tsia2 reading and writing practice test 2

A placement test used in Texas to assess a student's readiness for college-level coursework in math, reading, and writing.

Select the best version of the underlined part of the sentence. If you think the original sentence is best, choose the first answer.
The historic town library is just passed the intersection of Main Street and the more residential Frederick Street.
  • A. passed
  • B. pass
  • C. past
  • D. passing
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: C

In this context, "past" is the appropriate choice as it refers to a location beyond a point—in this case, the intersection. - **A: passed** is the past tense of "pass," which does not fit the sentence's need for a preposition indicating location. - **B: pass** is the base form of the verb and does not convey the intended meaning of being beyond the intersection. - **D: passing** suggests an ongoing action, which is not suitable here as the sentence describes a static location relative to the intersection. Thus, "past" effectively communicates that the library is located beyond the intersection.

Other Related Questions

Apart from being a basic requirement for plant life, the propagation of some plant species is also helped by rain.
  • A. the propagation of some plant species is also helped by rain
  • B. some plant species are also helped by rain to propagate them
  • C. rain also helps in the propagation of some plant species
  • D. it is also helpful for the propagation of some plant species to have rain
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: C

Option C clearly states that rain helps in the propagation of some plant species, maintaining a straightforward structure that emphasizes the relationship between rain and propagation. Option A, while accurate, is less clear due to its passive construction, which can lead to ambiguity about what is being helped. Option B awkwardly phrases the relationship, suggesting that rain helps to propagate the plants rather than directly stating its role in the process. Option D complicates the message by using a more convoluted structure, making it less direct and harder to understand. Clarity and conciseness are essential in effectively conveying the idea.
The term "heliotropic" (sentence 5) most probably means
  • A. having a flexible pulvinus
  • B. flowering in the bud stage
  • C. having brightly-colored flowers
  • D. turning toward the Sun
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: D

"Heliotropic" refers to the phenomenon where plants or flowers turn towards the Sun to maximize light exposure, which is essential for photosynthesis. This behavior is crucial for their growth and survival. Option A, "having a flexible pulvinus," describes a specific structural feature of some plants but does not capture the essence of heliotropism. Option B, "flowering in the bud stage," pertains to a developmental phase unrelated to sunlight orientation. Option C, "having brightly-colored flowers," focuses on visual attributes rather than movement towards light. Thus, only option D accurately reflects the meaning of heliotropic.
The author of Passage 2 would most likely say that the opinion held by the "people" mentioned in the third sentence of Passage 1 ("Some people have declared") is
  • A. accurate
  • B. unsupported
  • C. misguided
  • D. amusing
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: A

The opinion held by the "people" in Passage 1 is deemed accurate, as the author of Passage 2 likely aligns with the sentiment expressed. This suggests a shared understanding or validation of the viewpoint. Option B, "unsupported," is incorrect because the author likely provides evidence or reasoning that bolsters the opinion. Option C, "misguided," does not align with the author's perspective, which would not characterize the opinion as erroneous. Option D, "amusing," is inappropriate as it trivializes the opinion rather than acknowledging its validity.
Elvis Presley, the legendary singer and musician, starred in several movies that being poorly received by critics but very popular with his fans.
  • A. being
  • B. were
  • C. has been
  • D. have been
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: B

The option "were" accurately reflects the past tense, indicating that the movies were poorly received at a specific time, aligning with the historical context of Elvis Presley's film career. Option A, "being," is grammatically incorrect in this context as it does not convey a completed action. Option C, "has been," suggests an ongoing state, which is inappropriate since the movies were released in the past and are no longer being reviewed. Option D, "have been," implies a continuous relevance to the present, which does not fit the historical assessment of the films. Thus, "were" is the most suitable choice.