Reading And Writing - Examples
Solved Examples of Each Specified Topic:
1. Craft and Structure (28%)
Words in Context
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Example 1:
- Passage: The scientist's findings were deemed unorthodox by many in his field.
- Question: What is the meaning of unorthodox as used in the sentence?
- Answer: In this context, unorthodox means unconventional or not following the usual practices.
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Example 2:
- Passage: John wore a somber expression as he walked into the meeting.
- Question: Based on the passage, what does the word "somber" mean?
- Answer: The word "somber" means serious or gloomy in this context.
Text Structure and Purpose
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Example 1:
- Passage: Despite the challenges, Jenny's determination did not waver. Her unwavering focus ushered her through the hardest days.
- Question: What purpose does the structure of this passage serve?
- Answer: The structure emphasizes Jenny's determination by contrasting her challenges with her perseverance, highlighting her resilience.
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Example 2:
- Passage: The article initially describes the challenges faced by zoo animals and later argues the ethical need for animal rights legislation.
- Question: What is the author's purpose in the passage?
- Answer: The author's intent is to persuade readers of the necessity for animal rights legislation.
Cross-Text Connections
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Example 1:
- Passage 1: "The advancements in AI technology promise significant improvements in various sectors."
- Passage 2: "Critics argue that AI technologies might lead to increased job displacement across multiple industries."
- Question: What connection can be drawn between the two passages?
- Answer: The passages contrast positive and negative perspectives on AI technology: Passage 1 focuses on improvements while Passage 2 discusses potential job losses.
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Example 2:
- Passage 1: The effectiveness of renewable energy in reducing carbon emissions has been widely documented.
- Passage 2: Critics argue that the economic implications of transitioning to renewable energy should not be overlooked.
- Question: How do the two passages contrast in their approach to renewable energy?
- Answer: Passage 1 focuses on the environmental benefits while Passage 2 emphasizes economic impacts
2. Information and Ideas (26%)
Central Ideas and Details
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Example 1:
- Passage: Renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind, are becoming more viable alternatives to fossil fuels. These sources are not only sustainable but also reduce carbon emissions significantly.
- Question: Identify the central idea of the passage.
- Answer: The central idea is that renewable energy sources are viable alternatives to fossil fuels because they are sustainable and reduce carbon emissions.
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Example 2:
- Passage: The article elaborates on the health benefits of daily exercise, mentioning reduced stress levels and improved cardiovascular health.
- Question: What is the main idea of the passage?
- Answer: The main idea is that daily exercise has significant health benefits.
Command of Evidence
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Example 1:
- Passage: "Approximately 80% of the world's energy is currently supplied by fossil fuels. Yet, renewable energy has been growing at an annual rate of 10%."
- Question: Which detail from the passage supports the idea that renewable energy is expanding?
- Answer: The detail "renewable energy has been growing at an annual rate of 10%" supports the idea that renewable energy is expanding.
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Example 2:
- Question: Which sentence from the passage provides evidence that regular exercise improves mental health?
- Answer: “Studies have shown that exercise can significantly reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression.”
Inferences
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Example 1:
- Passage: "After the launch of the new product, the company's quarterly profits saw an unexpected dip, which caught the executives off guard despite extensive market research."
- Question: What can be inferred about the company's initial expectations for the new product?
- Answer: It can be inferred that the executives had expected the new product to perform well and positively impact profits based on their market research.
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Example 2:
- Passage: Despite having a heavy workload, Sam always made time to volunteer at the local shelter.
- Question: What does this passage imply about Sam?
- Answer: It implies that Sam values community service highly and is committed to volunteering despite his busy schedule.
3. Standard English Conventions (26%)
Boundaries
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Example 1:
- Passage: "The chef prepared a dish that was not only superb in taste but (simultaneously) visually appealing."
- Question: Choose the correct word to complete the sentence.
- Answer: The chef prepared a dish that was not only superb in taste but also visually appealing.
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Example 2:
- Passage: She studied hard for the exam, however she still felt unprepared.
- Question: Correct the punctuation to adhere to standard conventions.
- Answer: She studied hard for the exam; however, she still felt unprepared.
Form, Structure, and Sense
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Example 1:
- Passage: "Each of the team members are bringing their own equipment."
- Question: Edit the sentence to adhere to standard English conventions.
- Answer: "Each of the team members is bringing his or her own equipment."
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Example 2:
- Passage: The researchers, who won the award, works for the university.
- Question: Which of the following sentences is grammatically correct?
- Answer: The researchers who won the award work for the university.
4. Expression of Ideas (20%)
Rhetorical Synthesis
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Example 1:
- Passage: "The study concluded that excessive screen time can lead to a variety of health issues. (Move this sentence) Other research indicates similar findings."
- Question: Revise the passage to improve logical flow.
- Answer: "The study concluded that excessive screen time can lead to a variety of health issues. Other research indicates similar findings. (Move this sentence) Additionally, these health issues can range from sleep disturbances to vision problems."
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Example 2:
- Passage: The city has a lot of parks, and it is a great place for outdoor activities.
- Question: Revise to include a stronger argument.
- Answer: The city, with its numerous parks, is an excellent destination for outdoor enthusiasts and family-friendly activities.
Transitions
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Example 1:
- Passage: "Julia loves painting. However, she seldom finds time for it."
- Question: Select the correct transitional word or phrase.
- Answer: "Julia loves painting. Unfortunately, she seldom finds time for it."
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Example 2:
- Passage: Renewable energy sources are essential for sustainable development. __________, they reduce dependence on fossil fuels.
- Question: Which transition best fits the context?
- Answer: "Moreover" connects the ideas that renewable sources are essential and also have the added benefit of reducing dependence on fossil fuels.
- Correct Answer: "Moreover."