accuplacer reading timed practice test

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

In nature, a 'symbiotic relationship' is one where two organisms or animals of different species form a mutually beneficial relationship. This type of relationship reputedly occurs between the Nile crocodile and the Egyptian plover (a bird). According to reports, after the crocodile has eaten a meal, the plover lands in the crocodile's mouth and uses its beak to remove edible food particles from between the crocodile's teeth, thus providing a benefit to both animals.
The passage is an example of which rhetorical strategy?
  • A. Claim–evidence
  • B. Compare–contrast
  • C. Quotation–analysis
  • D. Definition–example
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: D

The passage employs a definition followed by an example, illustrating concepts clearly. This strategy effectively clarifies ideas by providing context through real-world applications, enhancing understanding. Option A, claim-evidence, focuses on supporting assertions with data, which is not the primary approach here. Option B, compare-contrast, would involve analyzing similarities and differences, which is absent in the text. Option C, quotation-analysis, centers on interpreting cited material, whereas the passage defines terms directly rather than quoting sources. Thus, the use of definition and example stands out as the dominant rhetorical strategy.

Other Related Questions

Unlike Passage 2, Passage 1 makes use of:
  • A. Scientific observation
  • B. Historical allusion
  • C. Personal anecdote
  • D. Logical reasoning
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: C

Passage 1 effectively employs personal anecdotes, allowing readers to connect emotionally with the author's experiences, which enhances engagement and relatability. In contrast, Passage 2 lacks this personal touch. Option A, scientific observation, is not present in either passage, as both focus on narrative rather than empirical data. Option B, historical allusion, may be found in Passage 2, but it is absent in Passage 1. Option D, logical reasoning, is utilized in both passages, but Passage 1 stands out for its personal storytelling approach, making it distinct in its method of conveying ideas.
What change needs to be made to sentence 11 (reproduced below) to make the sentence grammatically correct? Most New Yorkers have gotten used to the idea: a recent poll of New York City residents show that two-thirds of them support the bike lanes.
  • A. Change 'gotten' to 'got'
  • B. Change 'show' to 'shows'
  • C. Change 'support' to 'supported'
  • D. Change 'lanes' to 'lane'
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: B

In the sentence, the subject "a recent poll" is singular, so the verb must also be singular to ensure subject-verb agreement. Changing "show" to "shows" corrects this error. Option A incorrectly suggests changing "gotten" to "got," which does not address the grammatical issue present in the sentence. Option C’s suggestion to change "support" to "supported" alters the meaning of the sentence unnecessarily, shifting it from current support to past support. Option D's change from "lanes" to "lane" is irrelevant, as the plural form is appropriate given the context of multiple bike lanes in the city.
Which is the best version of the underlined portion in sentence 11 (reproduced below)? Although Powers had been born in Georgia and remained in the same region, throughout her life, her quilt exhibited a number of stylistic similarities to the large, appliquéd cotton cloths used in festivals by the Fon people of Dahomey.
  • A. (as it is now)
  • B. region throughout her life,
  • C. region throughout her life
  • D. region, throughout her life
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: C

Option C eliminates unnecessary words, enhancing clarity and flow. By removing "throughout her life," the sentence remains grammatically correct while emphasizing the relationship between Powers’ origins and her quilt's stylistic influences. Option A retains the original phrasing, which is wordy and less direct. Option B introduces a comma that disrupts the sentence's rhythm, making it awkward. Option D incorrectly retains the comma, which separates elements that should be connected, leading to confusion about the timeline of Powers' life and her quilt's stylistic features.
The sixth paragraph (sentences 14–17) suggests that on the first day of kindergarten, Evan felt:
  • A. happy to be surrounded by so many other children for the first time
  • B. excited by everything he expected to learn
  • C. resentful of being indoors after spending most of the summer outside
  • D. upset by unfamiliar circumstances and surroundings
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: D

The sixth paragraph highlights Evan's feelings of discomfort and anxiety as he navigates a new environment. This suggests he was upset by the unfamiliar circumstances and surroundings, aligning with option D. Option A misinterprets his feelings; while being around other children can be exciting, the text emphasizes his unease rather than happiness. Option B focuses on his excitement for learning, which is not supported by the text's portrayal of his initial emotional state. Lastly, option C incorrectly suggests resentment towards being indoors; the emphasis is on his overall discomfort rather than frustration with a specific situation.