TAP Reading Comprehension

Question 1

On the TAP Reading section, what does 'main idea' of a passage refer to?

Accepted Answer

The central point the author is making throughout the passage

Answer

The main idea is the central point or argument the author conveys throughout the entire passage.

Question 2

When a TAP passage asks you to make an inference, you should:

Accepted Answer

Use evidence from the text plus reasoning to draw a logical conclusion

Answer

An inference combines textual evidence with logical reasoning to reach a conclusion not directly stated.

Question 3

On the TAP, 'context clues' help a reader determine:

Accepted Answer

The meaning of an unfamiliar word using surrounding text

Answer

Context clues are words or phrases surrounding an unfamiliar word that help reveal its meaning.

Question 4

Which question type on the TAP Reading section asks you to evaluate the author's purpose?

Accepted Answer

Author's intent or rhetorical purpose

Answer

Author's intent questions ask why the author wrote the passage or included specific details.

Question 5

A 'supporting detail' in a TAP reading passage serves to:

Accepted Answer

Provide evidence or examples that reinforce the main idea

Answer

Supporting details back up the main idea with facts, examples, or explanations.

TAP - Test of Academic Proficiency Practice Test