Reading Comprehension Flashcards
7 cards from real NBT 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 passage states: 'The researcher cautioned that while the data showed a strong correlation between sleep deprivation and reduced cognitive performance, causation had not been established.' What does the researcher's caution imply?
Answer: Two variables moving together does not prove one causes the other.
The researcher distinguishes correlation (variables moving together) from causation (one variable directly producing the other).
Which sentence uses the word 'ambiguous' correctly in context?
Answer: Her ambiguous reply left the committee unsure whether she accepted the offer.
Ambiguous means open to more than one interpretation, so an ambiguous reply would leave people uncertain.
A paragraph opens: 'Not all renewable energy sources are equal in reliability.' The sentences that follow most likely discuss:
Answer: Differences in consistency and availability among renewable sources.
The opening claim about inequality in reliability signals that the paragraph will compare how dependable various renewable sources are.
Read: 'The committee tabled the motion, postponing any decision until the next meeting.' In American English, 'tabled a motion' most likely means:
Answer: Postponed or set aside the motion.
In American English, to 'table' a motion means to defer or postpone it, unlike British English where it means to bring it up for discussion.
A text includes this transition: 'Urban farms can supply fresh produce to food deserts; however, the startup costs remain prohibitive for many communities.' The word 'however' signals:
Answer: A contrasting or limiting point follows.
However is an adversative conjunction that introduces information contrasting with or qualifying the previous statement.
An author writes in second person ('you') throughout an instruction manual. The most likely purpose is to:
Answer: Directly address and guide the reader through each step.
Second-person point of view directly addresses the reader, making instructions feel personal and easy to follow.
A passage claims: 'Standardized testing measures only a narrow slice of student ability.' Which of the following, if true, would most weaken this claim?
Answer: Scores on standardized tests correlate with a wide range of future academic and career outcomes.
If scores correlate with many diverse outcomes, the tests appear to capture more than a narrow slice of ability, directly weakening the claim.