Reading Comprehension Skills Flashcards

A passage says: 'While supporters argue the policy reduces crime, critics contend it infringes on civil liberties.' What does this sentence present?

Answer: Two opposing viewpoints on the policy

The sentence gives the supporters' view and the critics' view side by side, presenting both sides of a debate.

An instruction reads: 'Complete all fields marked with an asterisk (*) before submitting.' Which fields must be filled in?

Answer: Only fields marked with *

The instruction specifically says fields 'marked with an asterisk (*)' are required before submission.

You read: 'The novel's protagonist undergoes a dramatic transformation by the final chapter.' What does 'protagonist' mean?

Answer: The main character

A protagonist is the main or central character of a story, often the one the plot follows most closely.

A passage reads: 'Rising sea levels pose a tangible threat to coastal communities.' What does 'tangible' mean here?

Answer: Real and concrete

'Tangible' means something real, concrete, and capable of being perceived — not abstract or hypothetical.

A schedule states: 'Sessions run Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., excluding federal holidays.' On a federal holiday that falls on Wednesday, will there be a session?

Answer: No, because federal holidays are excluded

The schedule explicitly says 'excluding federal holidays,' so no session is held on any federal holiday regardless of the day.

A paragraph concludes: 'In summary, regular exercise, balanced nutrition, and adequate sleep are the pillars of good health.' What is the function of this sentence?

Answer: To summarize the paragraph's main points

Phrases like 'in summary' signal a concluding sentence that restates or synthesizes the key points made earlier.

You read: 'The defendant was acquitted of all charges.' What happened to the defendant?

Answer: Found not guilty and freed

'Acquitted' means found not guilty in a court of law, so the defendant was cleared of all charges.