which of the following is the main point of the passage

ATI TEAS 7

ATI TEAS Reading

1. What is the central idea conveyed in the passage?

A. David Foster Wallace's Infinite Jest is the holy grail of modern literature.
B. Infinite Jest is a page-turner.
C. David Foster Wallace wrote Infinite Jest.
D. Infinite Jest is a modern classic for good reason and everybody should read it.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The passage describes Infinite Jest as a modern classic that holds significant value, indicating that it is highly recommended for everyone to read it. Choice A focuses solely on the praise of the book without emphasizing the recommendation to read it. Choice B, mentioning it as a page-turner, does not capture the essence of it being a modern classic that everyone should read. Choice C is a factual statement about the authorship but does not encompass the main point that the book is a modern classic that deserves to be read by all.

2. When evaluating the credibility of research sources, which of the following is a valid consideration?

A. It is credible if published in a peer-reviewed scholarly journal.
B. It is never credible if it is a source published online.
C. It is not necessarily more credible based on author affiliations.
D. The number of times a source is cited does not affect its credibility.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. It is credible if published in a peer-reviewed scholarly journal because peer review ensures that the research has been evaluated by experts in the field for quality and accuracy before publication. This process enhances the credibility of the research source. Choice B is incorrect because not all online sources are unreliable; credibility depends on various factors beyond the publication medium. Choice C is incorrect because author affiliations can indeed impact credibility, but they are not the sole determinant. Choice D is incorrect as the frequency of citations can indicate the impact of a source but does not guarantee its credibility.

3. What is the first step to take after planting potatoes?

A. Mound soil around the base of the plant.
B. Water immediately.
C. Mix fertilizer or compost into loosened soil.
D. Place potatoes 1 foot apart.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Water immediately. After planting potatoes, the first step should always be to water them immediately. This is crucial to settle the soil around the newly planted potatoes, ensuring good contact between the roots and the soil. Watering helps kickstart the growth process and provides the necessary moisture for the newly planted potatoes to establish themselves successfully. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because mounding soil, mixing fertilizer/compost, and spacing potatoes should be done before or during planting, not immediately after.

4. The final sentence of the passage states that Julia set a course for home. Which of the following is the most accurate interpretation of this sentence?

A. Julia cannot go directly home.
B. Julia is planning to go home.
C. Julia wants to go home but will return to work.
D. Julia is worried the fire at her office will spread to her home.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The final sentence of the passage mentioning that Julia set a course for home indicates that Julia is making a deliberate decision to head towards her residence. This implies that she is planning to go home, suggesting that option B is the most accurate interpretation. Options A, C, and D are incorrect as they do not align with the context provided. Option A is incorrect as there is no indication that Julia cannot go directly home. Option C is incorrect as there is no mention of Julia returning to work. Option D is incorrect as there is no evidence in the passage to suggest that Julia is worried about the fire at her office spreading to her home.

5. What is the tone of the passage?

A. Witty
B. Incredulous
C. Aggressive
D. Tense

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'Witty.' The tone of the passage is light-hearted and humorous, characterized by amusing details like the eccentric birthday party with zebras, monster trucks, and a limited buffet of boiled asparagus and pickled carrots. The mention of Dr. Creekstone planning an even bigger party with more zebras adds to the whimsical and humorous tone. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as there is no indication of disbelief, hostility, or anxiety in the passage; instead, it conveys a sense of fun and amusement.