Nelson-Denny Reading Test Reading Comprehension: Determining Author's Purpose 5

Question 1

A passage uses the phrase 'according to the National Institute of Health' three times and cites specific study results. This evidence MOST STRONGLY suggests the author's purpose is to:

Accepted Answer

Inform readers with credible, evidence-based information

Answer

Repeated citation of credible institutions and specific study results is a technique used to establish authority and inform readers.

Question 2

In determining author's purpose, the term 'PIE' stands for:

Accepted Answer

Persuade, Inform, Entertain

Answer

PIE is a common reading strategy acronym standing for Persuade, Inform, and Entertain—the three main author purposes.

Question 3

A passage describes how a new app works, lists its features, and explains its subscription pricing without recommending it or criticizing it. The author's purpose is to:

Accepted Answer

Inform readers about the app's capabilities and cost

Answer

A neutral description of features and pricing without recommendation or criticism is purely informational.

Question 4

An author writing a persuasive passage is MOST LIKELY to do which of the following?

Accepted Answer

Anticipate and counter opposing arguments

Answer

Anticipating and refuting counterarguments (called rebuttal) is a key persuasive technique that distinguishes persuasive from informational writing.

Question 5

A passage about a local sports team begins: 'Last Tuesday, the Riverside Ravens stunned the crowd with a comeback victory that no one saw coming.' The PRIMARY purpose of this opening is to:

Accepted Answer

Entertain and hook readers with an exciting moment

Answer

An exciting narrative opening that highlights a dramatic moment is a storytelling technique designed to engage and entertain readers from the start.

Nelson-Denny Reading Test Practice Test

Nelson-Denny Reading Test Practice Test

Nelson-Denny Reading Test Reading Comprehension: Determining Author's Purpose 5