ITBS Reading Comprehension 3

Question 1

Read: 'The new park brought neighbors together. Families picnicked on its lawns, children played on the equipment, and seniors walked its shaded paths.' The author's attitude toward the park is BEST described as:

Accepted Answer

Positive and supportive

Answer

The passage highlights multiple benefits of the park for different groups, showing the author views it positively.

Question 2

In a passage about ocean pollution, the author writes: 'Millions of plastic bottles wash into the sea each year — a silent disaster no one seems willing to stop.' The phrase 'silent disaster' is an example of:

Accepted Answer

Figurative language used to emphasize the seriousness of pollution

Answer

Calling pollution a 'silent disaster' is figurative — disasters aren't literally quiet, but the phrase emphasizes the gravity of the unseen harm.

Question 3

A passage includes both an author's opinion and facts. Which of the following is a FACT rather than an opinion?

Accepted Answer

'The Amazon River stretches approximately 4,000 miles.'

Answer

The length of the Amazon River (approximately 4,000 miles) is a measurable, verifiable fact, unlike the other statements which express opinions.

Question 4

A student reads a passage with this sentence: 'Despite the freezing temperatures, the expedition pushed onward.' The word 'despite' indicates:

Accepted Answer

The expedition continued even though conditions were difficult

Answer

'Despite' signals a contrast — the team continued even though the cold was a challenge, not a reason to stop.

Question 5

An author writes about two types of energy: 'Solar panels produce clean, renewable electricity, while coal plants emit greenhouse gases and will eventually run out of fuel.' This passage PRIMARILY uses which text structure?

Accepted Answer

Compare and contrast

Answer

The passage directly contrasts solar panels and coal plants by listing different characteristics of each, using compare-and-contrast structure.

ITBS - Iowa Test of Basic Skills Exam Practice Test

ITBS - Iowa Test of Basic Skills Exam Practice Test

ITBS Reading Comprehension 3