Which statement from the selection presents a fact rather than an opinion?

A. One of the worst voice qualities is harshness

B. Harsh voice qualities usually come from too much tension in the throat and jaw

C. Your voice will sound unpleasant if it is shrill, grating, hard, piercing, brassy, too loud, or too nasal

D. Because tension occurs in higher pitched voices, women tend to have shriller voices than men, which usually makes them less desirable public speakers, newscasters, or political candidates

Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Statement B, 'Harsh voice qualities usually come from too much tension in the throat and jaw,' presents a fact rather than an opinion. This statement provides a clear and objective observation about the potential cause of harsh voice qualities, based on physical tension in specific areas of the body, which can be objectively measured and identified. Choice A is an opinion as it states 'One of the worst voice qualities is harshness' without providing a verifiable basis. Choice C lists subjective descriptors of an unpleasant voice without stating a definite cause. Choice D introduces a gender-based assertion about voice quality, making it an opinion rather than a factual observation.

What is the author’s primary purpose in writing the essay about High Fructose Corn Syrup?

• A. To inform.
• B. To persuade.
• C. To entertain.
• D. To analyze.

Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'To inform.' The essay provides detailed information about High Fructose Corn Syrup (HFCS), discussing its impact on health, how it is derived, its link to health issues like obesity, and the ongoing debates surrounding its consumption and health implications. The primary goal of the author is to educate the readers about HFCS and its effects, rather than persuade them to take a particular stance (choice B), entertain them (choice C), or analyze the topic in depth (choice D). The essay presents facts, studies, and expert opinions to inform the audience about the controversies and health risks associated with HFCS consumption, aiming to enhance the readers' knowledge and understanding of this sweetener's implications on health.

As used in the second paragraph, what does the term ubiquitous mean?

• A. Indigenous
• B. Often ignored
• C. Found everywhere
• D. Dangerous

Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'Found everywhere.' Ubiquitous in this context means widespread presence. In the provided extract, it is mentioned that MRSA bacteria have become ubiquitous not only in hospitals but also in various other settings, indicating they are found everywhere. Choice A, 'Indigenous,' is incorrect as it refers to something native or originating from a specific place, which is not the intended meaning in the context. Choice B, 'Often ignored,' is incorrect as ubiquitous means something that is widely present, not something that is ignored. Choice D, 'Dangerous,' is incorrect as ubiquitous does not directly imply danger, but rather the widespread presence of something.

What does the word 'suit' mean in the passage about Bridge?

• A. A set of clothing to be worn together.
• B. Any of the four sets into which a deck of cards is divided.
• C. To request or appeal persistently.
• D. To be convenient or right for.

Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'Any of the four sets into which a deck of cards is divided.' In the context of card games like Bridge, 'suit' refers to one of the four divisions of a deck of cards - spades, hearts, diamonds, or clubs. Each suit contains cards of different ranks, and during the game, players must follow suit if possible, meaning they must play a card of the same suit that was led. This is crucial for understanding card hierarchy and gameplay in Bridge. Choice A is incorrect because it defines 'suit' in terms of clothing, which is not relevant to the context of the passage. Choice C is incorrect as it defines 'suit' as a verb meaning to request persistently, which is unrelated to the card game. Choice D is also incorrect as it defines 'suit' as an adjective meaning to be convenient or right for, which is not the meaning intended in the passage about Bridge.

What is the meaning of the word 'emitting' as it is used in the second paragraph?

• A. Repelling
• B. Releasing
• C. Closing
• D. Charging

Correct Answer: B
Rationale: In the context provided, 'emitting' means releasing, specifically referring to the electric currents being released in the body. The passage describes how electric currents are constantly being emitted in the body and can be detected on the body's surface, ultimately recorded by an electrocardiograph. This process is about the release of electric impulses, making 'releasing' the correct interpretation. Choice A, 'Repelling,' implies pushing away, which is not the intended meaning in this context. Choice C, 'Closing,' and Choice D, 'Charging,' do not align with the context of electric currents being emitted.