tsia2 reading and writing practice test 2

A placement test used in Texas to assess a student's readiness for college-level coursework in math, reading, and writing.

Select the best version of the underlined part of the sentence. If you think the original sentence is best, choose the first answer.
In 1952, Dwight Eisenhower was elected President of the United States, he won 55% of the vote.
  • A. he won
  • B. he had won
  • C. with winning
  • D. winning
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: D

The phrase "winning" effectively conveys the action of Eisenhower's election in a succinct manner, emphasizing the achievement without the need for auxiliary verbs. Option A, "he won," is grammatically correct but less fluid in this context. It shifts focus to a completed action rather than the ongoing significance of his victory. Option B, "he had won," uses the past perfect tense, which implies a prior context that isn’t necessary here and complicates the sentence unnecessarily. Option C, "with winning," introduces an awkward prepositional phrase that detracts from the clarity and directness of the statement.

Other Related Questions

What is the passage primarily discussing?
  • A. The achievement of Richard Pearse
  • B. The problems of early airplanes
  • C. The first flight in the United States
  • D. The history of long-distance flight
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: A

The passage primarily discusses the achievement of Richard Pearse, highlighting his significant contributions to aviation. His pioneering efforts are central to the narrative, showcasing his innovations and milestones. Option B focuses on the problems of early airplanes, which, while relevant, does not capture the primary focus on Pearse's accomplishments. Option C mentions the first flight in the United States, a separate historical event that is not the main topic of the passage. Option D addresses the broader history of long-distance flight, which encompasses many figures and events, but does not specifically center on Pearse's individual achievements.
The passage is mainly discussing the Mississippi River's
  • A. depth
  • B. length
  • C. width
  • D. location
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: C

The passage primarily focuses on the Mississippi River's width, detailing its varying measurements at different points along its course. This emphasis on width highlights its significance in navigation and ecology. Option A, depth, is not the main topic; while depth may be mentioned, it does not receive the same level of attention. Option B, length, is also a lesser focus, as the passage does not delve into the river's overall distance. Option D, location, is addressed but serves more as context rather than the central theme. Thus, width emerges as the key aspect discussed in the passage.
The author of the passage does which of the following?
  • A. Relates a personal anecdote
  • B. Provides statistical data
  • C. Quotes a named authority
  • D. Challenges an official view
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: C

The author quotes a named authority to lend credibility to their argument, enhancing the passage's persuasive impact. This approach allows the reader to see the author's position supported by established expertise. Option A is incorrect as there is no personal anecdote shared; the focus remains on authoritative sources. Option B is not applicable since the passage lacks statistical data, relying instead on qualitative support. Option D is also wrong; the author does not challenge an official view but rather reinforces their argument through the cited authority, maintaining a respectful stance towards existing perspectives.
What assumption does the author of the passage make?
  • A. Gases produced by algae will be cheaper to produce than other gases.
  • B. The Department of Energy is already using hydrogen-producing algae as a source of energy
  • C. Mutant versions of algae will not be capable of the process of photosynthesis
  • D. Readers do not associate the Department of Energy with algae research.
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: D

The assumption that readers do not associate the Department of Energy with algae research suggests a gap in public awareness that the author aims to address. This perspective is crucial for framing the significance of the research discussed. Option A is incorrect as it makes a specific economic claim not supported by the passage. Option B incorrectly assumes the Department of Energy is currently using hydrogen-producing algae, which is not established in the text. Option C presumes that mutant algae cannot photosynthesize, but the passage does not provide evidence or context to support this claim. Thus, D accurately reflects the author's underlying assumption about public perception.