Reading Comprehension Practice Test 2

Question 1

Read the following passage: 'The Amazon rainforest produces approximately 20% of the world's oxygen. However, due to deforestation, an area the size of a football field is lost every minute.' What is the author's primary purpose?

Accepted Answer

To highlight the importance of the Amazon and the threat it faces

Answer

The passage establishes the Amazon's importance (20% of oxygen) and then presents the threat (rapid deforestation), making the purpose to highlight both its value and the danger it faces.

Question 2

In the sentence 'The committee reached a consensus after hours of deliberation,' what does 'consensus' most likely mean?

Accepted Answer

A general agreement among all members

Answer

After 'hours of deliberation' (discussion), the committee 'reached' something — a consensus is a general agreement that emerges from extended discussion.

Question 3

A passage describes how a scientist observed that birds near airports had shorter, more rapid alarm calls compared to birds in quiet forests. Which inference is best supported?

Accepted Answer

Urban noise may cause birds to modify their communication patterns

Answer

The difference in alarm calls between noisy (airport) and quiet (forest) environments suggests that birds adapt their communication to be heard above ambient noise.

Question 4

Read the passage: 'Although Thomas Edison is often credited with inventing the light bulb, he actually improved upon designs by over twenty earlier inventors. His contribution was making the bulb practical and long-lasting enough for commercial use.' What is the main idea?

Accepted Answer

Edison's main achievement was perfecting the light bulb for practical use, not inventing it from scratch

Answer

The passage corrects a misconception: Edison didn't invent the bulb but improved it for practical use. The main idea is about his real contribution — perfecting existing technology.

Question 5

A passage reads: 'The school cafeteria introduced a salad bar, replaced fried foods with baked alternatives, and added fresh fruit options. Within one semester, student visits to the nurse for stomach complaints decreased by 40%.' What conclusion is best supported?

Accepted Answer

The healthier food options likely contributed to improved student digestive health

Answer

The healthier menu changes (salad bar, baked instead of fried, fresh fruit) preceded a decrease in stomach complaints, suggesting the dietary improvements contributed to better digestive health.