Reading Comprehension: Analyzing Textual Evidence Flashcards

A passage states: 'Despite widespread criticism, the policy remained in effect for three more years, during which accident rates fell by 12%.' Which conclusion is best supported by this evidence?

Answer: The policy had some measurable positive outcome despite opposition

The 12% drop in accident rates during the policy's continuation is direct textual evidence of a positive measurable outcome.

When an author uses a personal anecdote as evidence in an argument, a critical reader should recognize that this type of evidence is:

Answer: Limited in scope and may not represent broader patterns

Personal anecdotes are individual experiences that may not generalize, making them limited as evidence for broad claims.

A paragraph ends with: 'These findings suggest a link between sleep deprivation and reduced cognitive performance.' The word 'suggest' indicates that the author is:

Answer: Presenting a cautious, qualified interpretation of the evidence

Words like 'suggest' signal that the author is making a careful, tentative claim rather than a definitive statement.

Two paragraphs in a passage both describe the same historical event but reach different conclusions. The best way to resolve this discrepancy is to:

Answer: Examine the specific evidence each paragraph uses to support its conclusion

Comparing the supporting evidence in each paragraph reveals why the authors reached different conclusions and which is better supported.

A passage claims that 'most scientists agree' on a particular point but cites no specific sources. This weakens the argument because:

Answer: Vague references to unnamed experts cannot be verified or evaluated

Without identifying specific sources, the claim 'most scientists agree' is unverifiable and therefore weak as textual evidence.

A student reads: 'The river flooded four times between 1990 and 2000, compared to once between 1980 and 1990.' Which inference is most directly supported by this evidence?

Answer: Flood frequency increased in the decade from 1990 to 2000

The numerical comparison directly supports the conclusion that flooding occurred more frequently in the 1990–2000 period.

Which of the following would serve as the strongest textual evidence that a character in a story is dishonest?

Answer: The character's own words contradict their earlier statements in the text

Self-contradictory statements within the text are direct, verifiable evidence of dishonesty, unlike suspicion or vague description.