TEAS 7 Reading Practice Test

Excerpt: The following is an excerpt of an article published by The New York Times announcing the assassination of Abraham Lincoln. Use the following article to answer the next five questions. AWFUL EVENT President Lincoln Shot by an Assassin The Deed Done at Ford's Theatre Last Night THE ACT OF A DESPERATE REBEL The President Still Alive at Last Accounts No Hopes Entertained of His Recovery Attempted Assassination of Secretary Seward DETAILS OF THE DREADFUL TRAGEDY. Official War Department, Washington April 15, 1:30 A.M. - Maj. Gen. Dis.: This evening at about 9:30 P.M. at Ford's Theatre, the President, while sitting in his private box with Mrs. Lincoln, Mr. Harris, and Major Rathburn, was shot by an assassin, who suddenly entered the box and appeared behind the President. The assassin then leaped upon the stage, brandishing a large dagger or knife, and made his escape in the rear of the theatre. The pistol ball entered the back of the President's head and penetrated nearly through the head. The wound is mortal. The President has been insensible ever since it was inflicted, and is now dying. About the same hour an assassin, whether the same or not, entered Mr. Sewards' apartments, and under the pretense of having a prescription, was shown to the Secretary's sick chamber. The assassin immediately rushed to the bed, and inflicted two or three stabs on the throat and two on the face. It is hoped the wounds may not be mortal. My apprehension is that they will prove fatal. The nurse alarmed Mr. Frederick Seward, who was in an adjoining room, and hastened to the door of his father's room, when he met the assassin, who inflicted upon him one or more dangerous wounds. The recovery of Frederick Seward is doubtful. It is not probable that the President will live throughout the night. Gen. Grant and wife were advertised to be at the theatre this evening, but he started to Burlington at 6 o'clock this evening. At a Cabinet meeting at which Gen. Grant was present, the subject of the state of the country and the prospect of a speedy peace was discussed. The President was very cheerful and hopeful, and spoke very kindly of Gen. Lee and others of the Confederacy, and of the establishment of government in Virginia. All the members of the Cabinet except Mr. Seward are now in attendance upon the President. I have seen Mr. Seward, but he and Frederick were both unconscious. Edwin M. Stanton, Secretary of War.

1. Who is the author of this article?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A, 'The New York Times.' The article is an excerpt from The New York Times, which is a renowned newspaper known for publishing articles on various topics. The other options, Edwin M. Stanton, Frederick Seward, and Major Rathburn, are specific individuals mentioned within the article but are not the authors of the article. Edwin M. Stanton is identified as the Secretary of War, Frederick Seward is mentioned as one of the individuals harmed during the assassination, and Major Rathburn is present in the scene described in the article. Therefore, the most likely author of this article is The New York Times, a reputable source for news coverage.

2. What is the best summary of this article?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Choice C is the best summary of the article. It encapsulates the key events that occurred, including President Lincoln being shot at Ford's Theater, the attack on Secretary Seward and his son at their home, and General Grant avoiding harm. It accurately reflects the major developments and outcomes of the tragic events described in the article. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because they either focus on specific aspects of the events and omit critical details or introduce irrelevant information not present in the article extract.

3. What is implied by the following sentence? It is hoped the wounds may not be mortal. My apprehension is that they will prove fatal.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The sentence 'My apprehension is that they will prove fatal' indicates that the writer is pessimistic about Seward's recovery from his wounds. This implies a lack of hope or certainty about the outcome, suggesting a negative view on the situation. Choice A is incorrect because the sentence does not refer to all involved parties being hopeful. Choice B is incorrect as it is too extreme, stating there is no hope for recovery. Choice D is incorrect as there is no indication in the sentence that the writer doubts the legitimacy of the accounts.

Excerpt: Magnesium is an important nutrient that supports immune system functioning and helps protect the body against cardiovascular diseases. Symptoms of magnesium deficiency rarely surface among populations in developed countries, but concern is growing that many people may not have sufficient body stores of this metal. Surveys show that most Americans do not receive a minimum daily requirement of magnesium in their diets. Magnesium is absorbed from foods by the intestines, before the circulatory system transports it to the body’s tissues. Less than one-half of ingested magnesium normally is taken up in this way. Health issues affecting the digestive tract may impair magnesium absorbance. For example, gastrointestinal disorders such as Crohn’s disease can limit magnesium uptake. The kidneys normally limit urinary excretion of magnesium, a function that can help make up for low dietary intake. However, alcohol abuse and certain medications can affect this balance and thereby lead to magnesium depletion. Symptoms of magnesium deficiency include vomiting, fatigue, and loss of appetite. More severe cases can include symptoms such as muscular cramps, seizures, and coronary abnormalities. Magnesium insufficiency also can affect the body’s ability to absorb other cations, including calcium and potassium, and can lead to other health complications. Good sources of dietary magnesium include leafy green vegetables, potatoes, nuts, and seeds.

4. Which of the following labels best describes the previous passage?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The passage delves into the relationship between magnesium intake and health outcomes, highlighting how deficiencies in magnesium can lead to various health issues. It discusses how different factors, such as gastrointestinal disorders or dietary habits, can cause magnesium depletion and its subsequent effects on the body. This focus on exploring the cause-and-effect connections between magnesium levels and health conditions aligns with the characteristics of a cause and effect essay, making choice C the most appropriate. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because the passage does not focus on comparing different concepts, providing definitions, or persuading the reader of a particular viewpoint.

5. According to the passage, what health issue can result from alcohol abuse?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C, compromise of the immune system. The passage states that alcohol abuse can weaken the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to infections and illnesses. This compromise of the immune system can lead to various health issues and exacerbate existing conditions. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect based on the passage. While the passage discusses the impact of alcohol abuse on magnesium absorption and kidney function, it does not directly attribute these issues to alcohol abuse. Gastrointestinal disorders are mentioned in relation to magnesium absorption but are not specifically linked to alcohol abuse.

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