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 is not a reliable resource for a research paper?

A. The New York Times
B. A personal interview with a politician
C. A medical journal
D. Wikipedia

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Wikipedia is not a reliable source for a research paper due to its open editing format, which may lead to inaccuracies, bias, and lack of authority. While it can be a good starting point for research and general information, it is crucial to verify information from Wikipedia with more academic and reputable sources like peer-reviewed journals, books, or official websites. The New York Times, a personal interview with a politician, and a medical journal are generally considered reliable sources for research papers. The New York Times is a reputable newspaper, personal interviews can provide valuable firsthand insights, and medical journals undergo rigorous peer review processes to ensure accuracy and reliability.

3. Based on the passages, what can we infer about the relationship between assault and lethal force?

A. An act of lethal force always results from a type of assault.
B. An assault will lead to the use of lethal force by someone.
C. An assault with deadly intent can lead to an individual using lethal force to preserve their well-being.
D. If someone uses self-defense in a conflict, it is considered deadly force; if actions or threats are intended, it is classified as assault.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: From the passages provided, it can be inferred that an assault with deadly intent can lead to an individual using lethal force to defend themselves and preserve their well-being. This suggests a relationship between assault with deadly intent and the potential use of lethal force in self-defense situations. Choice A is incorrect because lethal force is not always a direct result of assault, as it depends on the circumstances. Choice B is incorrect as not all assaults lead to the use of lethal force by someone. Choice D is incorrect as the definition of deadly force and assault are distinct, with deadly force typically being used in self-defense situations where there is an immediate threat of severe harm or death.

4. What is the librarian's best course of action in this situation?

A. The librarian shows the student how to do an Internet search using Google
B. Since the assignment is to read a biography, the librarian directs the student to the biography section of the library rather than to the Internet. She helps the student select a biography at his reading level
C. The librarian directs the student to a database that will quickly provide a list of resources and articles pertaining to Thomas Jefferson
D. The librarian searches her computerized records, decides that none of the biographies in her school library are appropriate for this student, and initiates an inter-library loan. The borrowed biography will take about two weeks to arrive

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The librarian's best course of action in this situation is to direct the student to the biography section of the library because the assignment specifically requires the student to read a biography. By helping the student select a biography at his reading level, the librarian ensures that the student is staying on task and fulfilling the assignment requirements. This approach also encourages the student to engage with physical books rather than relying solely on the Internet for research. Choice A is incorrect because it deviates from the assignment's requirement of reading a biography. Choice C is not the best option as it overlooks the specificity of the assignment and may lead the student away from the required task. Choice D is not ideal as it involves a lengthy process of inter-library loan which may not be necessary if suitable biographies are available in the library.

5. Which of the following statements best expresses the main idea of the passage?

A. Getting a job is easier now than it ever has been before.
B. Earning money is much less difficult than managing it properly.
C. Dr. Franklin advocated getting a job in a mill.
D. Spending money is the greatest temptation in the world.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The main idea of the passage is that while making money may seem easy, managing it wisely is much more challenging. The author emphasizes the importance of spending less than what is earned to achieve financial stability. Choice A is incorrect as the passage focuses on the challenges of managing money, not on the ease of getting a job. Choice C is incorrect as Dr. Franklin is mentioned in the context of a quote about the simplicity of the road to wealth, not advocating getting a job in a mill. Choice D is incorrect as the passage does not primarily discuss spending money as the greatest temptation, but rather highlights the difficulty in managing money effectively.