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 most effectively combines sentences 6 and 7 (reproduced below)? There are over 1000 different kinds of bananas. Most bananas that grow without human assistance are quite small, only about the length of a finger.
  • A. There are over 1000 different kinds of bananas, and most of the ones grown without human assistance are quite small, only about the length of a finger.
  • B. While there are over 1000 different kinds of bananas, most of the ones grown without human assistance are quite small, only about the length of a finger.
  • C. Of the more than 1000 different kinds of bananas, many of them are grown without human assistance, and many of those are quite small, only about the length of a finger.
  • D. Most bananas grown without human assistance are quite small, only about the length of a finger, and all told there are more than 1000 different kinds of bananas.
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: A

Option A effectively combines the two sentences by maintaining the original information while clearly linking the two ideas. It states the fact about the variety of bananas and smoothly transitions to the specific detail about the size of those grown without human assistance. Option B introduces a contrast with "while," which is unnecessary since both statements are factual rather than opposing ideas. Option C inaccurately implies that many of the 1000+ kinds are grown without human assistance, which is not stated in the original sentences. Option D incorrectly prioritizes the size of the bananas over the variety, misrepresenting the main point about the number of banana types.

Other Related Questions

Which is the best version of the underlined portion of sentence 4 (reproduced below)? He knew that he was the first poet to participate in these prestigious ceremonies; therefore, he contemplated which poem would be appropriate for the occasion.
  • A. (as it is now)
  • B. ceremonies, therefore,
  • C. ceremonies, therefore;
  • D. ceremonies, therefore
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: A

Option A maintains the original structure, effectively connecting the two independent clauses with a semicolon. This punctuation is appropriate as it separates related but distinct ideas: the poet's recognition and his subsequent contemplation. Option B incorrectly uses a comma before "therefore," which fails to properly separate the clauses and creates a comma splice. Option C introduces an unnecessary semicolon before "therefore," which disrupts the flow and is grammatically incorrect since "therefore" is not an independent clause. Option D lacks punctuation after "ceremonies," making it a run-on sentence and confusing the relationship between the ideas.
Abandoned in the attic were an old-fashioned doll, a set of trains, and a trunk full of children's clothes
  • A. Abandoned in the attic were
  • B. In the attic and abandoned,
  • C. Abandoned and in the attic, there was
  • D. It was in the attic and abandoned
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: A

Option A effectively presents the sentence with a clear subject and verb structure, maintaining a straightforward flow that emphasizes the items found in the attic. Option B disrupts the sentence's clarity by placing "in the attic" at the beginning, which can confuse the reader about what is being described. Option C introduces unnecessary complexity with "there was," making the sentence less direct and more cumbersome. Option D also complicates the structure with "it was," detracting from the focus on the items and their condition. Thus, A remains the most concise and coherent choice.
Where would the following sentence best be placed? Large and docile elands should be the preferred prey whenever they are readily available, regardless of hunters' overall sophistication.
  • A. After sentence 6
  • B. After sentence 9
  • C. After sentence 11
  • D. After sentence 14
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: B

Placing the sentence after sentence 9 logically follows the discussion on prey selection, which is likely being analyzed in that section. It introduces the specific preference for elands, enhancing the argument about hunting strategies. Option A, after sentence 6, is too early in the text, as it may interrupt the flow before the context of prey preferences is established. Option C, after sentence 11, might place it too late, missing the opportunity to connect the idea to preceding arguments. Option D, after sentence 14, risks isolating the concept of elands from the main discussion, diminishing its impact. Thus, option B maintains coherence and relevance in the narrative.
Which change is needed in the fourth paragraph?
  • A. In sentence 15, change 'immanent' to 'eminent'
  • B. In sentence 15, change 'dual' to 'duel'
  • C. In sentence 16, change 'inspire' to 'aspire'
  • D. In sentence 17, change 'proceeded' to 'preceded'
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: A

Option A is essential as it corrects a misused term; "immanent" refers to something inherent, while "eminent" describes someone prominent or distinguished, which fits the context better. Option B is incorrect because "dual" (meaning twofold) is appropriate in the context, while "duel" (a contest between two) does not convey the intended meaning. Option C misplaces "inspire" as it suggests motivating someone, whereas "aspire" (to aim for something) aligns with the intended message of ambition. Option D erroneously uses "proceeded," which implies moving forward, instead of "preceded," which correctly indicates something that came before.