which of the following statements represents an exaggerated claim in support of the argument presented in this passage

ATI TEAS 7

ATI TEAS 7 Reading Practice Test

1. Which of the following statements represents an exaggerated claim in support of the argument presented in this passage?

A. In the United States, the foreign language requirement for high school graduation varies depending on the state.
B. Studying a foreign language is crucial for success in the global economy.
C. High school graduates with foreign language credits have a higher college acceptance rate.
D. Students who did not study a foreign language are completely unable to secure any job.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because it is an exaggerated claim to state that students who did not study a foreign language are completely unable to secure any job. While proficiency in a foreign language may enhance job prospects, it is unrealistic to suggest that not studying one would render someone unemployable. Choice A provides a factual statement about the variation in foreign language requirements, so it cannot be considered an exaggeration. Choices B and C highlight the increasing importance of foreign language skills and the benefits of having them, which are supported by trends and studies. These choices may be debatable, but they are not exaggerated claims.

2. What can the reader conclude from the passage above?

A. The kingsnake is dangerous to humans.
B. The coral snake and the kingsnake are both hunted by the same predators.
C. It's safe to handle snakes in the woods because you can easily tell whether they're poisonous.
D. The kingsnake changes its markings when hawks or eagles are close by.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. The passage explains that the kingsnake mimics the venomous coral snake's markings to deter predators, particularly hawks and eagles, which cannot differentiate between the two species. This implies that both the coral snake and the kingsnake face similar threats from predators in their shared habitat. Choice A is incorrect because the passage clearly states that the kingsnake is nonvenomous, so it is not dangerous to humans. Choice C is incorrect as the passage highlights that not all snakes with flashy markings are venomous, emphasizing the need for caution. Choice D is incorrect as there is no mention of the kingsnake changing its markings in response to the presence of hawks or eagles in the passage.

3. What is an actuary?

A. A doctor who works in a hospital.
B. The same as a hospitalist.
C. An insurance agent who works in a hospital.
D. A person who assesses insurance risks and premiums.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: An actuary is a person who assesses insurance risks and premiums. This is the primary role of an actuary, involving the analysis of financial consequences of risk. Choice A is incorrect as actuaries are not medical professionals. Choice B is incorrect as a hospitalist is a physician who works in a hospital, not related to actuarial work. Choice C is incorrect as actuaries are not insurance agents; they focus on risk assessment and not sales.

4. Which option best describes the use of the spider in the poem?

A. Idiom
B. Haiku
C. ABBA rhyming convention
D. Simile

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, 'Simile.' In the poem, the speaker compares the spider to an artist using 'as,' indicating a simile. A simile is a figure of speech that compares two different things using 'like' or 'as.' Choices A, B, and C are incorrect. An idiom is a phrase with a figurative meaning different from its literal meaning, a haiku is a form of Japanese poetry, and ABBA rhyming convention refers to a specific rhyme scheme commonly found in poetry, none of which apply to the comparison of the spider to an artist in the poem.

5. Which of the following words does the author use to express a derogatory tone?

A. Predictable
B. Noisy
C. Delicate
D. Roar

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is 'Predictable' because the author uses it in a negative context to imply something as uninspired or lacking creativity. In the passage, the author mentions that following rules can make writing difficult, contrasting writers who adhere to rules with those who break them to succeed. 'Predictable' reflects a derogatory tone as it suggests monotony or lack of originality. Choices B, C, and D do not convey a derogatory tone in the context of the passage. 'Noisy,' 'Delicate,' and 'Roar' are neutral or descriptive words that do not carry a negative connotation.