accuplacer reading passage based practice test

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

In photography,' the scholar and curator Josh Kun writes, in his powerful introductory essay, 'double exposure typically refers to the photograph, not the photographer.' It occurs when the film is bared to light twice during a single shot, resulting in two exposures in a single image. The effect can be surreal, like a haunting. Taken as a whole, George Rodriguez's work offers a different kind of double exposure. In dividing his attention between two worlds that overlap but rarely intersect, he created one of the truest chronicles of Los Angeles there is.
In the passage, the author refers to the photography technique of double exposure primarily to:
  • A. Explain that Rodriguez frequently uses that technique to create eerie and distorted representations of city life
  • B. Illustrate how Rodriguez's innovative use of double exposure inspired other photographers to do so as well
  • C. Provide an example of how Rodriguez explored the tension between his identity as a photographer and as a scholar
  • D. Set up a metaphor comparing that technique to the way Rodriguez's work depicts the duality of Los Angeles
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: D

The reference to double exposure serves as a metaphor for the duality of Los Angeles, highlighting the complexity and contrasting elements within the city. This choice effectively encapsulates Rodriguez's artistic vision, illustrating how his work reflects both the vibrant and shadowy aspects of urban life. Option A inaccurately suggests a focus on Rodriguez's frequent use of the technique rather than its metaphorical significance. Option B misinterprets the intent, as the passage emphasizes Rodriguez's personal exploration rather than his influence on others. Option C, while relevant, does not capture the primary purpose of the metaphor, which centers on the depiction of duality rather than identity tension.

Other Related Questions

Which choice best replaces the underlined portion of sentence 2 (reproduced below)? The pictorial quilts created by a former slave named Harriet Powers, in addition, were remarkable for their bold storytelling techniques and their unique subject matter.
  • A. by contrast,
  • B. for example,
  • C. it so happens,
  • D. moreover,
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: D

The phrase "in addition" suggests that the following information will build on or add to the previous point. Option D, "moreover," effectively conveys this continuation of thought, emphasizing that Harriet Powers' quilts not only have a historical significance but also possess remarkable qualities. Option A, "by contrast," implies a comparison that highlights differences, which does not fit the context. Option B, "for example," indicates a specific illustration rather than adding information. Option C, "it so happens," is too vague and does not establish a clear connection to the preceding statement. Thus, "moreover" is the most suitable choice for enhancing the sentence's cohesiveness.
Which is the best version of the underlined portion of sentence 6 (reproduced below)? More recent discoveries of sauropod fossils in locations around the world have confirmed that these resilient animals, did indeed walk the earth for millions of years.
  • A. (as it is now)
  • B. that, these resilient animals
  • C. that these resilient animals.
  • D. that these resilient animals
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: D

Option D is the best choice as it eliminates unnecessary punctuation, creating a smooth and grammatically correct sentence. The phrase "that these resilient animals" flows naturally and maintains clarity. Option A retains the comma, which incorrectly separates the subject from the verb, leading to a fragmented structure. Option B includes an unnecessary comma after "that," disrupting the sentence's flow. Option C, while similar to D, incorrectly ends with a period, making it incomplete and affecting the overall coherence of the sentence.
In context, the metaphor in the third sentence ('it was... years') chiefly serves to:
  • A. Call attention to the age of the United States as a nation
  • B. Question the literary value of the writings by Lewis and Clark
  • C. Trivialize the accomplishments of the Lewis and Clark expedition
  • D. Place the Lewis and Clark expedition into a broad context
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: D

The metaphor in the third sentence effectively places the Lewis and Clark expedition within a broader historical and cultural context, emphasizing its significance in relation to the age of the nation and its development. Option A, while related to the age of the United States, does not capture the metaphor's broader implications. Option B misinterprets the metaphor, as it does not question literary value but rather highlights historical importance. Option C inaccurately suggests that the metaphor diminishes the expedition’s achievements, whereas it actually elevates their significance by situating them within a larger narrative.
Which sentence should be deleted because it contains irrelevant information?
  • A. Sentence 6
  • B. Sentence 7
  • C. Sentence 9
  • D. Sentence 14
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: C

Sentence 9 introduces information that does not directly support the main argument or theme of the passage, making it irrelevant to the central discussion. In contrast, Sentence 6 provides context, Sentence 7 offers a critical example, and Sentence 14 concludes the argument effectively. Each of these sentences contributes meaningfully to the overall coherence and purpose of the text. Removing Sentence 9 enhances clarity by eliminating distractions, allowing the reader to focus on the essential points being made.