1.
Answer questions 1-21 that pertain to literary terms.
2.
Feeling Blue? Play Some Music Everyone experiences bad moods now and then, some more than others. But help may be on the way. In recent studies, scientists have found that music can improve people’s moods. One study conducted by the University of Maryland showed that listening to a type of classical music called baroque helped improved the moods of medical workers who study images of people’s organs and bones. It also helped the medical workers feel greater satisfaction with their work. But not only classical music helps people feel better. In fact, a Penn State University study of college students showed that any kind of music the students listened to helped produce more positive emotions, such as joy, affection, and calm. How can you help yourself with music? Try a music-listening diary, as did the students in the Penn State study. Before you listen to music, record how you are feeling. Then get your radio or MP3 player and turn on your favorite kind of music. The college students most often listened to rock music, but you can choose any kind. Next, do whatever activity you would normally do while listening to music. For example, the college participants studied, exercised, and socialized. After listening to the music, write down how long you listened and how you feel now. Keep the diary for a couple of weeks, and find out if music really does make a difference.
3.
A Little Can Go a Long Way In a village in Uganda, a woman named Fatima Serwona ran a small store. She sold food and other useful items. However, she had trouble making enough money to keep the shelves stocked. To stay in business, Fatima got a microfinance loan – a small sum of money from a person in another country. It was just enough for her to buy a cell phone. She let villagers make calls using her phone and charged them a small fee for each call. This helped her make enough money to keep her shelves stocked with items. Fatima then used the money to send her children to school and improve their lives, as well as her own. Microfinance is the practice of giving small loans to people in need. Most microfinance loans are for less than $200. The loans are used to start or expand a small business, such as catching fish, raising chickens, weaving, or selling produce. Lenders are willing to make these loans because most of the people who receive them are very likely to repay the loans. Microfinance loans are important for several reasons. The businesses that these loans support often provide needed services or goods to their communities. Also, many of the people who received microfinance loans cannot get money any other way. And although they have to pay a high rate of interest on the money they borrow, the rate is lower than if they borrowed from a local moneylender. It doesn’t seem like a such a small amount of money could make a big difference, but microfinance loans have been shown to help improve individual lives and revitalize whole communities like Fatima’s.
4.
Dog Smarts All dog owners think their dog is the smartest, but researches have determined that the most intelligent dog breeds based on more objective measures – a dog’s ability to learn, solve problems, and obey commands. According to scientists, the ten most intelligent breeds of dog obey a command 95 percent of the time and require fewer than five repetitions of a new command to learn it. A dog’s intelligence is not necessarily affected by what the dog is bred to do. The tenth-smartest dog is the Australian cattle dog, which, as its name suggests, is used to herd cattle. In ninth place is the Rottweiler, originally used in Germany to pull carts. Today, it makes an excellent guard dog. The golden retriever, fourth, is very popular around the world as a hunting dog and a companion. The most intelligent breed of dog is the border collie, which excels at doing jobs and following commands. This dog, like the Australian cattle dog, was bred to herd sheep. Border collies must be able to listen closely and pay attention to their owners’ commands. One border collie named Betsy understands more than 300 words. She is able to learn a new command as fast as a human toddler and is more intelligent than most of the great apes. At the other end of the scale, the Afghan hound is considered the least intelligent dog. However, it’s very likely that Afghan owners would disagree with this ranking.
5.
Cinder Cones and Stratovolcanoes What do you think of when you hear the word volcano? Most likely, you get a picture in your mind of a stratovolcano. Shaped like a cone with a crater at the top, stratovolcanoes are characterized by violent, explosive eruptions. Huge quantities of hot gases, ash, and rocks explode into the air. Lava rushes down the volcano’s sides. These eruptions come from one or more vents, or “chimneys,” inside the volcano. Stratovolcanoes are sometimes called composite volcanoes because they are built up, layer on layer, by repeated eruptions of ash and lava over hundreds of years. They can rise more than 8,000 feet from their base. Some of the world’s most spectacular mountains are actually stratovolcanoes. Another kind of volcano is the cinder cone. Like stratovolcanoes, cinder cones are cone-shaped. They often have a crater at the top. Cinder cones, however, are tiny compared to stratovolcanoes. According to the U.S. Geological Survey, they are “built from particles and blobs of congealed lava ejected from a single vent or chimney.” As the gas-charged lava shoots into the air, it breaks into small pieces. These small pieces quickly become solid and fall to the ground as cinders. As more cinders erupt from the vent, they fall on top of one another. Gradually, the cone-shaped mound of volcanic rocks grows taller. Once all the gases have escaped and eruptions cease, lava may continue to flow out of the vent and down the sides of the cone. Cinder cones usually build up over a period of several months to a few years, but they seldom grow to more than 1,000 feet tall.
6.
For questions 38-42, determine whether each statement is a fact or opinion.
7.
For questions 22-37, read the following passages and answer the questions that pertain.
8.
Which literary term refers to the problem or struggle that starts the rising action in a story?
Correct Answer
A. Conflict
Explanation
The correct answer is conflict. In literature, conflict refers to the problem or struggle that initiates the rising action in a story. It is the central issue that drives the plot and creates tension and suspense. Conflict can take various forms, such as internal conflicts within a character or external conflicts between characters or forces. It is an essential element in storytelling as it sets the stage for the development of the narrative and the resolution of the plot.
9.
Which literary term refers to the main character in a story?
Correct Answer
D. Protagonist
Explanation
The correct answer is protagonist. In literature, the protagonist is the central character or the main character of a story. They are usually the one who drives the plot forward and undergoes significant development or change throughout the narrative. The protagonist is often the character that readers or audience members root for or empathize with the most.
10.
Which literary term refers to the character against the main character?
Correct Answer
C. Antagonist
Explanation
The correct answer is "antagonist." In literature, the antagonist refers to the character who opposes or creates conflict for the main character, also known as the protagonist. The antagonist can be a person, group, or even a force of nature that acts as a hindrance to the protagonist's goals or desires. They are often portrayed as the villain or the source of tension in the story, providing obstacles and challenges for the protagonist to overcome.
11.
Which literary term refers to the central idea or message a story relays to the reader?
Correct Answer
D. Theme
Explanation
The correct answer is "theme". Theme refers to the central idea or message that a story conveys to the reader. It is the underlying concept or moral that the author wants to communicate through their work. The theme can be inferred by analyzing the events, characters, and symbols in the story, and it often provides insights into the human condition or universal truths.
12.
Which literary term refers to the action or sequence of events in a story?
Correct Answer
A. Plot
Explanation
The correct answer is "plot." In literature, the plot refers to the sequence of events that make up a story. It includes the exposition, rising action, climax, falling action, and resolution. The plot is what drives the narrative forward and keeps the reader engaged. It encompasses the main events, conflicts, and resolutions that occur throughout the story.
13.
Which literary term refers to the time and location the action of a story takes place?
Correct Answer
C. Setting
Explanation
Setting refers to the time and location in which the action of a story takes place. It helps to establish the atmosphere, mood, and tone of the narrative, as well as provide important details about the characters and events. The setting can be physical, such as a specific place or time period, or it can be more abstract, such as the cultural or social environment. Understanding the setting is crucial for fully comprehending and appreciating a story.
14.
Which literary term refers to the point of greatest emotional intensity in a story?
Correct Answer
D. Climax
Explanation
The climax is the point of greatest emotional intensity in a story. It is the moment of highest tension and drama, where the conflict reaches its peak and the outcome of the story becomes clear. The climax is often the turning point in the narrative and is crucial in holding the reader's attention and creating a lasting impact. It is the moment that readers have been anticipating throughout the story, and it often leads to the resolution or denouement.
15.
Which literary term refers to the ways an author reveals important aspects about the people in a story?
Correct Answer
A. Characterization
Explanation
Characterization is the correct answer because it refers to the ways in which an author reveals important aspects about the people in a story. This can include the author's use of dialogue, actions, thoughts, and descriptions to develop and portray the characters in a narrative. By employing various techniques, such as direct or indirect characterization, authors provide readers with insights into the personalities, motivations, and emotions of the characters, enhancing the overall understanding and engagement with the story.
16.
Indirect characterization involves which of the following?
Correct Answer
D. All of the above
Explanation
Indirect characterization involves all of the above options. It includes what the character does, which refers to their actions and behavior; what the character says, which refers to their dialogue and conversations; and what the character looks like, which refers to their physical appearance and mannerisms. Indirect characterization allows the reader to infer and understand the character's traits and personality indirectly through these various elements.
17.
Mood is the feeling a story creates for the reader.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
The given statement is true. Mood refers to the emotional atmosphere or tone that a story creates for the reader. It is the feeling that the reader gets while reading a story, such as happiness, sadness, fear, or excitement. The mood is often created through the use of descriptive language, setting, and the actions and emotions of the characters. It helps to set the overall tone and atmosphere of the story, and can greatly impact the reader's experience and interpretation of the narrative.
18.
Tone is the attitude the writer takes toward the subject.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
The statement is true because the tone of a writer refers to the writer's attitude or feelings towards the subject they are writing about. It can be reflected through the choice of words, the style of writing, and the overall mood conveyed in the text. The tone can be positive, negative, neutral, or a combination of these, and it greatly influences the reader's interpretation and understanding of the subject matter.
19.
If the author utilizes the pronoun “I” in the narration and reveals the thoughts and feelings of only one character, the author is known to be using:
Correct Answer
A. First person point-of-view
Explanation
In first person point-of-view, the author narrates the story from the perspective of a character using the pronoun "I". This allows the reader to experience the thoughts and feelings of that character. It creates a sense of intimacy and immediacy, as the reader is directly connected to the narrator. This point-of-view is commonly used in autobiographies, memoirs, and personal narratives.
20.
If the author utilizes the pronouns “s/he,” and/or “they” in the narration and reveals the thoughts and feelings of all characters, the author is known to be using:
Correct Answer
D. Omniscient point-of-view
Explanation
The correct answer is omniscient point-of-view. This is because in omniscient point-of-view, the author is able to reveal the thoughts and feelings of all characters, using pronouns such as "s/he" and "they" in the narration. This perspective allows the reader to have a broader understanding of the story, as the author has access to the thoughts and emotions of multiple characters.
21.
A character who is used as a contrast to another character is called this:
Correct Answer
C. Foil
Explanation
A character who is used as a contrast to another character is called a foil. This means that the foil character is intentionally designed to highlight certain qualities or traits of the main character by contrasting them. The foil character often possesses opposite characteristics or behaves in a way that emphasizes the strengths or weaknesses of the protagonist. Through this contrast, the foil character helps to develop the main character and enhance the overall storytelling.
22.
Which literary term refers to an instance where an author gives hints or clues that suggest or prepare for events that occur later?
Correct Answer
A. Foreshadowing
Explanation
Foreshadowing is a literary term that refers to the author's use of hints or clues to suggest or prepare the reader for events that will occur later in the story. It creates suspense and anticipation by giving the reader a sense of what is to come. This technique allows the author to subtly hint at future plot developments, character motivations, or outcomes, enhancing the reader's engagement and understanding of the story.
23.
Which literary term refers to an instance where an author presents scenes or incidents that have happened before the opening scene?
Correct Answer
C. Flashback
Explanation
A flashback is a literary term that refers to an instance where an author presents scenes or incidents that have happened before the opening scene. It is a technique used to provide background information or to reveal important details about a character or event. By using flashbacks, authors can enhance the narrative and create a deeper understanding of the story. It allows the reader to gain insight into the past and how it relates to the present events in the story.
24.
A figure of speech that uses exaggeration to express a strong sentiment:
Correct Answer
B. Hyperbole
Explanation
Hyperbole is a figure of speech that involves exaggeration to express a strong sentiment. It is used to create emphasis or make a point more dramatic. Hyperbole is often used in literature, poetry, and everyday language to add humor, intensify emotions, or create vivid imagery. It helps to convey the speaker's exaggerated feelings or thoughts, making the statement more impactful and memorable. Examples of hyperbole include phrases like "I'm so hungry I could eat a horse" or "I've told you a million times."
25.
Language that appeals to the senses
Correct Answer
D. Imagery
Explanation
Imagery refers to the use of descriptive language that appeals to the senses, creating vivid mental images for the reader. It involves the use of vivid and detailed sensory language to evoke a sensory experience in the reader's mind. Unlike simile, hyperbole, and metaphor, which are specific figures of speech, imagery is a broader concept that encompasses the use of sensory language in writing to create a visual, auditory, tactile, olfactory, or gustatory experience for the reader.
26.
The author describes the University of Maryland study so that readers will learn:
Correct Answer
B. About the effects of music on people's mood
Explanation
The author describes the University of Maryland study to educate readers about the effects of music on people's mood. The study likely explored the impact of classical and baroque music on individuals, providing insights into how music can influence emotions and overall well-being. The description of the study may also touch upon the methods and procedures used in conducting such research. However, there is no indication that the study specifically focuses on the benefits of music for medical workers only.
27.
The main purpose of the second half of the passage is to:
Correct Answer
C. Encourage readers to use music to improve their own moods
Explanation
The second half of the passage encourages readers to use music to improve their own moods. It discusses the positive effects of music on emotions and mental well-being, mentioning how music can reduce stress, enhance focus, and uplift spirits. It also suggests that readers should experiment with different types of music to find what works best for them. Overall, the passage aims to motivate readers to incorporate music into their lives as a means of improving their mood and overall well-being.
28.
The author describes the Penn State study so that readers will realize that:
Correct Answer
A. Any type of music can improve mood.
Explanation
The author describes the Penn State study to highlight the finding that any type of music can improve mood. The study suggests that music has the potential to positively impact one's emotional state, regardless of the genre or style of music. This implies that individuals can choose music that resonates with them personally and still experience a mood-enhancing effect. The study does not indicate that rock-and-roll is the most helpful music or that music decreases students' happiness.
29.
In the third paragraph, the author is mainly trying to help readers:
Correct Answer
D. Discover how music affects their moods
Explanation
In the third paragraph, the author is mainly trying to help readers discover how music affects their moods. The paragraph discusses various studies that have been conducted on the topic and provides examples of how different types of music can have different effects on people's emotions. The author aims to inform readers about the potential impact of music on their moods and encourage them to explore and understand this relationship further.
30.
Why did Fatima Serwona buy a cell phone?
Correct Answer
B. To make additional money for her business
Explanation
Fatima Serwona bought a cell phone to make additional money for her business. This suggests that she may use the cell phone for activities related to her business, such as advertising, contacting potential customers, or managing orders. By having a cell phone, she can expand her reach and potentially increase her profits.
31.
Why do you think so many microfinance borrowers are likely to repay their loans?
Correct Answer
A. The borrowers are both successful and grateful.
Explanation
Many microfinance borrowers are likely to repay their loans because they are both successful and grateful. This suggests that the borrowers have been able to use the loans effectively and have seen positive outcomes in their businesses or personal lives. They may feel a sense of gratitude towards the lenders for providing them with the opportunity to improve their financial situation. This combination of success and gratitude creates a strong motivation for borrowers to repay their loans.
32.
One way Fatima Serwona’s loan helped her community was by:
Correct Answer
B. Giving villagers a way to make pHone calls.
Explanation
Fatima Serwona's loan helped her community by giving villagers a way to make phone calls. This suggests that Fatima used the loan to invest in a communication infrastructure, such as setting up a phone service or providing access to mobile phones. This would have enabled the villagers to easily communicate with each other and with the outside world, improving their connectivity and potentially opening up new opportunities for them.
33.
Based on information in the passage, which statement about Fatima’s village is most likely true?
Correct Answer
D. Few people have pHone service.
Explanation
The passage suggests that Fatima's village is lacking in phone service. This can be inferred from the fact that the passage mentions the use of radios as a means of communication, implying that phone service is not readily available. Therefore, it is most likely true that few people in Fatima's village have phone service.
34.
What is paragraph 1 mostly about?
Correct Answer
C. How dog intelligence is determined
Explanation
The paragraph is mostly about how dog intelligence is determined. It discusses the concept of dog intelligence tests and how they are used to measure a dog's cognitive abilities. It also mentions the different factors that are considered when determining a dog's intelligence, such as problem-solving skills and trainability. The paragraph does not focus on why dog owners think their dog is smart, the ten smartest dog breeds, or how dogs rank in popularity.
35.
When researchers measure dog intelligence, they look for the abilities to:
Correct Answer
B. Learn and solve problems.
Explanation
Researchers measure dog intelligence by assessing their abilities to learn and solve problems. This involves evaluating their cognitive skills, problem-solving abilities, and their capacity to understand and respond to commands and cues. Herding and doing work, protecting and defending, and being loyal and affectionate are important traits in dogs, but they do not directly measure their intelligence. Therefore, the correct answer is "learn and solve problems."
36.
What are paragraphs 2 and 3 mostly about?
Correct Answer
C. Differences between dog breeds.
Explanation
Paragraphs 2 and 3 are mostly about the differences between dog breeds. The paragraphs likely provide information on various characteristics, traits, and qualities that differentiate one breed from another. They may discuss variations in size, appearance, temperament, and specific skills or abilities that certain breeds possess. The focus is on highlighting the distinctions and unique features that make each breed special and suitable for different purposes or lifestyles.
37.
Which dog breed mentioned in the passage is a popular hunting dog?
Correct Answer
B. The golden retriever
Explanation
The passage mentions the golden retriever as a popular hunting dog.
38.
What is one similarity between a stratovolcano and a cinder cone?
Correct Answer
A. Both are cone-shaped.
Explanation
Both a stratovolcano and a cinder cone are cone-shaped. This means that they both have a conical or triangular shape, with a pointed peak and sloping sides. This similarity in shape is one of the common characteristics of these two types of volcanoes.
39.
How are stratovolcanoes and cinder cones different?
Correct Answer
D. Cinder cones usually build up more quickly.
Explanation
Stratovolcanoes and cinder cones are different in terms of their rate of buildup. While stratovolcanoes are known for their slow and gradual accumulation of layers of lava and ash over time, cinder cones, on the other hand, tend to build up more quickly. This is because cinder cones are formed by explosive eruptions that eject large amounts of volcanic fragments, known as cinders, which then fall back to the ground and pile up around the vent. This rapid accumulation of cinders allows cinder cones to develop at a faster rate compared to stratovolcanoes.
40.
What is another difference between stratovolcanoes and cinder cones?
Correct Answer
B. Stratovolcanoes are usually much taller.
Explanation
Stratovolcanoes are usually much taller than cinder cones. This is because stratovolcanoes are formed by multiple layers of lava, ash, and other volcanic materials building up over time, while cinder cones are formed by a single eruption of lava fragments. The repeated eruptions and accumulation of materials contribute to the height of stratovolcanoes, making them taller compared to cinder cones.
41.
How are stratovolcano and cinder-cone eruptions alike?
Correct Answer
C. Both push out materials that shape the sides of the volcano.
Explanation
Stratovolcano and cinder-cone eruptions are alike in that they both push out materials that shape the sides of the volcano. These eruptions involve the expulsion of volcanic materials, such as lava, ash, and rocks, which accumulate around the vent and contribute to the growth and formation of the volcano's shape. This process occurs in both stratovolcanoes, which are tall and steep, and cinder cones, which are smaller and cone-shaped. Both types of eruptions play a significant role in shaping the physical characteristics of the volcano.
42.
Sometimes curly hair can look better than straight hair.
Correct Answer
B. Opinion
Explanation
This statement is an opinion because it is subjective and based on personal preference. The perception of whether curly hair looks better than straight hair can vary from person to person. There is no objective measure of beauty or attractiveness, so the statement is a matter of individual opinion rather than a factual statement.
43.
Heart disease is the leading cause of death in America.
Correct Answer
A. Fact
Explanation
Heart disease being the leading cause of death in America is a fact because it is supported by statistical data and medical research. Numerous studies and reports have consistently shown that heart disease is responsible for the highest number of deaths in the United States. This information is not subjective or based on personal beliefs, but rather a widely acknowledged and accepted reality within the medical and scientific community.
44.
There are more calories in a latte from Starbucks than a Snickers bar.
Correct Answer
A. Fact
Explanation
The statement is a fact because it can be objectively verified. The number of calories in a latte from Starbucks and a Snickers bar can be measured and compared. This information is not based on personal beliefs or opinions, but on concrete data. Therefore, the statement is a fact.
45.
Burning the American flag should be a crime.
Correct Answer
B. Opinion
Explanation
The given statement expresses a viewpoint or belief about whether burning the American flag should be considered a crime. It is subjective and open to interpretation, as different individuals may have different opinions on this matter. The statement does not present any factual information or evidence to support it, making it an opinion rather than a fact.
46.
It is worth sacrificing some personal liberties to protect our country from terrorism.
Correct Answer
B. Opinion
Explanation
This question is asking for the classification of the statement "It is worth sacrificing some personal liberties to protect our country from terrorism." The statement expresses a personal belief or perspective, rather than a verifiable fact. The determination of whether it is worth sacrificing personal liberties is subjective and varies depending on individual opinions and values. Therefore, the correct answer is "Opinion."