Reading Comprehension Passages Flashcards
6 cards from real ITEP practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 Reading Comprehension Passages flashcards as text
Read the passage: 'Despite widespread skepticism, the study's conclusions have been replicated in multiple independent laboratories.' What does 'replicated' mean in this context?
Answer: Reproduced with the same results in separate research settings
'Replicated' in scientific contexts means the study's results were reproduced in independent research — a key validation step in science.
A passage states: 'The novelist's prose was lauded for its economy of language — every word served a precise purpose.' What does 'economy of language' suggest about the writing style?
Answer: The writing is concise and avoids unnecessary words.
'Economy of language' is a literary term meaning conciseness — using only the words necessary to convey meaning precisely, without excess.
Read: 'The policy, while well-intentioned, had unintended consequences that exacerbated the very problems it sought to address.' What does 'exacerbated' mean?
Answer: Made worse or more severe
'Exacerbated' means made a problem worse or more intense — the opposite of solving it.
A passage reads: 'The author argues that urbanization, rather than being the primary driver of inequality, is merely a symptom of deeper structural issues.' What is the author's main claim?
Answer: Urbanization does not cause inequality; it is itself a result of underlying structural problems.
The author argues that urbanization is a symptom (effect), not the primary driver (cause), of deeper structural issues that are the real source of inequality.
Read the excerpt: 'Critics contend that the proposed legislation is draconian, arguing it would strip citizens of fundamental rights.' What does 'draconian' mean?
Answer: Excessively harsh and severe
'Draconian' describes laws or measures that are extremely harsh or severe, derived from the ancient Athenian lawmaker Draco known for his severe legal code.
A passage states: 'The committee reached a consensus after lengthy deliberations.' What does 'deliberations' mean?
Answer: Careful discussions and considerations of all sides before making a decision
'Deliberations' are careful, thorough discussions and weighing of options before reaching a decision — they involve extended consideration rather than quick judgment.