CBEST Reading: Critical Analysis 2

Question 1

A journalist writes: 'Studies suggest that social media may contribute to anxiety in some teens.' Which word signals the claim is qualified rather than absolute?

Accepted Answer

may

Answer

'May' signals uncertainty, making the claim hedged rather than a definitive assertion.

Question 2

Read the following: 'Our town's crime rate dropped 12% last year. Clearly, the new curfew law is working.' What logical flaw does this argument contain?

Accepted Answer

Post hoc ergo propter hoc

Answer

Post hoc fallacy assumes the curfew caused the drop simply because the curfew preceded it, ignoring other possible causes.

Question 3

An author describes a city as 'a labyrinth of noise and forgotten dreams.' This description is best classified as:

Accepted Answer

A metaphor expressing mood

Answer

The figurative comparison of a city to a labyrinth and personification of dreams create a metaphor conveying atmosphere.

Question 4

Which of the following would most strengthen an argument that reading fiction improves empathy?

Accepted Answer

A controlled study showing empathy gains in fiction readers vs. non-readers

Answer

A controlled study with a comparison group provides direct empirical evidence for the causal claim.

Question 5

A passage states: 'Not everyone agrees, but most historians believe the drought was a key factor in the empire's collapse.' The author's primary purpose here is to:

Accepted Answer

Acknowledge disagreement while presenting a majority scholarly view

Answer

The phrase 'not everyone agrees, but most historians believe' signals the author is balancing dissent with a prevailing scholarly consensus.

CBEST - California Basic Educational Skills Test Practice Test

CBEST - California Basic Educational Skills Test Practice Test

CBEST Reading: Critical Analysis 2