which of the following would weaken the authors argument

ATI TEAS 7

TEAS Test Reading Questions

1. 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.

2. According to the guide, in which of the following seasons would ginger be harvested?

A. spring
B. summer
C. fall
D. winter

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Ginger is typically harvested in the fall season because ginger roots mature in about 8-10 months after planting. This makes the fall season optimal for harvesting when the roots have reached their full potential. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because ginger is not harvested in spring, summer, or winter according to the guide provided.

3. What is a likely purpose for including so many headlines at the start of the article?

A. to quickly convey the most important information about a significant event
B. to sensationalize a front-page news story
C. to incite panic in readers
D. to fill empty space on the page

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Including multiple headlines at the start of an article allows for the quick conveyance of the most important information about a significant event. In the case of the article about the assassination of Abraham Lincoln, the headlines serve as brief summaries of key details, such as the event itself, the perpetrator, the status of the President, and related incidents like the attempted assassination of Secretary Seward. These headlines help readers grasp the main points efficiently without having to read through the entire article. The purpose is to summarize the key details and attract readers' attention to engage them in the content. Choice B is incorrect because the purpose is not to sensationalize the story but to inform. Choice C is incorrect as the intention is not to incite panic but to provide essential information. Choice D is incorrect because the headlines serve a meaningful purpose and are not included just to fill empty space on the page.

4. What role does humor play in Wilde's critique of the aristocracy?

A. To soften the harshness of the critique and make it more palatable.
B. To make the critique more pointed and direct.
C. To critique the aristocracy without alienating the audience.
D. To entertain the audience with humor, while delivering a serious message.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In Wilde's critique of the aristocracy, humor serves the purpose of critiquing without alienating the audience. By infusing humor into his work, Wilde can effectively highlight the flaws and absurdities of the upper classes while keeping the audience engaged and receptive. Option A is incorrect because the humor does not aim to soften the critique but rather to enhance its impact. Option B is incorrect as the humor in Wilde's work is not meant to make the critique more pointed and direct but rather more approachable. Option D is incorrect because while entertaining the audience, the primary function of humor in Wilde's critique is to provide a platform for social commentary without losing the audience's interest.

5. Which option best exemplifies an author's use of alliteration and personification?

A. Her mood hung about her like a weary cape, very dull from wear.
B. It shuddered, swayed, shook, and screamed its way into dust under hot flames.
C. The house was a starch sentry, warning visitors away.
D. At its shoreline, visitors swore they heard the siren call of the cliffs above.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Choice B best exemplifies an author's use of alliteration and personification. The sentence 'It shuddered, swayed, shook, and screamed its way into dust under hot flames' personifies an inanimate object (it) by attributing human actions to it, combining alliteration with the repeated 's' sounds. Choices A, C, and D do not contain both alliteration and personification. Choice A mainly focuses on simile and lacks alliteration. Choice C features personification but lacks alliteration. Choice D includes personification but lacks alliteration as well.