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. Which of the following choices represents the best label for this passage?

A. definition essay
B. cause/effect essay
C. comparison essay
D. persuasive essay

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The passage provides factual information and details about the loss of barrier islands due to erosion and its impact on coastal communities. It focuses on defining and describing the issue rather than analyzing causes and effects, making it best classified as a definition essay. Choice B, cause/effect essay, would require a deeper exploration into the causes and effects of the erosion. Choice C, comparison essay, would involve comparing different aspects or scenarios, which is not the focus here. Choice D, persuasive essay, aims to convince the reader of a particular viewpoint, which is not the purpose of this passage.

3. Which of the following would be a useful source of information to determine the validity of the argument presented in this passage?

A. A survey of high school students' foreign language preferences
B. A comparison of the correlation between learning a second language at home and subsequent job placement rates
C. A survey that asks parents about the foreign language they want their children to study in high school
D. A comparison of the correlation between high school students' study of a foreign language and subsequent college acceptance rates

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Choice D is the correct answer as it can provide evidence to support the claim made in the passage that high school graduates who studied a foreign language are more likely to be accepted to college. This choice aligns with the argument presented in the passage, making it a useful source. Choices A and C focus on opinions rather than concrete evidence of the impact of studying a foreign language on future success. Choice B is not directly relevant as it talks about learning a second language at home, while the passage specifically discusses the importance of studying a foreign language in high school.

4. What is implied by the following sentence? It is hoped the wounds may not be mortal. My apprehension is that they will prove fatal.

A. Those involved are hopeful for a positive outcome.
B. There is no hope that Seward or Lincoln will recover from their wounds.
C. The writer is pessimistic about whether Seward will recover from his wounds.
D. The writer is doubtful about the legitimacy of accounts regarding the night's events.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The sentence 'My apprehension is that they will prove fatal' indicates that the writer is pessimistic about Seward's recovery from his wounds. This implies a lack of hope or certainty about the outcome, suggesting a negative view on the situation. Choice A is incorrect because the sentence does not refer to all involved parties being hopeful. Choice B is incorrect as it is too extreme, stating there is no hope for recovery. Choice D is incorrect as there is no indication in the sentence that the writer doubts the legitimacy of the accounts.

5. What text feature does the author use to organize the passage?

A. headings and subheadings
B. superscripts
C. diagrams
D. labels and footnotes

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Headings and subheadings are commonly used text features that help organize a passage by signaling different sections or topics. In this case, the passage is organized with clear headings such as 'Dairy: Beverage,' 'Dairy: Meals,' 'Dairy: Snack,' and 'Dairy: Dessert.' These headings provide a structured layout, making it easier for readers to identify specific information within each category. Superscripts, diagrams, and labels and footnotes are not used in this passage for organizing content, making them incorrect choices.