what is the main idea of the second paragraph

ATI TEAS 7

Reading TEAS Practice Test

1. What is the main idea of the second paragraph?

A. One hairy monkey proves the hypothesis 'All monkeys are hairy.'
B. The same piece of evidence can both confirm and disconfirm a hypothesis.
C. Confirming and disconfirming evidence affect hypotheses differently.
D. The scientific method is not a failsafe method for arriving at objective truth.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The main idea of the second paragraph is that confirming and disconfirming evidence can affect hypotheses differently, as stated in the passage - 'Single pieces of evidence then, seem to affect a given hypothesis in radically different ways.' Choice A is incorrect because the paragraph discusses how single pieces of evidence affect hypotheses, not that one hairy monkey proves a hypothesis. Choice B is incorrect as the paragraph focuses on the different effects of evidence on hypotheses, rather than its ability to confirm and disconfirm simultaneously. Choice D is incorrect as the paragraph does not primarily discuss the scientific method's failings but rather the impact of evidence on hypotheses.

2. Which of the following represents an opinion statement on the part of the author?

A. According to the CDC, tobacco products cause nearly six million deaths per year.
B. Nicotine addicts sometimes pay more for a pack of cigarettes than gas.
C. They risk staining their teeth and fingers with tar.
D. Smokers tend to stink and create pervasive nastiness.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The statement 'Smokers tend to stink and create pervasive nastiness' is an opinion since it reflects the author's subjective view on the hygiene and social impact of smoking. The other choices, A, B, and C, are all factual statements based on research or observations without expressing a personal viewpoint. Choice A presents a statistic from the CDC, choice B discusses a comparison related to the cost of cigarettes, and choice C describes a potential consequence of smoking without inserting personal judgment.

3. What was the author's intent in the passage?

A. To persuade
B. To entertain
C. To express feeling
D. To inform

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The author's primary intent in the passage is to inform the reader about historical events related to the succession of monarchs in England and Scotland. The passage presents factual information about the reigns of King James I, King Charles I, King Charles II, King James II, and the attempted recapture of the throne by Bonnie Prince Charlie. It details how religious differences and political conflicts shaped the history of England and Scotland. The other choices are incorrect because the author's focus is on providing historical facts rather than persuading, entertaining, or expressing personal feelings.

4. What does the 'nature of the fairy tale genre' refer to in Passage 2?

A. The representation of basic human experience
B. Good characters being pure good and bad characters being pure evil
C. Different cultures coming up with similar versions of the same story
D. Commoners becoming royalty

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The 'nature of the fairy tale genre' in Passage 2 refers to the representation of basic human experiences. The passage emphasizes that fairy tales embody fundamental human desires and fears, portraying characters as either pure good or pure evil and celebrating themes like romance and transformation. This representation of basic human experiences makes fairy tales relatable and universal, resonating with audiences across various cultures and time periods. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because while they may be elements found in fairy tales, they do not capture the essence of the 'nature of the fairy tale genre' as being rooted in the representation of fundamental human experiences.

5. What type of writing is used in the passage?

A. narrative
B. persuasive
C. expository
D. technical

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The passage is expository because it presents information about 'The Five' group of Russian musicians and their contributions to classical music. It provides details about the background, works, and influence of each member of the group without telling a story, providing instructions, or attempting to persuade the reader. Choice A (narrative) is incorrect because the passage does not tell a story but rather presents factual information. Choice B (persuasive) is incorrect because the passage does not try to persuade the reader but instead informs about the musicians. Choice D (technical) is incorrect because the passage does not focus on technical details or procedures but rather on historical and musical information.