Core Academic Skills Assessment Reading Comprehension 3

Question 1

A passage's first paragraph introduces a problem, the middle paragraphs explore potential solutions, and the final paragraph recommends one solution. This structure is called:

Accepted Answer

Problem-solution

Answer

A problem-solution structure introduces an issue and then evaluates or recommends ways to address it.

Question 2

The phrase 'the economy is a ticking time bomb' is an example of which literary device?

Accepted Answer

Metaphor

Answer

A metaphor directly equates two unlike things without using 'like' or 'as,' here comparing the economy to a time bomb.

Question 3

When summarizing a passage, which information should be EXCLUDED from the summary?

Accepted Answer

Minor illustrative details that support a larger point

Answer

Summaries focus on main ideas and key evidence; minor illustrative details are too specific and should be omitted.

Question 4

A passage uses the transition phrase 'on the other hand' between two paragraphs. This signal indicates the author is about to:

Accepted Answer

Present a contrasting or opposing idea

Answer

'On the other hand' is a contrast transition that signals the author is shifting to an opposing or different perspective.

Question 5

An author writes: 'Critics argue that the study's sample size was too small to draw meaningful conclusions.' In the context of evaluating sources, this sentence highlights which concern?

Accepted Answer

Validity and reliability of the research

Answer

A small sample size undermines the reliability and validity of research findings, making conclusions less trustworthy.

Core Academic Skills Assessment Practice Test

Core Academic Skills Assessment Practice Test

Core Academic Skills Assessment Reading Comprehension 3