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.

Read the passage below and then choose the best answer to each question. Answer the questions on the basis of what is stated or amplied in the passage. Passage The theremin, an electronic musical instrument invented by Leon Theremin in 1928, is unique in that it is played without physical contact. The musician (occasionally referred to as a thereminist) stands in front of the instrument and moves his or her hands in the proximity of two metal antennas. The distance from one antenna determines frequency (pitch), and the distance from the other controls amplitude (volume). Led Zeppelin guitarist Jimmy Page played a theremin on the rock group's 1970s hit song "Whole Lotta Love."
What does the passage imply about Jimmy Page?
  • A. Page played the theremin in an unorthodox way
  • B. Page wrote the song "Whole Lotta Love" for the theremin
  • C. Page was primarily a guitarist, not a thereminist
  • D. Page was a master of many instruments, including the theremin
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: C

The passage suggests that Jimmy Page is primarily recognized as a guitarist, emphasizing his main role in music. Option A incorrectly implies that Page played the theremin in a notable manner, which is not supported by the text. Option B wrongly claims he wrote "Whole Lotta Love" specifically for the theremin, while the song is more associated with his guitar work. Option D suggests he was a master of multiple instruments, including the theremin, but the focus on his guitar skills indicates that this is not the primary takeaway. Thus, the passage highlights Page's identity as a guitarist.

Other Related Questions

What does the passage suggest about the light bulbs used in the first train signaling systems?
  • A. They were very fragile.
  • B. They were all the same color.
  • C. They were only illuminated at night.
  • D. They were also used to signal automobile drivers.
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: B

The passage indicates that the light bulbs in the first train signaling systems were designed to emit a specific color to convey signals, suggesting uniformity in color for clarity and safety. Option A is incorrect as the passage does not mention the fragility of the bulbs. Option C is misleading; while the bulbs may have been primarily used at night, the passage does not explicitly state that they were only illuminated then. Option D is also incorrect; the passage focuses on train signaling without reference to their use for automobile drivers. Thus, the emphasis on color highlights the importance of consistent signaling in train operations.
The author of Passage 1 would most likely characterize the claim of the "detractors" mentioned in Passage 2 as
  • A. an unfair accusation
  • B. a flattering portrayal
  • C. an accurate description
  • D. a flawed argument
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: C

The author of Passage 1 would likely view the claim of the "detractors" as an accurate description, reflecting a critical stance towards the subject being discussed. This suggests that the detractors highlight valid concerns that resonate with the author's perspective. Option A, "an unfair accusation," implies bias against the detractors, which does not align with the author's objective analysis. Option B, "a flattering portrayal," contradicts the nature of criticism typically associated with detractors. Lastly, option D, "a flawed argument," suggests a dismissal of the detractors' points, which would not align with the author's acknowledgment of their validity.
Apart from being a basic requirement for plant life, the propagation of some plant species is also helped by rain.
  • A. the propagation of some plant species is also helped by rain
  • B. some plant species are also helped by rain to propagate them
  • C. rain also helps in the propagation of some plant species
  • D. it is also helpful for the propagation of some plant species to have rain
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: C

Option C clearly states that rain helps in the propagation of some plant species, maintaining a straightforward structure that emphasizes the relationship between rain and propagation. Option A, while accurate, is less clear due to its passive construction, which can lead to ambiguity about what is being helped. Option B awkwardly phrases the relationship, suggesting that rain helps to propagate the plants rather than directly stating its role in the process. Option D complicates the message by using a more convoluted structure, making it less direct and harder to understand. Clarity and conciseness are essential in effectively conveying the idea.
Our offices are located in an old building on the outskirts of campus that was formerly, a tavern.
  • A. formerly
  • B. formally
  • C. formidably
  • D. formality
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: A

The word "formerly" accurately indicates that the building was previously a tavern, highlighting its past use. Option B, "formally," refers to official or ceremonial contexts, which does not fit the intended meaning. Option C, "formidably," suggests something impressive or intimidating, irrelevant in this context. Lastly, option D, "formality," denotes an official procedure or requirement, which is not applicable here. Thus, "formerly" is the only choice that correctly conveys the idea of a past state, making it the appropriate selection.