how does wilde portray the institution of marriage in the importance of being earnest

ATI TEAS 7

TEAS Reading Practice Test

1. How does Wilde portray the institution of marriage in The Importance of Being Earnest?

A. As a romantic union between two individuals.
B. As a social contract designed for economic and social gain.
C. As a trivial and superficial agreement.
D. As a necessary evil in a structured society.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In The Importance of Being Earnest, Wilde portrays marriage as a social contract rather than a romantic union. The play satirizes the transactional nature of marriage in the society Wilde critiques. Characters like Lady Bracknell's interrogation of Jack highlight how marriage is viewed as a means for economic and social gain rather than genuine affection, emphasizing the societal norms of the time. Choice A is incorrect because Wilde's portrayal goes beyond a simple romantic view of marriage. Choice C is incorrect as it oversimplifies Wilde's critique of marriage and societal norms. Choice D is incorrect as it doesn't capture the nuanced satire Wilde employs in dissecting the institution of marriage.

2. What is the purpose of this passage?

A. To describe the sun-fish's reproductive habits.
B. To explain the ecosystem of the sun-fish.
C. To persuade readers to protect aquatic ecosystems.
D. To discuss the mating habits of sun-fish.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. The passage describes the reproductive habits of the sun-fish, focusing on how the mother sun-fish provides and guards her spawn until they are ready to take care of themselves. Choice B is incorrect as the passage does not delve into the broader ecosystem of the sun-fish. Choice C is incorrect as there is no persuasive element in the passage about protecting aquatic ecosystems. Choice D is incorrect as the passage does not discuss the mating habits of sun-fish but rather the care provided by the mother sun-fish.

3. Which of the following is a logical conclusion that can be derived from the announcement above?

A. The library is planning to charge patrons for extended computer use to generate additional revenue.
B. The library is implementing the fee to encourage patrons to use the computers more efficiently.
C. The library has added the fee to discourage patrons from spending too long on the computers.
D. The library is aiming to cover the costs of maintaining the computers by charging patrons for extended use.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. The fee imposed by the library is likely intended to discourage patrons from spending excessive time on the computers, ensuring fair usage of limited computer resources. This measure is implemented to promote equal access to all visitors. Choice A is incorrect because the purpose of the fee is not primarily to generate additional revenue but rather to regulate computer usage. Choice B is incorrect as the fee is not meant to encourage more efficient computer use but rather to limit the duration of use. Choice D is incorrect as the main goal of the fee is not to cover maintenance costs but to manage computer access.

4. Which of the following choices represents the best label for this passage?

A. definition essay
B. cause/effect essay
C. comparison essay
D. persuasive essay

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The passage provides factual information and details about the loss of barrier islands due to erosion and its impact on coastal communities. It focuses on defining and describing the issue rather than analyzing causes and effects, making it best classified as a definition essay. Choice B, cause/effect essay, would require a deeper exploration into the causes and effects of the erosion. Choice C, comparison essay, would involve comparing different aspects or scenarios, which is not the focus here. Choice D, persuasive essay, aims to convince the reader of a particular viewpoint, which is not the purpose of this passage.

5. Which of the following statements least supports the argument that the American economy is healthy?

A. The United States' Gross Domestic Product (GDP) increased by two percent last year.
B. Unemployment is the lowest it has been in over a decade due to job creation.
C. Average household income just hit a historical high point.
D. The output of the United States' manufacturing sector decreased.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because a decrease in the manufacturing sector is usually considered a negative indicator for the economy, as it may suggest a decline in production or demand for goods. Choices A, B, and C all provide positive signs for a healthy economy: an increase in GDP reflects economic growth, low unemployment rates indicate a strong job market, and rising household income signifies improved financial well-being for families.