accuplacer reading full length practice test

Commonly used by colleges and universities to place students into appropriate courses.

The following sentence has a blank indicating that something has been left out. Beneath the sentence are four words or phrases. Choose the word or phrase that, when inserted in the sentence, best fits the meaning of the sentence as a whole. Ecologist Frank Ortega warned that the state's decision to ______ the rigid standards for disposal of toxic wastes would be construed as a signal that sloppiness in handling such wastes will be tolerated.
Ecologist Frank Ortega warned that the state's decision to ______ the rigid standards for disposal of toxic wastes would be construed as a signal that sloppiness in handling such wastes will be tolerated.
  • A. enforce
  • B. codify
  • C. relax
  • D. publicize
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: C

The choice to relax the rigid standards for disposal of toxic wastes suggests a reduction in strictness, which aligns with Ortega's warning about sloppiness being tolerated. Option A, enforce, implies strengthening regulations, which contradicts Ortega's concern. Option B, codify, refers to formally establishing rules, indicating a commitment to standards rather than a reduction. Option D, publicize, focuses on making information known, which does not relate to the standards themselves. Thus, only "relax" accurately captures the potential easing of regulations that Ortega warns against.

Other Related Questions

As used in sentence 17, 'manipulating' most nearly means
  • A. cheating
  • B. using
  • C. plotting with
  • D. carrying out
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: B

In sentence 17, 'manipulating' refers to skillfully handling or controlling something, which aligns closely with the meaning of 'using.' This term emphasizes the active engagement and application of a tool or concept. Option A, 'cheating,' implies deceit and is unrelated to the neutral connotation of 'manipulating.' Option C, 'plotting with,' suggests a conspiratorial context, which does not fit the original intent. Option D, 'carrying out,' while somewhat related, lacks the nuance of skillful application inherent in 'using.' Thus, 'using' is the most accurate interpretation in this context.
The purpose of this passage is most likely to:
  • A. present factual information about Egyptian culture
  • B. make the case that Egypt is a worthwhile place to visit
  • C. suggest a theory about the building of the ancient Egyptian monuments
  • D. offer a survey of ancient Roman civilization
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: B

Option B effectively captures the passage's intent by highlighting Egypt as an appealing travel destination. The text likely emphasizes its rich history, stunning monuments, and vibrant culture to persuade readers to consider visiting. Option A is incorrect as it implies a purely informative approach without the persuasive element. Option C misinterprets the passage's aim by focusing on a specific theory rather than promoting tourism. Lastly, Option D is off-topic, as it shifts the focus to ancient Roman civilization, which is unrelated to the discussion of Egypt.
The third paragraph (sentences 5–8) indicates that in the past, the narrator's father had
  • A. survived a shipwreck
  • B. served as a soldier
  • C. failed to become a professional radio operator
  • D. learned Morse code from his own father
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: B

The third paragraph reveals that the narrator's father had military experience, indicating he served as a soldier. This aligns with option B. Option A, "survived a shipwreck," is incorrect as the text does not mention any maritime incidents. Option C, "failed to become a professional radio operator," is not supported by the text, which does not discuss any failures related to this profession. Option D, "learned Morse code from his own father," is also inaccurate since the paragraph does not reference any familial teaching of Morse code. Each incorrect option fails to connect with the details provided in the paragraph.
The primary purpose of the passage is to:
  • A. Trace the history of guilds in New Spain
  • B. Criticize the Spanish beliefs about manual labor
  • C. Describe some particular works of art created in New Spain in the 1600s
  • D. Describe the influence of Spanish attitudes and practices on the painting of New Spain
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: D

The primary focus of the passage is on how Spanish attitudes and practices shaped the artistic landscape of New Spain, specifically in painting. This influence is central to understanding the cultural exchange and evolution of art during that period. Option A is incorrect as the passage does not primarily trace the history of guilds, but rather discusses their impact on art. Option B misinterprets the passage's intent; it does not criticize Spanish beliefs but rather examines their influence on art. Option C, while mentioning art, fails to capture the broader context of Spanish influence, which is the main theme of the passage.