Core Academic Skills Assessment Reading Comprehension 2

Question 1

A passage states: 'Although the policy was implemented with good intentions, its outcomes were largely counterproductive.' What does 'counterproductive' mean in this context?

Accepted Answer

Producing the opposite of the desired effect

Answer

'Counterproductive' means working against the intended goal, producing the opposite of what was desired.

Question 2

A reader encounters an unfamiliar word in a passage. Which strategy is MOST effective for determining the word's meaning without a dictionary?

Accepted Answer

Look for context clues in surrounding sentences

Answer

Context clues in surrounding sentences often reveal the meaning of unfamiliar words through examples, definitions, or contrasting ideas.

Question 3

Which of the following best describes the difference between a primary source and a secondary source?

Accepted Answer

A primary source is original material; a secondary source interprets or analyzes primary sources

Answer

Primary sources are original documents or firsthand accounts, while secondary sources analyze, interpret, or summarize primary sources.

Question 4

A passage argues that 'renewable energy is the only viable solution to climate change.' This statement is best characterized as:

Accepted Answer

A biased opinion that ignores other possible solutions

Answer

Using absolute language like 'only viable solution' signals a strong opinion that dismisses alternative approaches without full justification.

Question 5

Read this sentence: 'The author uses a series of rhetorical questions to challenge the reader's assumptions.' What is the purpose of rhetorical questions in writing?

Accepted Answer

To emphasize a point or provoke thought without expecting a direct answer

Answer

Rhetorical questions are used for emphasis or to make the reader think, not to solicit an actual response.

Core Academic Skills Assessment Practice Test

Core Academic Skills Assessment Practice Test

Core Academic Skills Assessment Reading Comprehension 2