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The Census Bureau has declared that by the year 2020 Latinos will be the largest minority group in the United States: one of every four Americans will be of Hispanic descent. This population explosion is likely to transform many aspects of American culture and society, and none more profoundly than language. In fact, the verbal metamorphosis is already taking place. Spanish, whose domestic use was once largely confined to the nation's southernmost regions, has now become ubiquitous in the United States.
The claim about the 'metamorphosis' primarily serves to:
  • A. refute a theory
  • B. support a prediction
  • C. introduce an alternative view
  • D. downplay a change
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: B

The claim about the 'metamorphosis' primarily serves to support a prediction by illustrating how significant transformations can lead to anticipated outcomes. This connection reinforces the idea that change is not only possible but expected in certain contexts. Option A, refuting a theory, does not align since the claim does not attempt to discredit existing ideas. Option C, introducing an alternative view, is incorrect as the claim builds upon existing concepts rather than presenting a different perspective. Lastly, option D, downplaying a change, is inaccurate; the term 'metamorphosis' emphasizes rather than minimizes the impact of transformation.

Other Related Questions

The passage states that Russian and English are alike in that in both languages:
  • A. short syllables are not accented
  • B. the last syllable of words cannot be accented
  • C. only one syllable in each word is accented
  • D. the accent may fall on any syllable
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: D

Both Russian and English exhibit a flexible accentuation pattern, allowing the accent to potentially fall on any syllable within a word. This characteristic is evident in various examples from both languages. Option A is incorrect because, while some short syllables may not be accented, this is not a defining feature of either language. Option B is misleading; accents can occur on the last syllable in both languages, contradicting this statement. Option C is also inaccurate, as both languages allow for multiple syllables to be accented, not limiting it to just one per word.
The author quoted in Passage 1 would likely argue that the historian’s having 'lifted passages from other historians' (sentence 4, Passage 2) is:
  • A. an example of academic collaboration
  • B. deserving of harsh punishment
  • C. far from an isolated incident
  • D. a comparatively recent problem
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: C

The author in Passage 1 likely views the historian's practice of lifting passages as a common occurrence in the field, suggesting that it reflects a broader trend rather than an isolated case. This aligns with option C, emphasizing the prevalence of such practices among historians. Option A misinterprets the act as collaboration, which typically involves mutual consent and acknowledgment, whereas lifting passages often lacks proper attribution. Option B is incorrect as it implies a punitive view that the author does not express. Lastly, option D suggests a recent emergence of this issue, contradicting the author's perspective that it has long been a part of historical writing.
The author's description focuses mainly on Coleman's:
  • A. Humility
  • B. Audacity
  • C. Creativity
  • D. Generosity
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: B

Coleman's audacity is emphasized throughout the text, showcasing his boldness and willingness to take risks. This characteristic drives many of his actions and decisions, illustrating a fearless approach to challenges. Option A, humility, is not the focus, as the text highlights Coleman's confidence rather than modesty. Option C, creativity, while relevant, is secondary to the audacious choices he makes. Option D, generosity, may be mentioned but does not capture the essence of his character as vividly as his audacity does. Thus, the primary emphasis lies in his boldness and daring spirit.
In the first two sentences ('During'… 'alley'), scientists are presented as all of the following EXCEPT:
  • A. predisposed
  • B. determined
  • C. inherently logical
  • D. overly zealous
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: C

The portrayal of scientists in the first two sentences emphasizes their predisposition (A) and determination (B) in their pursuits, highlighting their commitment to discovery. Additionally, the term "overly zealous" (D) suggests an intense passion, which can also be a characteristic of scientists. However, the phrase "inherently logical" (C) is not supported in the text, as it does not imply that scientists are always guided by logic alone; emotions and biases can also influence their work. Thus, option C stands apart from the others.