accuplacer reading full length practice test

Commonly used by colleges and universities to place students into appropriate courses.

The following sentence has a blank indicating that something has been left out. Beneath the sentence are four words or phrases. Choose the word or phrase that, when inserted in the sentence, best fits the meaning of the sentence as a whole. Ecologist Frank Ortega warned that the state's decision to ______ the rigid standards for disposal of toxic wastes would be construed as a signal that sloppiness in handling such wastes will be tolerated.
Ecologist Frank Ortega warned that the state's decision to ______ the rigid standards for disposal of toxic wastes would be construed as a signal that sloppiness in handling such wastes will be tolerated.
  • A. enforce
  • B. codify
  • C. relax
  • D. publicize
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: C

The choice to relax the rigid standards for disposal of toxic wastes suggests a reduction in strictness, which aligns with Ortega's warning about sloppiness being tolerated. Option A, enforce, implies strengthening regulations, which contradicts Ortega's concern. Option B, codify, refers to formally establishing rules, indicating a commitment to standards rather than a reduction. Option D, publicize, focuses on making information known, which does not relate to the standards themselves. Thus, only "relax" accurately captures the potential easing of regulations that Ortega warns against.

Other Related Questions

The author implies that the social sciences:
  • A. are valued for their techniques
  • B. can make no contribution to progress
  • C. cannot deal with long-term issues
  • D. may someday add to the world's knowledge
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: D

The social sciences are suggested to have the potential to enhance global understanding and knowledge in the future, reflecting their evolving nature and relevance. Option A is incorrect; while techniques are important, the value of social sciences extends beyond methodologies to their insights and applications. Option B misrepresents the author's view, as the social sciences do contribute to societal progress, even if their impact may not always be immediately evident. Option C wrongly assumes that social sciences lack the capacity to address long-term issues; in fact, they often engage with complex, enduring societal challenges.
What is the main purpose of the questions in sentences 10–12?
  • A. To reveal the narrator's sense of isolation from family members other than her father
  • B. To suggest the narrator's uncertainty about whether the radio will work
  • C. To demonstrate the knowledge of electric principles required to operate the radio
  • D. To provide examples of the kinds of messages the narrator and her father obtained
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: D

The main purpose of the questions in sentences 10–12 is to provide examples of the types of messages that the narrator and her father received, illustrating their communication and connection through the radio. Option A misinterprets the focus of the questions, as they do not primarily express isolation but rather highlight shared experiences. Option B suggests uncertainty about the radio's functionality, which is not the central theme of the questions. Option C incorrectly emphasizes technical knowledge, while the questions are more about the content of the messages rather than the mechanics of operating the radio.
The passage states that Russian and English are alike in that in both languages:
  • A. short syllables are not accented
  • B. the last syllable of words cannot be accented
  • C. only one syllable in each word is accented
  • D. the accent may fall on any syllable
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: D

Both Russian and English exhibit a flexible accentuation pattern, allowing the accent to potentially fall on any syllable within a word. This characteristic is evident in various examples from both languages. Option A is incorrect because, while some short syllables may not be accented, this is not a defining feature of either language. Option B is misleading; accents can occur on the last syllable in both languages, contradicting this statement. Option C is also inaccurate, as both languages allow for multiple syllables to be accented, not limiting it to just one per word.
The author's description focuses mainly on Coleman's:
  • A. Humility
  • B. Audacity
  • C. Creativity
  • D. Generosity
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: B

Coleman's audacity is emphasized throughout the text, showcasing his boldness and willingness to take risks. This characteristic drives many of his actions and decisions, illustrating a fearless approach to challenges. Option A, humility, is not the focus, as the text highlights Coleman's confidence rather than modesty. Option C, creativity, while relevant, is secondary to the audacious choices he makes. Option D, generosity, may be mentioned but does not capture the essence of his character as vividly as his audacity does. Thus, the primary emphasis lies in his boldness and daring spirit.