HAST Reading Comprehension

Question 1

A passage states: 'The Amazon rainforest produces about 20% of the world's oxygen.' What is the best title for this passage?

Accepted Answer

The Vital Role of the Amazon Rainforest

Answer

The statement highlights the Amazon's critical environmental contribution, making 'The Vital Role of the Amazon Rainforest' the most fitting title.

Question 2

A story says: 'Maya hesitated at the door, then took a deep breath and knocked.' What does this best suggest about Maya?

Accepted Answer

She was nervous but determined

Answer

Hesitating and taking a deep breath before acting are classic signs of nervousness, while still knocking shows determination.

Question 3

The author writes: 'Unlike its predecessor, the new model is both lighter and faster.' What does 'predecessor' mean?

Accepted Answer

The earlier model it replaced

Answer

A predecessor is something that came before; in context, it refers to the earlier model that the new one replaced.

Question 4

A passage describes an inventor who failed 1,000 times before succeeding. The author's main purpose is most likely to:

Accepted Answer

Inspire readers to persist through failure

Answer

Emphasizing repeated failure followed by ultimate success is a classic narrative structure meant to inspire perseverance.

Question 5

A paragraph ends: 'The council voted unanimously.' What does 'unanimously' mean?

Accepted Answer

With everyone in agreement

Answer

Unanimously means all members voted the same way, with no disagreement.

HAST - Higher Ability Selection Test Practice Test