what is a secondary argument the author makes

ATI TEAS 7

Reading TEAS Practice Test

1. What is a secondary argument the author makes?

A. Devices such as the iPad or Kindle are better than books because they have multiple uses.
B. Books are still important to have while waiting for an appointment or taking a flight.
C. Printed encyclopedias are still used and more convenient than using the Internet.
D. With technology, there will soon be no need for stories.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The secondary argument made by the author is that devices such as the iPad and Kindle are superior to printed books because they offer multiple functions beyond just reading. The author mentions that these devices have qualities similar to a computer and can be used for much more than just reading, making them a more versatile option compared to traditional books. Choice B is incorrect because the author does not emphasize the importance of books for specific situations like waiting for appointments or flights. Choice C is incorrect as the author does not compare printed encyclopedias to the Internet. Choice D is incorrect as the author does not suggest that technology will eliminate the need for stories; instead, they focus on the transition from printed books to electronic devices for reading.

2. What source would be most useful in determining the reliability of Punxsutawney Phil's predictions over a number of years?

A. A memoir from a former president of the Groundhog Club
B. A record of weather patterns over the past decade
C. An article on groundhog behavior in the northeast U.S
D. A historical account of Groundhog Day traditions

Correct answer: B

Rationale: A record of weather patterns over the past decade would be the most useful source in determining the reliability of Punxsutawney Phil's predictions. By comparing Phil's forecasts with the actual weather outcomes, one can analyze the accuracy of his predictions. Choices A, C, and D do not directly provide the necessary data on weather patterns to evaluate Phil's reliability.

3. Which of the following would be a useful source of information to determine the validity of the argument presented in the passage?

A. A survey of high school students' preferences regarding foreign language requirements.
B. A comparison of the correlation between a second language introduced at home and subsequent college acceptance rates.
C. A survey asking parents to select the foreign language they would like their children to study in high school.
D. A comparison of the correlation between high school students' study of a foreign language and subsequent college acceptance rates.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The passage emphasizes the importance of studying a foreign language in high school for future success, including college acceptance rates and job market demand. To evaluate the argument's validity, it is crucial to examine the direct impact of studying a foreign language on college acceptance rates. Choice D is the correct answer because it directly addresses this aspect by comparing the correlation between high school students' study of a foreign language and subsequent college acceptance rates. This comparison would provide concrete evidence supporting or refuting the argument presented in the passage. Choices A, B, and C, though related to language education, do not directly assess the specific relationship between studying a foreign language in high school and college acceptance rates, making them less relevant for evaluating the argument's validity.

4. What is the purpose of the italicized text in the passage?

A. To show Madame Butterfly's title
B. To emphasize an idea
C. To format a heading
D. To indicate the title of the opera

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The purpose of the italicized text is to indicate the title of the opera, Madame Butterfly. In the text, 'Madame Butterfly' is italicized to highlight that it refers to the title of the opera written by Giacomo Puccini. It does not serve to show Madame Butterfly's thoughts (choice A), emphasize an idea (choice B), or format a heading (choice C). The italicization is specifically used to identify the title of the opera within the passage.

5. According to the guide, in which of the following seasons would ginger be harvested?

A. spring
B. summer
C. fall
D. winter

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Ginger is typically harvested in the fall season because ginger roots mature in about 8-10 months after planting. This makes the fall season optimal for harvesting when the roots have reached their full potential. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because ginger is not harvested in spring, summer, or winter according to the guide provided.