TEAS 7 Reading Comprehension Free Diagnostic Test (45 Questions)

 Brilliant Octopuses

When thinking of intelligent animals, dolphins and elephants may be the first to come to mind.  However, researchers have observed octopuses to be startlingly brilliant creatures.  Octopuses have displayed curious behavior, such as pulling out loose tank valves, opening jars, and escaping their tanks when no one was watching.  In 2010, a German octopus named Paul was even said to have correctly predicted the outcome of all seven of Germany’s games during the South African World Cup.  Octopuses, of which the earth is home to about 300 distinct species, are cephalopods, and have exceptionally large brains for non-mammals. 

According to Jennifer Mather, a comparative psychologist at the University of Lethbridge in Alberta, Canada, the quality that makes octopuses smart is their ability to apply learned information. For example, when given a mussel and a clam to eat, the octopus chose the mussel as they are easier to open. However, when offered clams on the half-shell, the octopus pivoted away from mussels– deciding to go with the new simplified option. These creatures proved capable of complex problem solving. When opening the shells, octopuses employed a variety of techniques, such as chipping away at the shell and injecting the clam with poison to weaken the mollusk, and even using their salivary papilla to drill a hole and inject the toxin. The octopuses chose which strategy to use based on which species they were presented with, and altered their approach to what would work best. As humans, this makes sense to us, but most animals would simply repeat the same technique, despite receiving the same results. 

Further evidence of the intelligence of octopuses can be found in their desire to play, a behavioral trait of exceptional animals.  Mather and her colleague Roland Anderson placed an octopus and an empty pill bottle in an otherwise empty tank.  Although nothing happened at first, eventually the octopus blew water at the bottle, causing it to go over a jet and then return to the octopus.  The animal repeated this behavior, similar to what a human might exhibit when bouncing a ball – exploring the options for engaging with a new stimulus. These clever creatures have even been documented shooting water at aquarium workers, and deliberately tampering with various aspects of their tanks, inciting leaks and malfunctions. Octopuses remain a common animal for humans to keep and study in captivity. Their remarkable intelligence and display of complex behavior traits invites study and further consideration, at the very least.

Which of the following best summarizes paragraph 2?

 Brilliant Octopuses

When thinking of intelligent animals, dolphins and elephants may be the first to come to mind.  However, researchers have observed octopuses to be startlingly brilliant creatures.  Octopuses have displayed curious behavior, such as pulling out loose tank valves, opening jars, and escaping their tanks when no one was watching.  In 2010, a German octopus named Paul was even said to have correctly predicted the outcome of all seven of Germany’s games during the South African World Cup.  Octopuses, of which the earth is home to about 300 distinct species, are cephalopods, and have exceptionally large brains for non-mammals. 

According to Jennifer Mather, a comparative psychologist at the University of Lethbridge in Alberta, Canada, the quality that makes octopuses smart is their ability to apply learned information. For example, when given a mussel and a clam to eat, the octopus chose the mussel as they are easier to open. However, when offered clams on the half-shell, the octopus pivoted away from mussels– deciding to go with the new simplified option. These creatures proved capable of complex problem solving. When opening the shells, octopuses employed a variety of techniques, such as chipping away at the shell and injecting the clam with poison to weaken the mollusk, and even using their salivary papilla to drill a hole and inject the toxin. The octopuses chose which strategy to use based on which species they were presented with, and altered their approach to what would work best. As humans, this makes sense to us, but most animals would simply repeat the same technique, despite receiving the same results. 

Further evidence of the intelligence of octopuses can be found in their desire to play, a behavioral trait of exceptional animals.  Mather and her colleague Roland Anderson placed an octopus and an empty pill bottle in an otherwise empty tank.  Although nothing happened at first, eventually the octopus blew water at the bottle, causing it to go over a jet and then return to the octopus.  The animal repeated this behavior, similar to what a human might exhibit when bouncing a ball – exploring the options for engaging with a new stimulus. These clever creatures have even been documented shooting water at aquarium workers, and deliberately tampering with various aspects of their tanks, inciting leaks and malfunctions. Octopuses remain a common animal for humans to keep and study in captivity. Their remarkable intelligence and display of complex behavior traits invites study and further consideration, at the very least.

Which of the following is a reasonable conclusion that can be drawn from the passage as a whole?

 Brilliant Octopuses

When thinking of intelligent animals, dolphins and elephants may be the first to come to mind.  However, researchers have observed octopuses to be startlingly brilliant creatures.  Octopuses have displayed curious behavior, such as pulling out loose tank valves, opening jars, and escaping their tanks when no one was watching.  In 2010, a German octopus named Paul was even said to have correctly predicted the outcome of all seven of Germany’s games during the South African World Cup.  Octopuses, of which the earth is home to about 300 distinct species, are cephalopods, and have exceptionally large brains for non-mammals. 

According to Jennifer Mather, a comparative psychologist at the University of Lethbridge in Alberta, Canada, the quality that makes octopuses smart is their ability to apply learned information. For example, when given a mussel and a clam to eat, the octopus chose the mussel as they are easier to open. However, when offered clams on the half-shell, the octopus pivoted away from mussels– deciding to go with the new simplified option. These creatures proved capable of complex problem solving. When opening the shells, octopuses employed a variety of techniques, such as chipping away at the shell and injecting the clam with poison to weaken the mollusk, and even using their salivary papilla to drill a hole and inject the toxin. The octopuses chose which strategy to use based on which species they were presented with, and altered their approach to what would work best. As humans, this makes sense to us, but most animals would simply repeat the same technique, despite receiving the same results. 

Further evidence of the intelligence of octopuses can be found in their desire to play, a behavioral trait of exceptional animals.  Mather and her colleague Roland Anderson placed an octopus and an empty pill bottle in an otherwise empty tank.  Although nothing happened at first, eventually the octopus blew water at the bottle, causing it to go over a jet and then return to the octopus.  The animal repeated this behavior, similar to what a human might exhibit when bouncing a ball – exploring the options for engaging with a new stimulus. These clever creatures have even been documented shooting water at aquarium workers, and deliberately tampering with various aspects of their tanks, inciting leaks and malfunctions. Octopuses remain a common animal for humans to keep and study in captivity. Their remarkable intelligence and display of complex behavior traits invites study and further consideration, at the very least.

Which of the statements from the passage best presents the topic of the passage?

 Brilliant Octopuses

When thinking of intelligent animals, dolphins and elephants may be the first to come to mind.  However, researchers have observed octopuses to be startlingly brilliant creatures.  Octopuses have displayed curious behavior, such as pulling out loose tank valves, opening jars, and escaping their tanks when no one was watching.  In 2010, a German octopus named Paul was even said to have correctly predicted the outcome of all seven of Germany’s games during the South African World Cup.  Octopuses, of which the earth is home to about 300 distinct species, are cephalopods, and have exceptionally large brains for non-mammals. 

According to Jennifer Mather, a comparative psychologist at the University of Lethbridge in Alberta, Canada, the quality that makes octopuses smart is their ability to apply learned information. For example, when given a mussel and a clam to eat, the octopus chose the mussel as they are easier to open. However, when offered clams on the half-shell, the octopus pivoted away from mussels– deciding to go with the new simplified option. These creatures proved capable of complex problem solving. When opening the shells, octopuses employed a variety of techniques, such as chipping away at the shell and injecting the clam with poison to weaken the mollusk, and even using their salivary papilla to drill a hole and inject the toxin. The octopuses chose which strategy to use based on which species they were presented with, and altered their approach to what would work best. As humans, this makes sense to us, but most animals would simply repeat the same technique, despite receiving the same results. 

Further evidence of the intelligence of octopuses can be found in their desire to play, a behavioral trait of exceptional animals.  Mather and her colleague Roland Anderson placed an octopus and an empty pill bottle in an otherwise empty tank.  Although nothing happened at first, eventually the octopus blew water at the bottle, causing it to go over a jet and then return to the octopus.  The animal repeated this behavior, similar to what a human might exhibit when bouncing a ball – exploring the options for engaging with a new stimulus. These clever creatures have even been documented shooting water at aquarium workers, and deliberately tampering with various aspects of their tanks, inciting leaks and malfunctions. Octopuses remain a common animal for humans to keep and study in captivity. Their remarkable intelligence and display of complex behavior traits invites study and further consideration, at the very least.

Which detail is irrelevant to the main idea?

To: Residents of 207 North 7th Street
From: LeasingNYC
Date: March 15, 2022
Subject: Water Heater Inspection

Our yearly inspection of individual apartment water heaters will begin on Monday, March 21st.  This yearly inspection required by NYC housing law will be conducted in each unit. Starting today, you will be able to log into your resident portal and schedule a time for a maintenance team member to inspect your water heater. This inspection should take no longer than 10 minutes.  If you have been experiencing issues with your hot water, this is an excellent time to speak to maintenance and solve the problem. 

Although we recommend that you are present for the inspection, you may also select a time when you will not be home. If this is the case, please be sure to select the box “I AUTHORIZE A MAINTENANCE TEAM MEMBER TO ENTER MY APARTMENT WITHOUT MY PRESENCE” when choosing a time and date.  If your water heater closet has any items currently stored in it, these items will need to be removed before the inspection. Please note that, for safety reasons, LeasingNYC does not recommend that any personal items are stored within close proximity to the water heater.  

The yearly inspection window will end on Friday, March 25th.  If you have not selected a time on or before that day, a maintenance team member will come by your apartment for an inspection. If you are not at home or refuse entry, NYC housing will be notified.  A representative from NYC housing will be able to enter your residence without your permission to complete the inspection, as required by law. As always, if you have any questions, please use the portal to connect with your LeasingNYC representative. 

How long is the window for residents of 207 North 7th Street to have water heater inspections conducted before the NYC housing authority is contacted? 

To: Residents of 207 North 7th Street
From: LeasingNYC
Date: March 15, 2022
Subject: Water Heater Inspection

Our yearly inspection of individual apartment water heaters will begin on Monday, March 21st.  This yearly inspection required by NYC housing law will be conducted in each unit. Starting today, you will be able to log into your resident portal and schedule a time for a maintenance team member to inspect your water heater. This inspection should take no longer than 10 minutes.  If you have been experiencing issues with your hot water, this is an excellent time to speak to maintenance and solve the problem. 

Although we recommend that you are present for the inspection, you may also select a time when you will not be home. If this is the case, please be sure to select the box “I AUTHORIZE A MAINTENANCE TEAM MEMBER TO ENTER MY APARTMENT WITHOUT MY PRESENCE” when choosing a time and date.  If your water heater closet has any items currently stored in it, these items will need to be removed before the inspection. Please note that, for safety reasons, LeasingNYC does not recommend that any personal items are stored within close proximity to the water heater.  

The yearly inspection window will end on Friday, March 25th.  If you have not selected a time on or before that day, a maintenance team member will come by your apartment for an inspection. If you are not at home or refuse entry, NYC housing will be notified.  A representative from NYC housing will be able to enter your residence without your permission to complete the inspection, as required by law. As always, if you have any questions, please use the portal to connect with your LeasingNYC representative. 

What is the main idea of the passage?

To: Residents of 207 North 7th Street
From: LeasingNYC
Date: March 15, 2022
Subject: Water Heater Inspection

Our yearly inspection of individual apartment water heaters will begin on Monday, March 21st.  This yearly inspection required by NYC housing law will be conducted in each unit. Starting today, you will be able to log into your resident portal and schedule a time for a maintenance team member to inspect your water heater. This inspection should take no longer than 10 minutes.  If you have been experiencing issues with your hot water, this is an excellent time to speak to maintenance and solve the problem. 

Although we recommend that you are present for the inspection, you may also select a time when you will not be home. If this is the case, please be sure to select the box “I AUTHORIZE A MAINTENANCE TEAM MEMBER TO ENTER MY APARTMENT WITHOUT MY PRESENCE” when choosing a time and date.  If your water heater closet has any items currently stored in it, these items will need to be removed before the inspection. Please note that, for safety reasons, LeasingNYC does not recommend that any personal items are stored within close proximity to the water heater.  

The yearly inspection window will end on Friday, March 25th.  If you have not selected a time on or before that day, a maintenance team member will come by your apartment for an inspection. If you are not at home or refuse entry, NYC housing will be notified.  A representative from NYC housing will be able to enter your residence without your permission to complete the inspection, as required by law. As always, if you have any questions, please use the portal to connect with your LeasingNYC representative. 

Which of the following is a logical conclusion that can be drawn from paragraph two?

To: Residents of 207 North 7th Street
From: LeasingNYC
Date: March 15, 2022
Subject: Water Heater Inspection

Our yearly inspection of individual apartment water heaters will begin on Monday, March 21st.  This yearly inspection required by NYC housing law will be conducted in each unit. Starting today, you will be able to log into your resident portal and schedule a time for a maintenance team member to inspect your water heater. This inspection should take no longer than 10 minutes.  If you have been experiencing issues with your hot water, this is an excellent time to speak to maintenance and solve the problem. 

Although we recommend that you are present for the inspection, you may also select a time when you will not be home. If this is the case, please be sure to select the box “I AUTHORIZE A MAINTENANCE TEAM MEMBER TO ENTER MY APARTMENT WITHOUT MY PRESENCE” when choosing a time and date.  If your water heater closet has any items currently stored in it, these items will need to be removed before the inspection. Please note that, for safety reasons, LeasingNYC does not recommend that any personal items are stored within close proximity to the water heater.  

The yearly inspection window will end on Friday, March 25th.  If you have not selected a time on or before that day, a maintenance team member will come by your apartment for an inspection. If you are not at home or refuse entry, NYC housing will be notified.  A representative from NYC housing will be able to enter your residence without your permission to complete the inspection, as required by law. As always, if you have any questions, please use the portal to connect with your LeasingNYC representative. 

Which of the following is a supporting detail for the necessity of the water heater inspection?

Why Daylight Saving Time?

During World War I, several European countries initiated daylight saving time as a wartime practice to conserve the fuel used by electricity for indoor lighting. It was adopted by the United States shortly afterward, but abandoned due to unpopularity following the end of the war. Reinstated by FDR during World War II, it was rendered optional afterward. Use continued to be optional and therefore created highly irregular and confusing schedules for transportation, radio, and TV throughout the 1960s. 

President Johnson ended the confusion in 1966 by signing The Uniform Time Act. However, any state wishing to do so was able to opt out of Daylight Saving Time observance by passing a state law.  Today, only Arizona and Hawaii do not observe.  Daylight Saving Time is celebrated in the fall by those wishing to gain an hour of sleep, and those in the spring invigorated by the longer days. Unfortunately, children often struggle to adjust to these changes to their schedule, especially where sleep and waking times are concerned. This is particularly irritating for parents.  Regardless of your preference for Daylight Saving Time, it seems poised to persist in the United States, temporarily disrupting our schedules twice a year.

Which of the following is a fact from the text? Select all that apply.

Why Daylight Saving Time?

During World War I, several European countries initiated daylight saving time as a wartime practice to conserve the fuel used by electricity for indoor lighting. It was adopted by the United States shortly afterward, but abandoned due to unpopularity following the end of the war. Reinstated by FDR during World War II, it was rendered optional afterward. Use continued to be optional and therefore created highly irregular and confusing schedules for transportation, radio, and TV throughout the 1960s. 

President Johnson ended the confusion in 1966 by signing The Uniform Time Act. However, any state wishing to do so was able to opt out of Daylight Saving Time observance by passing a state law.  Today, only Arizona and Hawaii do not observe.  Daylight Saving Time is celebrated in the fall by those wishing to gain an hour of sleep, and those in the spring invigorated by the longer days. Unfortunately, children often struggle to adjust to these changes to their schedule, especially where sleep and waking times are concerned. This is particularly irritating for parents.  Regardless of your preference for Daylight Saving Time, it seems poised to persist in the United States, temporarily disrupting our schedules twice a year.

Which of the following statements from the passage expresses an opinion?

Planning a dinner party can be stressful and time-consuming, but is ultimately worth it when you find yourself surrounded by great friends and delicious food! The first step is to create a guest list, being cognizant of food allergies, restrictions, and preferences, and then select a date and invite your guests. After that, you’re able to plan a menu, solicit any help needed, and choose decor if you desire!

Which event comes last in the sequence?

4556928816

Using the number string above, replace every 5 with the letter G, every 6 with the letter R, every 9 with the letter D, every 2 with the letter W, every 1 with the letter L. For consonants that appear more than once in a row, keep only the first instance of those letters. Change the multiples of 4 to A.

A study was conducted among college freshmen concerning favorite fruits and test scores.  Students were asked their favorite fruit and given their selection as a snack directly before an exam. Evidence has shown that individuals who consume higher amounts of berries and citrus fruits are more likely to score higher on an exam than those that consume more starchy fruits such as bananas and apples.  This could be due to the research surrounding berries as high powered ‘brain food’, and the instances of starchy fruits inducing sleepiness.    

The pie chart shows the percentage of fruits preferred by college freshmen at Trinity Community College. Which of the following statements is true based on the pie chart and explanation?

Which of the following statements is accurate based on the map?

Which of the following can be concluded by referencing the illustration?

Strategies for Sleeplessness

Sleep. Elusive for many of us, the majority likely agree that we aren’t getting enough.  The stress and unpredictability of the past two years while living through a  pandemic have exacerbated sleep issues for many.  According to some studies, as many as 30-50% of adults suffer from some type of insomnia.  Fortunately, scientists and sleep specialists have identified simple practice steps for better, more fulfilling sleep. Many of the suggested steps are a return to the very basics of sleep hygiene. 

First, consider the environment you create for rest.  A bedroom should resemble a cave – dark, silent, and cool.  Wearing an eye mask or using blackout shades shuts out unwanted light. If you live in a noisy urban environment, try a white noise machine.  The ideal sleeping temperature might be chillier than you think – experts suggest between 60-67 degrees Fahrenheit. 

Additionally, creating a bedtime routine is just as crucial for adults as it is for children.  Following a prescribed set of steps each evening shows the body it is time for sleep. For most, this should include turning off technology (social media, television, your laptop) at least an hour before bedtime, and instead reading a book or listening to a calming podcast or music. Going to bed too full or too hungry can also interfere with a good night’s rest – have a snack if you need to, but make sure you aren’t eating dinner just before bedtime. 

Exercise is crucial to our overall wellness, and that translates into our sleeping lives at night. While many of us have formed a complex relationship with exercise over the pandemic, experts continue to say it is vital for restorative sleep; but not too close to bedtime.  Finish your workout several hours before bed to allow your body temperature to begin to decline and regulate.  

Finally, many of us lay awake at night with our worries. Sleep scientists suggest maintaining a notebook next to your bed to quickly scribble down those worries as they pop into our heads (Did I sign the permission slip? Respond to that email?). Removing them from our thoughts frees up our consciousness for rest. Set aside a time each day to read over these notes.  Although the pandemic and stressors of everyday life have made sleep a fleeting experience for many, better rest IS achievable with a few simple tweaks to your habits. 

What is the structure of the passage? 

Strategies for Sleeplessness

Sleep. Elusive for many of us, the majority likely agree that we aren’t getting enough.  The stress and unpredictability of the past two years while living through a  pandemic have exacerbated sleep issues for many.  According to some studies, as many as 30-50% of adults suffer from some type of insomnia.  Fortunately, scientists and sleep specialists have identified simple practice steps for better, more fulfilling sleep. Many of the suggested steps are a return to the very basics of sleep hygiene. 

First, consider the environment you create for rest.  A bedroom should resemble a cave – dark, silent, and cool.  Wearing an eye mask or using blackout shades shuts out unwanted light. If you live in a noisy urban environment, try a white noise machine.  The ideal sleeping temperature might be chillier than you think – experts suggest between 60-67 degrees Fahrenheit. 

Additionally, creating a bedtime routine is just as crucial for adults as it is for children.  Following a prescribed set of steps each evening shows the body it is time for sleep. For most, this should include turning off technology (social media, television, your laptop) at least an hour before bedtime, and instead reading a book or listening to a calming podcast or music. Going to bed too full or too hungry can also interfere with a good night’s rest – have a snack if you need to, but make sure you aren’t eating dinner just before bedtime. 

Exercise is crucial to our overall wellness, and that translates into our sleeping lives at night. While many of us have formed a complex relationship with exercise over the pandemic, experts continue to say it is vital for restorative sleep; but not too close to bedtime.  Finish your workout several hours before bed to allow your body temperature to begin to decline and regulate.  

Finally, many of us lay awake at night with our worries. Sleep scientists suggest maintaining a notebook next to your bed to quickly scribble down those worries as they pop into our heads (Did I sign the permission slip? Respond to that email?). Removing them from our thoughts frees up our consciousness for rest. Set aside a time each day to read over these notes.  Although the pandemic and stressors of everyday life have made sleep a fleeting experience for many, better rest IS achievable with a few simple tweaks to your habits. 

What of the following characterizes the author’s perspective about the topic of the passage?

Strategies for Sleeplessness

Sleep. Elusive for many of us, the majority likely agree that we aren’t getting enough.  The stress and unpredictability of the past two years while living through a  pandemic have exacerbated sleep issues for many.  According to some studies, as many as 30-50% of adults suffer from some type of insomnia.  Fortunately, scientists and sleep specialists have identified simple practice steps for better, more fulfilling sleep. Many of the suggested steps are a return to the very basics of sleep hygiene. 

First, consider the environment you create for rest.  A bedroom should resemble a cave – dark, silent, and cool.  Wearing an eye mask or using blackout shades shuts out unwanted light. If you live in a noisy urban environment, try a white noise machine.  The ideal sleeping temperature might be chillier than you think – experts suggest between 60-67 degrees Fahrenheit. 

Additionally, creating a bedtime routine is just as crucial for adults as it is for children.  Following a prescribed set of steps each evening shows the body it is time for sleep. For most, this should include turning off technology (social media, television, your laptop) at least an hour before bedtime, and instead reading a book or listening to a calming podcast or music. Going to bed too full or too hungry can also interfere with a good night’s rest – have a snack if you need to, but make sure you aren’t eating dinner just before bedtime. 

Exercise is crucial to our overall wellness, and that translates into our sleeping lives at night. While many of us have formed a complex relationship with exercise over the pandemic, experts continue to say it is vital for restorative sleep; but not too close to bedtime.  Finish your workout several hours before bed to allow your body temperature to begin to decline and regulate.  

Finally, many of us lay awake at night with our worries. Sleep scientists suggest maintaining a notebook next to your bed to quickly scribble down those worries as they pop into our heads (Did I sign the permission slip? Respond to that email?). Removing them from our thoughts frees up our consciousness for rest. Set aside a time each day to read over these notes.  Although the pandemic and stressors of everyday life have made sleep a fleeting experience for many, better rest IS achievable with a few simple tweaks to your habits. 

Which of the following is an antonym for the word “exacerbated” as used in the first paragraph? Select all that apply.

Colon Cancer on the Rise in Young Adults

An alarming uptick in colorectal cancer has affected mostly younger adults.  Over the past thirty to fifty years, the rates in people younger than 50 have been steadily on the rise, resulting in those born in the year 1990 having double the risk of colon cancer and quadruple the risk of rectal cancer compared to those born in the year 1950. The reason for this trend is mostly unknown, although some researchers point to obesity, sedentary lifestyles, and poor eating habits as likely culprits. 

 1 According to 2021 data pulled from the ACS (American Cancer Society). 

What is the purpose of the footnote in this excerpt? 

Yellow Cake Bar Blondies

These delectable bars are easy to make, use commonly found ingredients, and are perfect for any occasion! You can even add frosting on top for an extra special treat.

Ingredients:

• 1 box of yellow cake mix
• 5 tablespoons of butter, melted
• 2 eggs
• Chocolate chips
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and grease a 9”x13” pan.
2. Beat 2 eggs until fluffy. 
3. Stir in yellow cake mix and vanilla.
4. Melt butter and wait until somewhat cool before adding. (If too hot, the butter will cook eggs)
5. Stir in chocolate chips and pour the mixture into a pan. 
6. Bake at 350 for 20 minutes or until a fork placed in the center comes out clean.

Which of the following is the source of this passage?

Yellow Cake Bar Blondies

These delectable bars are easy to make, use commonly found ingredients, and are perfect for any occasion! You can even add frosting on top for an extra special treat.

Ingredients:

• 1 box of yellow cake mix
• 5 tablespoons of butter, melted
• 2 eggs
• Chocolate chips
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and grease a 9”x13” pan.
2. Beat 2 eggs until fluffy. 
3. Stir in yellow cake mix and vanilla.
4. Melt butter and wait until somewhat cool before adding. (If too hot, the butter will cook eggs)
5. Stir in chocolate chips and pour the mixture into a pan. 
6. Bake at 350 for 20 minutes or until a fork placed in the center comes out clean.

These delectable bars are easy to make, use commonly found ingredients, and are perfect for any occasion!

Which of the following is the closest meaning to “delectable” in the sentence above?

Yellow Cake Bar Blondies

These delectable bars are easy to make, use commonly found ingredients, and are perfect for any occasion! You can even add frosting on top for an extra special treat.

Ingredients:

• 1 box of yellow cake mix
• 5 tablespoons of butter, melted
• 2 eggs
• Chocolate chips
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and grease a 9”x13” pan.
2. Beat 2 eggs until fluffy. 
3. Stir in yellow cake mix and vanilla.
4. Melt butter and wait until somewhat cool before adding. (If too hot, the butter will cook eggs)
5. Stir in chocolate chips and pour the mixture into a pan. 
6. Bake at 350 for 20 minutes or until a fork placed in the center comes out clean.

What is the purpose of the last sentence of the passage?

The Dewey Decimal Classes:

000 Computer science, information, and general works

100 Philosophy and psychology

200 Religion

300 Social sciences

400 Languages

500 Science and mathematics

600 Technical and applied science

700 Arts and recreation

800 Literature

900 History, geography, and biography

While researching ancient India, Jasmine became interested in the origins of Buddhism. To which section of the library should she go to read more about Buddhism?

A music student is studying examples of early 21st-century pop musicians.  Which of the following is a primary source that the student could use for this topic?

Pets for Seniors 

With a nationally aging population, nursing homes and assisted living facilities are a necessity throughout the United States. While these places have a multitude of negative and positive connotations, one thing is clear.  Giving seniors the responsibility of a pet improves their happiness, life expectancy, and overall well-being.  Faced with long monotonous days, the excitement and dependency of a pet gives seniors something to be in charge of and invigorated by.  Studies have shown the ownership and responsibility of a cat, dog, hamster, or even a fish, have dramatically improved the outlook of seniors.  Pets encourage daily exercises, such as walking, and socialization between residents and their respective animals. Residents of nursing homes and assisted living facilities have reported that owning a pet fosters joy and love, and reduces stress and boredom.

What is the primary argument of the passage?

Make Cooking Fun! 

Hey there, work from home warriors! Cooking is a tedious and unfortunately, daily task, made even more so by the onset of a recent global pandemic.  However, with the advent of subscription cooking boxes, this chore can become easier and more enjoyable!  Delivered to your door with all of the ingredients and instructions to make a meal, these services take the guesswork out of grocery shopping and selecting which meals to make. You can choose the number of weekly meals you would like to receive, and enter preferences for dietary restrictions around meat and dairy.  Some subscription services even offer the option of pre-cut ingredients.  Take the hassle out of grocery shopping and cooking, and sign up for meal boxes today!

Which of the following statements from the passage indicates a stereotype?

Passage 1 (poem):

Pose and make it perfect

Let them see you

As you want to be seen

Stay on top of it. All of it. 

If you’re not thinking about this,

You should be.

Share, then forget. 

Twitter, fast-paced, informative.

A source of pure entertainment.

A fountain of rally cries.

A necessary evil.

Get the word out, so they can never look away.

But does it do more harm than good?

Use with caution or you might be burned.

Which of the following is the theme of the poem?

Passage 1 (poem):

Pose and make it perfect

Let them see you

As you want to be seen

Stay on top of it. All of it. 

If you’re not thinking about this,

You should be.

Share, then forget. 

Twitter, fast-paced, informative.

A source of pure entertainment.

A fountain of rally cries.

A necessary evil.

Get the word out, so they can never look away.

But does it do more harm than good?

Use with caution or you might be burned.

Which of the following has a contrasting theme to that of the poem?

Binge Drinking and Experimental Drug Use in College Students 

All college students are exposed to unprecedented levels of binge drinking and illicit drug use. Early on, they are tempted to engage in these risky behaviors.  Distracting from their studies and contributing to declining mental health, drug and alcohol use is inherently a major problem across college campuses in the United States.  One study from the American Addiction Centers found that almost half of all college students nationally displayed symptoms of at least one substance abuse disorder. A 2019 Monitoring the Future Survey discovered the highest instances of the use of marijuana, cocaine, hallucinogens, and MDMA to be among college-aged young adults. 

Why are college students so likely to engage in binge drinking and drug use? The answer may lie in turmoil experienced while adapting to a major life change and living in new circumstances.  Many college students travel a great distance to their colleges, and live without their families, in particular older, more responsible adults, for the first time.  A desire to experiment is a natural inclination, as is the pressure to fit in and assimilate with new peers.  College students are also bridled with the double pressure of deadlines, challenging classes, and the novel responsibility to handle it all on their own. Many, unwisely, turn to the temporary escape offered by drugs and alcohol. 

Which of the following is a logical conclusion that could be made about the experience of college students?

Binge Drinking and Experimental Drug Use in College Students 

All college students are exposed to unprecedented levels of binge drinking and illicit drug use. Early on, they are tempted to engage in these risky behaviors.  Distracting from their studies and contributing to declining mental health, drug and alcohol use is inherently a major problem across college campuses in the United States.  One study from the American Addiction Centers found that almost half of all college students nationally displayed symptoms of at least one substance abuse disorder. A 2019 Monitoring the Future Survey discovered the highest instances of the use of marijuana, cocaine, hallucinogens, and MDMA to be among college-aged young adults. 

Why are college students so likely to engage in binge drinking and drug use? The answer may lie in turmoil experienced while adapting to a major life change and living in new circumstances.  Many college students travel a great distance to their colleges, and live without their families, in particular older, more responsible adults, for the first time.  A desire to experiment is a natural inclination, as is the pressure to fit in and assimilate with new peers.  College students are also bridled with the double pressure of deadlines, challenging classes, and the novel responsibility to handle it all on their own. Many, unwisely, turn to the temporary escape offered by drugs and alcohol. 

Which of the following statements from the passage indicates a stereotype?

Learning From Blue Zones 

Identified by Dan Buettner in 2004, the five original Blue Zones are communities found throughout the world where people are found to live the longest and healthiest lives.  These Blue Zones are Sardinia, Italy; Okinawa, Japan; Ikaria, Greece; Nicoya, Costa Rica; and Loma Linda, California.  Globally, we all want to live longer, healthier lives.  These five communities provide us with excellent case studies and strategies to achieve this universal goal. Focused on fitness, eating habits, and overall mindset, all Blue Zones share several common practices that contribute to a long, well-lived life. 

Although the five Blue Zones are found in very different cultures, the norm in each is a plant-based diet.  Members of these communities eat little meat, with importance on beans.  Other tenets of the diet include whole grains, tubers, greens, and nuts. Experts say any beans will provide benefits but should mix up the type when possible. Further, residents of Blue Zones eat small amounts of dairy, including eggs.  The drinking habits of these five groups place an emphasis on water and tea, consumed throughout the day, and no more than two glasses of (red) wine daily. 

Frequent walking is a central component of life in Blue Zones. Three of the five, Okinawa, Sardinia, and Ikaria, are located in hilly geographic regions with narrow roads.  Walking is a necessary part of daily tasks, and often leads to sociable interaction. These communities are full of people who form close bonds through their daily activities. Humans are sociable creatures, and these relationships contribute to an overall sense of well-being and a positive outlook on life.  

The five Blue Zones illustrate easy to implement ways to improve our lives and increase our chances of longevity, a unanimously held goal. Further study will only provide more insight into the lessons to be gleaned from the places where people live the longest and are happiest. 

Which of the following is an inference that could be made about the smoking habits of people living in Blue Zones?

Learning From Blue Zones 

Identified by Dan Buettner in 2004, the five original Blue Zones are communities found throughout the world where people are found to live the longest and healthiest lives.  These Blue Zones are Sardinia, Italy; Okinawa, Japan; Ikaria, Greece; Nicoya, Costa Rica; and Loma Linda, California.  Globally, we all want to live longer, healthier lives.  These five communities provide us with excellent case studies and strategies to achieve this universal goal. Focused on fitness, eating habits, and overall mindset, all Blue Zones share several common practices that contribute to a long, well-lived life. 

Although the five Blue Zones are found in very different cultures, the norm in each is a plant-based diet.  Members of these communities eat little meat, with importance on beans.  Other tenets of the diet include whole grains, tubers, greens, and nuts. Experts say any beans will provide benefits but should mix up the type when possible. Further, residents of Blue Zones eat small amounts of dairy, including eggs.  The drinking habits of these five groups place an emphasis on water and tea, consumed throughout the day, and no more than two glasses of (red) wine daily. 

Frequent walking is a central component of life in Blue Zones. Three of the five, Okinawa, Sardinia, and Ikaria, are located in hilly geographic regions with narrow roads.  Walking is a necessary part of daily tasks, and often leads to sociable interaction. These communities are full of people who form close bonds through their daily activities. Humans are sociable creatures, and these relationships contribute to an overall sense of well-being and a positive outlook on life.  

The five Blue Zones illustrate easy to implement ways to improve our lives and increase our chances of longevity, a unanimously held goal. Further study will only provide more insight into the lessons to be gleaned from the places where people live the longest and are happiest. 

What is a claim that the author makes in the passage?

Rising Sea Levels

Coastal communities, often the most desirable places to live, face numerous risks from climate change.  While rising sea levels contribute to flooding, they can also threaten the quality of drinking water.  These floods bring salinized water inland, damaging water purification systems and harming the drinking water of local populations.  Vulnerable members of a community, such as pregnant people or people with hypertension, are at an increased risk from drinking salinized water. Solutions exist and include specialized systems in desalination plants, sea walls, and dikes, however many of these water utilities are already budget strained and lack the funds and resources necessary to keep up with the increasing demand of climate change.  Experts suggest the implementation of “smart water systems”, or a network of advanced sensors that would raise the alarm when an unhealthy level of salinity was reached, and then a contingency plan that includes a backup water source when necessary.  Although a potentially costly solution, flooding in coastal communities is a nuisance unlikely to improve in the near future.

Which of the following is an inference that could be made about the effects of climate change?

Why Breakfast Matters

We’ve all heard that breakfast is the most important meal of the day.  However, what you choose to ingest is just as important.  Beginning your day with a low sugar and hearty meal rooted around vegetables will provide you with energy and jump-start your metabolism.  Good for you fats, from foods such as avocados or eggs are always a good idea, as are whole grains in the form of toast or oatmeal.  Protein is vital and can be found in nuts, nut butters, and lean meats. Be careful with smoothies and yogurts, as these breakfast items are often hiding high amounts of sugar. However, it is noteworthy that some nutritionists suggest that if you must consume sweets, the best time to do it is first thing in the morning, giving your body the whole day to burn it off.  If you’re looking to improve your overall well-being, try starting each day with a protein-packed, vegetable and grain-based breakfast. 

Which of the following is a counterargument in the passage?

Quantum Effects in Bird Migration 

As children, we learn that birds migrate to warmer climates in the winter.  But how do birds know how to find their way?  Like sailors of the past, birds used the celestial world above us as a compass. However, scientists have recently discovered birds are able to ‘see’ and use the Earth’s magnetic field as an additional migratory map.  Formed photochemically in the eyes of a bird, small quantum effects in brief molecular pieces, called radical pairs, suggest that birds are essentially able to see the magnetic field lines of our Earth and use that as a guide along their journey.  Magnetoreception, or using a magnetic field to perceive direction, seems to be equally as important for migrating birds as the stars and other celestial bodies in the skies.  Birds’ possession of these special quantum eye traits are so developed that in a laboratory, even if the magnetic field is inverted, birds experience no disruption to their sense of orientation.  Next time you observe migrating birds, marvel at their unique capability to navigate between temporal homes, year after year. 

“Next time you observe migrating birds, marvel at their unique capability to navigate between temporal homes, year after year.”

Which of the following sentences from the passage is evidence to reinforce the claim presented in the above statement?

Are you thinking of welcoming a dog or cat into your home? Although all types of pets can be a great addition to any family, it is always best to check your local animal shelters instead of buying a pet from a breeder or pet store. In the United States alone, over one million adoptable dogs and cats in animal shelters are euthanized each year due to a lack of space and funding. Recognizing the severity of this issue is of utmost importance, and we should all do our part to help animals in need.

Which of the following characterizes the mode of the passage?

Are you thinking of welcoming a dog or cat into your home? Although all types of pets can be a great addition to any family, it is always best to check your local animal shelters instead of buying a pet from a breeder or pet store. In the United States alone, over one million adoptable dogs and cats in animal shelters are euthanized each year due to a lack of space and funding. Recognizing the severity of this issue is of utmost importance, and we should all do our part to help animals in need.

Which of the following sentences is a logical addition to the end of the passage?

If you experience any issues with the product in the first 30 days of use, please call our Customer Service hotline to receive a free replacement.

 In which of the following sources would the sentence above most likely be found?

Which of the following sources is most appropriate for finding information about how to format a research paper? 

 Brad makes $11.25 an hour working at HEB as a cashier. He recently received a promotion and will now be paid $15.50 an hour. If he works 40 hours per week, how much more is he getting paid? (Round to the nearest dollar. Do not include a dollar sign, comma, or decimal point.) 

Which of the following images is indicative of how greenhouse gasses effect the atmosphere?

Which of the following is an element used in research papers that gives credit to referenced work from other authors?

Many different engineers are responsible for the concept behind escalators, originally known as “Revolving Stairs”, created in the late nineteenth century. The idea was first developed by engineer Jesse Reno, but credit was ultimately given to Charles Seeberger after a long series of redesigns and negotiations. Seeberger later partnered with Otis Elevator Co., which coincidentally, remains the global leader in escalator and elevator manufacturing to this day. Improved technology has helped guarantee a safer experience for passengers now, but the simple process has remained substantially the same over the years. 

Which of the following words signifies sequence?

Drag and drop the following answers to the correct order:

What is the definition of the word permeable as used in context?

Wood is permeable to oil because it soaks up the substance.