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. Which of the following is an opinion, rather than a historical fact, expressed by the author?

A. Leif Erikson was definitely the son of Erik the Red.
B. Leif Erikson's crew called the land Vinland.
C. Leif Erikson deserves more credit for his accomplishments.
D. Leif Erikson explored the Americas nearly five hundred years before Columbus.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The statement 'Leif Erikson deserves more credit for his accomplishments' is an opinion rather than a historical fact. Historical facts can be verified through evidence and documentation, while opinions are subjective viewpoints. Choices A, B, and D provide historical facts about Leif Erikson's lineage, the name given to the land he discovered, and his exploration, respectively, which can be supported by historical records and research.

3. Which title is the best choice for this passage?

A. The Art of Writing Notes
B. Conducting an Interview
C. Recording an Interview
D. Problems with Interviews

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The title 'Recording an Interview' is the most suitable choice for this passage. The passage emphasizes the benefits of using recording devices during interviews, highlighting how it helps capture important details efficiently and without distractions. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because the passage focuses on the process of recording interviews, not on writing notes, conducting interviews in general, or discussing problems associated with interviews.

4. Based on the information provided, what is the most logical reason for this?

A. There are more addresses ending with these numbers than with the other numbers.
B. All residences and businesses have addresses ending in these numbers, and they consume the most water.
C. The residents at these addresses are the most likely to consume more water.
D. The city is more concerned about water usage in the latter part of the week.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The town of Audley has implemented a water conservation plan with specific watering schedules based on addresses. The city has designated different days for watering based on the ending digits of addresses, suggesting a concern for regulating water usage throughout the week. Choosing option D as the correct answer aligns with the logical reason behind the designated watering schedule. Option A is incorrect as the distribution of addresses ending with specific numbers is not the central reason for the watering schedule. Option B is incorrect as it generalizes that all addresses ending in specific numbers consume the most water, which is not supported by the provided information. Option C is incorrect as it assumes that residents at specific addresses are the most likely to consume more water, which is not explicitly stated in the given extract.

5. To begin developing a position about civil rights for an oral debate, which of the following would be the best source?

A. A blog created by a proponent of civil rights
B. An interview with someone who took part in a civil rights march
C. A history textbook detailing civil rights
D. A speech by a famous civil rights leader

Correct answer: C

Rationale: A history textbook detailing civil rights would be the best source to begin developing a position for an oral debate. History textbooks provide a comprehensive and objective overview of events, movements, and perspectives related to civil rights. This makes them a reliable and well-rounded source for gathering information and forming a strong position. Choice A, a blog created by a proponent of civil rights, may offer valuable insights but could be biased or lack the depth and breadth of information provided in a history textbook. Choice B, an interview with someone who took part in a civil rights march, provides a personal perspective which can be valuable but might not cover all aspects or historical contexts of civil rights. Choice D, a speech by a famous civil rights leader, offers inspirational content but may not provide the comprehensive background and multiple viewpoints necessary for a well-rounded position in a debate.