tsia2 reading and writing practice test 1

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

Which of the following sentences contains information irrelevant to the passage as a whole and should be deleted?
  • A. Sentence 4
  • B. Sentence 5
  • C. Sentence 7
  • D. Sentence 9
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: C

Sentence 7 introduces an anecdote that, while interesting, does not contribute to the main argument of the passage. Its narrative focus distracts from the central theme, making it less relevant. Sentence 4 provides essential context that supports the overall message, while Sentence 5 summarizes key points, reinforcing the passage’s purpose. Sentence 9 offers a concluding thought that ties back to the main argument, enhancing the reader's understanding. Thus, only Sentence 7 diverges from the primary focus, warranting its removal for clarity and coherence.

Other Related Questions

In context, which would be the best place to insert the following sentence? I took guitar lessons and practiced day and night.
  • A. After sentence 9
  • B. After sentence 11
  • C. After sentence 15
  • D. After sentence 16
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: A

Inserting the sentence after sentence 9 effectively highlights a pivotal moment in the narrative, emphasizing the character's dedication to mastering the guitar. This placement allows for a smooth transition into the subsequent discussion of progress and challenges faced. Option B, after sentence 11, disrupts the flow, as it focuses on a different aspect of the character's journey. Option C, after sentence 15, feels too late, as it misses the opportunity to connect the dedication to earlier events. Option D, after sentence 16, would confuse the reader, as it follows a conclusion rather than enhancing the buildup of the character's commitment.
Which of the following is the best version of the underlined portion of sentence 12 (reproduced below)? Cavendish bananas might appear to be strong, with its thick skins and ability to be shipped long distances without rotting or even bruising.
  • A. (as it is now)
  • B. its'
  • C. their
  • D. there
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: C

In this context, "Cavendish bananas" is plural, so using "their" is appropriate to match the subject. This option correctly indicates possession, referring to the bananas' thick skins. Option A maintains the original phrasing, which incorrectly uses "its," a singular possessive pronoun, creating a mismatch with the plural subject. Option B, "its'," is also incorrect as it implies a possessive form that doesn't apply here, and it is not a standard grammatical form. Option D, "there," is unrelated to possession and does not fit the context of the sentence.
Marco won a trophy each of the three times he competed in the junior tennis tournament, but still the first prize eluded him.
  • A. eluded
  • B. alluded
  • C. elided
  • D. allied
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: A

In this context, "eluded" means that the first prize was out of Marco's reach despite his successes, which fits the sentence perfectly. Option B, "alluded," refers to making an indirect reference, which does not apply here. Option C, "elided," means to omit or leave out, which does not convey the intended meaning of something being out of reach. Option D, "allied," means to join or unite, which is irrelevant in this context. Thus, "eluded" accurately captures the sense of a goal that remains unattained despite effort.
In context, which is the best version of the underlined portion of sentence 2 (reproduced below)? I first recognize that I am a very stubborn person when I was in grade school and wanted to be able to juggle like my big brother.
  • A. (As it is now)
  • B. In fact, I first recognize that I am a very stubborn person
  • C. I first recognized this trait in myself
  • D. The first time I recognize is
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: C

Option C, "I first recognized this trait in myself," effectively shifts the verb tense to match the past context of the sentence, indicating a realization that occurred during grade school. This clarity enhances the reader's understanding of the timeline. Option A retains the original phrasing, which creates a tense inconsistency, as "recognize" suggests a present awareness of a past experience. Option B introduces "In fact," which is unnecessary and disrupts the flow, while still suffering from the same tense issue. Option D, "The first time I recognize is," is awkwardly phrased and lacks clarity, failing to convey a coherent thought regarding the past experience.