which of the following would be a useful source of information to determine the validity of the argument presented int his passage

ATI TEAS 7

Reading TEAS Practice Test

1. Which of the following would be a useful source of information to determine the validity of the argument presented in the passage?

A. A survey of high school students' preferences regarding foreign language requirements.
B. A comparison of the correlation between a second language introduced at home and subsequent college acceptance rates.
C. A survey asking parents to select the foreign language they would like their children to study in high school.
D. A comparison of the correlation between high school students' study of a foreign language and subsequent college acceptance rates.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The passage emphasizes the importance of studying a foreign language in high school for future success, including college acceptance rates and job market demand. To evaluate the argument's validity, it is crucial to examine the direct impact of studying a foreign language on college acceptance rates. Choice D is the correct answer because it directly addresses this aspect by comparing the correlation between high school students' study of a foreign language and subsequent college acceptance rates. This comparison would provide concrete evidence supporting or refuting the argument presented in the passage. Choices A, B, and C, though related to language education, do not directly assess the specific relationship between studying a foreign language in high school and college acceptance rates, making them less relevant for evaluating the argument's validity.

2. Which of the following most accurately describes the author's main conclusion?

A. Leif Erikson is a legendary Viking explorer.
B. Leif Erikson deserves more credit for exploring America.
C. Spreading Christianity motivated Leif's expeditions.
D. Leif Erikson contacted the natives nearly five hundred years before Columbus.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'Leif Erikson deserves more credit for exploring America.' The author's main conclusion, as supported by the extract, is that Leif Erikson should receive more credit for his contributions in exploring the New World. Choice A is incorrect as it does not capture the essence of the author's conclusion, which is about recognizing Erikson's achievements rather than just labeling him as a legendary explorer. Choice C is incorrect because while Leif Erikson did convert to Christianity, the primary focus of the conclusion is on his exploration rather than his motivations. Choice D is incorrect as it only mentions one aspect of Erikson's achievements (contacting the natives) and does not encompass the broader idea of giving him more credit for his explorations.

3. 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.

4. What source would be most useful in determining the reliability of Punxsutawney Phil's predictions over a number of years?

A. A memoir from a former president of the Groundhog Club
B. A record of weather patterns over the past decade
C. An article on groundhog behavior in the northeast U.S
D. A historical account of Groundhog Day traditions

Correct answer: B

Rationale: A record of weather patterns over the past decade would be the most useful source in determining the reliability of Punxsutawney Phil's predictions. By comparing Phil's forecasts with the actual weather outcomes, one can analyze the accuracy of his predictions. Choices A, C, and D do not directly provide the necessary data on weather patterns to evaluate Phil's reliability.

5. What would a mongoose likely eat according to the food chain diagram?

A. Shrub
B. Aardvark
C. Vulture
D. Mouse

Correct answer: D

Rationale: According to the food chain diagram, mongooses are consumers that feed on smaller animals like mice, making choice D the correct answer. Shrub (choice A) is a plant and not a typical food for mongooses. Aardvark (choice B) is a large mammal that is not a primary food source for mongooses. Vulture (choice C) is a scavenger bird that typically feeds on carrion, not a preferred food for mongooses.