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. What can one reasonably conclude from the final comment of this passage? 'If he be Mr. Hyde,' he had thought, 'I should be Mr. Seek.'

A. The speaker is considering changing names.
B. The speaker is experiencing a determination to find Hyde.
C. The speaker has mistakenly been looking for the wrong person.
D. The speaker intends to continue to look for Hyde.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. The speaker's final comment indicates a determination to keep looking for Hyde, as he expresses his intention to become 'Mr. Seek' if the other person is indeed 'Mr. Hyde.' This shows that the speaker is persistent in his search for Hyde, as he believes that discovering Hyde's identity could potentially unravel the mystery and clarify his friend's strange behavior. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because the final comment does not imply a name change, an identity crisis, or a mistaken search but rather a firm decision to continue seeking out Hyde.

3. According to the advertisement, which of the following is true?

A. Candidates must have three or more years of litigation experience
B. Candidates will have small caseloads
C. Candidates must be members of the California State Bar Association
D. The position is not currently available

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. This information is based on the advertisement's specific requirement that candidates must be members of the California Bar Association. The job description clearly states, 'Candidates must be members in Good Standing of the California Bar Association.' This indicates that a valid license to practice law in California is a mandatory qualification for the position advertised. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because there is no mention in the advertisement of candidates needing three or more years of litigation experience, having small caseloads, or the position not being currently available.

4. Based on the facts in the passage, what prediction could you make about the time immediately following the Louisiana Purchase?

A. Explorers were already on their way to the region.
B. The government aimed to increase its power.
C. Government officials would ensure explorers were dispatched to the region.
D. Explorers would expect compensation for their work.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. The passage mentions that explorers like Lewis and Clark were sent to the newly acquired Louisiana Territory immediately after the Louisiana Purchase. This indicates that explorers were already on their way to the region following the purchase. Choice B is incorrect as there is no direct mention of the government wanting to increase its power right after the purchase. Choice C is incorrect as the passage does not state that government officials would specifically ensure explorers were dispatched to the region. Choice D is incorrect because there is no information provided in the passage about explorers expecting payment for their work.

5. What is one point on which the scientist and politician agree?

A. Burning fossil fuels causes global temperatures to rise.
B. Global temperatures are increasing.
C. Countries must revisit their energy policies before it's too late.
D. Earth's climate naturally goes through warming and cooling periods.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'Global temperatures are increasing.' The scientist and politician both agree on this point based on the context provided. Choice A is incorrect because while it might be a common belief among scientists, the politician's agreement is not explicitly mentioned. Choice C is incorrect as it suggests a course of action rather than a point of agreement. Choice D is incorrect as it contradicts the consensus that global temperatures are currently increasing due to human activities, not just natural climate cycles.