NJSLA Comprehending Informational Texts 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?

Accepted Answer

To provide a balanced perspective on the impact of the transcontinental railroad.

Answer

To argue that the transcontinental railroad should never have been built.

Answer

To focus solely on the negative consequences of the railroad's construction.

Answer

To celebrate the economic achievements brought about by the railroad.

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?

Accepted Answer

Analyze the titles, labels, keys, and captions of the charts and graphs.

Answer

Focus only on the written text, as the visuals are supplementary.

Answer

Quickly glance at the visuals to get a general idea of the topic.

Answer

Create their own graphs based on the data presented in the text.

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?

Accepted Answer

A projection showing the rising costs of fossil fuels over the next two decades.

Answer

A personal anecdote from someone who enjoys having solar panels on their home.

Answer

A statement from a fossil fuel company executive questioning the reliability of wind power.

Answer

An analysis of the aesthetic appeal of wind turbines in the landscape.

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?

Accepted Answer

To indicate that social media has both positive and negative aspects.

Answer

To suggest that social media is outdated.

Answer

To argue that social media is primarily a tool for conflict.

Answer

To praise the technological innovation of social media platforms.

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?

Accepted Answer

The author's expertise and the publication's reputation.

Answer

The length of each article.

Answer

The number of comments on the blog post.

Answer

The visual design and layout of the web pages.

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?

Accepted Answer

To engage the reader emotionally and make a large-scale issue more personal.

Answer

To provide a comprehensive list of all the causes of bee population decline.

Answer

To immediately present a statistical overview of the global problem.

Answer

To discourage readers from becoming beekeepers themselves.