泛美国际
Name_
Date
• A na l o g i e s 1
Level 7
Directions: Choose the pair of words that
best express a relationship similar to that
of the original pair. Then write the bridge
sentence(s) to the right.
A finger is part of a hand.
A leaf is part of a tree.
Example:
Bridge Type: Degree
#) FASCINATING : INTERESTING
A)
B)
C)
D)
amazing : incredible
serious : grave
crucial : important
strange : weird
Bridge Type: Characteristic
1) SLAVE : SUBMISSIVE
A)
B)
C)
D)
murderer : violent
circus : laughable
professor : ignorant
professional : bossy
Bridge Sentence:
A characteristic of a slave is to be submissive.
A characteristic of a
_.
is to be
Bridge Type: Function
2) PIPE : WATER
A)
B)
C)
D)
bottle : wine
artery : paint
vein : blood
nozzle : hose
Bridge Sentence:
The function of a pipe is to conduct water.
The function of a
_.
is to conduct
Bridge Type: Characteristic
3) DREAMER : IDEALISTIC
A)
B)
C)
D)
judge : legal
cynic : critical
parent : feminine
novice : skilled
Bridge Sentence:
A characteristic of a dreamer is to be
idealistic.
A characteristic of
_.
is to be
Bridge Type: Definition
4) VERDICT : JUDGMENT
A)
B)
C)
D)
jet : helicopter
observation : science
principal : school
infant : baby
© Copyright PICEC, 2013. All rights reserved.
Bridge Sentence:
A verdict is, by definition, a judgment.
A/an
is, by definition, a
_.
1
Bridge Type: Degree
5) CRUEL : UNKIND
A)
B)
C)
D)
graceful : flexible
vicious : aggressive
frightening : spooky
evil : insane
Bridge Sentence:
Someone who is cruel is very unkind.
Someone who is
_.
is very
Bridge Type: Type/Kind
6) SQUARE : QUADRILATERAL
A)
B)
C)
D)
rifle : weapon
instrument : violin
pattern : plaid
airplane : spacecraft
Bridge Sentence:
A square is a type of quadrilateral.
A
is a type of
.
Bridge Type: Lack
7) CLUMSY : GRACE
A)
B)
C)
D)
doubtful : faith
determined : work
rich : charity
beautiful : love
Bridge Sentence:
Someone who is clumsy lacks grace.
.
Bridge Type: Definition (Antonyms)
8) PERMANENT : TEMPORARY
A)
B)
C)
D)
ordinary : plain
imaginary : fake
astonishing : surprising
skeptical : trusting
Bridge Sentence:
Permanent is the opposite of temporary.
.
Bridge Type: Definition
9) ATTORNEY : LAWYER
A)
B)
C)
D)
worker : secretary
flower : daffodil
dog : canine
doctor : dentist
Bridge Sentence:
By definition, an attorney is a lawyer.
.
Bridge Type: Type/Kind
10) RAIN : PRECIPITATION
A)
B)
C)
D)
Bridge Sentence:
salmon : seafood
snow : tundra
jungle : desert
pet : hamster
© Copyright PICEC, 2013. All rights reserved.
.
.
2
Answers and Explanations
1) A
A slave is someone who is forced to do work. Submissive means following orders, or the opposite of dominant. Thus, a
characteristic of a slave is to be submissive. A murderer is someone who kills others. Thus, a characteristic of a murderer is to
be violent. Therefore (A) is correct.
2) C
The function of a pipe is to conduct water. The function of a vein is to conduct blood. Therefore (C) is correct.
3) B
Idealistic means believing strongly in one’s ideals regardless of how unrealistic they may be. Thus, a characteristic of a
dreamer is to be idealistic. A cynic is a skeptical or negative person. Critical means judgmental, or behaving like a critic. Thus,
a characteristic of a cynic is to be critical. Therefore (B) is correct.
4) D
A verdict is, by definition, a judgment. An infant is, by definition, a baby. Therefore (D) is correct.
5) B
Cruel means mercilessly evil or violent. Thus, someone who is cruel is very unkind. Vicious means ruthless and fierce. Thus,
someone who is vicious is very aggressive. Therefore (B) is correct.
6) A
A square is a type of quadrilateral, or 4-sided shape. A rifle is a type of weapon. Therefore (A) is correct.
7) A
Clumsy means awkward or klutzy. Grace is the quality of being effortlessly coordinated or skilled. Thus, someone who is
clumsy lacks grace. Someone who is doubtful lacks faith, or belief. Therefore (A) is correct.
8) D
Permanent is the opposite of temporary, or impermanent. Skeptical, or unbelieving, is the opposite of trusting. Therefore (D) is
correct.
9) C
By definition, an attorney is a lawyer. By definition, a dog is a canine. Therefore (C) is correct.
10) A
Precipitation is any water or ice that falls from the sky. Thus, rain is a type of precipitation. Salmon is a type of fish. Thus,
salmon is a type of seafood. Therefore (A) is correct.
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3
泛美国际
Name_
Date
• A na l o g i e s 2
Level 7
Directions: Choose the pair of words that
best express a relationship similar to that
of the original pair. Then write the bridge
sentence(s) to the right.
Example:
Bridge Type: Degree
#) FASCINATING : INTERESTING
A)
B)
C)
D)
A finger is part of a hand.
A leaf is part of a tree.
amazing : incredible
serious : grave
crucial : important
strange : weird
Bridge Type: Lack
1) CORRUPT : MORALS
A)
B)
C)
D)
talented : skill
rude : intelligence
fortunate : money
ruthless : mercy
Bridge Sentence:
Someone who is corrupt lacks morals.
Someone who is a
_.
lacks
Bridge Type: Type/Kind
2) DEMOCRACY : GOVERNMENT
A)
B)
C)
D)
master : slave
storm : blizzard
sonnet : poem
tribe : family
Bridge Sentence:
A democracy is a type of government.
A
is a type of
.
Bridge Type: Definition (Antonyms)
3) COWARDLY : BRAVE
A)
B)
C)
D)
numerous : many
foolish : wise
awful : dreadful
anxious : nervous
Bridge Sentence:
Cowardly is the opposite of brave.
is the opposite of
.
Bridge Type: Characteristic
4) KNIGHT : CHIVALROUS
A)
B)
C)
D)
flower : fragrant
daughter : rebellious
conversation : short
disease : curable
© Copyright PICEC, 2013. All rights reserved.
Bridge Sentence:
A characteristic of a knight is to be chivalrous.
A characteristic of a
_.
is to be
1
Bridge Type: Part to Whole
5) BUCKLE : BELT
A)
B)
C)
D)
suit : tie
shovel : pit
summer : season
month : year
Bridge Sentence:
A buckle is part of a belt.
A
is part of a
.
Bridge Type: Type/Kind
6) BLIZZARD : STORM
A)
B)
C)
D)
novelist : writer
boat : submarine
radio : television
organization : party
Bridge Sentence:
A blizzard is a type of storm.
A
is a type of
.
Bridge Type: Other
7) CARNIVORE : MEAT
A)
B)
C)
D)
vegetarian : wheat
herbivore : plants
omnivore : food
vegan : pastries
Bridge Sentence:
A carnivore eats only meat.
.
Bridge Type: Definition
8) HONEST : SINCERE
A)
B)
C)
D)
solitary : alone
peaceful : nervous
vengeful : forgiving
religious : doubtful
Bridge Sentence:
By definition, someone who is honest is also
sincere.
.
Bridge Type: Function
9) ACADEMY : EDUCATE
A)
B)
C)
D)
Bridge Sentence:
court : blame
trailer : roam
jail : imprison
café : ingest
.
.
Bridge Type: Type/Kind
10) RECTANGLE : SHAPE
A)
B)
C)
D)
dealer : employer
deer : antelope
telephone : call
assault : crime
© Copyright PICEC, 2013. All rights reserved.
Bridge Sentence:
.
.
2
Answers and Explanations
1) D
Someone who is corrupt behaves in a way that he or she knows is wrong, especially when this behavior conflicts with the
expectations of a government worker. Thus, someone who is corrupt lacks morals. Someone who is ruthless, or merciless,
lacks mercy, or forgiveness. Therefore (D) is correct.
2) C
A democracy is a type of government in which people vote to make decisions. A sonnet is a type of poem with fourteen lines.
Therefore (C) is correct.
3) B
Cowardly is the opposite of brave. Foolish is the opposite of wise. Therefore (B) is correct.
4) A
Chivalrous means behaving with chivalry or respect. A characteristic of a knight is to be chivalrous. Fragrant means having a
noticeable smell. Thus, a characteristic of a flower is to be fragrant. Therefore (A) is correct.
5) D
A buckle is part of a belt. A month is part of a year. Therefore (D) is correct.
6) A
A blizzard is a type of storm involving ice and snow. A novelist is a type of writer who writes novels. Therefore (A) is correct.
7) B
A carnivore is any creature that eats only meat. An herbivore is any creature that eats only plants. Therefore (B) is correct.
8) A
By definition, someone who is honest is also sincere. By definition, someone who is solitary is also alone. Therefore (A) is
correct.
9) C
The purpose of an academy, or school, is to educate people. The purpose of a jail is to imprison people. Therefore (C) is correct.
10) D
A rectangle is a type of shape with four parallel sides. An assault is a type of crime that involves harming another person’s
body. Therefore (D) is correct.
© Copyright PICEC, 2013. All rights reserved.
3
泛美国际
Name_
Date
• A na l o g i e s 3
Level 7
Directions: Choose the pair of words that
best express a relationship similar to that
of the original pair. Then write the bridge
sentence(s) to the right.
Example:
Bridge Type: Degree
#) FASCINATING : INTERESTING
A)
B)
C)
D)
A finger is part of a hand.
A leaf is part of a tree.
amazing : incredible
serious : grave
crucial : important
strange : weird
Bridge Type: Part to Whole
1) SENATE : CONGRESS
A)
B)
C)
D)
cinema : theater
lobby : hotel
judge : chamber
government : democracy
Bridge Sentence:
The Senate is part of Congress.
A
is part of a
.
Bridge Type: Definition (Antonyms)
2) SUCCESS : FAILURE
A)
B)
C)
D)
grief : sadness
debt : loss
virtue : evil
life : birth
Bridge Sentence:
Success is the opposite of failure.
is the opposite of
.
Bridge Type: Degree
3) HEINOUS : EVIL
A)
B)
C)
D)
tremendous : large
old : antique
distressed : flawed
possible : probable
Bridge Sentence:
Something that is heinous is very evil.
Something that is
very
_.
is
Bridge Type: Function
4) SCRIBE : WRITE
A)
B)
C)
D)
mother : reign
tribute : offend
translator : read
watchman : guard
© Copyright PICEC, 2013. All rights reserved.
Bridge Sentence:
The function of a scribe is to write.
The function of a
_.
is to sell
1
Bridge Type: Characteristic
5) GLASS : DELICATE
A)
B)
C)
D)
air : bearable
stone : gray
cola : bubbly
peace : eternal
Bridge Sentence:
A characteristic of glass is to be delicate.
A characteristic of a
_.
is to be
Bridge Type: Definition
6) CAT : FELINE
A)
B)
C)
D)
book : novel
blunder : mistake
theatre : play
automobile : tank
Bridge Sentence:
By definition, a cat is a feline.
.
Bridge Type: Type/Kind
7) HOBBY : PASTIME
A)
B)
C)
D)
emperor : leader
producer : product
skill : sport
player : athlete
Bridge Sentence:
A hobby is a type of pastime.
.
Bridge Type: Definition (Antonyms)
8) AMBITIOUS : LAZY
A)
B)
C)
D)
Bridge Sentence:
embarrassed : timid
talkative : loud
friendly : gregarious
insecure : confident
.
.
Bridge Type: Lack
9) CAREFREE : WORRIES
A)
B)
C)
D)
Bridge Sentence:
hesitant : doubt
ignorant : knowledge
pleasing : happiness
lovely : affection
.
.
Bridge Type: Characteristic
10) MASTER : DOMINANT
A)
B)
C)
D)
nation : powerful
activist : naive
worker : impoverished
ghost : ethereal
© Copyright PICEC, 2013. All rights reserved.
Bridge Sentence:
.
.
2
Answers and Explanations
1) B
The Senate is part of Congress. A lobby is part of a hotel. Therefore (B) is correct.
2) C
Success is the opposite of failure. Virtue is the state of being morally good. Thus, virtue is the opposite of evil. Therefore (C) is
correct.
3) A
Something that is heinous is very evil. Something that is tremendous is very large. Therefore (A) is correct.
4) D
A scribe is a person who writes down the thoughts or quotations of others. Thus, the function of a scribe is to write. The
function of a watchman is to guard. Therefore (D) is correct.
5) C
A characteristic of glass is to be delicate or fragile. A characteristic of cola is to be bubbly. Therefore (C) is correct.
6) B
By definition, a cat is a feline. By definition, a blunder is a mistake. Therefore (B) is correct.
7) A
A hobby is a type of pastime. An emperor is a type of leader. Therefore (A) is correct.
8) D
Ambitious means working hard to achieve one’s dreams. Thus, ambitious is the opposite of lazy. Insecure means uncertain.
Thus, insecure is the opposite of confident. Therefore (D) is correct.
9) B
Someone who is carefree lacks worries. Someone who is ignorant lacks knowledge. Therefore (B) is correct.
10) D
A characteristic of a master is to be dominant, or commanding. A characteristic of a ghost is to be ethereal, or supernatural.
Therefore (D) is correct.
© Copyright PICEC, 2013. All rights reserved.
3
泛美国际
Name_
Date
• Antonyms 1
Level 7
Directions: Choose the word that is most nearly opposite in meaning to the word in capital letters.
1. COUNTERFEIT
6. FRUITLESS
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
unmarked
assumed
fraudulent
genuine
specific
useless
futile
purposeful
mirthful
profitable
2. ABRUPT
7. MURKY
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
hurried
impulsive
methodical
reluctant
gradual
luminous
charitable
smoky
miserable
upright
3. BYSTANDER
8. UTMOST
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
participant
detective
colleague
pedestrian
witness
remotest
minimal
supreme
limitless
mediocre
4. INFAMOUS
9. COW
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
sincere
glorious
notorious
outrageous
innocent
condense
chill
comfort
startle
elate
5. GRIM
10. LAVISH
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
meek
grave
lighthearted
hopeful
passionate
© Copyright PICEC, 2013. All rights reserved.
unsightly
petite
awful
economical
grand
1
Answers and Explanations
1) D
The word counterfeit means forged or not genuine. Counterfeit money is fake currency that is designed to look exactly like
real money. The opposite of counterfeit is real or authentic. Because genuine means real or authentic, choice (D) is
correct.
(A) is incorrect because unmarked means not noticeable or not having a visible mark. This is not the opposite of
counterfeit, since counterfeit is not synonymous with marked.
(B) is incorrect because assumed means pretended or fictitious. This is practically synonymous with counterfeit, not the
opposite of it.
(C) is incorrect because fraudulent means marked by deception or fraud. This is practically synonymous with counterfeit,
not the opposite of it.
(E) is incorrect because specific means clearly defined or identified. This is not the opposite of counterfeit.
2) E
The word abrupt means sudden and unexpected. A boxing match might come to an abrupt end if one boxer knocks out
the other boxer in the first round. The opposite of abrupt is slow or expected. Because gradual means progressing slowly
or by degrees, choice (E) is correct.
(A) is incorrect because hurried means rushed. This is not the opposite of abrupt.
(B) is incorrect because impulsive means acting or done without forethought. This is not the opposite of abrupt.
(C) is incorrect because methodical means done according to a systematic procedure. This is not the opposite of abrupt,
because methodical is not synonymous with slow.
(D) is incorrect because reluctant means hesitant. This is not the opposite of abrupt.
3) A
The word bystander means a person who is at an event but does not take part in it. For instance, someone who witnesses
a traffic accident but is not a driver of any of the vehicles involved in the accident is a bystander. The opposite of
bystander is someone who takes part in an event or incident. Because a participant is a person who takes part in
something, choice (A) is correct.
(B) is incorrect because a detective is a person who investigates and solves crimes. This is not the opposite of bystander.
(C) is incorrect because a colleague is a coworker. This is not the opposite of a bystander, since a coworker does not
necessarily partake in an event or incident outside of work.
(D) is incorrect because a pedestrian is a person walking a road in a developed area. This is not the opposite of
bystander, since a pedestrian does not necessarily take part in an event or incident, unless the incident involves walking.
(E) is incorrect because a witness is someone who sees an event or incident take place. This is practically synonymous
with bystander, not the opposite of it.
4) B
The word infamous means well known for a bad quality or deed. For example, Bonnie and Clyde were infamous for
robbing banks. The opposite of infamous is famous for a good deed. Because glorious means worthy of admiration and
fame, choice (B) is correct.
(A) is incorrect because sincere means genuine. This is not the opposite of infamous.
(C) is incorrect because notorious means famous for a bad quality or deed. This is synonymous with infamous, not the
opposite of it.
(D) is incorrect because outrageous means shockingly bad. This is practically synonymous with infamous, not the
opposite of it.
(E) is incorrect because innocent means not guilty of a crime or offense. This is not the opposite of infamous, because
one who is innocent is not necessarily well known.
5) C
The word grim means having a somber, gloomy, or morbid air. Someone at a funeral would likely have a grim expression.
The opposite of grim is cheery or joyous. Because lighthearted means cheerful and carefree, choice (C) is correct.
© Copyright PICEC, 2013. All rights reserved.
2
(A) is incorrect because meek means quiet and submissive. This is not the opposite of grim.
(B) is incorrect because grave means serious or alarming. This is not the opposite of grim.
(D) is incorrect because hopeful means feeling optimism about the future. This is not the opposite of grim, because grim is
not synonymous with pessimistic.
(E) is incorrect because passionate means having strong feeling or emotion. This is not the opposite of grim.
6) E
The word fruitless means unproductive or useless. If one fails to achieve a goal, then his or her efforts to achieve the goal
are fruitless. The opposite of fruitless is fruitful, useful, or productive. Because profitable means beneficial or useful,
choice (E) is correct.
(A) is incorrect because useless means not achieving the desired outcome. This is synonymous with fruitless, not the
opposite of it.
(B) is incorrect because futile means useless or pointless. This is synonymous with fruitless, not the opposite of it.
(C) is incorrect because purposeful means having a reason to do something. This is not the opposite of fruitless, because
having a purpose and fulfilling a purpose are not the same thing.
(D) is incorrect because mirthful means merry or amusing. This is not the opposite of fruitless.
7) A
The word murky means dark and not clear. The water of a polluted river would be described as murky, since one cannot
see through it. The opposite of murky is bright or clear. Because luminous means bright or shining, choice (A) is correct.
(B) is incorrect because charitable means generous. This is not the opposite of murky.
(C) is incorrect because smoky means full of smoke or haze. This is not the opposite of murky.
(D) is incorrect because miserable means very sad or depressed. This is not the opposite of murky.
(E) is incorrect because upright means strictly moral or honest. This is not the opposite of murky, since murky is not
synonymous with immoral.
8) B
The word utmost means most extreme or greatest. If one takes the utmost care of something, then he or she is taking the
most care possible. The opposite of utmost is least. Because minimal means the lowest amount possible, choice (B) is
correct.
(A) is incorrect because remotest means most isolated. This is not the opposite of utmost.
(C) is incorrect because supreme means very great or intense. This is practically synonymous with utmost, not the
opposite of it.
(D) is incorrect because limitless means having no extremes or boundaries. This is not the opposite of utmost, since being
at the extreme is not the opposite of lacking an extreme.
(E) is incorrect because mediocre means average or of moderate quality. This is not the opposite of utmost, since
mediocre is not synonymous with least.
9) C
The word cow means to frighten with threats. When one intimidates another, he or she cows the other person. The
opposite of cow is to calm or make someone not be frightened. Because comfort means to make someone feel at ease,
choice (C) is correct.
(A) is incorrect because condense means to make more compact or denser. This is not the opposite of cow.
(B) is incorrect because chill means to make cold or chilly. This is not the opposite of cow.
(D) is incorrect because startle means to frighten or shock. This is nearly synonymous with cow, not the opposite of it.
(E) is incorrect because elate means to make someone very happy. This is not the opposite of cow, since frighten is not
synonymous with depress or sadden.
10) D
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3
The word lavish means luxurious and extravagant. A lavish dinner party would cost a lot of money and serve many fancy,
expensive foods. The opposite of lavish is affordable or lacking in luxury. Because economical means not extravagant,
choice (D) is correct.
(A) is incorrect because unsightly means unattractive. This is not the opposite of lavish, because lavish is not
synonymous with attractive.
(B) is incorrect because petite means small. This is not the opposite of lavish, because lavish is not synonymous with
large.
(C) is incorrect because awful means terrible or very bad. This is not the opposite of lavish, because lavish is not
synonymous with very good.
(E) is incorrect because grand means magnificent in appearance or luxury. This is practically synonymous with lavish, not
the opposite of it.
© Copyright PICEC, 2013. All rights reserved.
4
泛美国际
Name_
Date
• Antonyms 2
Level 7
Directions: Choose the word that is most nearly opposite in meaning to the word in capital letters.
1. WARY
6. RECEDE
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
rash
conscientious
daring
thrifty
indiscreet
wane
advance
exaggerate
taper
stockpile
2. IRATE
7. CORRUPT
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
bitter
riled
courteous
content
annoyed
wicked
dishonest
sanitary
principled
reliable
3. SUBSTANTIAL
8. FIASCO
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
impoverished
affluent
insignificant
suffering
abundant
miracle
blunder
triumph
catastrophe
flop
4. QUENCH
9. POISED
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
stifle
soak
disappoint
allay
parch
collected
comfortable
distracted
unemotional
anxious
5. NURTURE
10. PEEVISH
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
neglect
underestimate
mother
treasure
detest
© Copyright PICEC, 2013. All rights reserved.
morose
patient
flattering
crusty
excitable
1
Answers and Explanations
1) A
The word wary means cautious. Someone who is wary thinks about the consequences of an action before doing it. The
opposite of wary is reckless or incautious. Because rash means displaying a lack of careful consideration of the possible
consequences of an action, choice (A) is correct.
(B) is incorrect because conscientious means meticulous or careful. This is nearly synonymous with wary, not the
opposite of it.
(C) is incorrect because daring means brave. This is not the opposite of wary, because one can be both brave and
cautious.
(D) is incorrect because thrifty means using money carefully. This is not the opposite of wary.
(E) is incorrect because indiscreet means having too great a readiness to reveal private information. This is not the
opposite of wary.
2) D
The word irate means extremely angry. When something aggravates someone who is already mad, that person might
become irate. The opposite of irate is calm. Because content means in a state of peaceful happiness, choice (D) is
correct.
(A) is incorrect because bitter means angry or hurt. This is practically synonymous with irate, not the opposite of it.
(B) is incorrect because riled means irritated. This is practically synonymous with irate, not the opposite of it.
(C) is incorrect because courteous means polite. This is not the opposite of irate, since irate is not synonymous with
impolite.
(E) is incorrect because annoyed means irritated. This is practically synonymous with irate, not the opposite of it.
3) C
The word substantial means of considerable import, size, or worth. A substantial donation to a hospital would fairly large.
The opposite of substantial is unimportant or small in size. Because insignificant means too small or unimportant to be
worth consideration, choice (C) is correct.
(A) is incorrect because impoverished means poor or lacking in money. This is not the opposite of substantial, because it
is too limited in meaning. Substantial does not only refer to money.
(B) is incorrect because affluent means wealthy. This is not the opposite of substantial.
(D) is incorrect because suffering means experiencing pain or discomfort. This is not the opposite of substantial.
(E) is incorrect because abundant means plentiful. This is not the opposite of substantial.
4) E
The word quench means to satisfy thirst by drinking. When you have a drink of water, you are quenching your thirst. The
opposite of quench is to make thirsty. Because parch means to make dry or thirsty, choice (E) is correct.
(A) is incorrect because stifle means to quell or end by force. This is not the opposite of quench.
(B) is incorrect because soak means to thoroughly wet. This is similar in meaning to quench, not the opposite of it.
(C) is incorrect because disappoint means to fail to fulfill the hopes of someone. This is not the opposite of quench,
because quench is not synonymous with please.
(D) is incorrect because allay means to relieve or alleviate. This is not the opposite of quench.
5) A
The word nurture means to care for and aid in development. If one feeds a cat, he or she is nurturing it. The opposite of
nurture is to disregard or ignore. Because neglect means to ignore, choice (A) is correct.
(B) is incorrect because underestimate means to regard someone as less capable than he or she really is. This is not the
opposite of nurture.
(C) is incorrect because mother means to look after kindly and protectively. This is practically synonymous with nurture,
not the opposite of it.
© Copyright PICEC, 2013. All rights reserved.
2
(D) is incorrect because treasure means to value highly. This is not the opposite of nurture.
(E) is incorrect because detest means to hate. This is not the opposite of nurture, because nurture is not synonymous with
love.
6) B
The word recede means to move back or further away from a previous position. If an army retreats, it recedes from its
current position. The opposite of recede is to move forward. Because advance means to move forward, choice (B) is
correct.
(A) is incorrect because wane means to decrease in strength or power. This is not the opposite of recede.
(C) is incorrect because exaggerate means to represent something as being larger than it really is. This is not the
opposite of recede.
(D) is incorrect because taper means to diminish at one end. This is practically synonymous with recede, not the opposite
of it.
(E) is incorrect because stockpile means to accumulate a large supply of something. This is not the opposite of recede,
since stockpile is not synonymous with advance.
7) D
The word corrupt means evil or morally depraved. A politician who gives bribes in exchange for votes is corrupt. The
opposite of corrupt is moral. Because principled means acting in accordance with morality, choice (D) is correct.
(A) is incorrect because wicked means evil. This is synonymous with corrupt, not the opposite of it.
(B) is incorrect because dishonest means untruthful. This is not the opposite of corrupt.
(C) is incorrect because sanitary means hygienic and clean. This is not the opposite of corrupt, since being moral and
being clean are not synonymous.
(E) is incorrect because reliable means dependable. This is not the opposite of corrupt, since corrupt is not synonymous
with undependable.
8) C
The word fiasco means something that is a complete failure, especially in a humiliating way. For example, if one threw a
party and none of the guests came, it would be a fiasco. The opposite of fiasco is a success. Because a triumph is a great
success or victory, choice (C) is correct.
(A) is incorrect because a miracle is a surprising and welcome event that cannot be explained by science. This is not the
opposite of fiasco, because it is too limited in meaning.
(B) is incorrect because a blunder is a stupid or careless mistake. This is not the opposite of fiasco.
(D) is incorrect because a catastrophe is a disaster or total failure. This is synonymous with fiasco, not the opposite of it.
(E) is incorrect because a flop is a total failure. This is synonymous with fiasco, not the opposite of it.
9) E
The word poised means composed and self-assured. Someone who does not get nervous under pressure would be
described as poised. The opposite of poised is rattled, upset, or nervous. Because anxious means nervous or worried,
choice (E) is correct.
(A) is incorrect because collected means not perturbed or distracted. This is practically synonymous with poised, not the
opposite of it.
(B) is incorrect because comfortable means free from discomfort, tension, or stress. This is practically synonymous with
poised, not the opposite of it.
(C) is incorrect because distracted means unfocused. This is not the opposite of poised, because focused is not
synonymous with self-assured.
(D) is incorrect because unemotional means not showing strong feelings. This is not the opposite of poised.
10) B
The word peevish means easily irritated. Someone who is peevish gets angered or annoyed by even incredibly trivial
things. The opposite of peevish is pleasant, relaxed, or unlikely to become irritated. Because patient means able to accept
problems without becoming annoyed or irritated, choice (B) is correct.
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3
(A) is incorrect because morose means sullen and ill-tempered. This is practically synonymous with peevish, not the
opposite of it.
(C) is incorrect because flattering means full of praise and compliments. This is not the opposite of peevish, because
someone who is not full of praise is not necessarily irritable.
(D) is incorrect because crusty means irritable. This is synonymous with peevish, not the opposite of it.
(E) is incorrect because excitable means responding too readily to something new or stimulating. This is not the opposite
of peevish.
© Copyright PICEC, 2013. All rights reserved.
4
泛美国际
Name_
Date
• Antonyms 3
Level 7
Directions: Choose the word that is most nearly opposite in meaning to the word in capital letters.
1. CLIMAX
6. AJAR
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
foundation
finale
upgrade
highlight
letdown
awestruck
concluded
airtight
unsealed
open
2. DETACH
7. DOWDY
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
blend
isolate
merge
link
separate
outdated
fashionable
graceful
blameless
unkempt
3. ABNORMAL
8. RESOLUTE
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
customary
organic
deviant
impaired
flawless
impressionable
certain
clear
indecisive
irregular
4. VICIOUS
9. ASTUTE
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
cordial
sinful
dandy
passive
impolite
repetitive
boring
unskilled
brainy
ignorant
5. PERSIST
10. SULLEN
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
endure
quit
remain
vacate
cherish
© Copyright PICEC, 2013. All rights reserved.
hostile
malicious
upbeat
lenient
mellow
1
Answers and Explanations
1) E
The word climax means the most intense or exciting point of something. For example, the climax of an action movie is
usually the showdown between the hero and the villain. The opposite of climax is an unexciting or disappointing point of
something. Because a letdown is a disappointment, choice (E) is correct.
(A) is incorrect because a foundation is an underlying basis or frame for something. This is not the opposite of climax.
(B) is incorrect because a finale is the last part of something and is usually exciting or dramatic. This is practically
synonymous with climax, not the opposite of it.
(C) is incorrect because an upgrade is an improved or modernized version of something. This is not the opposite of
climax.
(D) is incorrect because a highlight is an outstanding part of an event. This is practically synonymous with climax, not the
opposite of it.
2) D
The word detach means to remove or separate something from something to which it is attached. For example, if you
remove a cellular phone from its case, you detach it from the case. The opposite of detach is to attach or fasten. Because
link means to fasten or join, choice (D) is correct.
(A) is incorrect because blend means to mix and combine. This is not the opposite of detach, because mixing is not the
same thing as fastening or attaching.
(B) is incorrect because isolate means to cause something to remain apart from others. This is not the opposite of detach.
(C) is incorrect because merge means to combine into a single entity. This is not the opposite of detach, because
combine is not synonymous with attach.
(E) is incorrect because separate means to cause to move apart. This is practically synonymous with detach, not the
opposite of it.
3) A
The word abnormal means unusual. An abnormal occurrence is something that does not typically happen. The opposite of
abnormal is normal or typical. Because customary means according to the customs or usual practices, choice (A) is
correct.
(B) is incorrect because organic means natural or derived from living matter. This is not the opposite of abnormal,
because normal is not synonymous with natural.
(C) is incorrect because deviant means departing from usual standards. This is practically synonymous with abnormal, not
the opposite of it.
(D) is incorrect because impaired means disabled. This is not the opposite of abnormal.
(E) is incorrect because flawless means perfect. This is not the opposite of abnormal.
4) A
The word vicious means deliberately cruel or violent. A vicious dog is one that frequently attacks humans. The opposite of
vicious is kind or peaceful. Because cordial means warm and friendly, choice (A) is correct.
(B) is incorrect because sinful means wicked and immoral. This is practically synonymous with vicious, not the opposite of
it.
(C) is incorrect because dandy means neat and stylish in dress. This is not the opposite of vicious.
(D) is incorrect because passive means accepting of what happens without active resistance. This is not the opposite of
vicious, because passive is not synonymous with kind and peaceful.
(E) is incorrect because impolite means rude or unmannerly. This is not the opposite of vicious.
5) B
The word persist means to continue firmly in an opinion or direction despite difficulty or opposition. For example, leaders
of the Civil Rights movement persisted in their struggle against racism in the 1950s and 1960s. The opposite of persist is
to stop in the face of opposition. Because quit means to give up or resign, choice (B) is correct.
(A) is incorrect because endure means to suffer patiently. This is synonymous with persist, not the opposite of it.
© Copyright PICEC, 2013. All rights reserved.
2
(C) is incorrect because remain means to continue to exist. This is practically synonymous with persist, not the opposite of
it.
(D) is incorrect because vacate means to leave a place unoccupied. This is not the opposite of persist.
(E) is incorrect because cherish means to hold something dear. This is not the opposite of persist.
6) C
The word ajar means slightly open. A door that is not fully closed would be described as ajar. The opposite of ajar is
sealed shut. Because airtight means having no openings, choice (C) is correct.
(A) is incorrect because awestruck means filled with astonishment. This is not the opposite of ajar.
(B) is incorrect because concluded means finished or ended. This is not the opposite of ajar, since slightly open is not
synonymous with starting.
(D) is incorrect because unsealed means not closed with a seal or lock. This is not the opposite of ajar, as something that
is unsealed could be slightly open.
(E) is incorrect because open means not closed. This is synonymous with ajar, not the opposite of it.
7) B
The word dowdy means unfashionable and without style. A dowdy person does not dress well. The opposite of dowdy is
stylish. Because fashionable means stylish or observant of the current popular fashions, choice (B) is correct.
(A) is incorrect because outdated means out of date or obsolete. This is not the opposite of dowdy.
(C) is incorrect because graceful means having simple elegance or refinement of movement. This is not the opposite of
dowdy, because someone who is graceful is not necessarily stylish or well-dressed.
(D) is incorrect because blameless means innocent of wrongdoing. This is not the opposite of dowdy.
(E) is incorrect because unkempt means having an untidy appearance. This is not the opposite of dowdy.
8) D
The word resolute means admirably purposeful and unwavering. If one is resolute about something, then he or she does
not change his or her mind about it. The opposite of resolute is wavering or uncertain. Because indecisive means
wavering or unable to make decisions, choice (D) is correct.
(A) is incorrect because impressionable means easily influenced. This is not the opposite of resolute, because being
easily influenced is not synonymous with being uncertain about something.
(B) is incorrect because certain means having complete conviction about something. This is synonymous with resolute,
not the opposite of it.
(C) is incorrect because clear means having no doubt or confusion. This is synonymous with resolute, not the opposite of
it.
(E) is incorrect because irregular means atypical or contrary to the norm. This is not the opposite of resolute.
9) E
The word astute means clever or ingenious. A shrewd businessperson is an astute one. The opposite of astute is stupid
or lacking in insight. Because ignorant means lacking in knowledge or awareness, choice (E) is correct.
(A) is incorrect because repetitive means characterized by the tiresome repeating of something that has already been
said. This is not the opposite of astute.
(B) is incorrect because boring means dull or unexciting. This is not the opposite of astute, because astute is not
synonymous with exciting or interesting.
(C) is incorrect because unskilled means lacking in ability. This is not the opposite of astute, because astute is not
synonymous with skilled.
(D) is incorrect because brainy means smart or intelligent. This is synonymous with astute, not the opposite of it.
10) C
The word sullen means sulky and gloomy. After receiving sad news, someone might appear sullen. The opposite of sullen
is cheery or happy. Because upbeat means happy or cheerful choice (C) is correct.
© Copyright PICEC, 2013. All rights reserved.
3
(A) is incorrect because hostile means unfriendly. This is not the opposite of sullen.
(B) is incorrect because malicious means intending to do harm. This is not the opposite of sullen.
(D) is incorrect because lenient means permissive or merciful. This is not the opposite of sullen, because one who is
sullen is not necessarily strict or not lenient.
(E) is incorrect because mellow means relaxed and free from harshness. This is not the opposite of sulky, because sulky
is not synonymous with stressed.
© Copyright PICEC, 2013. All rights reserved.
4
泛美国际
Name_
Date
• Reading Comprehension 1
Level 7
Directions: Read the passage. Then answer the questions below.
Fleas are perfectly designed by nature to feast on anything containing blood. Like a shark in the
water or a wolf in the woods, fleas are ideally equipped to do what they do, making them very difficult to
defeat. The bodies of these tiny parasites are extremely hardy and well-suited for their job.
A flea has a very hard exoskeleton, which means the body is covered by a tough, tile-like plate
called a sclerite. Because of these plates, fleas are almost impossible to squish. The exoskeletons of
fleas are also waterproof and shock resistant, and therefore fleas are highly resistant to the sprays and
chemicals used to kill them.
Little spines are attached to this plate. The spines lie flat against the flea’s thin, narrow body as
the flea scurries through an animal’s fur in search of food. However, if anything (like fingers or a selfgrooming pet) tries to pull a flea off through the hair coat, these spines will extend and stick to the fur like
Velcro.
Fleas are some of the best jumpers in the natural world. A flea can jump seven inches, or 150
times its own length, either vertically or horizontally. An equivalent jump for a person would be 555 feet,
the height of the Washington Monument. Fleas can jump 30,000 times in a row without stopping, and they
are able to accelerate through the air at an incredibly high rate—a rate which is over ten times what
humans can withstand in an airplane.
Fleas have very long rear legs with huge thigh muscles and multiple joints. When they get ready
to jump, they fold their long legs up and crouch like a runner on a starting block. Several of their joints
contain a protein called resilin, which helps catapult fleas into the air as they jump, similar to the way a
rubber band provides momentum to a slingshot. Outward facing claws on the bottom of their legs grip
anything they touch when they land.
The adult female flea mates after her first blood meal and begins producing eggs in just 1 to 2
days. One flea can lay up to 50 eggs in one day and over 2,000 in her lifetime. Flea eggs can be seen
with the naked eye, but they are about the size of a grain of salt. Shortly after being laid, the eggs begin
to transform into cocoons. In the cocoon state, fleas are fully developed adults, and will hatch immediately
if conditions are favorable. Fleas can detect warmth, movement, and carbon dioxide in exhaled breath,
and these three factors stimulate them to emerge as new adults. If the flea does not detect appropriate
conditions, it can remain dormant in the cocoon state for extended periods. Under ideal conditions, the
entire life cycle may only take 3 weeks, so in no time at all, pets and homes can become infested.
Because of these characteristics, fleas are intimidating opponents. The best way to control fleas,
therefore, is to take steps to prevent an infestation from ever occurring.
© Copyright PICEC, 2013. All rights reserved.
1
Questions
1) The primary purpose of the passage is to
A.
B.
C.
D.
educate the reader about the physical characteristics of fleas
compare fleas to other members of the animal kingdom
relate the problems that can result from a flea infestation
explain why a flea infestation is hard to get rid of
2) The author’s tone in the passage is best described as
A.
B.
C.
D.
concerned
passionate
informative
opinionated
3) According to the passage, fleas are resistant to sprays and chemicals because they
A.
B.
C.
D.
have waterproof sclerites
are excellent jumpers
reproduce very rapidly
can stick to fur like Velcro
4) Fleas are difficult to squish because they have
I. sclerites
II. tough spines
III. resilin in their joints
A.
B.
C.
D.
I only
I and II only
II and III only
I, II, and III
5) According to the passage, which of the following statements is true?
A.
B.
C.
D.
Fleas extend their little spines if threatened.
Fleas have the ability to jump higher than humans.
Humans can jump higher if they consume foods containing resilin.
The resilin found in fleas is used to make rubber bands.
6) According to the passage, fleas are able to jump
I. with a high rate of acceleration
II. up and down and from side to side
III. because the blood they eat contains resilin
A.
B.
C.
D.
I only
I and II only
II and III only
I, II, and III
© Copyright PICEC, 2013. All rights reserved.
2
7) Based on information in the passage, the reader can understand that
A.
B.
C.
D.
fleas will die without access to blood
fleas survive at a higher rate in outdoor habitats
fleas will die after they produce 2,000 eggs
newly hatched fleas are the size of a grain of salt
8) The author mentions the Washington Monument in order to
A.
B.
C.
D.
estimate the extreme distance that a flea is able to jump
illustrate a comparison made between fleas and humans
clarify a point made regarding fleas and acceleration
demonstrate the superiority of fleas over humans
9) It can be inferred that fleas will emerge from eggs as adults
A.
B.
C.
D.
when they outgrow the cocoon
after a period of 3 weeks
when they sense there is access to blood
if there is too much carbon dioxide in the cocoon
10) Using the information in the passage as a guide, it can be concluded that
A. humans do not possess the physical characteristics of the flea because they have no use for
them
B. humans do not pay much attention to fleas because they do not pose a serious threat
C. fleas have many physical advantages, although these are outweighed by their many
disadvantages
D. fleas are designed in such a way as to give them unique physical advantages in life
© Copyright PICEC, 2013. All rights reserved.
3
Answers and Explanations
1) D
In paragraph 1, we learn that “fleas are ideally equipped to do what they do, making them very difficult to defeat.” In paragraph 2 the
author explains why fleas are hard to squish and why they resist so many sprays designed to kill them. In paragraphs 3-6, the
author explains what makes fleas so difficult to get rid of, both in terms of their physical characteristics and the way they reproduce.
In the last paragraph, the author calls fleas “intimidating opponents” and suggests that preventing an infestation is easier that getting
rid of an infestation. From this we can understand that the primary purpose of the passage is to explain why a flea infestation is hard
to get rid of. Therefore (D) is correct. The passage does provide information about the physical characteristics of fleas, but it also
educates readers about the life cycle and reproduction process of a flea. Furthermore, these details all support the author’s main
point, which is that a flea infestation is very hard to get rid of. Because it is too narrow in scope, (A) is incorrect. In paragraph 1, the
author briefly compares a flea to “a shark in the water or a wolf in the woods.” Later the author says that fleas “are some of the best
jumpers in the natural world.” However, the author does not expand on these comments; rather, the author describes in detail why a
flea infestation is hard to get rid of. Because the comparisons are only minor details in the passage, (B) is incorrect. The passage
does not contain any information about the problems that can result from a flea infestation, so (C) is incorrect.
2) C
The author presents facts about the characteristics of fleas without expressing any emotions or opinions in the passage. Since the
author’s main purpose is to present information, we can conclude that the tone is informative. Therefore (C) is correct. Concerned
means worried or anxious. The author does not express any anxiety about fleas, so (A) is incorrect. Passionate means caused by
strong feelings. Since the author does not express emotions in the passage, (B) is incorrect. Opinionated means certain of one’s
opinions or stubborn. The author is presenting facts, not opinions, so (D) is incorrect.
3) A
In paragraph 2, we learn that “a flea has a very hard exoskeleton, which means the body is covered by a tough, tile-like plate called
a sclerite.” From this we can understand that, on a flea, a sclerite forms the exoskeleton. Later in paragraph 2, the author says that
“the exoskeletons of fleas are also waterproof and shock resistant, and therefore fleas are highly resistant to the sprays and
chemicals used to kill them.” Since we know that the exoskeleton on a flea is called a sclerite, we can infer that the sclerite is
waterproof, which makes fleas resistant to sprays and chemicals. Therefore (A) is correct. The other answer choices are all
characteristics of fleas mentioned in the passage, but none of them make fleas resistant to chemicals. Therefore (B), (C), and (D)
are incorrect.
4) A
In paragraph 2, we learn that “a flea has a very hard exoskeleton, which means the body is covered by a tough, tile-like plate called
a sclerite. Because of these plates, fleas are almost impossible to squish.” From this we can understand that the sclerite makes a
flea difficult to squish. This supports option (I). In paragraph 3, we learn that fleas do have spines attached to the sclerite, but these
spines make a flea difficult to pull off, not difficult to squish. This eliminates option (II). In paragraph 5, we learn that fleas have a
protein in their joints called resilin, “which helps catapult fleas into the air as they jump.” From this we can understand that resilin
helps fleas jump, but it does not make them difficult to squish. This eliminates option (III). Therefore (A) is correct.
5) A
In paragraph 3, we learn that fleas have little spines that normally lie flat, but “if anything (like fingers or a self-grooming pet) tries to
pull a flea off through the hair coat, these spines will extend and stick to the fur like Velcro.” From this we can understand that if a
flea is threatened by something trying to remove it, it will extend its spines in order to stick to the fur. This means that (A) is correct.
In paragraph 4, we learn that “a flea can jump seven inches, or 150 times its own length.” This means that fleas are able to jump
higher in proportion to their body sizes than humans are, but fleas can only jump 7 inches. A human can jump higher than 7 inches,
so (B) is incorrect. There is no reference in the passage to humans consuming resilin, which makes (C) incorrect. In paragraph 5,
we learn that resilin “helps catapult fleas into the air as they jump, similar to the way a rubber band provides momentum to a
slingshot.” This means the resilin found in fleas joints helps them spring in a way similar to rubber bands, but the passage does not
state that rubber bands contain resilin. Therefore (D) is incorrect.
6) B
In paragraph 4, we learn that “fleas are able to accelerate through the air at an incredibly high rate—a rate which is over ten times
what humans can withstand in an airplane.” From this we can understand that fleas are able to jump with a high rate of acceleration.
This supports option (I). Also in paragraph 4, we learn that fleas are able to jump “horizontally and vertically.” From this we can
understand that fleas can jump up and down and from side to side. This supports option (II). In paragraph 5, we learn that “several
of their joints contain a protein called resilin.” This means that resilin is not consumed by fleas, but rather it is found in their joints.
This eliminates option (III). Therefore (B) is correct.
7) A
In paragraph 1, we learn that fleas are parasites that “feast on anything containing blood.” Since blood is their food source, we can
infer they will die if they do not have access to blood. This means (A) is correct. The passage does not provide us any information
about the best habitat for fleas, so (B) is incorrect. In paragraph 6, we learn that “one flea can lay up to 50 eggs in one day and over
2,000 in her lifetime.” Although a flea may stop producing eggs after approximately 2,000, it does not logically follow that a flea will
die once it produces 2,000 eggs. It could continue to live without producing eggs. This means (C) is incorrect. In paragraph 6, we
learn that flea eggs are the size of a grain of salt, but newly hatched fleas emerge from the cocoon, where they become “fully
developed adults.” We cannot assume that a fully developed adult flea is the same size as a flea egg. This means (D) is incorrect.
8)
B
© Copyright PICEC, 2013. All rights reserved.
4
In paragraph 4, the author writes, “A flea can jump seven inches, or 150 times its own length….An equivalent jump for a person
would be 555 feet, the height of the Washington Monument.” The author uses the example of a human jumping the height of the
Washington Monument to compare a human’s ability to jump with that of a flea. This example shows why the flea’s ability to jump
150 times its own length is so amazing, when compared to a human’s ability to jump. This means the mention of the Washington
Monument illustrates a comparison between fleas and humans. Therefore (B) is correct. A flea is not able to jump the height of the
Washington Monument. It can only jump 7 inches, so (A) is incorrect. The author mentions the Washington Monument while
discussing how high fleas can jump. The author does not discuss fleas and acceleration until later in the paragraph, so (C) is
incorrect. Although in proportion to its body size, a flea can jump higher than a human can, this fact does not necessarily
demonstrate the superiority of fleas over humans. This means (D) is incorrect.
9) C
In paragraph 6, we learn that fleas “will hatch when conditions become favorable. Fleas can detect warmth, movement, and carbon
dioxide in exhaled breath, and these three factors stimulate them to emerge as adults.” We can infer those three factors are crucial
because they indicate the presence of living things that contain blood, which the new adults need in order to live. This means that
fleas only emerge from eggs as adults when they sense there is access to blood. Therefore (C) is the correct answer. The passage
does not provide information to support answer choices (A) and (D), so they are incorrect. In paragraph 6, we learn the entire life
cycle of a flea take only 3 weeks “under ideal conditions.” However: “If the flea does not detect appropriate conditions, it can remain
dormant in the cocoon state for extended periods.” This means that fleas can emerge as adults after different periods of time, not
necessarily 3 weeks, so (B) is incorrect.
10) D
In paragraph 1, we learn that fleas are “designed by nature” to be “ideally equipped to do what they do.” The rest of the passage
describes the unique advantages of the flea’s physical body as well as the way a flea reproduces. These advantages make fleas an
“intimidating opponent,” because they help fleas survive and thrive. From this information we can conclude that fleas are designed in
such a way as to give them unique physical advantages in life. Of all the answer choices, this is the only conclusion that can be
made using only the information presented in the passage. Therefore (D) is the correct answer. Choices (A), (B), and (C) may seem
like plausible conclusions that can be made about fleas and humans. However, the question asks about a conclusion that can be
made using the information presented in the passage as a guide. The passage does not provide enough information to validate
these answer choices. Although they may seem like they could be true, they would require additional outside information to validate.
Therefore they are incorrect.
© Copyright PICEC, 2013. All rights reserved.
5
泛美国际
Name_
Date
• Reading Comprehension 2
Level 7
Directions: Read the passage. Then answer the questions below.
For two months, I have been trying to decide who makes the best ice cream. I have narrowed it
down to my four favorite manufacturers: Randolph Farms, Goodies, Disco, and Twinkle.
Let's start with Randolph Farms. Randolph Farms makes very good ice cream. They have lots of
different flavors, but this doesn't really matter to me. That's because I always get coffee flavor. They make
the best coffee ice cream in the world. I've never had hot coffee (the drink) but people tell me that
Randolph Farms coffee ice cream tastes just like the real thing. Also, Randolph Farms uses all natural
ingredients to make their ice cream. This is a good idea, I think.
Second, we have Goodies. Goodies makes excellent ice cream. Like Randolph Farms, Goodies
uses all natural ingredients. They only make three different flavors—strawberry, vanilla, and chocolate—
but they make them very well. The strawberry is amazing. Every bite of it reminds me of the strawberries
that I used to pick behind my old house. The vanilla is wonderful. It is very smooth and has a refreshing,
creamy taste. The chocolate is outstanding. It is made with real cocoa beans from Bolivia. I didn't know
where Bolivia is so I decided to look for it on a map. After hunting awhile, I discovered that it is in South
America! That's a long way to go to get cocoa, so it must be good. I would say that the only drawback to
Goodies ice cream is that they only make three different flavors.
Third, we have Disco. Disco ice cream is okay. They don't have many good flavors. Actually, the
only Disco flavor I like is Bubblegum. It is vanilla ice cream with little chunks of bubblegum in it. After you
eat the ice cream, you can blow bubbles with the gum. That's pretty fun.
Finally, there is Twinkle. Twinkle ice cream is mediocre. The only good thing about Twinkle is that
it is relatively inexpensive. You can buy a whole carton of twinkle ice cream for $4.50. That's only two
weeks' allowance for me.
Questions
1) Which of the following would be the best title for this passage?
A.
B.
C.
D.
2)
Strawberry, Vanilla, Chocolate, and Bubblegum Too!
The Four Top Ice Cream Manufacturers
The Finest Ice Cream in the World
Picking the Best Ice Cream Manufacturer
If the author wanted to get a scoop of coffee ice cream, where would he or she probably go?
A.
B.
C.
D.
Randolph Farms
Goodies
Disco
Twinkle
© Copyright PICEC, 2013. All rights reserved.
1
3)
In paragraph 1, the author uses a colon. A colon (:) looks like two dots, one on top of the other.
Colons are used to separate different parts of a sentence. The part before the colon introduces an
idea and can stand alone as a sentence. The part after the colon gives more detailed information
about this idea, often as a list. If the colon could talk, it would say, "And here they are!"
Using this information, it can be understood that which of the following sentences contains the correct
use of a colon?
A.
B.
C.
D.
4)
My friends are: sweet, young, and generous.
I like: to talk on the phone at night.
I have three pets: Toto, Spot, and Rover.
I want a new bicycle: or new roller skates.
According to the passage, the author likes Randolph Farms ice cream because it
I. is all natural
II. is made in Bolivia
III. comes in many flavors
A.
B.
C.
D.
I only
I and II only
II and III only
I, II, and III
5) In paragraph 3 the author writes, "That's a long way to go to get cocoa, so it must be good." Using
this information, we can understand that the author believes that
A.
B.
C.
D.
Goodies loses money on sales of chocolate ice cream
Bolivia makes the best cocoa in the world
things that are hard to get must be high quality
cocoa from the United States is not very good
6) According to the passage, the author likes Disco ice cream because it
A.
B.
C.
D.
is relatively inexpensive
has bubblegum in it
is made in Bolivia
is okay
7) According to the passage, how is Randolph Farms ice cream different than Goodies?
I. Randolph Farms has many different flavors and Goodies does not.
II. Randolph Farms uses all natural ingredients and Goodies does not.
III. Randolph Farms is very expensive and Goodies is not.
A.
B.
C.
D.
I only
I and II only
II and III only
I, II, and III
© Copyright PICEC, 2013. All rights reserved.
2
8) An adjective is a word that is used to describe a thing. For example, in the sentence, "The car is
fast," the word "fast" is an adjective. Using this information, which of the following are adjectives used
in paragraph 3?
I. flavors
II. excellent
III. old
A.
B.
C.
D.
9)
I only
I and II only
II and III only
I, II, and III
According to the author, what is the only drawback to Goodies ice cream?
A.
B.
C.
D.
cheap ingredients
expensive price
mediocre quality
a lack of flavors
10) How much money does the author receive in his or her weekly allowance?
A.
B.
C.
D.
$2.25
$4.50
$9.00
Not enough information is provided
11) Given the information included in the passage, which of the following statements would the author
most likely agree with?
A.
B.
C.
D.
Each manufacturer has its strengths and weaknesses.
The best manufacturers are the ones with the most flavors.
Goodies is certainly not the best manufacturer, as they only have three flavors.
Each manufacturer is good for different reasons.
12) If the author did decide that one manufacturer is best, which one would he or she probably choose?
A.
B.
C.
D.
Randolph Farms
Goodies
Disco
Twinkle
13) How many weeks would it take for the author to save enough money to buy two cartons of Twinkle
ice cream?
A.
B.
C.
D.
1 week
2 weeks
3 weeks
4 weeks
© Copyright PICEC, 2013. All rights reserved.
3
Answers and Explanations
1) D
A good title summarizes the main idea of the passage and lets the reader know what to expect should he or she continue reading.
At the beginning of the passage the author writes, "For two months, I have been trying to decide who makes the best ice cream."
The next four paragraphs explain the reasons why the narrator likes each individual manufacturer. We can understand from this
information that the passage is about picking the best ice cream manufacturer. Choice (D) is correct. (A) is incorrect because it only
states 4 flavors of ice cream, while the passage is about more than just ice cream flavors. (B) is incorrect because the author is
trying to decide which of the four manufacturers is the best, not inform us about the world’s four best manufacturers. (C) is incorrect
because the author is trying to decide who the best ice cream maker is, not which ice cream is the best.
2) A
In paragraph 2 the author discusses Randolph Farms ice cream. The author tells us that "They make the best coffee ice cream in
the world." Using this information, we can understand that the author would probably go to Randolph Farms to get a scoop of coffee
ice cream. This means (A) is correct. In paragraph 3 the author discusses Goodies ice cream. The author tells us that "They only
make three different flavors—strawberry, vanilla, and chocolate." Since Goodies does not make coffee ice cream, this rules out
choice (B). Bubblegum is the only flavor of Disco ice cream that the author likes. This rules out (C). In paragraph 5, we learn that the
author thinks that all Twinkle ice cream is “mediocre.” Therefore the author would probably not go to Twinkle for coffee ice cream.
This rules out (D).
3) C
(C) is correct because the part of the sentence that comes after the colon contains a list that gives us more detailed information
about the idea presented before the colon. This fits the description of a colon as explained in the question and as used in the
passage. Choices (A) and (B) are incorrect because the part of the sentence that comes before the colon cannot stand alone as a
sentence. The part after the colon is necessary to complete the idea started before the colon. (D) is incorrect because the part of the
sentence that comes after the colon does not give more information about the idea introduced before the colon.
4) A
In paragraph 2, the author writes, “Randolph Farms uses all natural ingredients to make their ice cream. This is a good idea, I think.”
We can understand from this information that one of the things the author likes about Randolph Farms ice cream is that it is made
using all natural ingredients. This supports option (I). In paragraph 3 the author tells us that Goodies' chocolate ice cream is "is
made with real cocoa beans from Bolivia." Nothing in the passage supports the idea that Randolph Farms makes their ice cream in
Bolivia. This eliminates option (II). In paragraph 2, the author writes that Randolph Farms has “lots of different flavors, but this
doesn't really matter to me." This eliminates option (III). Therefore (A) is correct.
5) C
To answer this question correctly, it helps to use context. In paragraph 3 the author discusses Goodies chocolate ice cream. The
author tells us that Goodies gets their cocoa from Bolivia. This is a long way from the author's home. Because of this, the author
concludes that this cocoa must be good. Using this information, we can understand that the author believes that things that are hard
to get must be high quality. This makes (C) the correct choice. The passage does not provide information to support choices (A),
(B), and (D). Therefore they are incorrect.
6) B
In paragraph 4, the author says, “the only Disco flavor I like is Bubblegum. It is vanilla ice cream with little chunks of bubblegum in it.
After you eat the ice cream, you can blow bubbles with the gum. That's pretty fun.” This lets us know that the author likes
bubblegum ice cream because you can blow bubbles with the gum after you eat the ice cream. Since bubblegum is the only Disco
ice cream that the author likes, we can understand that the author likes Disco ice cream because it has bubblegum in it. This means
(B) is correct. The author likes Twinkle ice cream because it is inexpensive, not Disco. This rules out (A).No ice cream is made in
Bolivia. Bolivia is where Goodies gets cocoa beans. This means (C) is incorrect. In paragraph 4 the author does say that Disco ice
cream "is okay," but this is not why the author likes Disco. This means (D) is incorrect.
7) A
In paragraph 2, the author says that Randolph Farms has “lots of different flavors." On the other hand, in paragraph 3 the author
says that Goodies only makes "three different flavors—strawberry, vanilla, and chocolate…" Using this information, we can
understand that Randolph Farms has many different flavors and Goodies does not. This supports option (I).In paragraph 2 the
author says, “Randolph Farms uses all natural ingredients to make their ice cream." In paragraph 3 the author says, "Like Randolph
Farms, Goodies uses all natural ingredients." Using this information, we can understand that both Randolph Farms and Goodies use
all natural ingredients. This eliminates option (II). Although the passage says in paragraph 5 that Twinkle ice cream "is relatively
inexpensive," it does not mention the price of Randolph Farms nor Goodies ice cream. This eliminates option (III). Therefore (A) is
correct.
8) C
In paragraph 3, the author writes, “They only make three different flavors…" The word flavors refers to the types of ice cream. Since
flavors are things, they are not adjectives. They are nouns. This eliminates option (I).In paragraph 3, the author writes “Goodies
makes excellent ice cream.” The word excellent is a word that describes ice cream, which is a thing. Therefore this word is an
adjective. This supports option (II).In paragraph 3, the author writes, “Every bite of it reminds me of the strawberries that I used to
pick behind my old house.” Old is a word that describes the house, which is a thing. Therefore this word is an adjective. This
supports option (III). Therefore (C) is correct.
© Copyright PICEC, 2013. All rights reserved.
4
9) D
In paragraph 3 the author says, "I would say that the only drawback to Goodies ice cream is that they only make three different
flavors." Choice (D) is correct. The passage does not provide information to support choices (A), (B), and (C). Therefore they are
incorrect.
10) A
In the last paragraph, the author says, “You can buy a whole carton of Twinkle ice cream for $4.50. That's only two weeks'
allowance for me.” Since $4.50 is two weeks’ allowance, we can determine one week’s allowance by dividing $4.50 by 2. This
means the author’s allowance is $2.25 a week. Therefore (A) is correct. The passage does not provide information to support
choices (B), (C), and (D). Therefore they are incorrect.
11) D
In paragraph 1 the author tell us that he or she has been trying to decide which of four different ice cream manufacturers is the best.
Then the author discusses what is good about each manufacturer and what is bad about some of them. Since each manufacturer
has something good about it, we can understand that the author thinks that each is good for different reasons. This means (D) is
correct.(A) is incorrect because the author does not mention any weaknesses about Randolph Farms ice cream. Therefore not each
manufacturer has its weaknesses. In addition to number of flavors produced, the author considers taste, price and fun in order to
arrive at the best ice cream manufacturer. The author does not rely on number of flavors alone to make his or her decision. This
rules out (B) and (C).
12) B
The author uses the most positive words to describe Goodies ice cream. In paragraph 3 the author says that Goodies ice cream is
“excellent,” “amazing,” and “outstanding”. Although Goodies only makes 3 flavors, the author loves all of them. According to the
author, the only drawback about Goodies ice cream is that "they only make three flavors." We can understand from this information
that the author thinks Goodies is the best ice cream manufacturer. Therefore, the author would probably choose Goodies. (B) is
correct. While the author does like the Randolph Farms ice cream—a manufacturer who makes "a lot of flavors"—he or she always
only gets one flavor. Also, the author says that Randolph Farms ice cream is “very good,” but describes Goodies ice cream as
“excellent”. Since the author enjoys more flavors from Goodies and uses more positive words to describe Goodies, we can
understand that the author prefers Goodies, even though he or she also likes Randolph Farms. This means (A) is incorrect. The
author only likes only one flavor of Disco ice cream. Moreover, the author uses vaguely positive words to describe them, such as
"okay" and "pretty fun." So (C) is incorrect. Since the author describes Twinkle ice cream as “mediocre,” the author would be
unlikely to choose Twinkle. This rules out (D).
13) D
At the end of the passage, the author writes, “You can buy a whole carton of twinkle ice cream for $4.50. That's only two weeks
allowance for me.” Two cartons of ice cream cost twice as much as one carton of ice cream. Since it takes two weeks of allowance
to buy one carton of ice cream, it will take twice that amount to buy two cartons. Two times two weeks is four weeks. (D) is correct.
The passage does not provide information to support choices (A), (B), and (C). Therefore they are incorrect.
© Copyright PICEC, 2013. All rights reserved.
5
泛美国际
Name_
Date
• Reading Comprehension 3
Level 7
Directions: Read the passage. Then answer the questions below.
Have you ever wondered what keeps a hot air balloon flying? The same principle that keeps food
frozen in the open chest freezers at the grocery store allows hot air balloons to fly. It's a very basic
principle: Hot air rises and cold air falls. So while the super-cooled air in the grocery store freezer settles
down around the food, the hot air in a hot air balloon pushes up, keeping the balloon floating above the
ground. In order to understand more about how this principle works in hot air balloons, it helps to know
more about hot air balloons themselves.
A hot air balloon has three major parts: the basket, the burner, and the envelope. The basket is
where passengers ride. The basket is usually made of wicker. This ensures that it will be comfortable and
add little extra weight. The burner is positioned above the passenger's heads and produces a huge flame
to heat the air inside the envelope. The envelope is the colorful fabric balloon that holds the hot air. When
the air inside the envelope is heated, the balloon rises.
The pilot can control the up-and-down movements of the hot air balloon by regulating the heat in
the envelope. To ascend, the pilot heats the air in the envelope. When the pilot is ready to land, the air in
the balloon is allowed to cool and the balloon becomes heavier than air. This makes the balloon descend.
Before the balloon is launched, the pilot knows which way the wind is blowing. This means that
she has a general idea about which way the balloon will go. But, sometimes the pilot can actually control
the direction that the balloon flies while in flight. This is because the air above the ground is sectioned into
layers in which the direction of the wind may be different. So even though the pilot can't steer the balloon,
she can fly or higher or lower into a different layer of air. Some days the difference between the direction
of the wind between layers is negligible. But other days the difference is so strong that it can actually
push the balloon in a completely different direction!
Questions
1) According to the passage, balloon pilots control the balloon’s altitude by
A.
B.
C.
D.
moving into a different layer of air
regulating the air temperature inside the balloon
adjusting the amount of air in the envelope
changing the amount of weight contained in the basket
2) As used in paragraph 3, which is the best synonym for ascend?
A.
B.
C.
D.
move
fly
sink
climb
© Copyright PICEC, 2013. All rights reserved.
1
3) As used in paragraph 3, which is the best antonym for descend?
A.
B.
C.
D.
fall
float
rise
drop
4) According to the author, wicker is
I. comfortable
II. lightweight
III. durable
A.
B.
C.
D.
I only
I and II only
II and III only
I, II, and III
5) If the hot air balloon pilot wants to change directions during flight, what might he or she do to
accomplish this?
A.
B.
C.
D.
head toward a mountain peak
wait for it to rain
fly into a cloud
fly higher
6) Using the passage as a guide, it can be inferred that which of the following statements is not true?
A.
B.
C.
D.
Air goes up and out the top of a chimney when you light a fire.
Cool air collects about the ceiling when you open a refrigerator.
Smoke from a candle rises after you blow out the flame.
Cold air coming from an air conditioning vent settles about the floor.
7) Based on its use in paragraph 4, it can be understood that negligible belongs to which of the
following word families?
A.
B.
C.
D.
solemn, grave, serious
substantial, considerable, large
exhilarating, thrilling, exciting
insignificant, small, unnoticeable
© Copyright PICEC, 2013. All rights reserved.
2
Answers and Explanations
1) B
In paragraph 3, the author talks about how the pilot can "control the up-and-down movements of the hot air balloon." This is done by
regulating the air temperature inside the balloon. Because hot air rises, the balloon ascends when filled with hot air. Because cold
air falls, the balloon descends when filled with cool air. Choice (B) best describes this idea. Choice (A) is incorrect because moving
into a different layer of air is used to change the direction of the balloon, not the altitude. Choice (C) is incorrect because although
the passage does talk about adjusting the temperature of the air in the envelope, it does not mention the adjusting of the amount of
air in the envelope. Choice (D) is incorrect because the passage does not discuss changing the amount of weight contained in the
basket.
2) D
ascend (verb): to climb or move upward.
The question asks us to find the best synonym. Synonyms are words that have nearly the same meanings. In paragraph 3, the
author says, "The pilot can control the up-and-down movements of the hot air balloon by regulating the heat in the envelope. To
ascend, the pilot heats the air in the envelope." Given what we know from paragraph 1 about hot and cold air (hot air rises, cold air
falls), we can infer that if you heat the air in the envelope, this will cause the hot air balloon to climb. Using this information, we know
that climb means almost the same thing as ascend. Therefore, we know that climb is the best synonym for ascend. Therefore (D) is
correct. The passage does not provide information to support choices (A), (B), and (C). Therefore they are incorrect.
3) C
descend (verb): to fall or move downward.
The question asks us to find the best antonym. Antonyms are words that have opposite meanings. In paragraph 3, the author says,
"When the pilot is ready to land, the air in the balloon is allowed to cool and the balloon becomes heavier than air. This makes the
balloon descend." Given that the author is describing a situation in which the pilot wants to land, we can infer that the pilot will need
to go down, or descend. Rise is the best antonym, or opposite, of descend. Therefore (C) is correct. The passage does not provide
information to support choices (A), (B), and (D). Therefore they are incorrect.
4) B
Paragraph 2 states that the basket is made of wicker. This "ensures that the basket will be comfortable and add little extra weight."
This supports option (I). Also, given that this ensures that the basket will add little weight, we can infer that wicker is a lightweight
material. This supports option (II). The author does not mention anything about how durable wicker is. If anything, we can infer that
something comfortable and lightweight is probably not very durable. This supports eliminates option (III). Therefore (B) is correct.
5) D
In the last paragraph, the author tells us that "sometimes the pilot can actually control the direction that the balloon flies while in
flight" This is because the air above the ground is sectioned into layers in which the direction of the wind may be different. The
author concludes by saying that "even though the pilot can't steer the balloon, she can fly or higher or lower into a different layer of
air." Using this information, we can understand that if the hot air balloon pilot wants to change directions during flight, he or she
might fly higher. Choice (D) is correct. The passage does not provide information to support choices (A), (B), and (C). Therefore
they are incorrect.
6) B
In paragraph 1, we learn that "Hot air rises and cold air falls." Therefore, the cool air inside a refrigerator would fall to the floor when
you open the door, not collect about the ceiling. This means (B) is not true, and therefore correct. When you have a fire, the air
inside the chimney is hot. Therefore, it can be inferred that air goes up and out the top of a chimney when you have a fire. (A) is
incorrect. Smoke is hot. So it rises. Therefore, it can be inferred that smoke from a candle rises after you blow out the flame. (C) is
incorrect. Cold air falls. Therefore, it can be inferred that cold air coming from an air conditioning vent settles about the floor. (D) is
incorrect.
7) D
In paragraph 4, the author says "Some days the difference between the direction of the wind between layers is negligible." The
author then contradicts this idea by telling us, "But other days the difference is so strong that it can actually push the balloon in a
completely different direction!" Since the author contrasts the negligible effect of the wind with the strong, or substantial, effect of the
wind, we can understand that negligible and strong are opposites. Because insignificant, small, and unnoticeable are all opposites
for strong, we can understand that (D) is correct. The passage does not provide information to support choices (A), (B), and (C).
Therefore they are incorrect.
© Copyright PICEC, 2013. All rights reserved.
3
泛美国际
Name_
Date
• Reading Comprehension 4
Level 7
Directions: Read the passage. Then answer the questions below.
th
Claude Monet, a 19 -century French painter, was the most famous artist associated with the
movement known as Impressionism. Monet was born on November 14, 1840, and even as a young man
he was known for producing small portraits in charcoal. In 1858 Monet met the artist Eugène Boudin, who
became his mentor and introduced Monet to painting outdoors, or “en plein air” as it came to be known. In
1859, at the age of 19, Monet moved to Paris to become a professional artist. Most artists of his time tried
to imitate nature realistically, but in his landscape painting Monet instead sought to portray nature as it
appeared to him. In particular, he was interested in how light affects the ways that we perceive color. In
one of his most famous series of works, Monet painted the cathedral in Rouen, France at several different
times of day, showing how changes in natural light make the cathedral appear to change color. In 1883,
Monet moved to a small French town called Giverny, where he built an elaborate garden. This garden, in
particular its water lily ponds, became the chief subject of Monet’s later paintings. Monet’s paintings of
th
water lilies were extremely influential to 20 -century modern artists. In these paintings, Monet used the
landscape merely as a starting point, creating abstract fields of vibrant color. These paintings relied on
broad, thick brushstrokes. The texture of these brushstrokes gave the canvases a tactile quality that
contrasted sharply with the smooth canvases produced by more traditional artists. Though he struggled
financially throughout his life, when Monet died in 1926, he was one of the most famous and influential
painters in the world.
Questions
1) This passage would most likely be found in
A.
B.
C.
D.
a newspaper
an encyclopedia
a magazine
a blog
2) Based on information in the passage, it can be inferred that the phrase “a tactile quality” suggests that
Monet’s canvases were
A.
B.
C.
D.
colorful
beautiful
smooth
rough
3) According to the passage, Monet moved to Paris in 1859 to
A.
B.
C.
D.
join the Impressionism movement
paint cathedrals
become a professional artist
build an elaborate garden
4) The tone of the passage can best be described as
A.
B.
C.
D.
factual
passionate
clever
adoring
© Copyright PICEC, 2013. All rights reserved.
1
Answers and Explanations
1) B
Encyclopedia articles summarize factual information about a particular subject or topic. The passage contains general facts and
background information about one topic, the painter Claude Monet, so (B) is correct. Newspapers, magazines, and blogs all tend to
focus on current events, recent trends, or news that might change from day to day. The passage does not mention any current or
recent events; in fact, the most recent thing that occurs in the passage is Monet’s death in 1926. Therefore (A), (C), and (D) are
incorrect.
2) D
The author states, “These paintings relied on broad, thick brushstrokes. The texture of these brushstrokes gave the canvases a
tactile quality that contrasted sharply with the smooth canvases produced by more traditional artists.” The author contrasts Monet’s
canvases with more traditional artists’ smooth canvases, so we can infer that “a tactile quality” is different from “smooth.” The author
also claims the “texture” of the brushstrokes was the cause of the tactile quality. From these details we can infer that Monet’s thick
brushstrokes, rather than creating a smooth surface, gave his paintings an interesting texture that looked as if it could be touched or
felt. This is what is meant by “a tactile quality.” From this we can understand that Monet’s canvases were not smooth like those of
other artists, but somewhat rough. Therefore (D) is correct. While Monet’s canvases may be colorful and beautiful, neither of these
words describes texture, as “a tactile quality” does. Since a tactile quality does not indicate anything about color or beauty, (A) and
(B) are both incorrect. Smooth describes a texture, but it refers to the canvases of more traditional artists, which contrast “sharply”
with the tactile quality of Monet’s canvases. This means that Monet’s canvases were not “smooth,” so (C) is incorrect.
3) C
The author states, “In 1859, at the age of 19, Monet moved to Paris to become a professional artist.” In this sentence the author
identifies the specific reason for Monet’s move: becoming a professional artist. Therefore (C) is correct. Although Monet was
“associated with the movement known as Impressionism,” he did not move to Paris in order to join it. This means (A) is incorrect.
Monet did paint cathedrals after he moved to Paris, but he did not move there to do so, which makes (B) incorrect. Monet “built an
elaborate garden” in Giverny, not in Paris, so (D) is incorrect.
4) A
The author’s language throughout the passage is very matter-of-fact, without emotion. The passage also consists solely of objective
facts rather than opinions, so we can describe the tone as factual. Therefore (A) is correct. The author does not express any strong
emotion about the topic, so the tone is not passionate. This means (B) is incorrect. The passage does not contain any wordplay,
jokes, or other literary techniques that we might describe as clever, so (C) is incorrect. It may seem like the tone could be described
as adoring, because the author gives the impression that Monet is a great artist. But the words which create this impression—terms
such as “influential” and “famous”—are objective facts about how people saw Monet rather than the author’s own opinions. This
makes (D) incorrect.
© Copyright PICEC, 2013. All rights reserved.
2
泛美国际
Name_
Date
• Reading Comprehension 5
Level 7
Directions: Read the passage. Then answer the questions below.
It is easy to make a delicious-looking hamburger at home. But would this hamburger still look
delicious after it sat on your kitchen table under very bright lights for six or seven hours? If someone took
a picture or made a video of this hamburger after the seventh hour, would anyone want to eat it? More
importantly, do you think you could get millions of people to pay money for this hamburger?
These are the questions that fast food companies worry about when they produce commercials or
print ads for their products. Video and photo shoots often last many hours. The lights that the
photographers use can be extremely hot. These conditions can cause the food to look quite unappealing
to potential consumers. Because of this, the menu items that you see in fast food commercials are
probably not actually edible.
Let’s use the hamburger as an example. The first step towards building the perfect commercial
hamburger is the bun. The food stylist—a person employed by the company to make sure the products
look perfect—sorts through hundreds of buns until he or she finds one with no wrinkles. Next, the stylist
carefully rearranges the sesame seeds on the bun using glue and tweezers for maximum visual appeal.
The bun is then sprayed with a waterproofing solution so that it will not get soggy from contact with other
ingredients, the lights, or the humidity in the room.
Next, the food stylist shapes a meat patty into a perfect circle. Only the outside of the meat gets
cooked—the inside is left raw so that the meat remains moist. The food stylist then paints the outside of
the meat patty with a mixture of oil, molasses, and brown food coloring. Grill marks are either painted on
or seared into the meat using hot metal skewers.
Finally, the food stylist searches through dozens of tomatoes and heads of lettuce to find the
best-looking produce. One leaf of the crispest lettuce and one center slice of the reddest tomato are
selected and then sprayed with glycerin to keep them looking fresh.
So the next time you see a delectable hamburger in a fast food commercial, remember: you’re
actually looking at glue, paint, raw meat, and glycerin! Are you still hungry?
Questions
1) The author’s primary purpose is to
A.
B.
C.
D.
convince readers not to eat at fast food restaurants
explain how fast food companies make their food look delicious in commercials
teach readers how to make delicious-looking food at home
criticize fast food companies for lying about their products in commercials
2) According to the passage, fast food companies use things like glue and glycerin on hamburgers that
appear in advertisements because
I. no one actually has to eat the food used in the commercial
II. it is important that people who see these advertisements would pay for the food being advertised
III. filming a commercial or a print ad can take a very long time
A.
B.
C.
D.
l only
I and II only
II and III only
I, II, and III
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1
3) As used in paragraph 2, something is edible if it
A.
B.
C.
D.
can safely be eaten
looks very delicious
seems much smaller in real life
tastes good
4) According to the passage, a food stylist working on a hamburger commercial might use glue to
A.
B.
C.
D.
make sure the meat patty stays attached to the bun
keep the sesame seeds on the bun in perfect order
arrange the lettuce on the tomato
hold the entire hamburger together
5) Based on information in the passage, it is most important for the lettuce and tomato used in a fast
food hamburger commercial to
A.
B.
C.
D.
have a great taste
be the perfect shape and size
appear natural
look fresh
6) Imagine that the author decides to change this passage so that it talks about a cheeseburger instead
of a hamburger. Assume that the cheese goes directly on top of the hamburger patty. If the author
wants to include a paragraph about how the food stylist designs the cheese and places it on the meat
patty, this new paragraph would best fit into the passage
A.
B.
C.
D.
between paragraph 2 and paragraph 3
between paragraph 3 and paragraph 4
between paragraph 4 and paragraph 5
between paragraph 5 and paragraph 6
7) As used in the final paragraph, which is the best synonym for delectable?
A.
B.
C.
D.
disgusting
familiar
fake
delicious
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2
Answers and Explanations
1) B
In paragraph 1, the author poses a series of questions about how to keep a hamburger looking delicious for hours under hot lights.
In paragraph 2, the author suggests that this problem is exactly what fast food companies must worry about when they make
advertisements for their food. The author explains that the conditions used during photo shoots “can cause the food to look quite
unappealing to potential consumers. Because of this, the menu items that you see in fast food commercials are probably not
actually edible.” In paragraphs 3-5, the author gives a step-by-step explanation of what the food stylist does to keep a hamburger
looking delicious for hours. Since the author poses a question and then delivers an explanation, we can understand that the author’s
purpose is to explain how fast food companies make their food look delicious in commercials. Therefore (B) is correct. The author
does not use a persuasive tone or try in other ways to convince people not to eat at fast food restaurants. This means (A) is incorrect.
Although a reader might be able to use the information presented in the passage to make similar food at home, the primary purpose
is to explain, not to teach. This means (C) is incorrect. The author does not use a harsh tone to criticize fast food companies; instead,
he or she explains the facts about how food commercials are made. This means (D) is incorrect.
2) C
Although it is likely that no one actually has to eat the food used in commercials, the author does not state this in the passage. This
eliminates option (I). In paragraph 1, the author asks readers to imagine making a hamburger and letting it sit under hot lights for
six or seven hours. The author then asks: “If someone took a picture or made a video of this hamburger after the seventh hour,
would anyone want to eat it? More importantly, do you think you could get millions of people to pay money for this hamburger?”
Then, in paragraph 2, the author states that fast food companies have to worry about these questions. These sentences suggest
that fast food companies think that it is important that people would pay for the food being advertised, so they must make the food
look very good. Glue and glycerin are some of the things they use to make the food look good. This supports option (II). In
paragraph 2, the author states, “Video and photo shoots often last many hours.” Since these photo shoots can take a very long time,
the food stylist uses things like glue and glycerin to keep the food looking fresh. This supports option (III). Therefore (C) is correct.
3) A
edible (adjective): suitable for a human being to eat; eatable.
In paragraph 2, the author states that “the menu items that you see in fast food commercials are probably not actually edible.” In the
rest of the passage, the author explains that the food used in fast food commercials contains things like glue, paint, and raw meat,
which are not things that people should eat. From the context, we can understand that the food used in commercials is probably not
suitable to be eaten. This means that if something is edible, you can eat it safely. Therefore (A) is correct. The food in fast food
commercials looks delicious, but it is not actually edible. This means that edible cannot mean to look very delicious. Therefore (B) is
incorrect. The passage does not contain any information about the size of the food in commercials versus real life, so (C) is
incorrect. Since the food contains glue and paint, it probably does not taste good, but more importantly it is not safe to eat. The big
question when considering whether something is edible is one of safety, not a question of taste. This means (D) is not the best
answer.
4) B
In paragraph 3, the author notes that a food stylist uses glue and tweezers to carefully rearrange “the sesame seeds on the bun…for
maximum visual appeal.” Therefore (B) is correct. The passage does not contain information to support answer choices (A), (C),
and (D). Therefore they are incorrect.
5) D
In paragraph 3, the author claims that a food stylist looking for the perfect lettuce and tomato searches for the “crispest lettuce” and
“the reddest tomato.” The food stylist then sprays the lettuce and tomato with glycerin “to keep them looking fresh.” From these
sentences, we can understand that freshness is the most important quality when the food stylist deals with lettuce and tomatoes.
Therefore (D) is correct. There is no information in the passage to make us think the lettuce and tomato should have a great taste; in
fact, if they are sprayed with glycerin, they probably do not taste good at all. This eliminates (A). Although the food stylist may
choose produce based on shape and size, and he or she may want the food to appear natural, the passage suggests that the most
important quality is that the lettuce and tomato look fresh. This rules out (B) and (C).
6) C
After paragraphs 1 and 2, which introduce the main idea, this passage is organized according to the steps one generally follows in
making a hamburger: first the bun (paragraph 3), then the meat (paragraph 4), and finally the lettuce and tomatoes (paragraph 5). If
the author wanted to include a paragraph about cheese, which goes directly on top of the meat, but beneath the lettuce and
tomatoes, it would likely come between paragraphs 4 and 5. Therefore (C) is correct. It would not make sense to talk about putting
the cheese on the hamburger before you explain how the hamburger patty is made, so this rules out (A) and (B). Putting the
paragraph about cheese after the paragraph about the lettuce and tomato would indicate that the lettuce and tomato are put on the
hamburger, then the cheese on top of the lettuce and tomato. But the question tells us that the cheese goes on top of the
hamburger patty, not on top of the produce. This means (D) is incorrect.
7) D
delectable (adjective): greatly pleasing to the taste; delicious.
The question asks us to find the best synonym. Synonyms are words that have nearly the same meanings. In the final paragraph,
the author writes: “So the next time you see a delectable hamburger in a fast food commercial, remember: you’re actually looking at
a glue, paint, raw meat, and glycerin! Are you still hungry?” We understand that the hamburgers in fast food commercials are
designed to look delicious, because in paragraph 1 the author discusses the problem of making “a delicious-looking hamburger” that
people would pay money for. According to the rest of the passage, however, the hamburger in a fast food commercial is not actually
© Copyright PICEC, 2013. All rights reserved.
3
delicious, because it is made of things like glue and paint. While it looks delectable, or delicious, it is not good to eat. Therefore (D)
is correct. It does not make sense to say “the next time you see a disgusting hamburger in a fast food commercial,” because we
have learned in the passage that the food stylist works very hard to make the hamburger look like it tastes good. This means (A) is
incorrect. A hamburger in a commercial would look familiar whether it tastes good or not. But the meaning of the final sentence is
that while the hamburger looks good, it actually would taste terrible. This means (B) is incorrect. A hamburger in a commercial does
not look fake, as we have learned from the passage that the food stylist works to make it look fresh and appetizing. Therefore (C) is
incorrect.
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4
泛美国际
Name_
Date
• Reading Comprehension 6
Level 7
Directions: Read the passage. Then answer the questions below.
Section IV: Funding
While is it clear that understanding the social, cultural, religious, and occupational beliefs and
needs of the surrounding population is essential, it is also absolutely necessary that we discuss another
aspect of the project: funding. The cost of design is estimated to be $50,000. The cost of materials is
estimated to be $75,000. The cost of labor is estimated to be $100,000. These costs are substantial. That
is why it is very important that we have a plan in place to cover them all. It has been confirmed that
$50,000 of the cost will be paid for through the generous donation of Willa J. Arthur. We are very
appreciative of Mrs. Arthur's donation, as it covers the cost of design. However, this does not pay for the
entire project. We still need to raise $175,000 for materials and labor.
Questions
1) Grier wants to play tennis. As used in the passage, we can understand that to do this, it is essential
that he has a
I. ball
II. racquet
III. water bottle
A.
B.
C.
D.
I only
I and II only
II and III only
I, II, and III
2) Based on information in the passage, it can be inferred that the title of the previous section is most
likely
A.
B.
C.
D.
Section III: Religion
Section III: Location
Section III: Community
Section III: Construction
3) As used in the title of this section, what is Funding?
A.
B.
C.
D.
project development
religious beliefs
population control
financial support
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1
4) According to the author, what is the cost of materials?
A.
B.
C.
D.
$50,000
$75,000
$100,000
$150,000
5) Based on information in the passage, which of the following situations describes something that is
substantial?
A.
B.
C.
D.
An anthill is destroyed by a gentle rain.
A boulder is too heavy to move.
A small fox eats less than a large bird.
A class has ten students in it.
6) Who made a donation to the project?
A.
B.
C.
D.
Archer K. Miller
William A. Arthur
Martha E Archer
Willa J. Arthur
7) What will the author most likely talk about next?
A.
B.
C.
D.
How to raise money for materials and labor.
How to use advanced construction techniques.
How to interact with people from other cultures.
How to increase the speed of project development.
© Copyright PICEC, 2013. All rights reserved.
2
Answers and Explanations
1) B
essential (adjective): crucial, necessary, key, vital.
The author writes, “While is it clear that understanding the social, cultural, religious, and occupational beliefs and needs of the
surrounding population is essential, it is also absolutely necessary that we discuss another aspect of the project: funding.” We can
use context clues—hints from known words or phrases around the unknown word or phrase—to help us figure out what essential
most nearly means. The first part of this quotation identifies various “understandings” that are essential. Immediately after this, the
second part of the quotation begins with “it is also absolutely necessary…” The word “also” lets us know that essential must mean
something like absolutely necessary, crucial, or vital. Using this close definition and what we know about tennis, we can tell that if
Grier wants to play tennis, it is essential—or absolutely necessary—that he have a ball. This supports option (I). Using the above
information, we can tell that if Grier wants to play tennis, it is essential—or absolutely necessary—that he have a racquet. This is
because we know that tennis is a sport that requires a racquet. This supports option (II). Using the above information, we can tell
that if Grier wants to play tennis, it is not essential—or absolutely necessary—that he have a water bottle. Since he can play tennis
without a water ball, we can tell that this piece of equipment is not crucial or absolutely necessary. This eliminates option (III).
Therefore (B) is correct.
2) C
The author writes, “While is it clear that understanding the social, cultural, religious, and occupational beliefs and needs of the
surrounding population is essential, it is also absolutely necessary that we discuss another aspect of the project: funding.” The
author uses this first introductory sentence to transition from a previous section and topic. After looking at the first part of this
sentence, we can determine that the “social, cultural, religious, and occupational beliefs and needs of the surrounding population”
was discussed in the previous section. Since the surrounding population and its social, cultural, religious, and occupational beliefs
and needs are known as community, it can be inferred that the title of the previous section is most likely Section III: Community.
Therefore (C) is correct. Using the above information, we can tell that religion in the surrounding population was included in the
previous section. This topic, however, is much too specific to include the “social, cultural, religious, and occupational beliefs and
needs of the surrounding population.” Because it would not necessarily include the other aspects of community that were
mentioned, we cannot infer that the title of the previous section is most likely Section III: Religion. This means (A) is incorrect. The
passage does not provide information for us to infer that the title of the previous section is either Section III: Location or Section III:
Construction. Therefore choices (B) and (D) are incorrect.
3) D
funding (noun): the raising of, or act of putting up, money.
The author writes, “While is it clear that understanding the social, cultural, religious, and occupational beliefs and needs of the
surrounding population is essential, it is also absolutely necessary that we discuss another aspect of the project: funding.” We can
use context clues—hints from known words or phrases around the unknown word or phrase—to help us figure out what funding
most nearly means. Immediately after this selection, the author writes, “The cost of design is…” Since cost is discussed, we can tell
that funding must mean something like the raising of, or act of putting up money. The raising or putting up of money and information
about cost, both involve financial support. This lets us know that as it’s used in the title of this section, funding is financial support.
Therefore (D) is correct. The passage does not provide information to support choices (A), (B), or (C). Therefore they are incorrect.
4) B
The author writes, “The cost of materials is estimated to be $75,000.” This means that according to the author, the cost of materials
is $75,000. Therefore (B) is correct. The author writes, “The cost of design is estimated to be $50,000.” We are not looking for the
cost of design, however, so we can tell that the cost of materials is not $50,000. This means (A) is incorrect. The author writes, “The
cost of labor is estimated to be $100,000.” Since we are looking for the cost of materials and not the cost of labor, we can tell that
the cost of materials is not $100,000. Therefore (C) is incorrect. The passage does not provide information to support choice (D).
Therefore it is incorrect.
5) B
substantial (adjective): sizable, considerable, significant, large.
The author writes, “These costs are substantial.” We can use context clues—hints from known words or phrases around the
unknown word or phrase—to help us figure out what substantial most nearly means. Previously, the author writes, “The cost of
design is estimated to be $50,000. The cost of materials is estimated to be $75,000. The cost of labor is estimated to be $100,000.”
Since we know that these costs add up to $225,000, we can tell that substantial must mean something like sizable, large, or
significant. A boulder that is too heavy to move must be sizable, large, or have a significant weight. This means that a boulder too
heavy to move is substantial, and (B) is correct. Using the above information, we can tell that we are looking for the situation that
describes something that is sizable, large, or significant. If an anthill could be destroyed by a gentle rain, it must not be very sizable,
large, or significant. This lets us know that this situation does not describe something substantial, so (A) is incorrect. Using the
above information, we can tell that we are looking for the situation that describes something that is sizable, large, or significant. If a
small fox weights eats less than a large bird, it must not eat very much, since most birds are thought to eat less than mammals,
generally speaking. This means that this situation does not describe something substantial, so (C) is incorrect. Using the above
information, we can tell that we are looking for the situation that describes something that is sizable, large, or significant. If a class
only has ten students in it, we can tell that it must not be sizable, large, or significant, since some classes have more than 30
students in them. Therefore this situation does not describe something substantial, and (D) is incorrect.
6)
D
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3
The author writes, “It has been confirmed that $50,000 of the cost will be paid for through the generous donation of Willa J. Arthur.”
This means that Willa J. Arthur made a donation to the project. Therefore (D) is correct. The passage does not provide information
to support choices (A), (B), or (C). Therefore they are incorrect.
7) A
At the end of the passage, the author writes, “We still need to raise $175,000 for materials and labor.” Since this is the last sentence
in this section, it provides clues about what the author will talk about next. Since the project still needs $175,000 for materials and
labor, we can conclude that the author will most likely talk about how to raise money for materials and labor next. This means (A) is
correct. The passage does not provide information to support choices (B), (C), or (D). Therefore they are incorrect.
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4
泛美国际
Name_
Date
• Reading Comprehension 7
Level 7
Directions: Read the passage. Then answer the questions below.
th
Washington D.C., March 4 , 1865—the Inauguration Day of President re-elect Abraham Lincoln
was cold and windy, just as it had been four years earlier. But the U.S. capital building was now complete;
its great iron dome now in place, crowned by a bronze liberty. Just before the president began to speak,
the clouds parted, flooding the stands with brilliant sunlight. Lincoln rose and gave his speech.
"I'm a tired man," Lincoln said afterwards. "Sometimes I think I'm the tiredest [sic] man on earth."
In the crowd just a few yards from Lincoln was the young actor, John Wilkes Booth. His vantage
point on the balcony, Booth said afterwards, had offered an excellent chance to kill the president, "If [he]
had wished."
John Wilkes booth was a fervent believer in slavery and white supremacy. He enthusiastically
supported the confederate notion that African Americans were unequal to whites and should remain
slaves. But during the four years of war, he had not been able to bring himself to actually fight for the
southern cause. "I have begun to deem myself a coward, and to despise my own existence," he wrote.
His mind fixed on Lincoln as the tyrant responsible for all the country's troubles and his own. Booth
hatched a scheme to kidnap Lincoln, and he gathered a worshipful band of dubious conspirators willing to
help out. This included: Lewis Paine, a wounded confederate who had recently sworn allegiance to the
union; David E. Herold, a druggist clerk who was thought by some to be intellectually challenged; George
Atzerodt, a German born wagon painter, barely able to make himself understood in English; and John H.
Surratt, a sometime confederate spy, whose widowed mother, Mary, kept a Washington boarding house
where Booth and his admirers sometimes met.
Questions
th
1) In paragraph 1, the author writes, "Washington D.C., March 4 , 1865—the Inauguration Day of
President re-elect Abraham Lincoln was cold and windy, just as it had been four years earlier." Using
this information, the reader can understand that
I. this was not Lincoln's first term as president
th
II. it was cold and windy in Washington D.C. on March 4 , 1861
III. Lincoln did not know that John Wilkes Booth was in the crowd
A.
B.
C.
D.
I only
I and II only
II and III only
I, II, and III
© Copyright PICEC, 2013. All rights reserved.
1
2) In paragraph 2, the author uses the term "[sic]." This is used to show the reader that a word or phrase
was used incorrectly by the speaker, but that the author still wishes to preserve the speaker's actual
language. In this case, the author writes "[sic]" after the word "tiredest" to show that it is used
incorrectly (the correct form is "more tired"). Using this information, which of the following quotations
should the term "[sic]" be applied to?
A.
B.
C.
D.
"Tommy bought a new bike down at the new bicycle shop."
"Some plants require a great deal of light in order to grow."
"No one knows this town like I do."
"Jessica Hampton is my bestest friend."
3) According to the author, what was John Wilkes Booth's profession?
A.
B.
C.
D.
writer
soldier
politician
actor
4) Marco is a fervent believer in animal rights. One day, Marco learns that the animals in a nearby zoo
are being mistreated. Which of the following sentences describes how Marco would most likely react
after learning this information?
A.
B.
C.
D.
Marco sighs and continues playing video games.
Marco does internet research with the hope of learning more.
Marco monitors updates on a local news channel.
Marco joins a protest outside the zoo entrance.
5) John Wilkes Booth can best be described as
A.
B.
C.
D.
treacherous, meaning unfaithful or disloyal
patriotic, meaning devoted to one's country
amicable, meaning friendly or agreeable
idiotic, meaning senselessly foolish or stupid
6) As used in the final paragraph, dubious most nearly means
A.
B.
C.
D.
questionable
uneducated
evil
greedy
© Copyright PICEC, 2013. All rights reserved.
2
Answers and Explanations
1) B
In paragraph 1, the author writes, “the Inauguration Day of President re-elect Abraham Lincoln was cold and windy, just as it had
been four years earlier.” Several clues in this selection let us know that this was not Lincoln’s first term as president. First, Lincoln is
referred to as “President re-elect, which lets us know that he had been president before. Also, the day “four years earlier” is
mentioned. Since we know that presidential elections, and as a result Inauguration Days, take place every four years, we can
conclude that Lincoln had been inaugurated four years earlier. Using this information, we can tell that this was not Lincoln’s first term
as president. This supports option (I). In paragraph 1, the author writes, “Washington D.C., March 4, 1865—the Inauguration Day of
President re-elect Abraham Lincoln was cold and windy, just as it had been four years earlier." Since the author notes that it was
“cold and windy…four years earlier,” and March 4th, 1861 is exactly four years earlier, we can conclude that it was cold and windy in
Washington D.C. on March 4th, 1861. This supports option (II). The author does not provide any information for us to conclude that
Lincoln did not know that John Wilkes Booth was in the crowd. This means we can eliminate option (III). Therefore (B) is correct.
2) D
Using the information above, we can tell that we are looking for the quotation that contains a word or phrase that is used incorrectly.
Since the author writes “[sic]” after Lincoln’s use of “tiredest” because it should read more tired, we can tell that “tiredest” must be
used incorrectly. In the quotation, “Jessica Hampton is my bestest friend,” the word “bestest” is used in the same incorrect way as
Lincoln’s use of “tiredest.” This lets us know that the quotation, “Jessica Hampton is my bestest friend” should have the term “[sic]”
applied to it. Therefore (D) is correct. While the quotation, “Tommy bought a new bike down at the new bicycle chop” is repetitive, it
does not contain a word or phrase that is misused by the speaker. We can tell that in both instances where the speaker uses the
word new, he is using the adjective correctly. Although it sounds repetitive, the quotation does not misuse a word or phrase. This
means (A) is incorrect. While the quotation, “Some plants require a great deal of light in order to grow," might technically need a
comma between the word “light” and the phrase “in order to grow,” the speaker does not misuse a word or phrase here. This lets us
know that this quotation does not need to have the term “[sic]” applied to it. Therefore (B) is incorrect. The quotation, "No one knows
this town like I do,” does not misuse a word or phrase. This means that it does not need to have the term “[sic]” applied to it, and (C)
is incorrect.
3) D
In paragraph 3, the author writes, “In the crowd just a few yards from Lincoln was the young actor, John Wilkes Booth.” This lets us
know that John Wilkes Booth was an actor. Therefore (D) is correct. The author does not provide information to support choices (A),
(B), or (C). Therefore they are incorrect.
4) D
fervent (adjective): having or displaying a passionate intensity.
In paragraph 4, the author writes, “John Wilkes booth was a fervent believer in slavery and white supremacy.” We can use context
clues—hints from known words or phrases around the unknown word or phrase—to help us figure out what fervent most nearly
means. In the next sentence, the author writes, “He enthusiastically supported the confederate notion that African Americans were
unequal to whites and should remain slaves.” We can tell that these two sentences are parallel—or similar in structure—because we
know that “slavery and white supremacy” in the first sentence aligns with the “notion that African Americans were unequal to whites
and should remain slaves” in the second sentence. This means that the phrase “fervent believer” at the beginning of the first
sentence must align with the phrase “enthusiastically supported” at the beginning of the second sentence. Using this information, we
can tell that fervent must mean something like having or displaying an enthusiastic, passionate intensity. If Marco has an
enthusiastic and passionately intense belief in animal rights, and he learned that animals were being mistreated, we can tell that he
would most likely react by joining a protest outside the zoo entrance. This is because people protest when they feel passionately
about something. Therefore (D) is correct. Using the above information, we can tell that we are looking for the reaction that reflects
an enthusiastic or passionate intensity for animal rights. If Marco sighs and continues playing video games, this would not reflect an
enthusiastic, passionate intensity, because it hardly reflects a response at all. Marco’s sigh is merely a small acknowledgement of
the mistreatment of animals described in the scenario. This lets us know that the sentence, Marco sighs and continues playing video
games, does not describe how Marco—a fervent believer in animal rights—would most likely react after learning that animals were
mistreated. This means (A) is incorrect. Using the above information, we can tell that we are looking for the reaction that reflects an
enthusiastic or passionate intensity for animal rights. If, in reaction to hearing about the mistreatment of animals, Marco does
internet research with the hope of learning more, this would not reflect an enthusiastic, passionate intensity. This is because internet
research is a relatively passive response for a fervent believer of animal rights to take, after hearing about the mistreatment of
animals. This lets us know that the sentence, Marco does internet research with the hope of learning more, does not describe how
Marco—a fervent believer in animal rights—would most likely react after learning that animals were mistreated. Therefore (B) is
incorrect. Using the above information, we can tell that we are looking for the reaction that reflects an enthusiastic or passionate
intensity for animal rights. If, in reaction to hearing about the mistreatment of animals, Marco monitors updates on a local news
channel, this would not reflect an enthusiastic, passionate intensity, because monitoring the news on TV is a relatively passive
response for a fervent believer of animal rights to take, upon hearing about the mistreatment of animals. This lets us know that the
sentence, Marco monitors updates on a local news channel, does not describe how Marco—a fervent believer in animal rights—
would most likely react after learning that animals were mistreated. Therefore (C) is incorrect.
5) A
In paragraph 4, the author writes, “[John Wilkes Booth] enthusiastically supported the confederate notion that African Americans
were unequal to whites and should remain slaves. But during the four years of war, he had not been able to bring himself to actually
fight for the southern cause.” This lets us know that even though Booth supported the ideas behind confederate cause, he was
disloyal or unfaithful to the confederacy because “he had not been able to bring himself to actually fight for the southern cause.”
Because of this unfaithfulness and disloyalty, the author writes that Booth even began to consider himself a “coward.” Also,
© Copyright PICEC, 2013. All rights reserved.
3
“hatch[ing] a scheme” to kidnap the president of your own country is unfaithful and disloyal. Using this information, we can tell that
John Wilkes Booth can best be described as treacherous, meaning unfaithful or disloyal. Therefore (A) is correct. The author writes
that John Wilkes Booth and his gang were planning to kidnap the president of the United States. We know that the president is the
figurehead of the United States. Therefore, John Wilkes Booth cannot best be described as patriotic, meaning devoted to one’s
country, since he wanted to kidnap his country’s president. This means (B) is incorrect. The author writes, “John Wilkes booth was a
fervent believer in slavery and white supremacy. He enthusiastically supported the confederate notion that African Americans were
unequal to whites and should remain slaves.” Since we would not describe proponents of enslaving others as “friendly or
agreeable,” it would not be accurate to say that John Wilkes Booth can best be described as amicable, meaning friendly or
agreeable. This means (C) is incorrect. The author writes, “Booth hatched a scheme to kidnap Lincoln, and he gathered a worshipful
band of dubious conspirators willing to help out.” While this scheme might be in poor taste, given that Lincoln worked to end slavery,
it would be much too strong to say that John Wilkes Booth can best be described as idiotic, meaning senselessly foolish or stupid.
Although immoral, John Wilkes Booth rationale for disliking the president makes sense given Booth’s beliefs about slavery in
comparison to Lincoln’s. This means it would not be accurate to say that John Wilkes Booth can best be described as idiotic,
meaning senselessly foolish or stupid. Because this word is too strong, (D) is correct.
6) A
dubious (adjective): questionable; hesitating or doubting.
In paragraph 4, the author writes, “Booth hatched a scheme to kidnap Lincoln, and he gathered a worshipful band of dubious
conspirators willing to help out.” We can use context clues—hints from known words or phrases around the unknown word or
phrase—to help us figure out what dubious most nearly means. After this selection, the author lists the conspirators, each with a
brief description. By looking closely at the common aspects of the descriptions of the conspirators, we can figure out what dubious
most nearly means. The conspirators included a “wounded confederate,” an “intellectually challenged” clerk, a painter who spoke
poor English, and a spy. All of these attributes make the candidates unlikely, questionable choices for the type of team necessary to
complete a mentally and physically complicated task like kidnapping the president. This lets us know that dubious most nearly
means questionable. Therefore (A) is correct. The author does not provide information to supports choices (B), (C), or (D).
Therefore they are incorrect.
© Copyright PICEC, 2013. All rights reserved.
4
泛美国际
Name_
Date
• Reading Comprehension 8
Level 7
Directions: Read the passage. Then answer the questions below.
Nepal, a small, mountainous country tucked between India and China, may seem
completely foreign to many Americans. Cows walk down busy streets unharmed, 24 different
languages are spoken, and people eat two meals of rice and lentils every day. Nepali holidays,
many of which are related to the Hindu religion, can seem especially bizarre to Americans
unfamiliar with the culture. However, if we look beyond how others celebrate to consider the
things they are celebrating, we find surprising similarities to our own culture.
The biggest holiday in Nepal is Dashain, a ten-day festival for the Hindu goddess Durga
that takes place in September or October. According to Hindu beliefs, Durga defeated the evil
demons of the world. To thank the goddess, people visit temples in her honor and sacrifice
goats or sheep as offerings. Throughout the year, most Nepalis do not eat much meat because
it is expensive, but Dashain is a time to enjoy meat every day. Children fly colorful, homemade
kites during Dashain. People also construct enormous bamboo swings on street corners and in
parks. Every evening people gather at these swings and take turns swinging. Nepalis say that
by swinging, people can relieve the earth of their weight, if only for a few minutes out of the
year. Dashain is a time for people to eat good food, relax, and enjoy themselves!
Aside from eating and enjoying themselves, during Dashain people also receive
blessings from their elders. Schools and offices shut down so people can travel to be with their
families. Reuniting with family reminds people of the importance of kindness, respect, and
forgiveness. People also clean and decorate their homes for Dashain. And, like many holidays
in the United States, it is a time for shopping. Children and adults alike get new clothes for the
occasion. People express appreciation for all that they have, while looking forward to good
fortune and peace in the year to come.
During American holidays, people may not sacrifice goats or soar on bamboo swings,
but we do often travel to be with family members and take time off work or school to relax. No
matter how we celebrate, many people around the world spend their holidays honoring family,
reflecting on their blessings, and hoping for good fortune in the future.
© Copyright PICEC, 2013. All rights reserved.
1
Questions
1) According to the passage, Hindus believe that the goddess Durga
A.
B.
C.
D.
sacrifices goats and sheep
defeated the evil demons of the world
visits temples
enjoys meat every day
2) Which of the following sentences from the passage best indicates why the author thinks Nepal would
seem very foreign to many Americans?
A. “Cows walk down busy streets unharmed, 24 different languages are spoken, and people eat two
meals of rice and lentils every day.”
B. “Every evening people gather at these swings and take turns swinging.”
C. “People also clean and decorate their homes for Dashain.”
D. “During American holidays, people may not sacrifice goats or soar on bamboo swings, but we do
often travel to be with family members and take time off work or school to relax.”
3) As used in paragraph 1, bizarre most nearly means
A.
B.
C.
D.
unbelievable
unknown
awkward
strange
4) The colorful kites and bamboo swings are both used as examples of
A.
B.
C.
D.
ways people relax and enjoy themselves during Dashain
things people honor and reflect on during Dashain
offerings to the goddess Durga
ways people reunite with family during Dashain
5) The author suggests that although people in different cultures celebrate holidays differently, one
similarity is that many people
A.
B.
C.
D.
ask for blessings from their elders during holidays
agree that holidays reveal a lot about a culture
believe that holidays must be celebrated
think of holidays as a time to spend with their families
© Copyright PICEC, 2013. All rights reserved.
2
Answers and Explanations
1) B
To answer this detail question correctly, we need to find where the author discusses the goddess Durga in the passage. A good way
to do this is to scan the topic sentence of each paragraph, since this sentence will likely tell us what information can be found in the
rest of that paragraph. The topic sentence of paragraph 2 reads: “The biggest holiday in Nepal is Dashain, a ten-day festival for the
Hindu goddess Durga that takes place in September or October.” This lets us know that the details we are looking for can likely be
found in paragraph 2. In paragraph 2, the author writes, “According to Hindu beliefs, Durga defeated the evil demons of the world.”
This tells us that Hindus believe that the goddess Durga defeated the evil demons of the world. Therefore (B) is correct. The
passage tells us that Nepali people sacrifice goats and sheep as offerings to the goddess Durga, so she is not the one who
sacrifices them. This eliminates (A). The passage tells us that Nepalis visit temples to honor Durga during Dashain, but it does not
suggest that they believe the goddess Durga visits temples. This means (C) is incorrect. The passage tells us that Nepali people
enjoy meat every day during Dashain, not that they believe the goddess Durga enjoys meat every day. This means (D) is incorrect.
2) A
In paragraph 1, the author writes, “Nepal, a small, mountainous country tucked between India and China, may seem completely
foreign to many Americans.” In the next sentence, the author offers reasons why Nepal may seem so foreign to many Americans:
“Cows walk down busy streets unharmed, 24 different languages are spoken, and people eat two meals of rice and lentils every
day.” Because this sentence gives three examples of things in Nepal that are likely unfamiliar to many Americans, it best indicates
why the author thinks Nepal would seem very foreign to many Americans. Therefore (A) is correct. In paragraph 2, the author does
say that during Dashain, people in Nepal gather at bamboo swings in the evening. However, he or she does not suggest that people
swinging is what would make Nepal seem very foreign to Americans. This means (B) is incorrect. In paragraph 3, the author does
say that people often clean and decorate their homes for Dashain. But this is not a custom that would make Nepal seem foreign to
Americans, as many people around the world, including Americans, clean and decorate their homes. This makes (C) incorrect. In
the final paragraph, the author notes that in America people do not soar on bamboo swings or sacrifice goats, but he or she sees
similarities in the fact that Nepalis and Americans both take time off work or school to be with family and relax. The author suggests
there are some things about holidays in Nepal that would not seem so foreign to many Americans after all, so (D) is incorrect.
3) D
bizarre (adjective): very strange or unusual; odd.
In paragraph 1, the author writes, “Nepali holidays, many of which are related to the Hindu religion, can seem especially bizarre to
Americans unfamiliar with the culture.” If Americans are unfamiliar with the culture, then we can understand that holidays will seem
strange or unusual, because they are not familiar and different from American holidays. This means that bizarre most nearly means
strange. Therefore (D) is correct. Americans may not be familiar with Nepali holidays or culture, so some things may appear
strange. However, the author does not suggest that the holidays would be so strange that they would seem unbelievable to
Americans. The holidays may seem different, but not unreal or impossible. This means (A) is incorrect. Although the Nepali culture
and holidays may be unknown to Americans, the author writes that they will seem bizarre. This means that the author is discussing
how the holidays will appear to Americans, not whether or not Americans know the holidays. This eliminates (B). While sometimes
we feel awkward around things that seem strange or unfamiliar, this does not mean that the Nepali holidays themselves would seem
awkward or uncomfortable to Americans. This means (C) is incorrect.
4) A
In paragraph 2, the author writes: “Children fly colorful, homemade kites during Dashain. People also construct enormous bamboo
swings on street corners and in parks. Every evening people gather at these swings and take turns swinging. Nepalis say that by
swinging, people can relieve the earth of their weight, if only for a few minutes out of the year.” At the end of the paragraph, the
author writes, “Dashain is a time for people to eat good food, relax, and enjoy themselves!” This tells us that the paragraph was
about ways people eat, relax, and enjoy themselves during Dashain. Since colorful kites and bamboo swings are not things to eat,
we can infer that these are both used as examples of ways that people relax and enjoy themselves. Therefore (A) is correct. In the
final paragraph, the author writes that “many people around the world spend their holidays honoring family, reflecting on their
blessings, and hoping for good fortune in the future.” This means that family and blessings are things that people honor and reflect
on, not colorful kites and bamboo swings. This makes (B) incorrect. In paragraph 2, the author writes, “To thank the goddess,
people visit temples in her honor and sacrifice goats or sheep as offerings.” He or she does not claim that colorful kites and bamboo
swings are offerings to Durga, so (C) is incorrect. In paragraph 3, the author writes, “Reuniting with family reminds people of the
importance of kindness, respect, and forgiveness.” The author does not suggest that colorful kites and bamboo swings are ways to
reunite with family. Therefore (D) is incorrect.
5) D
In paragraph 1, the author claims, “If we look beyond how others celebrate to consider what things are celebrating, we find
surprising similarities to our own culture.” This tells us that the author thinks that although why people celebrate may be different in
different cultures, how people celebrate is often similar. In paragraph 3, the author writes, “Schools and offices shut down so people
can travel to be with their families. Reuniting with family reminds people of the importance of kindness, respect, and forgiveness.”
From this we can understand that one of the things people celebrate in Nepal is the importance of family. In the final paragraph, the
author writes that this is a similarity across cultures: “No matter how we celebrate, many people around the world spend their
holidays honoring family, reflecting on their blessings, and hoping for good fortune in the future.” This tells us that although people in
different cultures celebrate holidays differently, one similarity is that many people think of holidays as a time to spend with their
families. Therefore (D) is correct. The author tells us that many people in Nepal ask for blessings from their elders during Dashain,
but he or she does not suggest that this is a similarity across different cultures. This means (A) is incorrect. The author does not
suggest that many people agree that holidays reveal a lot about a culture. Though this may be true, the author does not discuss
what holidays reveal about a culture. This means (B) is incorrect. The author does not suggest that many people believe that
holidays must be celebrated. This makes (C) incorrect.
© Copyright PICEC, 2013. All rights reserved.
3
泛美国际
Name_
Date
• Sentence Completion 1
Level 7
Directions: Complete the sentence using the word or set of words for each blank that best fits the
meaning of the sentence as a whole.
1. Despite the unfavorable attention
5. It is no secret that prison can be rather
brought on by some critics, the press
had
effect on the campaign
overall.
; grim conditions and severe
treatment have been known to
even the most hardened criminals.
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
a beneficial
a neutral
an inert
a destructive
a harmful
2. Although Kate’s report on her scientific
cruel ... entertain
harsh ... dishearten
pleasant ... encourage
awful ... satisfy
horrendous ... soothe
6. Unlike the misleading television
findings was lengthy, the presentation
she held was rather
_.
documentary, the biography was
.
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
brief
thorough
mundane
straightforward
elaborate
3. The new building was expansive; its
interesting
accurate
fantastic
phony
false
7. According to clinicians, psychopaths
foundation allowed for wider
hallways than its predecessor.
are
: that is, they are
intentionally violent and mean.
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
shallow
small
broad
thin
fancy
4. The famous pop singer tragically died
at age thirty-two; it was an
event for all his many fans, but it was
especially hard on his most
fans.
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
unthinkable ... healthy
amazing ... dubious
appalling ... devoted
appreciated ... strange
emotional ... heavy
© Copyright PICEC, 2013. All rights reserved.
sympathetic
timid
polite
vicious
infrequent
8. The doctor takes note of any
marks on the patient’s skin, because
such abnormalities often indicate the
presence of skin cancer.
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
irregular
typical
ordinary
invisible
common
1
Answers and Explanations
1) A
The main clue in this question is the word “although,” which means that two things are related in a negative or opposite way.
The correct choice will set up an opposite relationship between Kate’s lengthy report and her presentation. The missing word
describes her presentation, and if her report were lengthy, her report must have been not lengthy. Because brief means not
lengthy, choice (A) is correct.
(B) is incorrect because it does not set up an opposite relationship. Thorough means complete with regard to every detail and
is, as such, not the opposite of “lengthy.”
(C) is incorrect because it does not set up an opposite relationship. Mundane means dull and is, as such, not the opposite of
“lengthy.”
(D) is incorrect because it does not set up an opposite relationship. Straightforward means easy to understand and not
complex. It does not work because straightforward is not the same as short.
(E) is incorrect because it does not set up an opposite relationship. Elaborate means complex and detailed and is, as such, not
the opposite of “lengthy.”
2) A
The main clue in this question is the word “despite,” which means that two things are related in a negative or opposite way. The
correct choice will set up an opposite relationship with “unfavorable attention.” The word “unfavorable” is a negative word, so
the correct choice must be something positive. Beneficial means favorable or resulting in good, so choice (A) is correct.
(B) is incorrect because neutral means having neither a positive nor a negative effect on something. This does not work
because neutral is not the opposite of “unfavorable.”
(C) is incorrect because inert means lacking the strength to move or affect something. This does not work because inert is not
the opposite of “unfavorable.”
(D) is incorrect because destructive means harmful or damaging. This is similar to “unfavorable,” not the opposite of it.
(E) is incorrect because harmful means causing damage or harm. This is similar to “unfavorable,” not the opposite of it.
3) C
The main clue in this question is the semicolon ( ; ), which combines two independent clauses that are close in meaning and
progress logically from one another. This means that there will be a logical relationship between the expansive hallways and
the foundation the missing word describes. The missing word must, therefore, mean expansive or large. Because broad means
wide, choice (C) is correct.
(A) is incorrect because it does not set up a logical relationship. Shallow means of little depth and in no way would imply that
the foundation was “expansive.”
(B) is incorrect because it does not set up a logical relationship. Small means not large in size. In context, it conveys the idea
that the foundation is too little or narrow to provide for expansive hallways. This is the opposite of what the prompt implies.
(D) is incorrect because it does not set up a logical relationship. Thin means not wide. In context, it conveys the idea that the
foundation is too little or narrow to provide for expansive hallways. This is the opposite of what the prompt implies.
(E) is incorrect because it does not set up a logical relationship. Fancy means elaborate in structure or decoration. There is no
connection between this word and the size characteristics implied by the prompt.
4) C
Each missing word has its own clue in this sentence. The first missing word’s clue is the semicolon ( ; ), which links
independent clauses that state related information. This means there is a logical connection between the tragic death of the
pop singer and the type of “event” it was for his fans, meaning the first missing word must relate to tragic. The second missing
word hinges on the word “but,” which sets up an opposite relationship between “all of his many fans” and the missing word.
This means the missing word must refer to a specific, rather than general, type of fan who would take the death “especially
hard.” Appalling means awful or terrible, and devoted means loyal. In context, these words would imply that the tragic death
was an awful event for all fans but especially for the singer’s most loyal ones. Therefore, choice (C) is correct.
(A) is incorrect because neither word works in context. Unthinkable means too terrible to be considered a possibility, while
healthy means in good health or physically well. The prompt implies that the singer’s death was tragic but not that it was
impossible. Furthermore, healthy or unhealthy fans would both take a tragic event in the same way.
(B) is incorrect because neither word works in context. Amazing means causing great surprise or wonder, while dubious means
doubtful. Amazing is not the same as tragic, and doubtful fans would not take tragic news harder than would any other fans.
© Copyright PICEC, 2013. All rights reserved.
2
(D) is incorrect because neither word works in context. Appreciated means valued, while strange means odd or unusual. A
tragic event would not be valued, and strange fans would not take the news of a tragic event any harder than would normal
fans.
(E) is incorrect because only the first word works in context. Emotional means arousing great feelings, and a tragic death could
certainly be an emotional event. However, heavy means of great weight or significance, and there is no reason that heavy fans
would take the news harder than non-heavy fans would.
5) B
The main clue in this question is the semicolon ( ; ), which combines two independent clauses that are close in meaning and
progress logically from one another. This means that there will be a logical relationship between prison conditions and their
effects on prisoners. The prompt states that prison is “grim” and “severe,” so the first missing word must also mean grim or
severe. The second missing word must relate to what prison does to “even the most hardened” criminals. The “even” in that
phrase implies that prison does the opposite of hardening criminals. A hardened criminal is one who is determined to be a
criminal, so the second missing word must describe the process by which a hardened criminal becomes no longer hardened.
Because harsh means severe or unpleasantly rough, while dishearten means to cause someone to lose confidence or
determination, choice (B) is correct.
(A) is incorrect because it does not set up a logical relationship. Cruel means willfully causing pain, while entertain means to
provide someone with amusement. Prison can be cruel, but it does not entertain criminals.
(C) is incorrect because it does not set up a logical relationship. Pleasant means enjoyable or pleasing, while encourage
means to give someone confidence or support. The prompt implies that prison is the opposite of pleasant and does the
opposite of encouraging hardened criminals.
(D) is incorrect because it does not set up a logical relationship. Awful means terrible or very bad, while satisfy means to meet
someone’s expectations or bring pleasure. Prison can be awful, but it does not satisfy prisoners.
(E) is incorrect because it does not set up a logical relationship. Horrendous means very awful, while soothe means to relax or
calm. Prison can be horrendous, but it does not soothe prisoners, since nothing horrendous would calm anyone.
6) B
The main clue in this question is the word “unlike,” which means that two things are related in a negative or opposite way. The
correct choice will set up an opposite relationship with “misleading.” If something is not misleading, then it is correct and
factual. Because accurate means correct in all details, choice (B) is correct.
(A) is incorrect because it does not set up an opposite relationship. Interesting means arousing curiosity or interest. There is no
relationship between being “misleading” and being interesting.
(C) is incorrect because it does not set up an opposite relationship. Fantastic means imaginative, which is not the opposite of
“misleading.”
(D) is incorrect because it does not set up an opposite relationship. Phony means not genuine. This is almost the same as
“misleading,” not the opposite of it.
(E) is incorrect because it does not set up an opposite relationship. False means not true. This is almost the same as
“misleading,” not the opposite of it.
7) D
The main clue in this question is the phrase “that is,” which is used to separate an explanatory clause from the part of the
sentence it explains. This means that everything after “that is” explains what “psychopaths are,” meaning that the missing word
must mean “intentionally violent and mean.” Because vicious means deliberately cruel and violent, choice (D) is correct.
(A) is incorrect because sympathetic means feeling sympathy or care for others. This is the opposite of what someone who is
“intentionally violent and mean” would be described as.
(B) is incorrect because timid means lacking courage. This has no relationship to being “intentionally violent and mean.”
(C) is incorrect because polite means courteous and kind. This is the opposite of what someone who is “intentionally violent
and mean” would be described as.
(E) is incorrect because infrequent means rare. This has no relationship to being “intentionally violent and mean.”
8) A
The main clue in this question is the word “because,” which links clauses that have a cause-and-effect relationship between
them. This means that there is a relationship between the marks the doctor notes and those “abnormalities” that can indicate
skin cancer. The missing word describes the “marks,” so it must mean abnormal in order for the sentence to make sense.
Because irregular means abnormal or not typical, choice (A) is correct.
© Copyright PICEC, 2013. All rights reserved.
3
(B) is incorrect because it does not set up a logical relationship. Typical means normal or usual. A typical mark would not be
described as an abnormality.
(C) is incorrect because it does not set up a logical relationship. Ordinary means usual or normal. An ordinary mark would not
be described as an abnormality.
(D) is incorrect because it does not set up a logical relationship. Invisible means unable to be seen. An invisible mark would not
be described as an abnormality, especially since it would not even be able to be seen.
(E) is incorrect because it does not set up a logical relationship. Common means ordinary. An ordinary mark would not be
described as an abnormality.
© Copyright PICEC, 2013. All rights reserved.
4
泛美国际
Name_
Date
• Sentence Completion 2
Level 7
Directions: Complete the sentence using the word or set of words for each blank that best fits the
meaning of the sentence as a whole.
1. Mr. Hawkins’ philosophy course gets
quickly, even though the
school has increased the enrollment
limit twice already.
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
started
filled
vacated
completed
concluded
2. Under ordinary circumstances, the
board would never
such
behavior, but, since she was the CEO,
her wrongdoing was casually
overlooked.
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
administer
thwart
suspect
condone
reprimand
3. It took Miranda years of substance
abuse counseling to finally achieve
; she now leads a healthy life
free of drugs and alcohol.
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
sobriety
assistance
dignity
addiction
depression
4. Although they have always done
things
in the past, the twins
felt it was crucial that they experience
college
, and foster a healthy
sense of independence.
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
closely ... collectively
joyfully ... happily
deceptively ... quietly
individually ... independently
jointly ... separately
© Copyright PICEC, 2013. All rights reserved.
5. Most people consider torture to be
because it is an act of cruelty;
however, some assert that it is
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
in deterring crimes
offensive ... dangerous
amazing ... crucial
horrible ... mediocre
immoral ... useful
terrible ... unforgivable
6. Health insurance prevents routine
medical visits from becoming too
for the average citizen;
without insurance, seeing a doctor can
be very expensive.
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
helpful
urgent
costly
valuable
advantageous
7. Josh lets procrastination get the best
of him; he
completed his
project the night before it was due,
resulting in a sloppy presentation.
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
patiently
slowly
hastily
nervously
carefully
8. During marathons,
runners—
those runners who are better and
faster than the other competitors—are
given special water stops and earlier
start times.
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
sluggish
athletic
opulent
elite
wealthy
1
Answers and Explanations
1) B
The main clue in this question is the phrase “even though,” which means that two things are related in a negative or opposite
way. The correct choice will set up an opposite relationship between the fact that the maximum enrollment of Mr. Hawkins'
class has been raised twice and what the course gets to be “quickly.” This means that the school is always trying to let more
students take Mr. Hawkins' class, but the class still does not have enough open seats, so the class becomes full. Filled means
full, so choice (B) is correct.
(A) is incorrect because started means begun. The enrollment limit has no effect on when the class gets started. Only the
school calendar affects when classes begin or end, and the number of students in a particular class does not affect the
calendar.
(C) is incorrect because vacated means left unoccupied. This is the opposite of Mr. Hawkins’ philosophy course, since a
vacated or empty course would not need to have an increased enrollment.
(D) is incorrect because completed means finished. The enrollment limit has no effect on when the class gets completed. Only
the school calendar affects when classes begin or end, and the number of students in a particular class does not affect the
calendar.
(E) is incorrect because concluded means ended. The enrollment limit has no effect on when the class gets concluded. Only
the school calendar affects when classes begin or end, and the number of students in a particular class does not affect the
calendar.
2) D
The main clue in this question is the word “but,” which means that two things are related in a negative or opposite way. The
correct choice will set up an opposite relationship with the board’s usual reaction and the fact that the board “casually
overlooked” the CEO’s behavior. The missing word describes something the board “would never” do under normal
circumstances, and, since the one exception was made for the CEO, the board must usually not overlook such behavior. Thus,
the missing word should mean overlook or allow. Because condone means to accept or allow, choice (D) is correct.
(A) is incorrect because administer means to dispense or apply. The prompt does not imply that the board “would never” apply
such behavior. Moreover, this word does not work because administering is not the same as overlooking.
(B) is incorrect because thwart means to prevent someone from accomplishing something. This does not work because
thwarting is not the same as overlooking. If anything, thwarting is the opposite of overlooking.
(C) is incorrect because suspect means to believe that someone is guilty of wrongdoing. This does not work because
suspecting is not the same as overlooking. If anything, suspecting is the opposite of overlooking.
(E) is incorrect because reprimand means to punish. This does not work because reprimanding is not the same as overlooking.
If anything, reprimanding is the opposite of overlooking.
3) A
The main clues in this question are “substance abuse counseling” and “healthy life free of drugs and alcohol.” Additionally, the
semicolon ( ; ) combines two independent clauses that are close in meaning and progress logically from one another. This
means that there will be a logical or equal relationship between Miranda’s counseling and her new, drug-free life. People enter
substance abuse counseling when they have a problem with drugs or alcohol, and the missing word describes the end result of
this: a life free of drugs and alcohol. Because sobriety is the state of being sober and free of drugs or alcohol, choice (A) is
correct.
(B) is incorrect because assistance is help. This does not work because assistance has no connection to “a life free from drugs
and alcohol.”
(C) is incorrect because dignity is the state of being worthy of respect. This does not work because dignity has no connection
to “a life free from drugs and alcohol.”
(D) is incorrect because addiction is the state of being dependent on a particular substance. This choice is incorrect because
Miranda would not go to counseling to achieve addiction. She already had an addiction in the first place, and she went to
counseling to recover from it.
(E) is incorrect because depression is the state of feeling severe sadness or dejection. This does not work because depression
has no connection to “a life free from drugs and alcohol.”
4) E
The main clue in this question is the word “although,” which is used to separate clauses that provide opposite or negative
information. This means that how the twins “have always done things” is the opposite of how they would like to “experience
college.” The correct choice will provide a pair of opposites. Jointly means together, while separately means alone or apart.
These are opposites, so choice (E) is correct.
© Copyright PICEC, 2013. All rights reserved.
2
(A) is incorrect because it does not provide a pair of opposites. Closely means very near someone, while collectively means
done as part of a group. These words have similar meanings, not opposite meanings.
(B) is incorrect because it does not provide a pair of opposites. Joyfully means done with happiness and joy, while happily
means done in a happy manner. These words have similar meanings, not opposite meanings.
(C) is incorrect because it does not provide a pair of opposites. Deceptively means done secretively or misleadingly, while
quietly means done in a not loud manner. These words have no clear relationship.
(D) is incorrect because it does not provide a pair of opposites. Individually means done singly or separately, while
independently means done alone or without outside help. These words have similar meanings, not opposite meanings.
5) D
The main clue in this question is the word “however,” which means that two things are related in a negative or opposite way.
The correct choice will set up an opposite relationship between most people’s negative opinion of torture (those who consider it
“an act of cruelty” would have a negative view of it) and some people’s positive opinion of it. Immoral means morally wrong,
while useful means beneficial. These would set up an opposite relationship, since most would argue that torture is wrong, while
others would say it is beneficial in deterring crimes. Therefore, choice (D) is correct
(A) is incorrect because it does not set up an opposite relationship. Offensive means causing displeasure, while dangerous
means likely to cause harm. In context, this choice would imply that most find torture displeasing, while others find it harmful.
(B) is incorrect because it does not set up an opposite relationship. Amazing means awe-inspiring, while crucial means
extremely important. In context, this choice would imply that most find torture impressive, while others find it important.
(C) is incorrect because it does not set up an opposite relationship. Horrible means extremely bad, while mediocre means
average or neither good nor bad. In context, this choice would imply that most find torture awful, while others find it just okay.
This relationship is not strong enough to work in context.
(E) is incorrect because it does not set up an opposite relationship. Terrible means extremely bad, while unforgivable means so
bad as to be inexcusable. In context, this choice would imply that most find torture awful, while others find it really awful.
6) C
The main clue in this question is the phrase “without insurance, seeing a doctor can be too expensive.” This means that
insurance must reduce the cost of seeing a doctor. The missing word describes what “health insurance prevents medical visits
from becoming,” so it should relate to being expensive. Costly means expensive, so (C) is correct.
(A) is incorrect because helpful means beneficial. This has no relationship to being “expensive,” so it does not work in context.
(B) is incorrect because urgent means requiring immediate action or attention. This has no relationship to being “expensive,”
so it does not work in context.
(D) is incorrect because valuable means extremely useful or important. This does not work because valuable is not the same
as expensive. Something can be valuable in a non-monetary way.
(E) is incorrect because advantageous means beneficial. This has no relationship to being “expensive,” so it does not work in
context.
7) C
The main clues in this question are “procrastination” and “the night before it was due.” This means that Josh put off working on
the project until the last minute. When someone waits until the last minute to complete something, he or she must work quickly.
Often, this results in "sloppy" work, because there is no time to pay attention to details. The missing word must likewise mean
quickly. Because hastily means done with excessive speed or urgency, choice (C) is correct
(A) is incorrect because patiently means done in a way that shows an ability to tolerate delays or problems. This does not work
because the prompt does not provide enough information to know whether Josh was patient or not. The prompt only implies
that he procrastinated and had to work hurriedly, not patiently.
(B) is incorrect because slowly means done at a pace that is below average. If Josh waited until the last minute to do his
project, he would not have enough time to work slowly. This word implies that Josh spent a lot of time on the project and that
he paid lots of attention to every detail. He could not have done this at the last minute.
(D) is incorrect because nervously means done in a way that shows alarm or agitation. This does not work because the prompt
does not provide enough information to know whether Josh was nervous or not. The prompt only implies that he procrastinated
and had to work hurriedly, not nervously.
(E) is incorrect because carefully means done with caution and care. If Josh waited until the last minute to do his project, he
would not have enough time to work carefully. This word implies that Josh spent a lot of time on the project and that he paid
lots of attention to every detail. He could not have done this at the last minute.
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3
8) D
The main clue in this question is the phrase “those runners who are better and faster,” a phrase that elaborates upon or
explains the meaning of the missing word. Therefore, the missing word must mean better or faster. Because elite means
representing the best, choice (D) is correct.
(A) is incorrect because sluggish means slow-moving. This choice does not work because the missing word must describe
“those runners who are better and faster,” not those runners who are slower.
(B) is incorrect because athletic means physically strong, fit, or active. This choice does not work because all marathon runners
are athletic, so this word cannot be used to refer only to “those runners who are better and faster.”
(C) is incorrect because opulent means showily rich or luxurious. This choice does not work because being “better and faster”
is not the same as being rich.
(E) is incorrect because wealthy means rich. This choice does not work because being “better and faster” is not the same as
being rich.
© Copyright PICEC, 2013. All rights reserved.
4
泛美国际
Name_
Date
• Sentence Completion 3
Level 7
Directions: Complete the sentence using the word or set of words for each blank that best fits the
meaning of the sentence as a whole.
1. Considering the fact that he heinously
5. Though the advertisement for the
cheated on the final exam, receiving a
failing grade seems like
punishment.
used car said it was in immaculate
condition, Jose quickly noticed several
in the automobile.
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
a brutal
an unfair
an appropriate
a futile
an unthinkable
2. Despite his
range of interests,
he was only expert in a limited number
of fields.
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
extensive
narrow
eerie
regular
peculiar
3. Trina’s parents are concerned with
incidents
luxuries
flaws
claims
diseases
6. Unlike her dog, which has
hair, Sam’s horse has
making it easier to groom.
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
hair,
fine ... oily
thick ... robust
curly ... straight
smooth ... filthy
coarse ... knotted
7. Cindy’s date proved to be a
how
she has become this
summer, so they are trying to find
more activities to occupy her time.
gentleman: he opened doors, paid for
dinner, and even called her a taxi ride
home.
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
athletic
idle
active
productive
relaxed
4. Due to the
of hurricanes near
the coast, a beach house must have
sturdy walls to prevent it from
collapsing during any of the frequent
hurricanes that occur each year.
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
lack
scarcity
negligence
prevalence
depletion
© Copyright PICEC, 2013. All rights reserved.
questionable
genuine
romantic
comical
shady
8. After his overwhelming
in the
election, the new mayor adopted an
aura of
that displeased many
of the voters; he was too proud to
listen to the citizens who voted him
into power anymore.
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
oration ... humility
triumph ... meekness
campaign ... annoyance
defeat ... sadness
victory ... arrogance
1
Answers and Explanations
1) C
The main clue in this question is the word “considering,” which sets up a cause-and-effect relationship in the sentence. This
means that the narrator’s opinion of what type of “punishment” the student received is caused by the fact that “he heinously
cheated on the final exam.” Since the narrator considers the method of cheating to be heinous, it follows that the narrator
agrees with the punishment. The missing word should reflect this. Because appropriate means suitable in the circumstances,
choice (C) is correct.
(A) is incorrect because brutal means punishingly hard. This word describes a harsh punishment that someone does not
deserve, but the prompt implies that students who get caught cheating do deserve to be punished.
(B) is incorrect because unfair means unjust or unreasonable. This word describes a punishment that someone does not
deserve, but the prompt implies that students who get caught cheating do deserve to be punished.
(D) is incorrect because futile means useless. This word does not work because the prompt does not imply that the punishment
is pointless or not likely to change the student’s behavior.
(E) is incorrect because unthinkable means too undesirable to be considered an option. This word would describe a
punishment that is so harsh that no one deserves it, but the prompt implies that students who get caught cheating do deserve
to be punished.
2) A
The main clue in this question is the word “despite,” which means that two things are related in a negative or opposite way. The
correct choice will set up an opposite relationship between the “range of interests” a man has and the fact that he is “only
expert in a limited number of fields.” Since his expertise is limited, his range of interests must be the opposite of limited.
Extensive means wide or broad in scope, so choice (A) is correct
(B) is incorrect because it does not set up an opposite relationship. Narrow means limited and, as such, is not the opposite of
“limited.”
(C) is incorrect because it does not set up an opposite relationship. Eerie means odd in a scary way. This has no clear
relationship to “limited.”
(D) is incorrect because it does not set up an opposite relationship. Regular means common or usual. This has no clear
relationship to “limited.”
(E) is incorrect because it does not set up an opposite relationship. Peculiar means odd or unusual. This has no clear
relationship to “limited.”
3) B
The main clue in this question is the word “so,” which is used to link parts of a sentence that logically progress into one
another. This means there is a logical relationship between how Trina “has become this summer” and the fact that her parents
are “trying to find more activities to occupy her time.” If she needed more activities, then she must have lots of free time or time
in which she is not doing something. Because idle means lazy, not active, or not employed, the correct choice is (B).
(A) is incorrect because athletic means physically strong or fit. It does not form a logical relationship with the idea that Trina
needs activities to occupy her time. If she is athletic, then she probably spends her time exercising or playing sports, meaning
she would not have excessive free time.
(C) is incorrect because active means engaging in physical pursuits. It does not form a logical relationship with the idea that
Trina needs activities to occupy her time. If she is active, then she probably spends her time exercising or playing sports,
meaning she would not have excessive free time.
(D) is incorrect because productive means engaged in creative or generative pursuits. It does not form a logical relationship
with the idea that Trina needs activities to occupy her time. If she is productive, then she probably spends her time working or
studying, meaning she would not have excessive free time.
(E) is incorrect because relaxed means calm or without stress. This does not work because there is no indication that Trina’s
parents want her to be stressed, since finding “activities to occupy her time” is not the same as stressing her out.
4) D
The main clue in this question is the word “frequent,” which, like the missing word, describes “hurricanes.” Thus, the missing
word must relate to frequent. Because prevalence is the fact of being frequent or prevalent, choice (D) is correct
(A) is incorrect because lack is the state of not having enough of something. This does not work because having a lack of
hurricanes is the opposite of having “frequent hurricanes.”
© Copyright PICEC, 2013. All rights reserved.
2
(B) is incorrect because scarcity is a shortage of something. This does not work because having a scarcity of hurricanes is the
opposite of having “frequent hurricanes.”
(C) is incorrect because negligence is failure to take proper care in doing something. This has no relationship to “frequent.”
(E) is incorrect because depletion is the reduction in quantity of something. This does not work because the prompt gives no
indication that the number of hurricanes is decreasing.
5) C
The main clue in this question is the word “though,” which sets up a negative or opposite relationship. This means that how the
car was advertised is not the same as how it actually was. Since the car was supposed to be in “immaculate condition,” Jose
must have been able to find something that proved it was not immaculate. Immaculate means perfect, and flaws are
imperfections, so choice (C) is correct
(A) is incorrect because it does not work in context. Incidents are events or occurrences. This does not work in context
because a car cannot include an incident.
(B) is incorrect because it does not form an opposite relationship. Luxuries are inessential but desirable items. Finding luxuries
would not disprove the claim that the car was in “immaculate condition,”
(D) is incorrect because it does not work in context. Claims are statements asserted as true. This does not work in context
because a car cannot contain a claim.
(E) is incorrect because it does not work in context. Diseases are illnesses. This does not work in context because a car cannot
contract a disease.
6) C
The main clue in this question is the word “unlike,” which means that two things are related in a negative or opposite way. The
correct choice will set up an opposite relationship between Sam’s dog’s hair and her horse’s hair. The only choice that provides
a pair of opposites is choice (C): curly means grown in curls or knots, while straight means not twisted or curved.
(A) is incorrect because it does not provide a pair of opposites. Fine means thin, while oily means greasy. Hair can be both fine
and oily at the same time.
(B) is incorrect because it does not provide a pair of opposites. Thick means dense or heavy, while robust means strong and
healthy. Hair can be both thick and robust at the same time.
(D) is incorrect because it does not provide a pair of opposites. Smooth means having an even consistency, while filthy means
very dirty. Hair can be both smooth and filthy at the same time.
(E) is incorrect because it does not provide a pair of opposites. Coarse means rough or loose in texture, while knotted means
in a tangled mass. Hair can be both coarse and knotted at the same time.
7) B
The main clue in this question is the colon ( : ), which is used to separate explanatory information from the rest of the sentence.
This means that the fact that the date “opened doors, paid for dinner,” and “called her a taxi” describes or elaborates upon
what kind of “gentleman” the date was. “Gentleman” usually refers to a man who is very polite and treats others in a respectful
manner. If Cindy’s date did lots of nice things for her, then he is a gentleman. This means the missing word must mean true or
real. Because genuine means authentic or true, choice (B) is correct
(A) is incorrect because questionable means doubtful. This is the opposite of a correct choice, since a questionable gentleman
would be one who claimed to be a gentleman but did not act like one. Cindy’s date, however, acted like a gentleman.
(C) is incorrect because romantic means idealistic. There is no indication given in the prompt that Cindy’s date was realistic or
idealistic, so this choice cannot be supported.
(D) is incorrect because comical means funny. There is no indication given in the prompt that Cindy’s date was funny or
serious, so this choice cannot be supported.
(E) is incorrect because shady means of doubtful honesty or legality. This is the opposite of a correct choice, since a shady
gentleman would be one who claimed to be a gentleman but did not act like one. Cindy’s date, however, acted like a
gentleman.
8) E
The main clue in this question is the semicolon ( ; ), which combines two independent clauses that logically progress from one
another. This means that there is a relationship between the outcome of the election and the mayor’s new attitude. He has
become “too proud to listen to the citizens who voted him into power.” This means he must have won the election, since he is
“the new mayor” and has people who “voted him into power.” It also means he has an aura of being too proud. Thus, the first
missing word must describe winning, while the second must describe being too proud. Victory is the act of winning a contest or
© Copyright PICEC, 2013. All rights reserved.
3
defeating an opponent, while arrogance is the quality of having an exaggerated opinion of oneself. Therefore, choice (E) is
correct
(A) is incorrect because neither word works in context. An oration is a grand speech, while humility is modesty or a lack of
arrogance. Nothing in the prompt indicates that the mayor made a speech, and one who is “too proud” would not have an aura
of humility.
(B) is incorrect because only the first word works in context. A triumph is a win, success, or victory, which could describe what
the mayor achieved. However, meekness is the fact of being submissive or gentle, and one who is “too proud” would not have
an aura of meekness.
(C) is incorrect because neither word works in context. A campaign is an organized course of action to achieve a particular
goal, while annoyance is irritation. Though the mayor likely did conduct a campaign to win the election, a campaign is not the
same as a win, and someone who had become “too proud” would not have an aura of annoyance.
(D) is incorrect because neither word works in context. A defeat is a loss, while sadness is the state of being unhappy. Nothing
in the prompt indicates that the mayor lost the election (in fact, if he had lost, he would not be “the new mayor”), and someone
who is “too proud” would not have an aura of sadness.
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4
泛美国际
Name_
Date
• Word Definition 1
Level 7
Directions: Choose the answer choice that best defines the word in capital letters.
1) COUNTERFEIT
6) RECORD
A.
B.
C.
D.
A.
B.
C.
D.
fake
appropriate
improved
bright
to set down in permanent form
to tell someone about something
to throw away or dispose of something
to invent something original
2) ACCELERATE
7) PRESUME
A.
B.
C.
D.
A.
B.
C.
D.
to climb down
to learn
to speed up
to watch
to lift
to rest
to expect
to burn
3) FEUD
8) IMPEDE
A.
B.
C.
D.
A.
B.
C.
D.
a loud sound
an error
a regret
a dispute
to commit
to review
to purchase
to prevent
4) DICTATOR
9) CLUTCH
A.
B.
C.
D.
A.
B.
C.
D.
a young genius
a powerful leader
a skilled expert
a poet or writer
to cry softly
to rhyme with
to hold tight
to untie
5) DEVOUR
10) ACQUIRE
A.
B.
C.
D.
A.
B.
C.
D.
to eat up
to shrink down
to wander around
to oversee
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to stop
to ask
to deny
to get
1
Answers and Explanations
1) A
counterfeit (adjective): fake: It is illegal to make or use counterfeit money, because the only real, legal cash is printed by the
government.
2) C
accelerate (verb): to speed up: If you want to accelerate while driving in your car, put more pressure on the gas pedal, but be
careful not to go too fast and get a speeding ticket!
3) D
feud (noun): a prolonged and bitter dispute or argument: One of the most famous feuds in history is that of the Hatfield and McCoys;
the two families fought for generations.
4) B
dictator (noun): a powerful leader: The dictator rose to power through an election, but then he closed the parliament and took all the
power for himself.
5) A
devour (verb): to eat up: Mary usually hates vegetables, but she was so hungry tonight that she devoured all her broccoli.
6) A
record (verb): to set down in writing or another permanent form for later reference: Many people still keep diaries to record their
daily thoughts, but millions of people are now putting such diaries online for the entire world to see.
7) C
presume (verb): to expect: Julia didn’t say why she wasn’t in class on Tuesday, but I presume that she was sick.
8) D
impede (verb): to delay or prevent someone from doing something by blocking or hindering progress: The purpose of homework is
to help you practice your skills, so if you refuse to do the homework, you are impeding your own learning progress and making it
more difficult to learn.
9) C
clutch (verb): to hold tight: When walking through a high-crime neighborhood, Livia clutches her purse so that no one can grab it
from her.
10) D
acquire (verb): to get: Thomas went to the grocery store to acquire milk, cereal, and eggs; he came home with all he needed for
breakfast.
© Copyright PICEC, 2013. All rights reserved.
2
泛美国际
Name_
Date
• Word Definition 2
Level 7
Directions: Choose the answer choice that best defines the word in capital letters.
1) ENDURE
6) WRATH
A.
B.
C.
D.
A.
B.
C.
D.
to debate
to last
to hold
to begin
greed or envy
laziness or uselessness
anger or revenge
pride or confidence
2) PERMANENT
7) COMPETENT
A.
B.
C.
D.
A.
B.
C.
D.
speeding up
feeling confident
moving away
lasting forever
absent or missing
decorated or polished
smooth or soft
skilled or able
3) INITIATE
8) CORRESPONDING
A.
B.
C.
D.
A.
B.
C.
D.
to investigate
to begin
to shine
to wake
frightening
matching
soothing
reflecting
4) THROB
9) SLAUGHTER
A.
B.
C.
D.
A.
B.
C.
D.
to feel pain in a rhythm
to give unasked-for advice
to research something in depth
to have a casual interest in something
to make
to involve
to be funny
to kill
5) PLAGUE
10) LAVISH
A.
B.
C.
D.
A.
B.
C.
D.
a work of art
a terrible sickness
a secret
a sharp piece of glass
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abundant or luxurious
dangerous or unsafe
fancy or high-quality
unsure or uncertain
1
Answers and Explanations
1) B
endure (verb): to last: Most people dropped out of the difficult computer class within two weeks, but some hardworking students
endured until the end.
2) D
permanent (adjective): lasting forever: My mother cried for hours when she found out I got a tattoo, but when I told her it was a
temporary one, rather than a permanent one, she breathed a sigh of relief.
3) B
initiate (verb): to begin: I initiated a discussion with the executives at the company, and the conversation we began today will
continue tomorrow.
4) A
throb (verb): to feel pain in a series of regular beats: My headache throbbed all day, and, even after I took some medication, it
continued to pulsate.
5) B
plague (noun): a terrible sickness: The Black Death was a horrific plague that killed one third of Europe’s population in the 1300’s.
6) C
wrath (noun): anger or revenge: Whenever a disaster struck that no one could explain, many ancient people used to believe it was
simply the wrath of the gods and that they were being punished for making the gods so angry.
7) D
competent (adjective): skilled or able: Greg is a competent piano player who should easily be able to provide the background music
for the school play.
8) B
corresponding (verb): matching: On this worksheet, you are match the vocabulary word above with its corresponding definition
below.
9) D
slaughter (verb): to kill for food: If you want to eat pork for dinner, you must first slaughter a pig.
10) A
lavish (adjective): abundant or luxurious: The honor society threw a lavish banquet with enough food to feed two hundred people,
even though the club only had fifty members.
© Copyright PICEC, 2013. All rights reserved.
2
泛美国际
Name_
Date
• Word Definition 3
Level 7
Directions: Choose the answer choice that best defines the word in capital letters.
1) SOLITUDE
6) LURK
A.
B.
C.
D.
A.
B.
C.
D.
a state of loneliness
a state of hunger
a state of suffering
a state of happiness
to look away
to prepare
to cause someone harm
to wait in hiding
2) BLATANT
7) VICIOUS
A.
B.
C.
D.
A.
B.
C.
D.
sharp
common
obvious
unimportant
extravagantly showy
completely useless
deliberately cruel
incredibly large
3) ENSUE
8) EASYGOING
A.
B.
C.
D.
A.
B.
C.
D.
to annoy
to fall
to decrease
to result
not strict
not quick
not difficult
not moving
4) ESTIMATE
9) OVERWHELM
A.
B.
C.
D.
A.
B.
C.
D.
a victory
a thing of value
a work of art
a guess
to capture or arrest
to block or make impossible
to tremble or shake
to swamp or give too much
5) CONSULT
10) NEGLIGENT
A.
B.
C.
D.
A.
B.
C.
D.
to break up
to discuss
to soothe
to wake up
© Copyright PICEC, 2013. All rights reserved.
confident
careless
original
successful
1
Answers and Explanations
1) A
solitude (noun): a state of loneliness: Ji-Yi went to the mountains by herself to spend some time in solitude.
2) C
blatant (adjective): obvious: Sometimes students try to be sneaky about cheating on tests, but your dishonesty was totally blatant.
3) D
ensue (verb): to result: When the king died without an heir, confusion over who would take over the throne ensued in the kingdom.
4) D
estimate (noun): a guess: The gardener looked around my yard and gave me an estimate about how much it might cost to plant
four new trees.
5) B
consult (verb): to have a discussion with someone or seek information or advice from them: I usually consult with my parents before
making any major life decisions because their advice is usually valuable.
6) D
lurk (verb): to wait in hiding: The criminal lurked in the bushes, waiting for people to walk by so he could rob them.
7) C
vulnerable (adjective): deliberately cruel or violent: While most dog breeds are kind and friendly, pit bulls have a reputation for
being vicious and attacking their owners and other dogs.
8) A
easygoing (adjective): not strict: The substitute teacher was more lax and easygoing about the rules than our regular teacher, but
our teacher tends to be too strict.
9) D
overwhelm (verb): to give too much of a thing to someone or something: The website was overwhelmed by tens of thousands of
new visitors, and it crashed within a short time because it was not built for that kind of traffic.
10) B
negligent (adjective): careless: The negligent driver didn’t notice the red stoplight and sped through the intersection, causing an
accident.
© Copyright PICEC, 2013. All rights reserved.
2