CBEST Reading: Comprehension and Research 3

Question 1

A student wants to find the most current statistics on US graduation rates. Which source is MOST appropriate?

Accepted Answer

The National Center for Education Statistics website

Answer

The National Center for Education Statistics is a government agency that publishes reliable, current educational data.

Question 2

Read this passage: 'Many experts argue that homework improves academic performance, yet recent studies suggest otherwise.' The author's tone is best described as:

Accepted Answer

Objective and presenting contrasting views

Answer

The author presents both a common view ('many experts argue') and a challenge to it ('recent studies suggest otherwise') without taking a side.

Question 3

Which of the following is an example of a FACT rather than an opinion?

Accepted Answer

Shakespeare was born in Stratford-upon-Avon in 1564.

Answer

Birth dates and places are verifiable facts, while claims about greatness or importance are subjective opinions.

Question 4

In a table of contents, Chapter 4 is titled 'Economic Impacts of Climate Change.' A reader looking for information about how drought affects farming would MOST likely find it in:

Accepted Answer

The index under 'drought'

Answer

The index provides page references for specific topics, making it the quickest way to locate 'drought' within any relevant chapter.

Question 5

A passage uses the phrase 'it goes without saying' before making a claim. This phrase signals that the author:

Accepted Answer

Assumes the reader already accepts the following point as obvious

Answer

'It goes without saying' is an idiom suggesting the author considers the following statement self-evident or widely accepted.

CBEST - California Basic Educational Skills Test Practice Test

CBEST - California Basic Educational Skills Test Practice Test

CBEST Reading: Comprehension and Research 3