Reading Comprehension Flashcards
7 cards from real ITBS practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Reading Comprehension flashcards as text
A student reads: 'The old lighthouse had stood for over a century, its beam sweeping the dark waters every ten seconds. Sailors once feared the rocky shoals it guarded, but now only tourists visited.' What is the PRIMARY purpose of this passage?
Answer: To describe how a lighthouse has changed in significance over time
The passage contrasts the lighthouse's past role (guiding fearful sailors) with its present role (attracting tourists), showing how its significance has changed.
In the sentence 'The scientist examined the data meticulously, leaving no figure unverified,' the word 'meticulously' most nearly means:
Answer: With great attention to detail
'Meticulously' means with careful attention to detail, which is supported by the phrase 'leaving no figure unverified.'
Read: 'Although Marcus trained every day, he still lost the race. However, he shook his opponent's hand and promised to work harder.' Which character trait does Marcus BEST demonstrate?
Answer: Good sportsmanship
Shaking his opponent's hand and vowing to improve despite losing shows Marcus displays good sportsmanship.
A passage states: 'Bees pollinate roughly one-third of the food humans eat. Without them, many fruits and vegetables would disappear from our diets.' What conclusion is BEST supported by this information?
Answer: Protecting bee populations is essential for human food security
Since bees pollinate a third of human food, their decline would threaten food security, making their protection essential.
Which text structure is used in a passage that says: 'First, gather your materials. Second, cut the paper. Third, fold it into thirds. Finally, glue the edges together'?
Answer: Sequential/chronological order
The words 'First,' 'Second,' 'Third,' and 'Finally' signal sequential order, which organizes steps in the process.
A nonfiction article includes this heading: 'Why Rainforests Matter.' This heading MOST likely signals that the following section will:
Answer: Explain the importance and value of rainforests
The word 'Why' signals that the section will explain reasons — meaning it will discuss the importance or value of rainforests.
A story says: 'Elena read the letter twice, then set it on the table without a word. She walked to the window and stared at the gray sky for a long time.' What is Elena MOST likely feeling?
Answer: Troubled or deeply affected by the letter's contents
Elena's silence, re-reading the letter, and prolonged staring suggest she is troubled or emotionally affected by what she read.