NJSLA Comprehending Informational Texts Questions and Answers — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Read the following excerpt from a historical article:
'The construction of the transcontinental railroad was a monumental undertaking, driven by economic ambition and nationalistic pride. While it undeniably spurred westward expansion and integrated the national economy, it came at a significant cost. The displacement of Native American tribes, the harsh labor conditions for immigrant workers, and the profound alteration of the natural landscape are critical aspects of its complex legacy.'
Which of the following statements best analyzes the author's purpose in this excerpt?
- To argue that the transcontinental railroad should never have been built.
- To provide a balanced perspective on the impact of the transcontinental railroad. (Correct answer)
- To focus solely on the negative consequences of the railroad's construction.
- To celebrate the economic achievements brought about by the railroad.
Correct answer: To provide a balanced perspective on the impact of the transcontinental railroad.
The author presents both the positive outcomes (spurred expansion, integrated economy) and the negative consequences (displacement of tribes, harsh labor, environmental impact) of the railroad's construction. This indicates a purpose of providing a balanced and multi-faceted view rather than taking a one-sided stance.
Question 2: A student is reading a scientific article about climate change that includes several charts and graphs. To fully comprehend the author's argument, what is the most crucial first step the student should take when encountering these visual aids?
- Focus only on the written text, as the visuals are supplementary.
- Quickly glance at the visuals to get a general idea of the topic.
- Create their own graphs based on the data presented in the text.
- Analyze the titles, labels, keys, and captions of the charts and graphs. (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Analyze the titles, labels, keys, and captions of the charts and graphs.
Informational texts often use visual elements like charts and graphs to present complex data. To understand how this data supports the author's argument, the reader must first interpret the visuals accurately by examining all their components, such as titles, axis labels, keys, and explanatory captions.
Question 3: An article argues that the adoption of renewable energy sources is essential for long-term economic stability. Which of the following pieces of evidence would most strongly support the author's claim?
- A personal anecdote from someone who enjoys having solar panels on their home.
- A statement from a fossil fuel company executive questioning the reliability of wind power.
- A projection showing the rising costs of fossil fuels over the next two decades. (Correct answer)
- An analysis of the aesthetic appeal of wind turbines in the landscape.
Correct answer: A projection showing the rising costs of fossil fuels over the next two decades.
The author's claim is about economic stability. Therefore, strong evidence must be related to economic factors. A projection of rising fossil fuel costs directly supports the argument that a shift to other energy sources is economically necessary for long-term stability. The other options are based on personal opinion, potential bias, or non-economic factors.
Question 4: In an informational text, an author uses the phrase 'a double-edged sword' to describe the proliferation of social media. What is the primary function of this phrase?
- To suggest that social media is outdated.
- To indicate that social media has both positive and negative aspects. (Correct answer)
- To argue that social media is primarily a tool for conflict.
- To praise the technological innovation of social media platforms.
Correct answer: To indicate that social media has both positive and negative aspects.
The idiom 'a double-edged sword' is a figure of speech used to describe something that has both favorable and unfavorable consequences. Its use indicates that the author will likely discuss both the benefits and the drawbacks of social media.
Question 5: A student is tasked with writing a research report and finds two articles on the same topic. Article A is a peer-reviewed study published in a scientific journal. Article B is a blog post written by an anonymous author. Which of the following is the most important factor for the student to consider when evaluating the credibility of these sources?
- The length of each article.
- The author's expertise and the publication's reputation. (Correct answer)
- The number of comments on the blog post.
- The visual design and layout of the web pages.
Correct answer: The author's expertise and the publication's reputation.
When comprehending and using informational texts, especially for research, evaluating the source's credibility is crucial. A peer-reviewed scientific journal has a rigorous review process by experts in the field, making it a highly credible source. An anonymous blog post lacks accountability and verifiable expertise. Therefore, the author's credentials and the publisher's reputation are the most critical factors.
Question 6: An author begins an article about the decline of bee populations with a detailed anecdote about a local beekeeper's struggle to maintain his hives. What is the most likely reason the author chose to structure the introduction this way?
- To provide a comprehensive list of all the causes of bee population decline.
- To immediately present a statistical overview of the global problem.
- To discourage readers from becoming beekeepers themselves.
- To engage the reader emotionally and make a large-scale issue more personal. (Correct answer)
Correct answer: To engage the reader emotionally and make a large-scale issue more personal.
Authors of informational texts often use narrative techniques, like anecdotes, to introduce a topic. This strategy helps to capture the reader's interest and create an emotional connection to the subject, making a complex or abstract issue like population decline feel more concrete and relatable.
