PARCC Advanced Reading 4 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: An author concludes an argument by restating the thesis and calling readers to act. This ending is best described as a:
- Counterclaim
- Persuasive conclusion (Correct answer)
- Hypothesis
- Anecdote
Correct answer: Persuasive conclusion
Restating the thesis with a call to action is a hallmark of a persuasive conclusion.
Question 2: In the sentence 'Her argument was airtight,' the word 'airtight' is used:
- Literally, about sealed containers
- Figuratively, meaning flawless (Correct answer)
- As onomatopoeia
- As a date reference
Correct answer: Figuratively, meaning flawless
Here 'airtight' figuratively means the argument has no weak points.
Question 3: When comparing a primary source diary entry to a secondary source textbook on the same event, the diary offers:
- A broad overview
- A firsthand, personal account (Correct answer)
- Statistical summaries
- A neutral analysis
Correct answer: A firsthand, personal account
A diary provides a direct, firsthand perspective from someone present.
Question 4: An author shifts from short, choppy sentences to long, flowing ones as a character calms down. This use of sentence structure to mirror mood is called:
- Syntax for effect (Correct answer)
- Rhyme scheme
- Plot exposition
- Citation
Correct answer: Syntax for effect
Adjusting sentence length and rhythm to reflect tone is a deliberate use of syntax.
Question 5: The word 'ambivalent' most nearly means:
- Strongly certain
- Having mixed feelings (Correct answer)
- Physically weak
- Highly skilled
Correct answer: Having mixed feelings
Ambivalent describes holding contradictory or mixed feelings about something.
Question 6: A reader can best identify an author's bias by noticing:
- Page numbers
- Loaded or emotionally charged word choices (Correct answer)
- The number of paragraphs
- The book's price
Correct answer: Loaded or emotionally charged word choices
Bias often surfaces through emotionally charged or one-sided language.
Question 7: A text states, 'Studies show most students prefer flexible schedules.' To strengthen this claim, the author should add:
- A longer title
- Specific data and the study source (Correct answer)
- More adjectives
- A larger font
Correct answer: Specific data and the study source
Naming the study and citing concrete data makes a vague claim verifiable.
PARCC Advanced Reading 4
An author concludes an argument by restating the thesis and calling readers to act.
This ending is best described as a: