accuplacer reading passage based practice test

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

In photography,' the scholar and curator Josh Kun writes, in his powerful introductory essay, 'double exposure typically refers to the photograph, not the photographer.' It occurs when the film is bared to light twice during a single shot, resulting in two exposures in a single image. The effect can be surreal, like a haunting. Taken as a whole, George Rodriguez's work offers a different kind of double exposure. In dividing his attention between two worlds that overlap but rarely intersect, he created one of the truest chronicles of Los Angeles there is.
In the passage, the author refers to the photography technique of double exposure primarily to:
  • A. Explain that Rodriguez frequently uses that technique to create eerie and distorted representations of city life
  • B. Illustrate how Rodriguez's innovative use of double exposure inspired other photographers to do so as well
  • C. Provide an example of how Rodriguez explored the tension between his identity as a photographer and as a scholar
  • D. Set up a metaphor comparing that technique to the way Rodriguez's work depicts the duality of Los Angeles
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: D

The reference to double exposure serves as a metaphor for the duality of Los Angeles, highlighting the complexity and contrasting elements within the city. This choice effectively encapsulates Rodriguez's artistic vision, illustrating how his work reflects both the vibrant and shadowy aspects of urban life. Option A inaccurately suggests a focus on Rodriguez's frequent use of the technique rather than its metaphorical significance. Option B misinterprets the intent, as the passage emphasizes Rodriguez's personal exploration rather than his influence on others. Option C, while relevant, does not capture the primary purpose of the metaphor, which centers on the depiction of duality rather than identity tension.

Other Related Questions

Which best replaces the word 'appropriate' in sentence 3 (reproduced below)? When chefs and other consumers appropriate local products rather than goods that have been transported across long distances to chain stores, they can enjoy better prices while bettering the local economy.
  • A. gain
  • B. retrieve
  • C. purchase
  • D. redeem
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: C

In the context of the sentence, "appropriate" conveys the idea of acquiring or buying local products. Option A, "gain," implies obtaining something but lacks the specificity of a transaction, making it less suitable. Option B, "retrieve," suggests taking back something previously owned, which does not fit the context of purchasing local goods. Option D, "redeem," typically refers to exchanging something for a benefit or value, often in a promotional context, which does not align with the intended meaning of acquiring local products. Thus, "purchase" accurately reflects the act of buying local goods.
Which sentence should be deleted because it contains irrelevant information?
  • A. Sentence 6
  • B. Sentence 7
  • C. Sentence 9
  • D. Sentence 14
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: C

Sentence 9 introduces information that does not directly support the main argument or theme of the passage, making it irrelevant to the central discussion. In contrast, Sentence 6 provides context, Sentence 7 offers a critical example, and Sentence 14 concludes the argument effectively. Each of these sentences contributes meaningfully to the overall coherence and purpose of the text. Removing Sentence 9 enhances clarity by eliminating distractions, allowing the reader to focus on the essential points being made.
The main idea of the passage is that some types of poison frogs:
  • A. have developed the capacity to protect themselves from the poison they carry in their skin
  • B. could eventually produce a natural pain relief option for people who suffer from headaches
  • C. combine chemicals from their food to create a toxic substance that keeps them safe from predators
  • D. can be grouped based on the changes they've made to their nicotinic acetylcholine receptors
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: A

Option A highlights the unique adaptation of certain poison frogs, emphasizing their ability to protect themselves from their own toxins. This reflects a key aspect of their survival strategy. Option B, while interesting, suggests a potential human application of frog toxins that is not the main focus of the passage. Option C inaccurately attributes the creation of toxins solely to food sources, overlooking the frogs' inherent toxic traits. Option D focuses on a specific biological mechanism that, while relevant, does not encapsulate the broader theme of self-protection central to the passage.
In context, which word or phrase is best to insert at the beginning of sentence 11? Sentence 11: He spent most of his time writing poems in Spanish instead of studying English.
  • A. In addition.
  • B. For example.
  • C. However.
  • D. Indeed.
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: C

The choice of "However" effectively contrasts the subject's choice to write poems in Spanish with the expectation that he should be studying English. This juxtaposition highlights a shift in focus, emphasizing the divergence from expected behavior. Option A, "In addition," suggests continuity rather than contrast, which does not align with the sentence's intent. Option B, "For example," implies that the sentence will provide an instance, which is not the case here. Option D, "Indeed," reinforces a statement rather than introducing a contrasting idea, making it unsuitable for the context.