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. What prompted Hedy Lamarr to take up inventing?

A. Boredom from her film roles lacking spoken lines
B. Formal training in engineering
C. Her successful inventions like the radio signal technology
D. Working with Howard Hughes' aviation team

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Hedy Lamarr took up inventing due to boredom from her film roles lacking spoken lines. The extract mentions that to relieve her boredom, Lamarr turned to inventing after her film roles did not provide much dialogue.

3. Which of the following pairs of examples from the passage best demonstrates why the use of plastics is a divisive topic?

A. Plastic has advantages. Plastic is difficult to recycle efficiently.
B. Plastic is consumed by birds. Plastic is entering our food.
C. Plastic is popular. Plastic is used for packaging.
D. Plastic is in landfills. Plastic is in the ocean.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The examples of plastic's advantages and difficulties in recycling show why the topic is divisive. The passage mentions that plastic has advantages, but it is difficult to recycle efficiently, indicating a conflict between the benefits and environmental impact of plastics. This conflict contributes to the divisive nature of discussions surrounding the use of plastics. Choices B, C, and D do not provide contrasting examples that highlight the divisive nature of the topic.

4. What is the author's purpose in discussing aquatic insects in relation to those that spend their entire lives in the air?

A. To emphasize the adaptability and complexity of insect life cycles.
B. To compare aquatic insects with those that remain airborne.
C. To highlight the unique features of insects that live in both environments.
D. To question the validity of studying insects that live in only one environment.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The author's purpose in discussing aquatic insects in relation to those that spend their entire lives in the air is to emphasize the adaptability and complexity of insect life cycles. The author highlights how some insects transition between aquatic and aerial environments, showcasing the diverse strategies and features these insects possess to thrive in different habitats. Choice B is incorrect because the author is not solely comparing aquatic insects with those that remain airborne, but rather exploring their adaptability. Choice C is incorrect as the focus is not on highlighting unique features but on showcasing the transition between environments. Choice D is incorrect as the author is not questioning the validity of studying insects in only one environment but rather demonstrating the fascinating dual-life cycles of certain insects.

5. How many people can participate in a volleyball game?

A. 14
B. 15
C. half of a class
D. an entire class

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Based on the extract provided, a volleyball game can involve an entire class participating. The passage mentions that with just one net and one ball, an entire class can play volleyball. While the number of participants in a volleyball game can vary, the specific reference to a whole class in the passage indicates that a significant number of people can take part. Therefore, the correct answer is 'an entire class.' Choice A, '14,' is incorrect because the passage explicitly mentions that an entire class can participate, which typically involves more than 14 individuals. Choice B, '15,' is incorrect as it does not account for the flexibility of the number of participants in a volleyball game as stated in the passage. Choice C, 'half of a class,' is incorrect as the passage clearly states that an entire class can participate, not just half.