Module I: Reading and Writing

SAT Practice Test 3

In today's world, where environmentally conscious practices are increasingly imperative, companies are turning to eco-friendly alternatives for their products. The production of these green items is often more costly, but consumers are willing to pay a premium for them. The shift toward more sustainable options is not just a passing trend. It is a ________ change in consumer behavior and market dynamics. Companies that fail to adapt to this change risk being left behind. These eco-friendly products not only benefit the environment but also have a positive impact on the companies' brand image and bottom line.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical and precise word or phrase?

1
Mark for Review

  permanent

  ephemeral

  fundamental

  fleeting

Computer-Aided Engineering (CAE) is a pivotal tool in the realm of contemporary engineering. It encompasses a multitude of techniques, including Finite Element Analysis (FEA), Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), and Multibody Dynamics (MBD). These techniques facilitate the prediction of product performance, evaluating its durability, safety, and resistance to potential stresses. Hence, CAE plays an integral role in the product lifecycle, helping to ______ the product's design and optimize product development. The use of CAE tools effectively reduces the necessity for physical prototypes, saving both time and resources.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical and precise word or phrase?

2
Mark for Review

  alter

  refine

  vary

  diversify

Neil Armstrong, an aeronautical engineer and astronaut, occupies a singular position in the annals of humanity's space exploration as the first person to set foot on the moon. His footprints on the lunar surface have made him an enduringly _______ figure in global history. Armstrong's influence was clear throughout his extensive career in NASA, from his pioneering Gemini missions to his historic Apollo 11 lunar landing. Under his leadership, he pushed the boundaries of human potential, bringing about awe and inspiration. In addition to advancing space exploration, he played a crucial role in inspiring millions across the globe, kindling their curiosity and imagination.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical and precise word or phrase?

3
Mark for Review

  controversial

  prolific

  infamous

  iconic

The following text is adapted from Robert Louis Stevenson's 1883 novel 'Treasure Island.' Young Jim Hawkins, aboard the ship Hispaniola, is watching Long John Silver, the ship's cook. Silver, though he was almost killed, as usual, had not only his own work to do, but a lot of Hawkins', too. He had to cook and serve; he had to clean, fetch, carry, and watch. And it was surprising, the amount of work the man could handle. He was always at it. And not only did he do it, but he did it cheerfully, whistling all the time. Hawkins watched him, fascinated.

Which choice best states the main purpose of the text?

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Mark for Review

  To demonstrate how Silver's determination and hard work help him overcome adversity on the ship.

  To criticize Hawkins for not doing his share of the work and leaving all the tasks to Silver.

  To portray Silver's remarkable work ethic and resilience, despite the demanding work aboard the ship.

  To highlight the inhumane conditions aboard the ship Hispaniola, particularly for the ship's cook.

The following text is from Edward Rowland Sill's poem "Opportunity."

This I beheld, or dreamed it in a dream:— 

There spread a cloud of dust along a plain; 

And underneath the cloud, or in it, raged 

A furious battle, and men yelled, and swords 

Shocked upon swords and shields. A prince's banner 

Wavered, then staggered backward, hemmed by foes. 

 

A craven hung along the battle's edge, 

And thought, "Had I a sword of keener steel— 

That blue blade that the king's son bears,—but this 

Blunt thing—!" He snapt and flung it from his hand, 

And lowering crept away and left the field. 

 

Then came the king's son, wounded, sore bestead, 

And weaponless, and saw the broken sword,

Hilt-buried in the dry and trodden sand, 

And ran and snatched it, and with battle-shout 

Lifted afresh, he hewed his enemy down, 

And saved a great cause that heroic day.

Which choice best describes the overall structure of the text?

5
Mark for Review

  The speaker recounts a battle scene and emphasizes the importance of bravery and resourcefulness.

  The speaker describes a cowardly soldier's hesitation and contrasts it with the heroism of a prince.

  The speaker provides an account of a battle and highlights the futility of using inadequate weapons.

  The speaker illustrates the chaos of battle and concludes with a reflection on the nature of war.

The following text is adapted from Joseph Conrad's Heart of Darkness. Marlow is a seaman who has been sent to Africa by a Belgian trading company to retrieve the ill and possibly insane Mr. Kurtz.

He was silent for a long time. 'I laid the ghost of his gifts at last with a lie,' he began suddenly. 'Girl! What? Did I mention a girl? Oh, she is out of it—completely. They—the women, I mean—are out of it—should be out of it. We must help them to stay in that beautiful world of their own, lest ours gets worse.'

Which choice best states the main purpose of the text?

6
Mark for Review

  To express Marlow's contempt for the women who are not involved in his mission

  To highlight Marlow's belief that women should remain oblivious to the harsh realities of the world

  To detail Marlow's regret about lying and his desire for redemption

  To suggest that Marlow blames women for the worsening of his world

Text 1

Organic chemistry has traditionally relied on laboratory-based synthesis methods to produce various compounds. However, this conventional approach is time-consuming, labor-intensive, and often generates hazardous waste. With the advancement of computational chemistry and machine learning, traditional synthesis methods should be completely replaced by these modern techniques. This shift would make the process more efficient, environmentally friendly, and cost-effective.

Text 2

While traditional synthesis methods in organic chemistry can be improved, they should not be entirely replaced. Computational chemistry and machine learning offer significant benefits, such as predicting reaction outcomes and optimizing conditions. However, these methods still require experimental validation and refinement. Integrating both approaches can lead to better results, combining the precision of computational methods with the empirical insights of traditional synthesis. For instance, researchers have successfully used machine learning to predict reaction pathways, which are then confirmed and improved upon through laboratory experiments.

Based on the texts, how would the author of Text 2 most likely respond to the underlined claim in Text 1?

7
Mark for Review

  By questioning the efficiency and environmental friendliness of computational chemistry and machine learning compared to traditional synthesis methods

  By agreeing that traditional synthesis methods are outdated and should be completely replaced by computational chemistry and machine learning

  By pointing out that integrating traditional synthesis methods with computational chemistry and machine learning can yield better results

  By suggesting that traditional synthesis methods should be maintained without incorporating modern techniques like computational chemistry and machine learning

Jane Goodall's pioneering work with chimpanzees in Tanzania revolutionized our understanding of animal behavior and human evolution. By living among the chimpanzees and gaining their trust, Goodall observed behaviors previously unknown to science. Her most significant finding was that chimpanzees use tools, a trait once thought to be uniquely human. This discovery challenged existing definitions of humanity and blurred the lines between humans and other species. Goodall's work provided profound insights into the cognitive abilities of chimpanzees, offering a new perspective on the evolutionary connections between primates and humans. Her research continues to influence studies in various fields, reshaping how we view not only chimpanzees but also ourselves as a species.

Which choice best states the main purpose of the text?

8
Mark for Review

  To discuss the influence of Jane Goodall’s research on global climate change initiatives.

  To describe the advancements in technology used for wildlife research since Jane Goodall's time.

  To outline the significant impact of Jane Goodall’s discovery of tool use in chimpanzees on our understanding of human evolution.

  To compare Jane Goodall's research methods with those of other contemporary primatologists.

Jean Nakamura has discovered a negative correlation between the share of countries' economies derived from semiconductor processing and those countries' levels of technological innovation. This may appear counterintuitive—semiconductor processing requires sophisticated technology and expertise at levels best met by advanced research institutions—but Nakamura notes that semiconductor industries’ cyclical nature can result in volatile market conditions and reduced funding for other research sectors. Additionally, this focus on semiconductor processing can divert talent and resources away from other areas of technological development, creating an environment where technological innovation suffers.

Which choice best states the main purpose of the text?

9
Mark for Review

  Although it may seem surprising that technological innovation declines in countries as semiconductor processing makes up a larger share of those countries’ economies, that decline happens because semiconductor processing requires sophisticated technology too advanced for widespread application.

  Although one might expect that technological innovation would increase as semiconductor processing makes up a larger share of countries’ economies, the opposite happens because heavy reliance on semiconductor processing can lead to unattractive conditions for broader technological advancement.

  Although countries tend to become less focused on technological innovation as semiconductor processing makes up a larger share of their economies, this change may not occur if the cyclical nature of the semiconductor industry leads to reduced funding for other research sectors.

  Although countries initially experience a decline in technological innovation when semiconductor processing becomes a larger part of their economies, innovation may increase significantly as these industries stabilize and the risks associated with them decline.

The Treaty of Baden, signed in 1714, was a peace agreement ending the War of Spanish Succession. Although it primarily involved European countries, the treaty had a significant impact on Asia, particularly on trade and territorial control. The Dutch, who were part of the treaty, were allowed to continue their monopoly over the spice trade in the Indonesian archipelago, thereby strengthening their control over the region. However, the British, who had also signed the treaty, saw this as an opportunity to expand their trade in India, leading to a power shift in the region.

Which of the following, if true, would most directly undermine the idea that the Treaty of Baden led to the British expansion in India?

10
Mark for Review

  The British had already established strong trade links in India prior to the Treaty of Baden.

  The Dutch saw the Treaty of Baden as an opportunity to consolidate their hold over the Indonesian archipelago.

  The British's expansion in India was mainly due to internal political changes in India, not the Treaty of Baden.

  The Treaty of Baden led to a significant reduction in the spice trade in the Indonesian archipelago.

Smart homes, equipped with advanced automation systems, are swiftly gaining popularity. These homes use Internet-connected devices to monitor and control lighting, heating, and electronic devices. However, cybersecurity expert Dr. James Foster suggests that these systems may be vulnerable to hacking. In his study, he analyzed several smart homes in Vancouver and found that despite having robust security, they had experienced more cyber attacks than traditional homes. Foster hypothesized that the complexity of smart home systems increases their exposure to cyber threats, potentially compromising their security despite advanced protective measures.

Which of the following, if true, would most directly undermine Foster’s hypothesis?

11
Mark for Review

  In some regions not in the study, smart homes are found to be less popular and are only recently being equipped with advanced automation systems.

  In several regions not included in the study, there are many smart homes without advanced automation systems but have not experienced any cyber attacks.

  In several regions not included in the study, the frequency of cyber attacks on smart homes does not correlate with the complexity of their automation systems.

  In some regions in the study, the number of cyber attacks on electronic devices unrelated to home automation correlates directly with the complexity of the devices.

Scholar

Year

Estimation Method

Approximate Impact (Citations)

Smith

2015

citation analysis

1000-1500

Johnson

2018

subsequent works analysis

500-700

Williams

2020

hybrid analysis

800-1200

Brown

2017

citation analysis

1050-1600

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Alan Turing, a pioneer in the field of computer science and artificial intelligence, was also a noted cryptanalyst. However, the methods used to quantify his contributions vary widely. Some scholars judge Turing's impact by the number of citations his works receive, while others measure the number of subsequent works that build on his ideas. The method used can greatly influence the perceived magnitude of Turing's contributions.

Which choice best describes data from the table that supports the idea that the method used can greatly influence the perceived magnitude of Turing's contributions?

12
Mark for Review

  The study by Smith used citation analysis and produced the lowest estimated impact, while the study by Johnson used subsequent works analysis and produced the highest estimated impact.

  The impact estimates produced by Smith and by Brown were similar to each other, while the estimates produced by Johnson and by Williams each differed substantially from any other estimate.

  In their study, Johnson used subsequent works analysis to produce an estimated impact range with a minimum of 500 citations and a maximum of 700 citations.

  The estimated impact produced by Smith exceeded the estimated impact produced by Brown, even though both scholars used the same method to estimate impact.

James Cook is renowned for his Pacific exploration during the 18th century. His voyages led to the mapping of previously uncharted territories, contributing significantly to the Western understanding of the Pacific region. Cook's third voyage, aimed at finding the Northwest Passage, ended with his death in Hawaii, but not before his crew had made contact with the local populace. The exchanges that took place during these encounters often resulted in cultural exchange. However, Cook's explorations were not without controversy. Some have criticized him for his role in the spread of European influence in the Pacific, arguing that his voyages led to the disruption of indigenous societies and economies. This criticism raises the question of whether Cook's explorations, despite their contributions to geographic knowledge, may have had the unintended effect of _______.

Which choice most logically completes the text?

13
Mark for Review

  enhancing the scientific understanding of the Pacific.

  promoting global awareness of the Pacific cultures.

  undermining the sovereignty and customs of indigenous societies.

  facilitating the spread of European diseases in the Pacific.

Coral reefs, often referred to as the 'rainforests of the sea', support an extraordinary diversity of life. However, they are facing severe threats due to climate change. Rising sea temperatures, more frequent and severe weather events, and ocean acidification due to increased carbon dioxide levels are all impacting coral reefs. The long-term survival of these ecosystems is in jeopardy. According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), if global warming continues to increase at the current rate, the majority of coral reefs worldwide could be lost by 2050. Scientists and conservationists are working tirelessly to find solutions to mitigate these impacts. However, the escalating climate crisis suggests that _______.

Which choice most logically completes the text?

14
Mark for Review

  without more substantial and immediate global efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, these measures will likely prove insufficient.

  the majority of marine life will be able to adapt to the changing conditions in coral reef ecosystems.

  most coral reefs will be able to recover naturally from the impacts of climate change within a few decades.

  the impact of climate change on coral reefs is not as severe as previously thought, and recovery is expected soon.

The recent meeting of the environmental committee was both productive and enlightening. The members discussed various strategies to enhance the city's green initiatives. The committee focused on ______ sustainability, innovation, and community engagement. Each member brought forward proposals, such as implementing renewable energy sources, fostering technology-based solutions for waste management, and organizing community clean-up events. These discussions highlighted the committee's commitment to creating a more eco-friendly and sustainable urban environment.

Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?

15
Mark for Review

  three key areas:

  three key areas,

  three key areas

  three key areas;

Consider the mechanics of the electric motor: electrical energy is converted into mechanical energy, resulting in the rotation of a shaft. A schematic reveals this ______ the interaction between the magnetic field and electric current generates a force, causing the shaft to spin continuously, producing useful work.

Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?

16
Mark for Review

  works. Because

  works because

  works, it’s because

  works: it’s because

The team faced significant challenges in the _____ their determination never wavered. They had to work with limited resources and tight deadlines, which required innovative solutions and efficient time management. Each member brought unique skills to the table; their collaboration was a testament to their collective expertise and commitment. Despite the obstacles, they managed to complete the project ahead of schedule; this success not only boosted their confidence but also garnered praise from the company's leadership.

Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?

17
Mark for Review

  project nevertheless,

  project - nevertheless,

  project: nevertheless,

  project; nevertheless,

Marine Systems Engineering is a specialized field of engineering that deals with the design, development, and maintenance of systems used in the marine environment. These systems include propulsion systems, electrical systems, and navigation systems. Engineers in this field often work on ships, submarines, and offshore platforms. They _____ ensuring that these systems function properly and efficiently.

Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?

18
Mark for Review

  is responsible for

  were responsible for

  are responsible for

  be responsible for

In culinary arts, combining ingredients in a harmonious way is essential. Chefs often experiment with different combinations to create unique dishes. The balance of flavors is crucial to achieving a delightful taste experience. When spices are mixed correctly, each ingredient can enhance the overall flavor profile. When a chef blends various spices, the mixture of flavors ______ the uniqueness of each ingredient.

Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?

19
Mark for Review

  enhance

  enhances

  have enhanced

  is enhancing

Louis Pasteur was a renowned French chemist and microbiologist in the 19th century. He is best known for his remarkable breakthroughs in the causes and prevention of diseases. His experiments supported the germ theory of disease, which was controversial at the time. _____ to the development of vaccines for diseases. His scientific achievements have greatly contributed to the fields of medicine and biology.

Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?

20
Mark for Review

  Pasteur's work also leads

  Pasteur's work also led

  Pasteur's work also leading

  Pasteur's work also lead

The Treaty of Kyakhta, signed in 1727, was a significant diplomatic agreement between the Russian Empire and the Qing dynasty of China. The treaty established the northern border of China and allowed for mutual trade. _____ by both parties, ensuring peace and stability in the region for many years.

Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?

21
Mark for Review

  The treaty's terms is strictly adhered to

  The treaty's terms were strictly adhered to

  The treaty's terms has been strictly adhered to

  The treaty's terms are strictly adhered to

In the realm of classical literature, the tragic hero is a cornerstone concept. These characters are typically endowed with a fatal flaw that leads to their downfall, offering audiences profound insights into the human condition. _____ Shakespeare's Hamlet embodies this archetype perfectly, his indecisiveness and contemplation leading inevitably to tragedy and reflecting the complexities of human psychology

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

22
Mark for Review

  Specifically,

  Thus,

  Regardless,

  Similarly,

The Tango Argentino is a partner dance that originated in the late 19th century from the African communities in Buenos Aires. It was initially looked down upon by the Argentine society as it was associated with African culture and the lower classes. ______ by the early 20th century, it had gained popularity and was embraced by all classes of society.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

23
Mark for Review

  Alternatively,

  Similarly,

  However,

  Additionally,

The Day of the Dead, or Día de los Muertos, is a holiday celebrated in Mexico and by Mexican communities around the world. It is a time to honor and celebrate deceased loved ones. Families create altars filled with photographs, favorite foods, and significant artifacts from the lives of the departed. _______ the holiday also carries a social message reminding individuals of their own mortality and the preciousness of life.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

24
Mark for Review

  Conversely,

  However,

  Alternatively,

  Furthermore,

While researching a topic, a student has taken the following notes:

• Dr. Emilia Rivera is a noted marine biologist.

• Between 2001 and 2018, she discovered and catalogued over 500 marine species.

• She discovered a new species of coral, Acropora riviera, off the coast of the Great Barrier Reef in July 2005.

• She identified a rare species of jellyfish, Aurelia aurita, in the waters near the Galápagos Islands in May 2010.

• Both Acropora riviera and Aurelia aurita are significant findings in marine biology.

The student wants to emphasize the coral species discovered off the coast of the Great Barrier Reef. Which choice most effectively uses relevant information from the notes to accomplish this goal?

25
Mark for Review

  Dr. Emilia Rivera is a marine biologist known for cataloguing over 500 marine species between 2001 and 2018.

  Among the many marine species Dr. Emilia Rivera discovered was Acropora riviera, a new coral species she found off the coast of the Great Barrier Reef in 2005.

  Between 2001 and 2018, Dr. Emilia Rivera discovered many marine species, including Acropora riviera from the Great Barrier Reef and Aurelia aurita from the Galápagos Islands.

  Between 2001 and 2018, Dr. Emilia Rivera discovered species of both coral and jellyfish, including Acropora riviera and Aurelia aurita.

While researching a topic, a student has taken the following notes:

• Leif Erikson was a Norse explorer from Iceland.

• He is believed to have been the first known European to set foot on continental North America, excluding Greenland, nearly 500 years before Christopher Columbus.

• His journey to North America was recorded in Norse sagas.

• Some historians propose that his landing place could have been in Newfoundland, Canada.

• Leif Erikson Day is celebrated in the United States on October 9th to honor his contribution to the discovery of North America.

The student wants to convey the significance of Leif Erikson in the history of North American exploration. Which choice most effectively uses relevant information from the notes to accomplish this goal?

26
Mark for Review

  Leif Erikson, a Norse explorer from Iceland, made a significant impact on the history of North American exploration by being the first European to land on the continent, a feat he accomplished nearly 500 years before Christopher Columbus.

  Leif Erikson was a Norse explorer from Iceland, and his journey to North America is remembered every year on October 9th in the United States, known as Leif Erikson Day.

  Leif Erikson, whose journey to North America was recorded in Norse sagas, is believed to have landed in Newfoundland, Canada, which is now celebrated as Leif Erikson Day in the United States.

  As a Norse explorer from Iceland, Leif Erikson is known for his travels to North America, which were significant events documented in the Norse sagas.

While researching a topic, a student has taken the following notes:

• Ovid's Metamorphoses is a Latin epic poem, considered one of the most influential works of literature ever written.

• It has had a profound impact on Roman literature, inspiring authors like Virgil and Horace.

• Virgil's Aeneid, in particular, contains several allusions to Metamorphoses.

• Horace's Odes also reflect the influence of Ovid's work, particularly in its narrative style and thematic elements.

• Metamorphoses' themes of transformation and change have resonated with generations of Roman writers.

The student wants to demonstrate the influence of Ovid's Metamorphoses on Roman literature. Which choice most effectively uses relevant information from the notes to accomplish this goal?

27
Mark for Review

  Ovid's Metamorphoses, a monumental work in Latin literature, directly influenced Roman literary giants like Virgil and Horace, as evidenced by the allusions in Virgil's Aeneid and the stylistic elements in Horace's Odes.

  Ovid's Metamorphoses is a renowned Latin epic poem that has themes of transformation, which are interesting to note in the context of Roman literature.

  The Metamorphoses by Ovid, while a significant work, primarily impacted the development of Latin poetic structures rather than narrative content in Roman literature.

  Ovid's Metamorphoses, though a notable Latin poem, had a limited influence on subsequent Roman literature and was overshadowed by the works of Virgil and Horace.