which best describes the meaning of the word decay as used in this passage

ATI TEAS 7

ATI TEAS Reading

1. Which best describes the meaning of the word decay as used in this passage?

A. To decompose
B. To shrink
C. To wither
D. To deteriorate

Correct answer: D

Rationale: In the context provided, 'decay' implies a gradual deterioration or breaking down over time. It does not specifically refer to decomposing, shrinking, or withering. Therefore, the correct answer is 'To deteriorate.' 'To decompose' is incorrect as it refers to the breakdown of organic matter, 'To shrink' is incorrect as it means to become smaller, and 'To wither' is incorrect as it means to dry up or wilt, none of which fully capture the meaning of decay in this context.

2. Which of the following would weaken the author's argument?

A. a report revealing that the cited study was funded by a company that provides discounted tutoring through schools
B. a study demonstrating differences in standardized test scores among students at schools in various neighborhoods
C. a statement signed by local teachers affirming that they do not give preferential treatment in the classroom or during grading
D. a study indicating that GPA has a weak correlation with success in college

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Choice A weakens the author's argument by highlighting a potential conflict of interest. If the cited study was funded by a company offering discounted tutoring, it could introduce bias and question the credibility of the study's findings. This revelation could cast doubt on the objectivity and reliability of the research, ultimately undermining the argument based on the cited study. Choices B, C, and D do not directly impact the credibility or objectivity of the cited study, so they would not significantly weaken the author's argument.

3. Which of the following is a primary source?

A. A critic's summary of a book on Abraham Lincoln.
B. A peer-reviewed scientific journal's table of contents.
C. A gene splicing study report with data.
D. A news article quoting research into curing cancer.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. A gene splicing study report with data is a primary source because it provides original research findings. In contrast, choice A is a secondary source as it involves a critic's interpretation of a book. Choice B, the table of contents of a peer-reviewed scientific journal, is not a primary source but a tertiary source, providing a summary of articles. Choice D, a news article quoting research, is a secondary source that presents information based on primary sources rather than the original research itself.

4. A recycling company collects sorted materials from its clients. The materials are weighed and then processed for re-use. The chart shows the weights of various classes of materials that were collected by the company during a representative month. Which of the following statements is NOT supported by the data in the chart?

A. Paper products, including cardboard, make up a majority of the collected materials.
B. One quarter of the materials collected are made of glass.
C. More plastic is collected than cardboard.
D. Plastic and cardboard together represent a larger portion of the collected materials than glass bottles.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The chart data does not support the statement that more plastic is collected than cardboard. Looking at the chart data, we can see that paper products, including cardboard, make up the majority of the collected materials. Glass accounts for one quarter of the materials collected. When we compare plastic and cardboard, we can see that cardboard weighs more than plastic. Therefore, the statement that more plastic is collected than cardboard is not supported by the data. Additionally, combining plastic and cardboard weights still does not exceed the weight of glass bottles according to the chart.

5. Which of the following is not an example of something that the author of Passage 1 states might be found in a fairy tale?

A. Trolls
B. Witches
C. Talking animals
D. Giants

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The author of Passage 1 mentions trolls, elves, giants, and talking animals as examples of imaginary creatures found in fairy tales. However, witches are not specifically mentioned. Therefore, witches are not an example of something the author states might be found in a fairy tale in Passage 1. Choice B is the correct answer. Choice A, trolls, Choice C, talking animals, and Choice D, giants, are all examples provided by the author in the passage, making them incorrect answers.