(1) The scientist’s explanation was so meticulous that even the smallest details were addressed. (2) She reviewed each step of the experiment carefully, ensuring that no errors could compromise the results. (3) Her colleagues admired this level of precision, noting that such thoroughness often leads to groundbreaking discoveries. (4) However, some critics argued that spending excessive time on minor aspects could delay progress. (5) Despite these concerns, her approach demonstrated an unwavering commitment to accuracy.
Based on the excerpt, which words or phrases best help the reader determine the meaning of meticulous in sentence (1)?
A. “even the smallest details were addressed” and “reviewed each step of the experiment carefully”
B. “admired this level of precision” and “groundbreaking discoveries”
C. “critics argued” and “delay progress”
D. “unwavering commitment to accuracy” and “minor aspects”
A. “even the smallest details were addressed” and “reviewed each step of the experiment carefully”
Rowan crouched beside the shattered glass, the faint scent of perfume lingering in the air. The room was too neat—except for the overturned chair and the single envelope resting on the desk.
Meet me at midnight. Come alone.
Rowan frowned. The handwriting was elegant, deliberate. But what chilled him was the crimson smudge across the corner of the paper. Blood—or something meant to look like it.
Outside, a car engine roared to life, disappearing into the fog.
Which details lead the reader to conclude that this excerpt is part of the mystery genre?
A.) The presence of a romantic confession
B.) The use of suspenseful clues like the shattered glass and blood-stained letter
C.) The detailed description of a sunny, peaceful setting
D.) The focus on a character’s humorous thoughts
B.) The use of suspenseful clues like the shattered glass and blood-stained letter
Where can you usually find the claim of an argumentative text?
A.) In the counterargument section, after presenting opposing views.
B.) In the title, as a hint to what the text is about.
C.) In the body paragraphs, mixed with supporting details.
D.) In the introduction & conclusion, often stated as the thesis or main point.
D.) In the introduction & conclusion, often stated as the thesis or main point.
Honeybees play a crucial role in agriculture by pollinating crops. Without them, many fruits and vegetables would struggle to grow. However, in recent years, bee populations have declined due to factors such as pesticide use and habitat loss. Farmers and scientists are working together to create solutions, like planting wildflowers and reducing harmful chemicals, to help bees survive.
What can you infer about the relationship between bees and human food production based on the excerpt?
A) Bees are not important for agriculture because crops can grow without them.
B) The decline in bee populations could negatively affect the availability of certain foods.
C) Farmers do not care about bee populations because they only focus on growing crops.
D) Scientists believe pesticides have no impact on bee survival.
B) The decline in bee populations could negatively affect the availability of certain foods.
In the sentence below, what does the word audible most likely mean based on its Latin root audire, which means “to hear”?
"The teacher spoke so softly that her voice was barely audible to the students in the back of the room."
A.) Visible
B.) Easy to understand
C.) Able to be heard
D.) Difficult to see
C.) Able to be heard
(1) The city council proposed building a new sports complex to attract tourism. (2) They stated that the project would create jobs and boost local businesses. (3) Many residents opposed the plan because they feared increased traffic congestion. (4) However, critics claimed that the funds could be better spent on improving public transportation. (5) The debate grew more intense as both sides presented compelling evidence. (6) Ultimately, the decision reflected the challenge of balancing economic growth with community concerns.
Which is the best way to combine sentences (1) and (2) without losing meaning or clarity?
A.) The city council proposed building a new sports complex to attract tourism, and they stated that the project would create jobs and boost local businesses.
B.) The city council proposed building a new sports complex to attract tourism, stating that the project would create jobs and boost local businesses.
C.) The city council proposed building a new sports complex, which would create jobs and boost local businesses.
D.) The city council proposed building a new sports complex because they wanted to create jobs and boost local businesses
B.) The city council proposed building a new sports complex to attract tourism, stating that the project would create jobs and boost local businesses.
Elena unfolded the yellowed paper, her hands trembling as she read the words aloud in her mind.
My dearest Elena,
If you are reading this, then I am gone. Do not grieve for me; instead, remember the summers by the lake and the laughter we shared. You were my greatest joy.
Her throat tightened. She pressed the letter to her chest, wishing the ink could speak again.
Why does the author use italics in the excerpt above?
A.) To show Elena’s spoken dialogue
B.) To emphasize an important setting detail
C.) To indicate the text of the letter she is reading
D.) To represent Elena’s internal thoughts
C.) To indicate the text of the letter she is reading
What is a counterargument?
A.) A statement that supports the main argument with additional evidence.
B.) An opposing viewpoint that challenges the main argument.
C.) A summary of the main argument presented in simpler terms.
D.) A conclusion that restates the thesis of the argument.
B.) An opposing viewpoint that challenges the main argument.
The Amazon rainforest is often called the “lungs of the Earth” because it produces about 20% of the world’s oxygen. It is home to millions of species of plants and animals, many of which cannot be found anywhere else. However, deforestation has become a major threat to this ecosystem. Large areas of forest are cleared every year for agriculture, logging, and urban development. This destruction not only endangers wildlife but also contributes to climate change by releasing stored carbon into the atmosphere.
Which sentence best summarizes the excerpt?
(A) The Amazon rainforest is important because it produces oxygen and is home to unique species, but deforestation threatens its survival.
(B) The Amazon rainforest is a large forest where people cut down trees for farming and building cities.
(C) The Amazon rainforest is called the “lungs of the Earth” because it has many plants and animals.
(D) Deforestation is a problem that happens when people clear land for agriculture and development.
(A) The Amazon rainforest is important because it produces oxygen and is home to unique species, but deforestation threatens its survival.
Which group of words would best help an author create a curious tone?
A.) astonishing, mysterious, intriguing
B.) ordinary, predictable, common
C.) strict, formal, rigid
D.) joyful, cheerful, playful
A.) astonishing, mysterious, intriguing
(1) Artificial intelligence (AI) has transformed industries by automating tasks and improving efficiency. (2) From healthcare diagnostics to financial forecasting, AI systems are reshaping how decisions are made. (3) These advancements promise convenience and innovation, but they also raise ethical concerns about privacy and bias. (4) As technology evolves, society must grapple with both its benefits and its risks.
(5) Critics warn that unchecked AI development could lead to job displacement and algorithmic discrimination. (6) Supporters argue that proper regulation and transparency can mitigate these dangers while maximizing progress. (7) The debate reflects a broader question: how can humanity balance innovation with responsibility? (8) AI is important and people should think about it more.
What should replace sentence 8 to conclude this text on a strong note?
A) AI is important and people should think about it more.
B) Ultimately, AI matters because it changes everything about life and work.
C) The future of AI depends not only on technological breakthroughs but also on society’s ability to establish ethical frameworks that safeguard fairness and accountability.
D) AI is something that will keep growing, so we need to pay attention to it.
C) The future of AI depends not only on technological breakthroughs but also on society’s ability to establish ethical frameworks that safeguard fairness and accountability.
Dinner was silent except for the clinking of forks. Elena’s father stared at his plate, his jaw tight, while her mother’s smile stretched thin like paper. Elena wanted to speak, to break the tension, but the words tangled in her throat. She wondered if families could fracture without a sound.
What is the effect of the author's use of a simile in this excerpt?
A.) It suggests fragility and strain, showing that the cheerful appearance is forced and easily breakable.
B.) It suggests that silence reflects comfort rather than conflict.
C.) It illustrates that she is eager to speak but overwhelmed with joy.
D.) It conveys that the atmosphere is due to tiredness rather than emotional strain.
A.) It suggests fragility and strain, showing that the cheerful appearance is forced and easily breakable.
Which sentence best represents a counterargument in an argumentative essay?
A.) Although recycling can be costly, it significantly reduces waste and conserves resources.
B.) Many people believe that recycling is important for the environment.
C.) Recycling programs have been shown to lower landfill use and protect wildlife.
D.) Recycling is one of the most effective ways to reduce pollution.
A.) Although recycling can be costly, it significantly reduces waste and conserves resources.
Coral reefs are among the most diverse ecosystems on Earth, supporting thousands of marine species. They provide food, coastal protection, and income for millions of people worldwide. However, coral reefs are under severe threat due to rising ocean temperatures, pollution, and destructive fishing practices. When water temperatures increase, corals experience bleaching, a process that causes them to lose their vibrant colors and, eventually, their ability to survive. Scientists warn that if current trends continue, many reefs could disappear within decades, leading to devastating consequences for marine life and human communities that depend on them. Conservation efforts, such as reducing carbon emissions and creating marine protected areas, are essential to preserving these fragile ecosystems.
What is the author’s primary purpose in writing this excerpt?
(A) To explain how coral reefs form and describe their physical characteristics
(B) To persuade readers to take action to protect coral reefs from threats
(C) To inform readers about the importance of coral reefs and the dangers they face
(D) To entertain readers with stories about marine life in coral reefs
(C) To inform readers about the importance of coral reefs and the dangers they face
(1)The collection of rare coins was displayed in the museum’s main hall. (2) Each exhibit, along with its detailed descriptions, draw visitors into the history of currency. (3) Neither the curator nor the assistants are available for questions during the restoration period.
Which sentence can best replace the mistake in sentence 2?
A. Each exhibit, along with its detailed descriptions, draw visitors into the history of currency.
B. Each exhibit, along with its detailed descriptions, draws visitors into the history of currency.
C. Each exhibit, along with its detailed descriptions, have drawn visitors into the history of currency.
D. Each exhibit, along with its detailed descriptions, were drawing visitors into the history of currency.
B. Each exhibit, along with its detailed descriptions, draws visitors into the history of currency.
(1) Climate change has become one of the most pressing issues of our time, influencing ecosystems and human societies alike. (2) Rising global temperatures have led to melting ice caps, severe droughts, and unpredictable weather patterns. (3) These changes threaten food security and increase the frequency of natural disasters, creating challenges for governments worldwide. (4) Scientists argue that immediate action is necessary to prevent irreversible damage to the planet.
(5) On the other hand, when we think about it in a different way, renewable energy offers a promising solution to these challenges. (6) Solar and wind power reduce dependence on fossil fuels, lowering greenhouse gas emissions significantly. (7) Countries that invest in clean energy technologies often experience economic growth and job creation, making sustainability financially appealing. (8) Therefore, transitioning to renewable energy is not only an environmental necessity but also a strategic economic decision.
Sentence 5 begins with an awkward transitional phrase: “On the other hand, when we think about it in a different way…”. Which revision creates the smoothest and most formal transition between the two paragraphs?
A) Conversely, renewable energy offers a promising solution to these challenges.
B) On the other hand, renewable energy is good for the planet.
C) Renewable energy is a solution that we should think about differently.
D) When we think about it in another way, renewable energy is helpful.
A) Conversely, renewable energy offers a promising solution to these challenges.
The clock tower loomed over the deserted square, its hands frozen at midnight for decades. Inside, the air smelled of rust and secrets. Detective Aria climbed the spiral staircase, her flashlight slicing through the darkness. At the top, she found a brass panel etched with strange symbols—circles, arrows, and a single word: “Return.” Beneath it lay a locked compartment with no visible keyhole. Aria’s heart raced. Whoever left this puzzle wanted it solved, and she knew the answer could unravel the truth behind the missing mayor.
How does the unusual setting of the clock tower influence Aria’s motivation to solve the mystery?
A.) The clock tower’s lack of clues makes Aria believe the disappearance was an accident.
B.) The clock tower’s eerie and abandoned atmosphere convinces Aria to give up on the investigation.
C) The clock tower’s ordinary and familiar features make Aria feel confident the case is already solved.
D) The clock tower’s strange symbols and hidden compartment deepen Aria’s determination to uncover the truth.
D.) The clock tower’s strange symbols and hidden compartment deepen Aria’s determination to uncover the truth.
Many people believe robots should be part of the workforce because they can perform repetitive tasks quickly and without getting tired. Robots can help companies save money and increase productivity. However, some argue that robots will take away jobs from humans, leaving many people unemployed. The author responds by explaining that while robots may replace certain jobs, they also create new opportunities in technology and maintenance fields. This means humans can still find work, but in different roles.
Why would the author choose to use the sweeping generalization “many people believe robots should be part of the workforce”?
A.) To show that everyone agrees robots should replace humans.
B.) To exaggerate the benefits of robots without evidence.
C.) To suggest that this opinion is common and widely accepted.
D.) To prove that robots are better than humans in every way.
C.) To suggest that this opinion is common and widely accepted.
Pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and certain birds are indispensable to global food systems. Nearly one-third of the crops consumed by humans rely on these creatures for reproduction. Alarmingly, recent studies indicate a sharp decline in pollinator populations, attributed to pesticide exposure, habitat fragmentation, and climate change. In response, agricultural experts advocate for integrated pest management and the restoration of native plant habitats to mitigate further losses.
Which sentence or phrase from the excerpt best supports the inference that pollinators are essential for maintaining food security?
A) “Recent studies indicate a sharp decline in pollinator populations.”
B) “Pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and certain birds are indispensable to global food systems.”
C) “Agricultural experts advocate for integrated pest management.”
D) “Climate change contributes to habitat fragmentation.”
B) “Pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and certain birds are indispensable to global food systems.”
The pay gap between NBA and WNBA players has been a topic of debate for years. NBA players often earn millions annually, while WNBA salaries are significantly lower, with many players making under $150,000 per season. Supporters of the current system argue that NBA players generate far more revenue through ticket sales, broadcasting rights, and merchandise. In contrast, WNBA games typically attract smaller audiences and bring in less advertising income. Critics, however, claim that the disparity reflects deeper issues of gender inequality in sports rather than just economics.
Efforts to close the gap have included increasing WNBA salaries and providing better benefits, such as maternity leave and travel accommodations. In 2020, the WNBA signed a landmark collective bargaining agreement that raised the maximum salary to over $200,000 and improved working conditions. Despite these changes, the difference remains vast, as NBA stars can earn over $40 million in a single season. Advocates for equal pay argue that investment in marketing and media coverage could help grow the WNBA’s audience, eventually leading to higher revenue. They believe that visibility, not just profitability, should guide decisions about player compensation.
Which sentence best supports the idea that marketing and media coverage could help reduce the pay gap over time?
A.) “NBA players often earn millions annually, while WNBA salaries are significantly lower, with many players making under $150,000 per season.”
B.) “Efforts to close the gap have included increasing WNBA salaries and providing better benefits, such as maternity leave and travel accommodations.”
C.) “Supporters of the current system argue that NBA players generate far more revenue through ticket sales, broadcasting rights, and merchandise.”
D.) “Advocates for equal pay argue that investment in marketing and media coverage could help grow the WNBA’s audience, eventually leading to higher revenue.”
D.) “Advocates for equal pay argue that investment in marketing and media coverage could help grow the WNBA’s audience, eventually leading to higher revenue.”
(1) Climate change has become one of the most pressing issues of our time, influencing ecosystems and human societies alike. (2) Rising global temperatures have led to melting ice caps, severe droughts, and unpredictable weather patterns. (3) These changes threaten food security and increase the frequency of natural disasters, creating challenges for governments worldwide. (4) Scientists argue that immediate action is necessary to prevent irreversible damage to the planet.
(5) Conversely, renewable energy offers a promising solution to these challenges. (6) Solar and wind power reduce dependence on fossil fuels, lowering greenhouse gas emissions significantly. (7) Countries that invest in clean energy technologies often experience economic growth and job creation, making sustainability financially appealing. (8) Therefore, transitioning to renewable energy is not only an environmental necessity but also a strategic economic decision.
What is the best way to revise sentence 6?
A) Solar and wind power reduce dependence on fossil fuels, and renewable energy is important.
B) Solar and wind power reduce dependence on fossil fuels and they are renewable energy sources.
C) Solar and wind power reduce dependence on fossil fuels, which is good for the environment.
D) Solar and wind power, two forms of renewable energy, reduce dependence on fossil fuels and lower greenhouse gas emissions significantly.
D.) Solar and wind power, two forms of renewable energy, reduce dependence on fossil fuels and lower greenhouse gas emissions significantly.
The rain hammered against the windows of the old courthouse as Daniel flipped through the final stack of case files. Each page revealed inconsistencies that no one had noticed before. His heart raced—not from fear, but from the growing certainty that the truth had been buried deliberately. Every clue he uncovered pulled him deeper into the web of lies, and Daniel knew he couldn’t stop now. If he exposed the truth, it would change everything—not just for him, but for the entire town.
How does Daniel’s motivation to uncover the truth develop the plot?
A) It creates tension by showing Daniel’s growing determination, which drives the story toward a major revelation.
B) It slows the plot because Daniel becomes distracted and loses interest in the case.
C) It introduces a new setting that has no connection to the central conflict.
D) It resolves the mystery immediately, leaving no room for further events.
A) It creates tension by showing Daniel’s growing determination, which drives the story toward a major revelation.
Many basketball fans believe that Luka Dončić will eventually be considered a better player than LeBron James. Luka’s ability to control the pace of the game, create scoring opportunities, and deliver clutch performances at such a young age suggests he has the potential to surpass LeBron’s legacy. His versatility and high basketball IQ make him a unique talent who could redefine the modern game. However, some argue that LeBron James’s accomplishments are unmatched and set a standard that Luka may never reach. LeBron has four championships, multiple MVP awards, and has dominated the league for two decades, proving his greatness through longevity and consistency. Yet, championships and awards do not fully measure greatness. Luka’s trajectory shows that he could achieve similar accolades while also influencing the game in new ways. If Luka continues to break records and lead his teams with the same dominance he has shown early in his career, he could be remembered as the player who surpassed LeBron.
Which sentence from the excerpt is the counterargument?
A.) Luka’s ability to control the pace of the game, create scoring opportunities, and deliver clutch performances at such a young age suggests he has the potential to surpass LeBron’s legacy.
B.) Luka’s trajectory shows that he could achieve similar accolades while also influencing the game in new ways.
C.) Yet, championships and awards do not fully measure greatness.
D.) However, some argue that LeBron James’s accomplishments are unmatched and set a standard that Luka may never reach.
D.) However, some argue that LeBron James’s accomplishments are unmatched and set a standard that Luka may never reach.
1 Climate change represents one of the most pressing challenges of our time. Rising global temperatures, driven largely by human activities such as burning fossil fuels, have led to severe consequences for ecosystems and communities worldwide. Scientists warn that if greenhouse gas emissions continue at their current rate, the planet will face increasingly destructive storms, prolonged droughts, and rising sea levels that threaten coastal cities. These changes are not distant possibilities—they are unfolding now, and their impact on food security, health, and economic stability cannot be ignored.
2 To address these issues, many countries are investing in renewable energy sources like solar and wind power. These technologies reduce reliance on fossil fuels and help lower carbon emissions. Additionally, international agreements, such as the Paris Climate Accord, encourage nations to set goals for reducing emissions and protecting vulnerable environments. While progress has been made, experts emphasize that continued cooperation and innovation are essential to slow the pace of climate change and safeguard the planet for future generations.
How does the author illustrate a serious tone in paragraph 1?
A.) By presenting optimistic predictions to create a hopeful tone
B.) By including humorous examples to make the tone lighthearted
C.) By using casual language to make the tone informal
D.) By using urgent phrases and warnings to create a serious tone
D.) By using urgent phrases and warnings to create a serious tone
Excerpt 1
The city square pulsed with neon lights, each sign screaming for attention, while a lone violinist played a mournful tune beneath a flickering streetlamp. Around him, laughter spilled from crowded cafés, and the scent of roasted coffee mingled with exhaust fumes. His bow moved slowly, deliberately, as if resisting the chaos that surged like a tide around him.
Excerpt 2
In the countryside, silence stretched across the fields like a heavy quilt. A single tractor rumbled in the distance, its metallic growl slicing through the stillness. The golden wheat swayed gently, whispering secrets to the wind, while the farmer’s shadow loomed long and sharp against the fading light—a stark figure in a world otherwise soft and serene.
What is the difference between the authors' use of juxtaposition in these excerpts?
A.) Both excerpts use juxtaposition to portray the overwhelming power of technology in modern life, as seen in Excerpt 1’s “neon lights… screaming for attention” and Excerpt 2’s “metallic growl slicing through the stillness.”
B.) Excerpt 1 uses juxtaposition to show harmony between music and city life by pairing “his bow moved slowly, deliberately” with “the city square pulsed with neon lights”, while Excerpt 2 uses it to depict the farmer’s dominance over nature through “the farmer’s shadow loomed long and sharp” against “the golden wheat swayed gently.”
C.) In Excerpt 1, the author contrasts “a lone violinist played a mournful tune beneath a flickering streetlamp” with “laughter spilled from crowded cafés” to emphasize isolation within abundance, while in Excerpt 2, the author contrasts “a single tractor rumbled in the distance” with “silence stretched across the fields like a heavy quilt” to highlight tension between progress and tradition.
D.) Excerpt 1 contrasts rural simplicity with industrial noise by describing “the scent of roasted coffee mingled with exhaust fumes”, while Excerpt 2 contrasts urban chaos with peaceful solitude through “silence stretched across the fields”—though this misrepresents the settings.
C.) In Excerpt 1, the author contrasts “a lone violinist played a mournful tune beneath a flickering streetlamp” with “laughter spilled from crowded cafés” to emphasize isolation within abundance, while in Excerpt 2, the author contrasts “a single tractor rumbled in the distance” with “silence stretched across the fields like a heavy quilt” to highlight tension between progress and tradition.