what is the central idea of this passage

ATI TEAS 7

ATI TEAS Reading

1. What is the central idea of this passage?

A. It introduces certain insects that transition from water to air.
B. It describes how insects adapt to their environment.
C. It discusses the significance of insects in ecosystems.
D. It highlights the duality of insect life.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The central idea of the passage is to highlight the significance of understanding insects in ecosystems, not just focusing on their adaptability or life transitions. Choice A is incorrect as the passage does not introduce specific insects transitioning from water to air. Choice B is incorrect as the main focus is not solely on how insects adapt to their environment, but on their broader role in ecosystems. Choice D is incorrect as the passage does not discuss the duality of insect life, but rather their importance in the ecosystem.

2. It is December, and you have not yet had a lu vaccine. What should you do if you are among the people for whom a vaccine is recommended?

A. Call your doctor for an appointment and get the vaccine.
B. Avoid other people as much as possible.
C. Wait until next year and get a double dose.
D. Contact your local public health board to inform them.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: If you are among the people for whom a flu vaccine is recommended, the best course of action is to call your doctor for an appointment and get the vaccine. Getting vaccinated can help protect you from getting the flu and reduce the spread of the virus to others. It is important to prioritize your health and take preventive measures, especially during the flu season.

3. The speaker addresses his audience as 'My Good Friends.' What kind of credibility does this salutation give to the speaker?

A. The speaker's salutation is one from an employer to his employees, aiming to bridge the gap between them.
B. The speaker's salutation is one from an entertainer to his audience, using friendly language to connect before a serious speech.
C. The salutation gives the serious speech that follows a somber tone, as it is used ironically.
D. The speech is from a politician to the public, using the salutation to grab the audience's attention.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The salutation 'My Good Friends' used by Charles Dickens in his speech to the working men and their families in Birmingham shows that he is addressing them as an entertainer, aiming to connect with them before delivering a serious message. This friendly language establishes a personal connection with the audience, setting a tone of camaraderie and warmth. The salutation is not meant to bridge a gap between an employer and employees (Choice A), create irony (Choice C), or grab attention like a politician (Choice D). Instead, it is a genuine and warm address to engage the audience before conveying his earnest hope about the Institute's principles.

4. Which of the following would weaken the author's argument?

A. a report revealing that the cited study was funded by a company that provides discounted tutoring through schools
B. a study demonstrating differences in standardized test scores among students at schools in various neighborhoods
C. a statement signed by local teachers affirming that they do not give preferential treatment in the classroom or during grading
D. a study indicating that GPA has a weak correlation with success in college

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Choice A weakens the author's argument by highlighting a potential conflict of interest. If the cited study was funded by a company offering discounted tutoring, it could introduce bias and question the credibility of the study's findings. This revelation could cast doubt on the objectivity and reliability of the research, ultimately undermining the argument based on the cited study. Choices B, C, and D do not directly impact the credibility or objectivity of the cited study, so they would not significantly weaken the author's argument.

5. What is the purpose of the italicized text in the passage?

A. To show Madame Butterfly's title
B. To emphasize an idea
C. To format a heading
D. To indicate the title of the opera

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The purpose of the italicized text is to indicate the title of the opera, Madame Butterfly. In the text, 'Madame Butterfly' is italicized to highlight that it refers to the title of the opera written by Giacomo Puccini. It does not serve to show Madame Butterfly's thoughts (choice A), emphasize an idea (choice B), or format a heading (choice C). The italicization is specifically used to identify the title of the opera within the passage.