what is the main idea of the second paragraph

ATI TEAS 7

Reading TEAS Practice Test

1. What is the main idea of the second paragraph?

A. One hairy monkey proves the hypothesis 'All monkeys are hairy.'
B. The same piece of evidence can both confirm and disconfirm a hypothesis.
C. Confirming and disconfirming evidence affect hypotheses differently.
D. The scientific method is not a failsafe method for arriving at objective truth.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The main idea of the second paragraph is that confirming and disconfirming evidence can affect hypotheses differently, as stated in the passage - 'Single pieces of evidence then, seem to affect a given hypothesis in radically different ways.' Choice A is incorrect because the paragraph discusses how single pieces of evidence affect hypotheses, not that one hairy monkey proves a hypothesis. Choice B is incorrect as the paragraph focuses on the different effects of evidence on hypotheses, rather than its ability to confirm and disconfirm simultaneously. Choice D is incorrect as the paragraph does not primarily discuss the scientific method's failings but rather the impact of evidence on hypotheses.

2. Julie Walker-Mayfield plans to register for fall classes at Chatham College. She works during the day and doesn't get off work until 5:30 PM. She also has no internet access at work and will have to register for classes once she gets home. Taking into account her personal schedule and the registration schedule provided by the college, when will she be able to go online to enter the registration system and select her classes?

A. Monday, 10 AM-12 PM
B. Monday, 5-7 PM
C. Tuesday, 5-7 PM
D. Tuesday, 8-10 PM

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Julie Walker-Mayfield doesn't get off work until 5:30 PM, so she won't be able to register for classes until she gets home. Considering she needs time to unwind after work and settle in, the earliest and most suitable time for her to enter the registration system and select her classes is Tuesday, 5-7 PM. Choice A is incorrect as it falls on Monday, and she gets off work at 5:30 PM. Choices B and D are also incorrect as she needs time to settle in after work before going online to register.

3. Which of the following most logically completes the passage?

A. A war between the world powers was extremely likely.
B. World War I never would have happened.
C. England, France, and Russia would have started the war.
D. Austria would have started the war.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. The passage indicates that the world powers were already in a combustible situation due to complicated military alliances, making war extremely likely even without the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand. Choice B is incorrect because the passage does not suggest that World War I would never have happened. Choice C is incorrect as it specifically names the countries that would have started the war, which is not supported by the passage. Choice D is also incorrect as the passage does not solely attribute the war's start to Austria.

4. What is the authorâ€™s primary purpose in writing this essay?

A. To explain how the markings on a snake are related to its venomous nature.
B. To teach readers the difference between coral snakes and kingsnakes.
C. To illustrate why snakes are dangerous.
D. To demonstrate how animals adapt to difficult environments.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. The author's primary purpose in writing this essay is to teach readers the difference between coral snakes and kingsnakes. The essay discusses how skin coloration and markings help snakes hide from predators and indicate whether a snake is venomous. By comparing the physical characteristics and behaviors of coral snakes and kingsnakes, the author helps readers understand how to distinguish between the two species to avoid potential dangers. Choice A is incorrect because the essay focuses more on distinguishing between snake species rather than solely on the relationship between markings and venom. Choice C is incorrect as the essay does not aim to illustrate why snakes are dangerous but rather to educate about the differences between specific snake types. Choice D is incorrect as the essay does not discuss how animals survive in difficult environments, but instead focuses on snake markings and behaviors.

5. Which of the following best describes the author's intent in the passage?

A. to persuade
B. to entertain
C. to express feelings
D. to inform

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The author's intent in the passage is to inform the reader about the historical events surrounding King James II, his family, and the succession of the English throne. The passage provides a detailed account of the lineage, religious affiliations, and the political implications of James II and his descendants. It does not aim to persuade, entertain, or express feelings, but rather presents a factual narrative of historical events. Therefore, choice D, 'to inform,' is the correct answer. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because the passage is focused on presenting historical information rather than persuading, entertaining, or expressing emotions.