Free AP English Language and Composition Close Reading Practice Test

Question 1

The easiest way to sum up this text is as

Accepted Answer

satirical

Answer

The text, likely 'A Modest Proposal' by Jonathan Swift, presents a shocking and absurd solution to a serious social problem (poverty) with a seemingly rational and detached tone. This use of irony, exaggeration, and a serious facade to criticize societal issues is the defining characteristic of satire. The author aims to provoke thought and highlight moral failings through this indirect, often dark, humor.

Question 2

The author uses questionable sources in the first, second, and fourth paragraphs.

Accepted Answer

arguments from authority

Answer

In 'A Modest Proposal,' Swift frequently refers to vague or unnamed 'worthy persons,' 'grave authors,' or 'famous physicians' to support his outrageous claims. These are examples of arguments from authority, where the speaker attempts to bolster their credibility by appealing to the perceived expertise or status of others. In this satirical context, these 'authorities' are often fabricated or used ironically to highlight the absurdity of the proposal.

Question 3

Line 13, "Probationers," refers to

Accepted Answer

children learning how to steal

Answer

In the context of 'A Modest Proposal,' 'Probationers' refers to the children who are not yet old enough to be 'useful' for the author's main proposal but are already engaged in begging or petty theft. They are essentially 'on probation' in the sense that they are learning the 'trade' of their impoverished existence, often involving illicit activities, before they reach the age of being consumed.

Question 4

Because of this, the statement in lines 24-26 that reads, "the charge of nutriment and rags having been at least four times that value," is funny

Accepted Answer

rags is unexpected diction

Answer

The humor in the statement 'the charge of nutriment and rags having been at least four times that value' stems from the unexpected juxtaposition of 'nutriment' (food) with 'rags.' While food is a necessary expense, 'rags' are typically worthless and not something one would expect to be charged for, especially at a high value. This highlights the extreme poverty and exploitation being satirized, making the inclusion of 'rags' particularly absurd and humorous.

Question 5

Line 35's "fricassee" is unmistakably a Fricative (n)

Accepted Answer

dish

Answer

A 'fricassee' is a culinary term referring to a dish of stewed or fried pieces of meat served in a thick sauce. In 'A Modest Proposal,' Swift suggests that children could be prepared as a 'fricassee' among other dishes. This term explicitly places the children within a culinary context, emphasizing the grotesque and literal aspect of his satirical proposal to consume infants.

English Language and Composition Exam Practice Test

English Language and Composition Exam Practice Test

Free AP English Language and Composition Close Reading Practice Test