which phrase best describes the purpose of nonfiction writing

ATI TEAS 7

ATI TEAS Reading

1. Which phrase best describes the purpose of nonfiction writing?

A. To inform, entertain, or persuade readers
B. To entertain, then to inform
C. To convince readers they're wrong about the author's subject
D. None of the above

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'To inform, entertain, or persuade readers.' Nonfiction writing aims to provide factual information (inform), engage the audience (entertain), or influence their opinions (persuade). Choice B is incorrect because informing usually takes precedence over entertaining in nonfiction. Choice C is incorrect as the primary goal is not to convince readers they're wrong but rather to present information or arguments. Choice D is incorrect as there are clear purposes for nonfiction writing.

2. What source would be most useful in determining the reliability of Punxsutawney Phil's predictions over a number of years?

A. A memoir from a former president of the Groundhog Club
B. A record of weather patterns over the past decade
C. An article on groundhog behavior in the northeast U.S
D. A historical account of Groundhog Day traditions

Correct answer: B

Rationale: A record of weather patterns over the past decade would be the most useful source in determining the reliability of Punxsutawney Phil's predictions. By comparing Phil's forecasts with the actual weather outcomes, one can analyze the accuracy of his predictions. Choices A, C, and D do not directly provide the necessary data on weather patterns to evaluate Phil's reliability.

3. Which of the following best describes the way the passages are structured?

A. Both passages open by defining a legal concept and then continue to describe situations in order to further explain the concept.
B. Both passages begin with situations, introduce accepted definitions, and then cite legal ramifications.
C. The first passage presents a long definition while the second passage begins by showing an example of assault.
D. Both cite specific legal doctrines, then proceed to explain the rulings.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The passages are structured in a way where both begin by defining a legal concept (assault and battery) and then provide further explanations and examples to help clarify and elaborate on the concepts. Both passages open with a clear definition and then proceed to discuss the concept in various situations. Choice A is correct because it accurately captures the structure of the passages. Choice B is incorrect because the passages do not introduce accepted definitions after presenting situations; they define the legal concepts first. Choice C is incorrect because the first passage does not present a long definition, it begins by defining lethal force and then provides examples. Choice D is incorrect because while the passages explain legal concepts, they do not specifically cite legal doctrines or explain rulings.

4. Which statement from the passage best supports the conclusion that taking notes and recording audio during an interview is a good practice for journalists?

A. Journalists often use a recording device to capture the audio transcript of an interview with a subject.
B. Relying on a recording device is not without troubles, however.
C. As a result, a portion of an interview can be lost without any way to reclaim it.
D. This dual-note method means that most of the time, a wise journalist has two good resources to use as he or she writes the article draft.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The statement about the dual-note method best supports the conclusion that taking notes and recording audio is a good practice. It highlights the advantage of having two resources - notes and audio recordings - which provide comprehensive coverage of the interview. Choice A simply mentions the use of a recording device but does not emphasize the benefits of combining it with note-taking. Choices B and C focus on the limitations or potential issues with using recording devices, which do not promote the practice as positively as Choice D.

5. The phrase 'labyrinths of lamplighted city' contains an example of what?

A. Hyperbole
B. Simile
C. Metaphor
D. Alliteration

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, 'Alliteration.' The phrase 'labyrinths of lamplighted city' uses alliteration by repeating the 'l' sound, creating a rhythmic and vivid image of a city illuminated by lamps. Alliteration is the repetition of initial consonant sounds in neighboring words, and in this case, it enhances the description of the city in the reader's mind. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because there is no exaggeration (hyperbole), comparison using 'like' or 'as' (simile), or direct comparison without using 'like' or 'as' (metaphor) present in the phrase.