NBT Academic Vocabulary and Language 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: In academic contexts, 'to synthesise' information means to:
- Copy information directly
- Create something artificial
- Combine ideas from multiple sources into a coherent whole (Correct answer)
- Break down information into smaller parts
Correct answer: Combine ideas from multiple sources into a coherent whole
Synthesis in academic contexts means combining ideas, findings, or perspectives from multiple sources to create a new, unified understanding. It is a higher-order thinking skill.
Question 2: Which sentence demonstrates correct use of an academic register?
- The experiment was kinda interesting, hey
- The results of the experiment demonstrate a significant correlation (Correct answer)
- We found some cool stuff in the lab
- The research was basically okay
Correct answer: The results of the experiment demonstrate a significant correlation
Academic register uses formal, precise language and avoids colloquialisms and slang. 'Demonstrate' and 'significant correlation' are appropriate academic terms.
Question 3: What does the word 'empirical' mean when used in academic research?
- Based on theory alone
- Based on observation or experience (Correct answer)
- Based on authority
- Based on tradition
Correct answer: Based on observation or experience
Empirical means based on or verified by observation, experimentation, or experience rather than theory or pure logic. Empirical evidence is gathered through direct testing.
Question 4: Choose the correct definition of 'ubiquitous':
- Extremely rare
- Found everywhere; present in all places (Correct answer)
- Difficult to understand
- Relating to a specific region
Correct answer: Found everywhere; present in all places
Ubiquitous means present, appearing, or found everywhere. In academic writing, it is used to describe phenomena that are extremely widespread.
Question 5: In the phrase 'the study yielded inconclusive results,' what does 'inconclusive' mean?
- The results were definitive
- The results did not lead to a clear conclusion (Correct answer)
- The results were negative
- The results confirmed the hypothesis
Correct answer: The results did not lead to a clear conclusion
Inconclusive means not leading to a firm conclusion or result. The prefix 'in-' negates 'conclusive,' meaning the evidence was insufficient to draw a definite conclusion.
Question 6: Which word is the most appropriate academic synonym for 'show'?
- Demonstrate (Correct answer)
- Flash
- Display
- Parade
Correct answer: Demonstrate
'Demonstrate' is the most formal and precise academic alternative to 'show.' It implies providing evidence or proof, which aligns with academic communication standards.
NBT Academic Vocabulary and Language 2
In academic contexts, 'to synthesise' information means to: