which of the following would weaken the authors argument

ATI TEAS 7

TEAS Test Reading Questions

1. 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.

2. Based on the passage, which of the following is the most logical conclusion?

A. The professor will offer another extra credit project later in the semester.
B. Students who choose two extra-credit options will be given double the extra credit.
C. Students who choose the third option will receive one quarter of the offered extra credit.
D. Students are most likely to earn maximum extra credit by choosing the first option.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Based on the passage, the most logical conclusion is that students are most likely to earn the maximum extra credit by choosing the first option. The first option provides an extra credit project worth 150% of the point value of the essay exam, giving students more than enough chance to make up the difference and raise their overall score. The second and third options also offer the same 150% extra credit, but they involve more subjective scoring or group work, respectively, which may not ensure maximum extra credit. Therefore, choosing the first option is the best way for students to earn the most extra credit.

3. Which of the following statements about the passage is true?

A. These cookies should be baked on a baking rack
B. These cookies cannot be cooked in a microwave oven
C. Folding in peanut butter must be done gently
D. Beating egg whites involves stirring them vigorously

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct statement about the passage is that beating egg whites involves stirring them vigorously. In the provided extract, it mentions 'Beat egg white until foamy. Stir in sugar, beat again until stiff peaks form.' This process of beating the egg whites until stiff peaks form requires vigorous stirring. Choice A is incorrect because the passage does not mention using a baking rack for cooking the cookies. Choice B is incorrect as the passage provides instructions for baking the cookies in an oven. Choice C is incorrect as the passage does not emphasize the need for gentle folding when mixing in the peanut butter.

4. How is this passage structured?

A. cause and effect
B. problem and solution
C. chronological order
D. compare and contrast

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The passage is structured in chronological order as it presents events in the order in which they occurred. It starts with Harriet Tubman's background as a slave, then progresses through her marriage, escape, and subsequent actions to help other slaves. Each event is presented in a time sequence, making it clear that the passage follows a timeline of events. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because the passage does not focus on demonstrating cause and effect relationships, outlining problems and solutions, or comparing and contrasting different elements. Instead, it provides a historical account of Harriet Tubman's life in a sequential manner.

5. What is the definition of the word haunt in the following passage?

A. To levitate
B. To constantly visit
C. To terrorize
D. To daunt

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In this context, 'haunt' means to constantly visit a place. Mr. Utterson is repeatedly going over the details of the situation in his mind, engaging with the problem persistently, as seen in the passage. The word does not imply levitation, terrorizing, or daunting in this context, making choices A, C, and D incorrect.