Free AP English Language and Composition Metaphor and Simile Practice Test Question and Answer — Questions and Answers

Question 1: The passage's vocabulary and subject matter lead one to believe that the speaker is most likely

a historian returning to a familiar place.
a Native American visiting the land of his ancestors. (Correct answer)
a student of Indian customs and traditions.
a tourist on an Indian reservation.
a botanist studying plant life in Yellowstone.

Correct answer: a Native American visiting the land of his ancestors.

Given the context of questions about Native American history and culture (as seen in Q19 and subsequent questions about Kiowas), the speaker's deep knowledge of the land, its history, and specific tribal references strongly suggests an intimate connection. This perspective is most consistent with a Native American visiting or reflecting on the land of their ancestors, rather than a detached observer.

Question 2: Lines 5-7 of paragraph 1's final sentence's last clause's primary rhetorical purpose is

to introduce a contradiction that needs to be explained later.
to provide a transition to the next paragraph.
to present a thesis that will be developed later in the passage.
to illustrate an idea presented earlier in the paragraph. (Correct answer)
to support the main idea of the passage.

Correct answer: to illustrate an idea presented earlier in the paragraph.

The primary rhetorical purpose of a final clause in a sentence, especially when it follows a broader statement, is often to provide concrete detail or an example. If an idea was introduced earlier in the paragraph, this clause would serve to illustrate or elaborate upon that idea, making it more vivid or understandable for the reader.

Question 3: "Descending" alters line 8

stairway (line 8).
slope (line 9).
plain (line 8).
highland (line 8).
meadows (line 8). (Correct answer)

Correct answer: meadows (line 8).

'Descending' is a present participle functioning as an adjective, and it modifies the noun that it describes. In the context of line 8, 'descending' would logically describe 'meadows,' indicating that the meadows themselves are sloping downwards. This grammatical relationship clarifies the physical characteristic of the landscape.

Question 4: Which of the following best sums up the second paragraph's initial sentence's rhetorical purpose?

It emphasizes the speaker's profound understanding of his subject.
It conveys the speaker's feelings about being in the wilderness.
It shifts the focus of the passage. (Correct answer)
It reiterates the main idea of the preceding paragraph.
It dismisses the first paragraph as unimportant to the development of the thesis.

Correct answer: It shifts the focus of the passage.

The opening sentence of a new paragraph frequently serves as a transition, signaling a shift in the passage's focus or topic. It introduces a new aspect of the subject or moves the narrative in a different direction, rather than merely reiterating or dismissing previous points. This structural function helps organize the author's ideas and guide the reader through the text.

Question 5: Which of the following rhetorical devices appears in lines 12–14?

Paradox and ambiguity
Synecdoche and rhyme
Onomatopoeia and hyperbole
Metaphor and simile (Correct answer)
Personification and euphemism

Correct answer: Metaphor and simile

A metaphor is a direct comparison between two unlike things, stating one *is* the other, while a simile is a comparison using 'like' or 'as.' If lines 12-14 contain figurative language that draws parallels between different entities, these two devices are highly likely to be present as common forms of comparison.

Question 6: The main comparison used by the passage's author is between

the past and the present.
light plains and dark mountains. (Correct answer)
Kiowas and Crows.
near and far.
winter and summer.

Correct answer: light plains and dark mountains.

Assuming the passage describes a landscape, possibly related to the Kiowa people and their ancestral lands, the author likely uses the contrast between 'light plains and dark mountains' as a central organizing principle or symbolic comparison. This juxtaposition of distinct geographical features would serve to highlight differences in landscape, perhaps reflecting cultural or historical themes, making it the primary comparison.

Question 7: The best way to sum up the speaker's tone throughout the text is

exotic and sentimental.
sober and philosophical.
sensible and scholarly.
earnest and profound.
reverent and poetic. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: reverent and poetic.

The tone described as 'reverent and poetic' suggests the speaker approaches the subject with deep respect, awe, or even worship, often using elevated and imaginative language. A reverent tone conveys profound admiration, while a poetic tone implies a style rich in imagery, metaphor, and perhaps a rhythmic quality. This combination indicates a speaker who is not merely reporting facts but expressing a profound emotional and aesthetic connection to the subject matter.

Question 8: All of the following are found in lines 17 through 21, EXCEPT

a subordinate clause
parallel syntax
a balance of overstatement and understatement (Correct answer)
elaborate personification
direct comparison

Correct answer: a balance of overstatement and understatement

This is an 'EXCEPT' question, meaning the correct answer is the one rhetorical device *not* found in the specified lines. A 'balance of overstatement and understatement' refers to the deliberate and effective use of both hyperbole (exaggeration) and litotes (downplaying) to create a nuanced effect. If this is the correct answer, it means the passage does not employ these two contrasting rhetorical strategies in a balanced way, while the other options (subordinate clause, parallel syntax, elaborate personification, direct comparison) are present.

Question 9: The term "wean their blood" (line 22) is referred to as other things in the context.

paused on the way (lines 16–17)
reckoned their stature (lines 5–6)
change their lives (line 17) (Correct answer)
bent and blind in the wilderness (lines 6–7)
wonder to build upon the mind (lines 11–12)

Correct answer: change their lives (line 17)

The phrase 'wean their blood' is a powerful metaphor suggesting a fundamental and perhaps difficult separation or transformation from something deeply ingrained or inherited. To 'wean' implies a gradual detachment, and 'blood' often symbolizes lineage, nature, or core identity. Therefore, 'change their lives' (line 17) is the most fitting contextual equivalent, as it captures the idea of a profound and essential alteration in one's existence or way of being.

Question 10: The easiest way to sum up the passage's rhetorical approach is

graphic and graceful. (Correct answer)
severe and classic.
wordy and pedantic.
terse and didactic.
ornate and flowery.

Correct answer: graphic and graceful.

A 'graphic and graceful' rhetorical approach combines vivid, detailed, and often visual descriptions with an elegant and flowing writing style. 'Graphic' implies the use of strong imagery that allows the reader to clearly visualize the subject, making it impactful. 'Graceful' suggests a sophisticated, aesthetically pleasing, and fluid presentation of ideas, avoiding awkwardness or abruptness. Together, these terms describe writing that is both striking in its depiction and refined in its execution.

Question 11: Which of the following statements best describes how the final section (lines 24–27) adds to the passage's overall sense of coherence? I. It echoes the sense of darkness that dominated the first paragraph. II. It describes the land in ways that recall earlier descriptions. III. It brings the speaker's perspective back into the narrative.

I, II, and III
I and II only
II only
III only
I and III only (Correct answer)

Correct answer: I and III only

The final section contributes to coherence by echoing earlier themes and re-establishing the speaker's presence. Statement I suggests thematic continuity by recalling a 'sense of darkness' from the first paragraph, creating a full-circle effect. Statement III indicates a return to the speaker's subjective viewpoint, which can provide a reflective conclusion or a personal stamp on the narrative. Statement II, if incorrect, means the land descriptions in the final section do not specifically recall earlier ones, making I and III the sole contributors to coherence.

Question 12: In the opening paragraph, the passage's topic is introduced with

an allusion
a parable (Correct answer)
a saga
an exposé
an exposition

Correct answer: a parable

A parable is a simple story used to illustrate a moral or spiritual lesson. If the passage's topic is introduced with a parable, it means the opening paragraph presents a narrative that serves as an extended analogy or metaphor for the main idea the author wishes to convey. This method allows the author to engage the reader with a relatable story before delving into the deeper implications or arguments of the text.

Question 13: Which of the following sums up the tone of the section the best?

Moralistic and circumspect
Restrained and thoughtful
Objective and impartial
Irate and contentious (Correct answer)
Pedantic and nitpicking

Correct answer: Irate and contentious

An 'irate and contentious' tone indicates that the speaker is extremely angry and is likely to provoke or engage in argument. 'Irate' signifies intense anger, while 'contentious' suggests a readiness to dispute or a style that is argumentative and provocative. This tone would be characterized by strong, emotional language, accusations, and a confrontational approach to the subject matter, aiming to express outrage and challenge opposing viewpoints.

Question 14: The speaker contrasts the Asian-African inhabitants and European colonists throughout the chapter based on

the strength of their belief in God.
their economic wealth.
their attachment to the land.
their attitude toward family life. (Correct answer)
their desire to own property.

Correct answer: their attitude toward family life.

The speaker contrasts the two groups based on their 'attitude toward family life,' meaning the passage highlights differing values, structures, or importance placed on family by Asian-African inhabitants and European colonists. This contrast would likely explore how each group defines family, their roles within it, and the significance of family in their respective cultures and societies. Such a comparison reveals fundamental cultural differences and their impact on societal norms.

Question 15: Which of the following definitions of "Fathers" (line 8) is most supported by the context?

Ruthless tyrants
Priests
Representatives (Correct answer)
Masters
Role-models

Correct answer: Representatives

In many historical or political contexts, 'Fathers' refers to individuals who act on behalf of a group or who are instrumental in founding something, such as 'Founding Fathers.' Therefore, 'Representatives' is the most supported definition, implying that these 'Fathers' are speaking for, acting for, or embodying the interests of a larger body or community. This meaning extends beyond mere biological or religious roles to encompass a role of leadership and advocacy.

Question 16: Which of the following rhetorical devices is most prevalent throughout the passage?

The testimony of experts on the subject of European colonialism
Specific examples and anecdotes to illustrate the main idea
The use of highly-charged, emotional language to create an effect (Correct answer)
Well-reasoned logical argumentation in support of a thesis
The testing of a hypothesis using observation and the massing of data

Correct answer: The use of highly-charged, emotional language to create an effect

The prevalence of 'highly-charged, emotional language' means the passage frequently uses words and phrases designed to evoke strong feelings, such as anger, sympathy, fear, or passion, in the reader. This rhetorical device is often employed to persuade, to create a sense of urgency, or to emphasize the gravity of a situation. Its consistent use indicates an author's intention to appeal to the reader's emotions rather than solely to logic or reason.

Free AP English Language and Composition Metaphor and Simile Practice Test Question and Answer

The passage's vocabulary and subject matter lead one to believe that the speaker is most likely