TSI - Texas Success Initiative Reading Test #3 1

Question 1

Read the following passage: "For centuries, people believed that the Earth was the center of the universe. Galileo's telescopic observations challenged this view, and despite facing persecution from religious authorities, he continued to publish his findings." What can be inferred about the relationship between scientific discovery and established power structures?

Accepted Answer

Scientific progress can be resisted by those whose authority it threatens

Answer

The passage describes Galileo facing persecution for publishing findings that contradicted the accepted view, implying that those in power often resist discoveries that challenge their authority.

Question 2

What does the word "persecution" most likely mean in this sentence: "Despite facing persecution from religious authorities, he continued to publish his findings"?

Accepted Answer

Harsh treatment or punishment for one's beliefs

Answer

In context, "persecution" refers to the harsh or unjust treatment Galileo received because his findings conflicted with the beliefs of those in power, which is why he had to continue despite it.

Question 3

A student reads a passage that describes how urban green spaces reduce stress, lower crime rates, and improve air quality in cities. Which of the following is a valid inference based on this passage?

Accepted Answer

Investing in parks and green areas may benefit urban communities in multiple ways

Answer

Since the passage provides multiple benefits of green spaces—mental health, safety, and environmental—it logically supports the inference that investing in them could benefit communities in more than one way.

Question 4

An author writes an article about the dangers of social media addiction using words like "alarming," "urgent," and "crisis." Which best describes the author's purpose?

Accepted Answer

To persuade readers that social media poses a serious threat

Answer

The use of emotionally charged words like "alarming," "urgent," and "crisis" signals that the author wants to persuade readers to view social media addiction as a serious problem, not simply to inform or entertain.

Question 5

Read this sentence: "Although the report highlighted several economic benefits of the new policy, critics argued that the long-term environmental costs had been overlooked." What is the relationship between the two parts of this sentence?

Accepted Answer

The second part contradicts or qualifies the claim made in the first part

Answer

The word "although" signals a contrast. The first part acknowledges benefits, while the second introduces a counterargument about overlooked environmental costs, making the relationship one of contradiction or qualification.

TSI Practice Test

TSI Practice Test

TSI - Texas Success Initiative Reading Test #3 1