach said, “Remember, this isn’t David facing Goliath—you’ve trained for this.”
What type of figurative language is used, and what is its purpose?
A. Hyperbole; to exaggerate the challenge
B. Allusion; to stir confidence by referencing a familiar story
C. Simile; to compare two athletes directly to David and Goliath
D. Metaphor; to describe size differences
Answer: B
Explanation: This is an allusion to a well-known story, used to reassure and motivate the players.
Paragraph:
Urban areas are increasingly investing in green spaces such as parks and community gardens. These spaces not only provide recreational opportunities but also improve air quality and reduce heat in densely populated regions.
Which detail would best develop the author’s argument?
A. A comparison of park sizes in different cities
B. A narrative about a family visiting a park
C. Data showing lower temperatures in places with green spaces
D. A description of how parks are designed with green spaces to help air pollution.
Answer: C
Explanation: The claim includes environmental benefits. Data showing measurable temperature reduction directly strengthens the argument by providing clear, relevant evidence.
Paragraph 1:
Many cities struggle with increasing traffic congestion, leading to longer commute times and higher pollution levels.
Paragraph 2:
To address this issue, some cities have expanded public transportation systems, while others have introduced bike lanes and pedestrian-friendly zones.
Why would the author include paragraph 2 in the text?
A. To describe unrelated transportation methods
B. To provide solutions that respond directly to the problem introduced earlier
C. To present a timeline of transportation history
D. To provide a description of types of transportation.
Answer: B
Explanation: Paragraph 2 directly addresses the problem by offering possible solutions, supporting a problem–solution development of ideas.
The author’s use of ambiguous language made it difficult for readers to determine her true intentions.
ambi- means "both"
What does ambiguous most nearly mean?
A. Clearly defined and direct
B. Open to multiple interpretations
C. Supported by strong evidence
D. Written in a formal and complex style
Answer: B
Explanation: The prefix ambi- means “both,” so ambiguous suggests something that can be understood in multiple ways.
The door slammed. Jordan dropped his backpack and stared at the floor. His sister folded her arms and turned away. Neither spoke as the clock ticked loudly in the background.
What point of view is used, and what is its effect?
A. Third-person objective; it shows only actions, leaving motives unclear
B. Third-person omniscient; it explains each character’s reasoning
C. Third-person limited; it reveals one character’s thoughts
D. First-person; it creates a biased perspective
Answer: A
Explanation: The narrator only describes observable actions, not thoughts or feelings. This is third-person objective, which forces readers to infer meaning.
“Because I could not stop for Death –
He kindly stopped for me –”
Which option best identifies the figurative language, its meaning, and its effect on tone?
A. Personification; death is given human qualities; tone is calm and accepting
B. Hyperbole; death is exaggerated; tone is fearful
C. Simile; death is compared to a traveler; tone is confused
D. Personification; death references mythology; tone is dramatic and tense
Answer: A
Explanation: Death is described as if it can act like a person → personification. The polite action creates a calm, almost peaceful tone, not fear.
Paragraph:
Some experts argue that reading physical books leads to better comprehension than reading on digital devices. They suggest that fewer distractions and the ability to annotate text help readers engage more deeply with the material.
Which evidence would best support this claim?
A. A survey showing students prefer digital devices for convenience
B. A study comparing comprehension test scores between print and digital readers
C. A description of how e-readers are designed
D. A general statement about the popularity of technology because of the materials chosen
Answer: B
Explanation: The claim is about comprehension differences. A controlled study comparing results provides the most direct and credible support. The other options are irrelevant or do not address comprehension.
Paragraph 1:
First, the device collects data from its surroundings. Next, it processes the information using advanced algorithms. Finally, it sends the results to a central system for analysis.
Paragraph 2:
Because of this process, the system can respond quickly to changes and make accurate predictions in real time.
How does the structure of paragraph 1 contribute to the author’s purpose?
A. It provides a detailed comparison of multiple systems
B. It organizes information into steps to clarify how the process works
C. It introduces a problem that remains unresolved
D. It emphasizes emotional responses to the technology
Answer: B
Explanation: Paragraph 1 uses chronological/sequence structure to clearly explain how the system operates, supporting the author’s purpose to inform and clarify.
The Greek root mit means “to send.”
Sentence:
After reviewing new historical evidence, the researcher chose to omit several claims from the final report, recognizing that they could no longer be convincingly supported.
What does the word omit most nearly mean as it is used in the sentence?
A. To send information to a different source
B. To remove or leave out intentionally
C. To revise using stronger evidence
D. To make an argument more persuasive
B. To remove or leave out intentionally
Rationale:
The root mit (“to send”) combined with the prefix o- (“away”) suggests something being sent away or excluded. In context, the researcher deliberately leaves out claims that lack support, confirming the meaning.
“I told you I finished it,” Mia said, glancing quickly at the paper still blank on her desk. “I just haven’t turned it in yet.”
What best describes the narrator or perspective?
A. Third-person omniscient narrator
B. Reliable first-person narrator
C. Third-person objective narrator
D. Unreliable character perspective
Answer: D
Explanation: Mia’s words contradict the evidence (blank paper), showing she is unreliable. The reader must question her truthfulness.
“I’ve known rivers ancient as the world and older than the flow of human blood in human veins.”
Which option best identifies the figurative language, its meaning, and its effect on tone?
A. Simile; rivers are compared to age; tone is playful
B. Hyperbole; the speaker exaggerates experience to show deep historical connection; tone is reverent
C. Metaphor; rivers represent confusion; tone is uncertain
D. Personification; rivers are given emotions and blood and veins; tone is tense
Answer: B
Explanation: The speaker claims knowledge beyond human limits, which is hyperbole. It emphasizes a deep, almost timeless connection, creating a respectful, serious tone.
Paragraph:
Urban areas are increasingly investing in green spaces such as parks and community gardens. These spaces not only provide recreational opportunities but also improve air quality and reduce heat in densely populated regions.
Which details would best develop the author’s argument? (Select TWO)
A. A statistic showing reduced air pollution levels in cities with more green spaces
B. A personal story about a family enjoying a park
C. Data indicating lower average temperatures in neighborhoods with tree coverage
D. A description of how parks are designed with walking paths
E. A comparison of park sizes across different regions with the diffrent green spaces.
Answers: A and C
Explanation: A and C directly support the environmental benefits (air quality and heat reduction) with relevant data. The others are either anecdotal or unrelated to the main claim.
Paragraph 1:
Solar energy systems convert sunlight into electricity using panels that capture and store energy. These systems are often installed on rooftops and can significantly reduce reliance on traditional power sources.
Paragraph 2:
Unlike solar energy, wind energy relies on turbines that spin when wind passes through them. While both methods generate renewable energy, they differ in how and where they are most effective.
What structure is used across the paragraphs?
A. Chronological and sequence
B. Description and compare/contrast
C. Cause/effect and problem/solution
D. Compare/contrast and description
Answer: B
Explanation: Paragraph 1 describes solar energy. Paragraph 2 compares and contrasts solar and wind energy.
The Latin root ten means “to hold.”
Sentence:
Although the author presents compelling evidence, the article’s central claim is tenuous, relying on assumptions that are not fully supported by the data.
What does the word tenuous most nearly mean as it is used in the sentence?
A. Carefully structured and logical
B. Weakly supported or barely held together
C. Open to multiple interpretations
D. Based on excessive amounts of evidence
B. Weakly supported or barely held together
Rationale:
The root ten (“to hold”) suggests something that does not hold firmly. In context, tenuous describes an argument that lacks strong support, which aligns with the author’s claim relying on unsupported assumptions.
At first, the narrator describes the experiment from a distance, explaining each step. Suddenly, the perspective shifts to the scientist’s thoughts: What if this fails? What if everything I’ve worked for disappears?
What is the effect of this shift in point of view?
A. It limits the reader to only external actions
B. It removes important context from the experiment
C. It increases emotional connection and insight
D. It creates confusion about the sequence of events
Answer: C
Explanation: The shift from external description to internal thoughts deepens emotional understanding and engagement.