accuplacer reading comprehension practice test

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

In 1921, when Bessie Coleman became the first licensed African American aviator, there was not much need for commercial pilots—passenger air travel didn’t become popular until the 1930s. To put her aviation license to use, Coleman began to train as a stunt flyer. This competitive field required not only superior technical skills, but also boldness and charisma. Coleman, often billed as 'the world’s greatest woman flyer,' attracted large crowds with her daring aerial maneuvers and fearless persona.
The author's description focuses mainly on Coleman's:
  • A. humility
  • B. audacity
  • C. creativity
  • D. generosity
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: B

The author's description emphasizes Coleman's audacity, showcasing his boldness and willingness to take risks in pursuit of his goals. This trait is pivotal in illustrating his character and driving force. Option A, humility, is not a central theme; instead, Coleman's confidence is highlighted. Option C, creativity, while relevant, is secondary to his audacious nature, which propels his innovative ideas. Option D, generosity, does not align with the primary focus, as the text centers on his daring actions rather than acts of giving. Thus, audacity stands out as the defining characteristic.

Other Related Questions

The author of Passage 2 would most likely respond to the statement in the fifth sentence of Passage 1 ('Environmentalists must face the fact that unless high-yield crop varieties, pesticides, and fertilizers are widely used in developing nations, the world's food supply will be outstripped by spiraling demand') by arguing that:
  • A. industrialized nations pose a greater threat to the environment than do developing nations
  • B. many fertilizers are organic substances that produce no ill effects in humans
  • C. agricultural chemicals can be used on a small scale and still significantly improve crop yields
  • D. the use of pesticides is unnecessary if high-yield crop varieties are adopted
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: C

Option C aligns with the idea that improving crop yields can be achieved through targeted use of agricultural chemicals, suggesting a balanced approach rather than widespread reliance. This reflects the author's likely advocacy for sustainable practices that enhance productivity without overwhelming environmental concerns. Option A diverts the focus to industrialized nations, which may not directly address the statement's emphasis on developing nations' agricultural needs. Option B incorrectly implies that all fertilizers are harmless, overlooking potential environmental impacts. Option D dismisses the potential benefits of pesticides entirely, which may not align with the author's nuanced view on agricultural practices.
The narrator primarily portrays the woman she is observing as someone who is:
  • A. modest and self-effacing
  • B. imposing and dignified
  • C. youthful and energetic
  • D. angry and impatient
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: B

The portrayal of the woman emphasizes her imposing and dignified presence, suggesting strength and confidence. This is evident through her posture and the way she commands attention in her environment. Option A, modest and self-effacing, contradicts the strong impression she leaves, as she does not appear to shy away from the spotlight. Option C, youthful and energetic, overlooks the woman's gravitas and maturity, focusing instead on a fleeting quality. Option D, angry and impatient, misrepresents her demeanor, which is more composed and authoritative than reactive. Thus, the emphasis on dignity and presence aligns best with the narrator's observations.
The final paragraph suggests that seeing the woman has caused the narrator to:
  • A. face the negative feelings she has about her new home
  • B. realize that she misses her mother more than she admits
  • C. think about her own feelings about her family and background
  • D. remember the reason she moved away from her home country
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: C

The final paragraph emphasizes the narrator's introspection triggered by seeing the woman, leading her to reflect on her own feelings about family and background. This deep connection to identity is central to her experience. Option A misinterprets the focus; while negative feelings may exist, the emphasis is on personal reflection rather than facing negativity. Option B suggests a specific emotion related to her mother, which is not explicitly indicated in the text. Option D implies a recollection of her reasons for moving, but the paragraph centers more on her current emotional state rather than past motivations.
It can most reasonably be inferred from the passage that the music products industry would have a higher share of the e-commerce market if:
  • A. entry-level school music instruments were sold to schools' music directors rather than directly to students
  • B. the consumer market were to place less value on convenience and variety and more on competitive pricing
  • C. a few types of music products sold predominantly in brick-and-mortar stores were excluded from the calculation
  • D. brick-and-mortar store managers improved customer service and provided better training for their installation experts
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: C

The inference about the music products industry’s higher e-commerce market share hinges on the exclusion of certain products sold mainly in physical stores. If these items are not considered, the e-commerce segment could appear more dominant. Option A suggests a shift in sales strategy, but it doesn’t directly impact the overall market share dynamics. Option B misplaces the focus on consumer preferences, which does not inherently increase e-commerce share. Option D addresses customer service improvements in physical stores, which would not enhance online sales. Thus, excluding certain products from the calculation is the most logical inference for a higher e-commerce share.