Nelson-Denny Reading Test Reading Comprehension: Identifying Main Ideas 2

Question 1

A passage states: 'Coral reefs support thousands of marine species, protect coastlines from erosion, and provide food for millions of people worldwide.
Yet rising ocean temperatures continue to bleach and kill these ecosystems at an alarming rate.' What is the main idea?

Accepted Answer

Coral reefs are vital ecosystems that are threatened by warming oceans.

Answer

Ocean temperatures are rising due to climate change.

Answer

Millions of people rely on fish from coral reef areas.

Answer

Bleaching is the primary cause of coral reef destruction.

Question 2

When a passage opens with a broad claim and follows it with several specific examples, the main idea is most likely found in the:

Accepted Answer

Opening broad claim

Answer

Last example given

Answer

Middle of the passage

Answer

Transitional phrases between examples

Question 3

A passage describes several scientists' failed attempts to synthesize a compound, then concludes: 'These repeated failures suggest the molecule may be inherently unstable.' What is the main idea?

Accepted Answer

The molecule's inherent instability is suggested by repeated failed syntheses.

Answer

Many scientists have tried and failed to work with this compound.

Answer

Chemists need better laboratory equipment.

Answer

The compound has never been observed in nature.

Question 4

Which of the following is the best definition of the 'main idea' of a passage?

Accepted Answer

The central point the author develops throughout the passage

Answer

The first sentence of every paragraph

Answer

The most interesting fact presented

Answer

A summary of the conclusion only

Question 5

A passage reads: 'Early jazz emerged from African American communities in New Orleans, blending blues, ragtime, and spirituals. It later spread across the US, influencing rock, funk, and hip-hop. Today, jazz is recognized as America's classical music.' What is the main idea?

Accepted Answer

Jazz originated in African American culture and evolved into a foundational American art form.

Answer

New Orleans is the birthplace of jazz.

Answer

Jazz has influenced many modern music genres.

Answer

Spirituals and blues were the two main roots of jazz.

Question 6

In the Nelson-Denny Reading Test, a main idea question that asks 'The best title for this passage would be...' requires you to find:

Accepted Answer

A title broad enough to cover all the passage's major points

Answer

A title that reflects a minor but interesting detail

Answer

The exact words from the first sentence

Answer

A title that summarizes only the conclusion

Question 7

A passage about electric vehicles discusses battery range, charging infrastructure, purchase incentives, and environmental benefits. A student says the main idea is 'batteries are expensive.' Why is this incorrect?

Accepted Answer

Battery cost is only one detail; it doesn't encompass the passage's full scope.

Answer

The passage never mentions batteries.

Answer

The main idea must always appear in the last paragraph.

Answer

Environmental topics always override economic topics in main idea selection.