how does wilde use irony to critique the upper class in the play

ATI TEAS 7

TEAS Reading Practice Test

1. How does Wilde use irony to critique the upper class in the play?

A. By portraying the upper class as sincere and honorable.
B. By showing that the upper class is deeply concerned with morality.
C. By exaggerating the trivial concerns and behaviors of the upper class.
D. By highlighting the noble and upright nature of the upper class.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Wilde uses irony by exaggerating the trivial concerns and behaviors of the upper class, revealing their lack of genuine depth and morality. In 'The Importance of Being Earnest,' Wilde satirizes the British aristocracy by highlighting their absurdities and trivialities. The play's characters, like Jack Worthing and Algernon Moncrieff, lead double lives, symbolizing the dual nature of their social status. Through witty dialogue, puns, and irony, Wilde exposes the superficiality and hypocrisy of the upper classes. The term 'Bunburying' coined by Wilde exemplifies the characters' deceitful actions to avoid social responsibilities. Additionally, the play ridicules the concept of marriage, portraying it as a societal transaction rather than a romantic bond. For instance, Lady Bracknell's interrogation of Jack about his eligibility as a suitor for Gwendolen underscores the materialistic view of marriage prevalent in the society Wilde critiques. Wilde's humorous yet critical portrayal of the aristocracy in 'The Importance of Being Earnest' makes it a timeless and cherished work.

2. What is the main idea conveyed in the extract?

A. Shia hears strange noises in the dark hallway
B. Shia is working late at the office
C. Shia is preparing for a presentation
D. Shia encounters a terrifying situation in the CFO's office

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The main idea conveyed in the extract is that Shia encounters a terrifying situation in the CFO's office. The passage describes Shia hearing strange noises, feeling fear, and encountering alarming events like crashes and howls. This builds tension and indicates a dangerous situation unfolding. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect as they do not capture the central theme of Shia facing a frightening encounter in the CFO's office.

3. What is the purpose of the use of repetition in the following passage?

A. It serves as a demonstration of Mr. Lanyon's mental state.
B. It is reminiscent of the church bells mentioned in the story.
C. It mimics Mr. Utterson's ambivalence.
D. It emphasizes Mr. Utterson's anguish in failing to identify Hyde's whereabouts.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The repetition in the passage, especially the reiteration of Mr. Utterson's struggle and the continuous digging at the problem, serves to emphasize Mr. Utterson's internal turmoil and anguish. It highlights his failure to identify Hyde's whereabouts and his increasing obsession with the mystery. Choice A is incorrect because the repetition does not primarily reflect Mr. Lanyon's mental state but focuses on Mr. Utterson's dilemma. Choice B is incorrect as the repetition does not directly relate to the church bells but to Mr. Utterson's persistent contemplation. Choice C is incorrect as the repetition does not specifically mirror Mr. Utterson's ambivalence but rather his distress and preoccupation with the problem.

4. What is the first thing you should do to help him?

A. Ask the student what his assignment is and what type of books he is looking for
B. Tell the student that books are shelved by the author's last name and guide him to locate the books he is looking for
C. Find an opportunity later on to ask his teacher about the assignment, so you can assist him better next time he visits the library
D. Invite another student from his class to help him, assuming they share the same assignment

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The first thing you should do to help the student is to provide guidance on how books are arranged in the library, which is by the author's last name, as observed in the science book section. By explaining this system to the student, you empower him to locate the books independently. This approach fosters self-reliance and problem-solving skills. Choice A is incorrect as it delays addressing the immediate need, which is helping the student navigate the library. Choice C is also incorrect as it suggests postponing assistance to a later time. Choice D is not the best course of action as it doesn't directly help the confused student in the moment.

5. What is the new word?

A. REVEST
B. REVERT
C. REVIEW
D. REVERSE

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The new word can be formed by following the transformation steps: Remove the P, Replace the first A with the final E, Remove the I, Remove the C, and Remove the A from PREVARICATE, resulting in the word 'REVERT.' Choices A, C, and D do not match the rearrangement of letters provided in the instructions.