TASC Reading 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is the primary purpose of identifying an author's main idea in a passage?
- To memorize every detail
- To understand the central point the author is making (Correct answer)
- To count the paragraphs
- To find spelling errors
Correct answer: To understand the central point the author is making
The main idea captures the central point the author wants the reader to take away.
Question 2: A reader encounters the word 'benevolent' and the sentence describes a man giving food to the poor. What does 'benevolent' most likely mean?
- Kind and generous (Correct answer)
- Angry and bitter
- Wealthy but greedy
- Quiet and shy
Correct answer: Kind and generous
Context clues about giving to the poor indicate kindness and generosity.
Question 3: Which of the following is an example of a primary source?
- A textbook summary of a war
- A diary written by a soldier during the war (Correct answer)
- An encyclopedia article
- A book review
Correct answer: A diary written by a soldier during the war
A primary source is a firsthand account, such as a diary from the actual event.
Question 4: What does it mean to make an inference while reading?
- To copy text word for word
- To draw a logical conclusion based on evidence and reasoning (Correct answer)
- To skip difficult words
- To read only the first sentence
Correct answer: To draw a logical conclusion based on evidence and reasoning
An inference is a reasoned conclusion based on textual evidence and prior knowledge.
Question 5: In a persuasive essay, which element is the author most likely trying to influence?
- The page count
- The reader's opinion or actions (Correct answer)
- The font style
- The publication date
Correct answer: The reader's opinion or actions
Persuasive writing aims to change the reader's beliefs or prompt action.
Question 6: What is the function of a topic sentence in a paragraph?
- To conclude the entire essay
- To state the main idea of that paragraph (Correct answer)
- To list the references
- To introduce a new character
Correct answer: To state the main idea of that paragraph
A topic sentence introduces the main idea that the paragraph develops.
Question 7: Which transition word signals a contrast between two ideas?
- Furthermore
- However (Correct answer)
- Likewise
- Additionally
Correct answer: However
'However' signals a contrast or shift between two ideas.
TASC Reading 2
What is the primary purpose of identifying an author's main idea in a passage?