SAT Reading Comprehension 2

Question 1

A passage states the author 'reluctantly conceded' a point during a debate. The word 'conceded' most nearly means:

Accepted Answer

Acknowledged

Answer

To concede is to admit or acknowledge something is true, often unwillingly.

Question 2

An author writes that a policy 'failed to deliver the prosperity its champions had promised.' This sentence primarily serves to:

Accepted Answer

Critique a gap between promise and outcome

Answer

The contrast between promised prosperity and failure highlights a shortfall, signaling criticism.

Question 3

In a paired-passage set, Passage 1 argues for strict regulation while Passage 2 favors voluntary compliance. Their relationship is best described as:

Accepted Answer

Differing approaches to a shared problem

Answer

Both address the same issue but propose different solutions, a common dual-passage structure.

Question 4

A line reference asks why the author includes a personal anecdote about her childhood garden. The most likely purpose is to:

Accepted Answer

Illustrate an abstract idea with a concrete example

Answer

Anecdotes typically make abstract claims relatable through vivid, concrete detail.

Question 5

Which choice provides the BEST evidence for a claim that a scientist remained skeptical? The strongest support would be a line where the scientist:

Accepted Answer

Demands further testing before accepting results

Answer

Demanding more testing directly shows ongoing doubt, the definition of skepticism.

SAT Practice Test