Accuplacer College Placement Reading Comprehension 3

Question 1

A passage explains a problem, then offers a solution in the final paragraph. This organizational pattern is called:

Accepted Answer

Problem and solution

Answer

Stating an issue then resolving it is the problem-solution structure.

Question 2

The phrase 'a Herculean effort' is an example of what kind of language?

Accepted Answer

Allusion

Answer

Referencing Hercules to imply great strength is an allusion.

Question 3

If a passage's tone is described as 'sardonic,' the author is being:

Accepted Answer

Mockingly sarcastic

Answer

'Sardonic' means grimly mocking or cynically sarcastic.

Question 4

Which detail would best support a main idea that 'exercise improves memory'?

Accepted Answer

A study showing runners scored higher on recall tests

Answer

A study linking running to better recall directly supports the claim.

Question 5

In 'The old bridge groaned under the weight of traffic,' the word 'groaned' is an example of:

Accepted Answer

Personification

Answer

Giving the bridge a human action (groaning) is personification.

Accuplacer Practice Test