AST Reading Comprehension

Question 1

What is the primary purpose of a topic sentence in a paragraph?

Accepted Answer

To state the main idea of the paragraph

Answer

To provide a concluding thought

Answer

To introduce a new topic

Answer

To give supporting details

Question 2

When a reader identifies the author's tone as 'sardonic,' the author is most likely expressing:

Accepted Answer

Bitter mockery or scorn

Answer

Warm admiration

Answer

Neutral objectivity

Answer

Deep sadness

Question 3

A passage states: 'The law was passed swiftly despite widespread public opposition.' What can be inferred?

Accepted Answer

Legislators prioritized the law over public opinion.

Answer

The public eventually supported the law.

Answer

The law was later repealed.

Answer

Public opposition helped shape the law.

Question 4

Which reading strategy best helps a reader identify the main idea of a lengthy passage?

Accepted Answer

Reading the introduction and conclusion carefully

Answer

Reading only the first sentence of each paragraph

Answer

Skimming for bolded words only

Answer

Counting how many times key words appear

Question 5

The word 'ubiquitous' in a passage most likely means:

Accepted Answer

Present everywhere

Answer

Extremely rare

Answer

Highly valuable

Answer

Temporarily available

Question 6

Which technique does an author use when saying 'The deadline crept closer like a predator stalking its prey'?

Accepted Answer

Simile

Answer

Metaphor

Answer

Personification

Answer

Hyperbole