AST Reading Comprehension 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: A passage presents two opposing viewpoints on a policy. What is the author most likely trying to do?
- Present a balanced analysis of the issue (Correct answer)
- Argue strongly for one side
- Dismiss both views as invalid
- Entertain the reader with a debate
Correct answer: Present a balanced analysis of the issue
Presenting two opposing viewpoints typically signals the author's intent to analyze an issue from multiple angles objectively.
Question 2: What does it mean when a question asks for the 'implicit' meaning of a sentence?
- The meaning that is suggested but not directly stated (Correct answer)
- The meaning stated in exact words
- The meaning found in footnotes
- The meaning as defined in a glossary
Correct answer: The meaning that is suggested but not directly stated
Implicit meaning is implied or inferred rather than explicitly written out in the text.
Question 3: A reader notices that a paragraph begins with a general statement and then provides specific examples. This structure is called:
- Deductive organization (Correct answer)
- Inductive organization
- Chronological organization
- Compare-contrast organization
Correct answer: Deductive organization
Deductive organization moves from a general claim to specific supporting examples.
Question 4: Which context clue type is used in: 'The arbiter, or neutral judge, settled the dispute'?
- Definition (Correct answer)
- Synonym
- Antonym
- Example
Correct answer: Definition
The phrase 'or neutral judge' directly defines 'arbiter,' making this a definition context clue set off by commas.
Question 5: When an author writes 'Admittedly, there are flaws in this approach,' the author is:
- Acknowledging a counterargument to strengthen credibility (Correct answer)
- Abandoning their main argument
- Introducing a new topic
- Summarizing the passage
Correct answer: Acknowledging a counterargument to strengthen credibility
Conceding a limitation while continuing to argue a position is a rhetorical strategy that builds the author's credibility.
Question 6: What is the difference between a fact and an opinion in a passage?
- A fact can be verified; an opinion expresses a judgment or belief. (Correct answer)
- A fact is always true; an opinion is always false.
- A fact is based on feelings; an opinion is based on data.
- A fact is shorter; an opinion is longer.
Correct answer: A fact can be verified; an opinion expresses a judgment or belief.
Facts are objectively verifiable statements, while opinions reflect the author's personal views or interpretations.
AST Reading Comprehension 2
A passage presents two opposing viewpoints on a policy.
What is the author most likely trying to do?