ABLE Reading Comprehension 4

Question 1

A passage uses the word 'proliferate' in the sentence: 'New start-up companies began to proliferate after the tax incentives were introduced.' Proliferate most nearly means:

Accepted Answer

Increase rapidly in number

Answer

Proliferate means to grow or multiply rapidly.

Question 2

A passage presents an argument, then says: 'Critics, however, point out that this approach ignores long-term consequences.' The word 'however' indicates the author is about to present:

Accepted Answer

An opposing or qualifying viewpoint

Answer

The word 'however' is a contrast signal that introduces a different or opposing perspective.

Question 3

Read: 'The documentary, while visually stunning, failed to address the root causes of the conflict.' The author's primary criticism of the documentary is that it:

Accepted Answer

Lacked depth in its analysis

Answer

Failing to address root causes indicates the documentary was superficial in its analysis.

Question 4

A passage describes an experiment where plants grew taller with music playing versus silence. Which statement best identifies a weakness in drawing conclusions from this experiment?

Accepted Answer

Other variables, like light or temperature, may not have been controlled

Answer

Without controlling variables like light and temperature, it is impossible to isolate music as the cause of growth.

Question 5

A passage opens: 'Few inventions have reshaped daily life as profoundly as the smartphone.' This sentence functions as:

Accepted Answer

A thesis statement establishing the passage's main claim

Answer

An opening sentence that makes a broad claim about the topic typically serves as the thesis or main idea.

(ABLE) Assessment Board for Language Examinations Practice Test

(ABLE) Assessment Board for Language Examinations Practice Test

ABLE Reading Comprehension 4