CBST Reading Comprehension Flashcards

A CBST passage describes a problem and then explains how it was solved. Which organizational pattern is this?

Answer: Problem-solution

A passage that presents a problem and then describes its resolution follows the problem-solution organizational pattern.

Which of the following is the best strategy for answering a reading comprehension question when you are unsure?

Answer: Return to the passage and look for specific evidence

Reading comprehension answers should always be supported by evidence in the passage, so returning to re-read is the most effective strategy.

The prefix 'mis-' in the word 'misinterpret' most likely means what?

Answer: Wrongly or incorrectly

The prefix 'mis-' means wrongly or incorrectly, so 'misinterpret' means to interpret something incorrectly.

A reading passage is written in the second person ('you should,' 'your responsibilities'). What does this suggest about the audience?

Answer: It is written directly for the reader to follow as instructions

Second-person writing addresses the reader directly, making it common in instructional documents, manuals, and guides.

A workplace document states: 'All employees are encouraged to report safety concerns, but reporting is not mandatory.' What is the key distinction being made?

Answer: Reporting is recommended but optional

'Encouraged' signals a recommendation while 'not mandatory' explicitly states it is optional — the document is distinguishing voluntary from required action.

Which of the following best describes the difference between a fact and an opinion in a reading passage?

Answer: A fact can be verified objectively; an opinion expresses a belief or judgment

Facts are objective, verifiable statements, while opinions reflect personal beliefs, judgments, or interpretations that cannot be proven true or false.