Word In Context:

Question 1

Alexander Blok, a prominent figure in Russian Symbolist movement, had a profound impact on the
country's literary scene. His work was marked by a distinctive fusion of elements from both Eastern and
Western literary traditions, making him a _______ force in shaping the course of Russian literature. Blok's
influence was not limited to his own time; his work continues to inspire and intrigue scholars and readers
alike. His poetry, imbued with profound philosophical insights and a unique lyrical quality, has left an
indelible mark on the literary world.

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

A: transient

B: ephemeral

C: evanescent

D: pivotal

_______________________________________________________________________

Question 2

The Treaty of Tilsit, signed in 1807, concluded the war between France and Russia and had far-reaching
implications for the Asian region. This agreement, dictated by Napoleon, was a _______ turning point in the
geopolitical landscape of the time. By agreeing to this treaty, Russia confirmed its status as a French ally,
which drastically shifted the balance of power in Europe and consequently affected Asia. These ripple
effects were particularly felt in the Ottoman Empire and Persia, where the French-Russian alliance brought
about new pressures and challenges.

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

A: sudden

B: significant

C: inconsequential

D: spontaneous
Question 3

Antonin Artaud, a figure of great influence in the realm of theatre, is particularly known for his 'Theatre of
Cruelty'. His revolutionary ideas aimed to challenge conventional norms, emphasizing the importance of
physical expressions over dialogues in conveying emotions. His theatre was a _______ to the senses,
employing an array of techniques that heightened audience engagement. From unusual lighting effects to
unsettling soundscapes, Artaud's intent was to shock the audience out of complacency and provide a
transformative, emotional experience.

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

A: provocation

B: halcyon

C: distraction

D: euphony

__________________________________________________________________
Text Structure and Purpose

Question 4

The following text is adapted from Oscar Wilde's The Picture of Dorian Gray. Dorian, a man of incredible
beauty and charm, has a portrait that ages and shows the effects of his immoral acts while he remains young.
"There were moments, indeed, at night, when, lying sleepless in his own delicately scented chamber, or in
the sordid room of the little ill-famed tavern near the docks, which, under an assumed name and in disguise,
he often frequented, he would think of the ruin he had brought upon his life with a wild feeling of madness
and regret."

Which choice best states the main idea of the text?

A: The text is primarily concerned with describing the various places Dorian Gray spends his time.

B: The text aims to portray Dorian Gray as a man living a double life, having a respectable and a
disreputable side.

C: The text is intended to depict the regret Dorian Gray feels for the harm he has done to others in his life.

D: The text's main purpose is to convey Dorian Gray's self-realization and regret for the ruin he has brought
upon his own life.
Question 5

The following text is adapted from Ernest Hemingway's The Old Man and The Sea. The old man, Santiago,
is a fisherman who hasn't caught anything in 84 days. On the 85th day, Santiago heads out alone into the
Gulf Stream. He sets his lines and, by noon, a big fish that he is sure is a marlin takes his bait. From the
strength the marlin displays pulling against the boat, Santiago realizes he has hooked a formidable and
worthy opponent. Yet, Santiago is determined to kill the fish, for he loves and respects him at the same time.

Which choice best states the main idea of the text?

A: To present Santiago's determination and respect for the marlin, despite the challenge it presents

B: To recount the exact methods Santiago uses to catch a marlin in the Gulf Stream

C: To explore the negative effects of Santiago's prolonged bad luck on his fishing career

D: To critique the ethical implications of fishing for sport, as exemplified by Santiago's actions

______________________________________________________________________

Question 6
The following text is adapted from Agatha Christie's 1939 novel 'And Then There Were None.' Ten
strangers, each with a guilty secret, are lured to a mansion on an uninhabited island and locked in. The
house, it appears, is well-stocked with provisions. This contrasts with the barrenness of the island and the
sense of isolation felt by the guests. The house is luxurious and comfortable, a sharp contrast to the stark and
inhospitable island. The guests are trapped, not by physical constraints, but by their own past actions and
current fears.

Which choice best states the main idea of the text?

A: To contrast the luxuries and comforts of the mansion with the stark and inhospitable nature of the island,
emphasizing the guests' sense of isolation and entrapment.

B: To suggest that the guests are lured to the mansion by the promise of luxurious accommodations and
abundant provisions.

C: To illustrate the physical constraints that keep the guests on the island, despite their desire to leave and
escape their past actions.

D: To describe the mansion's provisions and comforts as a metaphor for the guests' past indulgences and
current fears.
Cross-Text Connection

Question 7

Text 1

Industrial engineer, Dr. Jane Park, and her team conducted a study on the efficiency of assembly lines in car
manufacturing plants. They found that having a single, continuous line with workers performing multiple
tasks increased productivity. The team believes that this is due to reduced downtime between tasks and
better utilization of workers' skills.

Text 2

Contrarily, Dr. Mike Thompson and colleagues propose that a modular assembly line system, where each
worker specializes in a specific task, could be more efficient. They argue that it reduces the learning curve
for workers and can lead to higher quality output. They believe that the single-line method may overlook the
importance of individual skill sets.

Based on the texts, how would Dr. Mike Thompson and colleagues (Text 2) most likely respond to the
“single, continuous line” method discussed in Text 1?

A: By asserting that it is a dated method and modern car manufacturing requires more sophisticated
approaches.

B: By suggesting that it is only applicable to certain car manufacturing plants and not universally effective.

C: By contending that it may not fully exploit the individual skill sets of workers, thus potentially
compromising on quality.

D: By indicating that it may lead to an overemphasis on productivity, while neglecting the importance of
worker satisfaction.
Central Ideas and Details
Question 8

Michel Foucault, one of the most influential philosophers of the 20th century, generated significant
discourse on power dynamics. He asserted that power is not merely held by institutions or individuals, but is
rather a complex network pervading society. Foucault argued that power is everywhere and comes from
everywhere; it's a web that catches us all. He posited that power is productive, not repressive, and that it not
only dictates our actions but also shapes our identities and our knowledge.

Which choice best states the main purpose of the text?

A: To illustrate that Foucault's philosophy was centered around the examination of societal institutions.

B: To argue that Foucault's philosophy has been influential in shaping our understanding of personal
identities.

C: To summarize Foucault's philosophical views on power dynamics, emphasizing his belief that power is
pervasive and productive.

D: To highlight that Foucault's philosophy was a critique of the traditional understanding of power as held
by individuals or institutions.

______________________________________________________________________

Question 9

Overfishing, the practice of catching fish from a body of water at a rate that the species can't replenish, poses
a serious threat to marine biodiversity. Many species of fish are now at risk of extinction due to this
unsustainable practice. The depletion of these species can have far-reaching effects on the food chain,
affecting other marine life and causing a domino effect that can lead to the extinction of other species. This
makes overfishing a global concern that needs urgent attention.

Which choice best states the main purpose of the text?

A: To express concern about the global seafood industry's unsustainable practices and its potential collapse

B: To argue for the implementation of stricter regulations on commercial fishing to protect marine life

C: To highlight the threat of overfishing to marine biodiversity and its far-reaching effects in the food chain

D: To provide a detailed analysis of the fishing methods contributing to the depletion of marine species
Command of Evidence
Question 10

Leonardo da Vinci, the famous Italian polymath, was known for his diverse skills and interests. His works,
such as the 'Mona Lisa' and 'The Last Supper', are among the most recognizable and celebrated artworks in
the world. However, Leonardo was also a keen observer of the natural world. His notebooks are filled with
detailed drawings of plants, animals, and human anatomy, which were far ahead of his time. Art historian
Lisa Roberts believes that Leonardo's detailed observations of nature greatly enhanced his artistic abilities,
enabling him to depict his subjects with unprecedented realism.

Which of the following, if true, would most directly undermine Lisa Roberts' claim about the
influence of nature observation on Leonardo's art?

A: Leonardo's contemporaries, such as Michelangelo and Raphael, also made detailed observations of
nature, but their art did not achieve the same level of realism.

B: Leonardo was known to have a poor eyesight, which could have affected his ability to observe nature
with precision.

C: Many of Leonardo's notebooks have been lost over time, making it difficult to fully understand his
observation practices.

D: A thorough review of Leonardo's artworks reveals no significant correlation between the detail of his
nature sketches and the realism of his paintings.

______________________________________________________________________

Question 11

The Treaty of Nerchinsk, signed in 1689, was the first treaty between Russia and China. The negotiations
were arduous and lengthy, largely due to language barriers and cultural misunderstandings. However, the
two empires eventually agreed on terms, establishing a peaceful border along the Amur River and setting up
a trade route. Historians often debate the impact of this treaty, but most agree that it established a precedent
for peaceful negotiations between East and West. Furthermore, the treaty allowed Russia to focus its
military efforts on its western frontier, thereby indirectly contributing to the expansion of the Russian
Empire.

Which of the following, if true, would most directly bolster the argument that the Treaty of Nerchinsk
had a significant impact on the expansion of the Russian Empire?

A: Post-treaty archival documents show a marked increase in military activity and territorial acquisitions on
Russia's western frontier.

B: The Treaty of Nerchinsk was followed by a series of unsuccessful negotiations between Russia and other
Eastern nations.

C: The trade route established by the Treaty of Nerchinsk was primarily used for the trade of luxury goods,
with little impact on Russia's economy.

D: The peaceful border established by the Treaty of Nerchinsk was frequently violated, leading to numerous
border skirmishes.
Question 12

Year of Philosophical
Scholar Interpretation of Processism
Study Approach
Smith 2001 Empirical Analysis Change as a subjective experience
Johnson 2005 Rationalism Change as the objective reality
Williams 2010 Phenomenology Change as a continuous flow of consciousness
Brown 2015 Pragmatism Change as an adaptive process
Alfred North Whitehead, an influential British philosopher, proposed the philosophical idea of process
philosophy or processism. This philosophy emphasizes change and development as the fundamental reality
of experience. However, interpretations of this philosophy vary significantly, and scholars argue that the
interpretation can be greatly influenced by the philosophical approach used in understanding its concept.

Which choice best describes data from the table that support the argument that the interpretation of
Whitehead's processism can be greatly influenced by the philosophical approach used?

A: The interpretation by Smith using Empirical Analysis and Johnson using Rationalism were identical,
both viewing change as a subjective experience.

B: In his study, Brown used Pragmatism to interpret processism as change being an adaptive process,
completely independent of other philosophical approaches.

C: The interpretations of processism by Smith, Johnson, Williams, and Brown each differed substantially,
indicating that the philosophical approach used can greatly influence the interpretation.

D: The interpretation of processism by Williams resulted in a more complex description, even though other
scholars also used Phenomenology in their studies.
_____________________________________________________________________

Inferences:

Question 13

Noam Chomsky, a renowned linguist and political philosopher, has always maintained a controversial
position in the field of cognitive science. His approach, known as Chomskyan linguistics, proposes that the
ability to generate and understand language is an innate property of the human mind, not a learned behavior.
Chomsky argues that all humans are born with a 'universal grammar' that forms the basis of all human
language and is merely adjusted by cultural and environmental influences. Despite the profound influence of
his ideas, Chomsky's theories have faced significant opposition. Critics argue that his theories, by
emphasizing the innateness of language, underestimate the role of social interaction and cultural context in
language acquisition and development. They worry that these theories, despite their groundbreaking nature,
may unintentionally lead to _______.

Which choice most logically completes the text?

A: a decrease in the efforts to preserve and document endangered languages around the world.

B: a reduced emphasis on teaching grammar in educational institutions, resulting in lower language

C: an underappreciation of the complexity and richness of individual languages and cultural dialects.

D: an increased focus on cognitive development at the expense of social and emotional development in
children.
Question 14

The inception and development of civil engineering has revolutionized the way humans interact with their
environment. Civil engineering has significantly altered our landscape, enabling the construction of roads,
bridges, and buildings, designed not only to be safe for people but also functional. The discipline has also
been instrumental in the design and implementation of water supply and sewage systems. These
developments have greatly improved public health and safety, as well as economic productivity. However,
the environmental impact of civil engineering is a growing concern. The construction industry is a major
contributor to global greenhouse gas emissions, and the extraction of raw materials for construction depletes
natural resources. Hence, the future of civil engineering may lie in the pursuit of sustainable practices and
technologies that minimize environmental impact while also providing functional equivilance. Nevertheless,
the challenge lies in developing such practices without _______.

Which choice most logically completes the text?

A: undermining the aesthetic appeal of the structures built.

B: compromising the economic viability of civil engineering projects.

C: neglecting the historical significance of traditional building methods.

D: compromising the structural integrity and functionality of the engineered structures.

______________________________________________________________________

Boundaries
Question 15

Monadology, a philosophical concept, was developed by Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz. It posits that the
universe is composed of simple substances, or _____, according to Leibniz, is unique and contains all the
information about the universe. However, monads do not interact with each other. Instead, they exist in a
pre-established harmony. This concept, despite its complexity, has had a significant impact on various fields,
including metaphysics and theology.

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

A: 'monads', each

B: 'monads'; each

C: 'monads'. Each

D: 'monads': each
Question 16

In African societies, the role of the carpenter is highly valued. They are responsible for building homes,
furniture, and other essential _____ their role extends beyond just construction. They also play a significant
role in cultural ceremonies, often creating intricate carvings and sculptures. These works of art, often
imbued with spiritual significance, are a testament to the carpenter's skill and creativity.

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

A: items. However,

B: items, however

C: items; however,

D: items: however,

______________________________________________________________________

Question 17

The Tokugawa Shogunate, also known as the Edo Period, was a time of great peace and prosperity in Japan.
It lasted from 1603 to 1868, and was characterized by strict social order, isolationist foreign policies, and a
stable _____ the shogunate's strict policies eventually led to its downfall. The shogunate was overthrown in
the Meiji Restoration, which led to the modernization of Japan.

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

A: economy, however

B: economy however

C: economy; however

D: economy: however
Question 18

Pope John Paul II, born as Karol Józef Wojtyła, was the head of the Catholic Church from 1978 until his
death in 2005. _____ for his charismatic personality and his efforts to improve relations between the Church
and the world's major religions. His papacy was marked by his opposition to communism and his support for
human rights.

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

A: He was known

B: He is known

C: He has known

D: He were known

______________________________________________________________________

Form, Structure, and Sense

Participating as a surgeon and naturalist in the British Naval expeditions that endeavored to locate the
Northwest Passage, Sir John Richardson not only made scientific contributions but also created detailed
maps, _____ in paving the way for future explorations and the eventual discovery of the passage.

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

A: his work to be instrumental

B: his work being instrumental

C: his work is instrumental

D: his work have been instrumental

R.G. Collingwood was a British philosopher who made significant contributions to the philosophy of
history, aesthetics, and metaphysics. His philosophical ideas were deeply influenced by the works of Kant
and Hegel. He believed that historical understanding requires a rethinking of past events. _____ a profound
impact on the field of philosophy and continue to be studied and debated today.

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

A: Collingwood's ideas has had

B: Collingwood's ideas have had

C: Collingwood's ideas having had

D: Collingwood's ideas had have

______________________________________________________________________

Question 21

Franz Werfel was an Austrian-Bohemian novelist, playwright, and poet. He was born in Prague, which was
then part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. _____ in the early 20th century literary world. His works often
dealt with themes of spirituality and religion. He was particularly known for his novel, The Forty Days of
Musa Dagh, which highlighted the Armenian Genocide.

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

A: Werfel were a prominent figure

B: Werfel has been a prominent figure

C: Werfel was a prominent figure

D: Werfel being a prominent figure

Question 22

The economy of a developing country can be seen to improve by looking at its GDP. When the GDP of a
country increases, it signifies that the country is producing more goods and services. _______ the standard
of living of the people in that country also tends to improve.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A: Alternatively,

B: Consequently,

C: However,

D: Likewise,

______________________________________________________________________

Question 23

The Almoravid Dynasty was a Berber Muslim empire that stretched across Africa from Senegal to Spain. It
was founded by Abdallah ibn Yasin in the early 11th century. The Almoravids are known for their strict
interpretation of Islam and their architectural achievements. _____ the Almohad Dynasty overthrew the
Almoravids in Morocco and established their own empire.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A: Likewise,

B: In addition,

C: However,

D: Furthermore,
Question 24

Alfred Lord Tennyson, one of the most renowned poets of the Victorian era, was known for his profound
and emotionally resonant verse. His work dealt with themes such as love, death, and the human condition.
_______ his ability to convey deep emotion through his poetry, Tennyson also possessed a keen
understanding of the technical aspects of verse, often employing sophisticated meter and rhyme schemes in
his compositions.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

A: Alternatively,

B: However,

C: In addition,

D: Nonetheless,

______________________________________________________________________

Rhetorical Synthesis:

Question 25

Roald Dahl was a famous British author known for his children's stories.• His works include 'Charlie and the
Chocolate Factory', 'Matilda', and 'The Witches'.

• Dahl also wrote for adults, including tales of the macabre and unexpected.• Dahl's writing style is often
characterized by dark humor and unexpected endings.

• Dahl also worked as a scriptwriter, adapting Ian Fleming's novel 'Chitty Chitty Bang Bang' into a
successful film.

The student wants to illustrate the versatility of Dahl's writing career. Which choice most effectively
uses relevant information from the notes to accomplish this goal?

A: Roald Dahl was known for his children's books like 'Charlie and the Chocolate Factory,' but he also
wrote dark, macabre tales for adults and worked as a scriptwriter.

B: Roald Dahl, famous for his children's stories such as 'Matilda' and 'The Witches,' had a unique writing
style characterized by dark humor and unexpected endings.

C: As a celebrated author, Roald Dahl's 'Charlie and the Chocolate Factory' remains a beloved children's
classic, reflecting his talent in storytelling.

D: Besides writing children's books, Roald Dahl also adapted Ian Fleming's 'Chitty Chitty Bang Bang' for
film, highlighting his skill in scriptwriting.
Question 26

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

• Agriculture played a crucial role in the development of numerous African societies.

• In ancient Egypt, the annual flooding of the Nile River created fertile lands that supported agriculture.

• The Ashanti Empire in West Africa was known for its extensive farming and trade in agricultural products.
• The introduction of new crops from the Americas, such as maize, contributed to population growth in
many African societies.

• In East Africa, the Bantu people spread agriculture and iron-working skills as they migrated across the
continent.

The student wants to highlight the importance of agriculture in the progress and survival of African
societies. Which choice most effectively uses relevant information from the notes to accomplish this
goal?

A: The advancement of numerous African societies, such as the Ashanti Empire and ancient Egypt, was
deeply influenced by agriculture, which provided a foundation for their economies and supported population
growth.

B: In ancient Egypt, agriculture thrived due to the annual flooding of the Nile, while the introduction of
crops like maize from the Americas significantly boosted the population in various African societies.

C: The Bantu people of East Africa played a key role in spreading agriculture and iron-working across the
continent, illustrating the importance of agricultural innovation in societal development.

D: Agriculture was crucial in ancient African societies, with the Nile River's flooding in Egypt creating
fertile lands and the Ashanti Empire becoming known for its farming and trade.
Question 27

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

• J.M. Coetzee is a renowned South African author.

• Coetzee's work is deeply influenced by his experiences during the apartheid era.

• His novel, 'Disgrace', won the Booker Prize in 1999.

• 'Disgrace' explores the complex dynamics of post-apartheid South Africa.

• Coetzee was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 2003.

The student wants to explain the significance of Coetzee's 'Disgrace'. Which choice most effectively
uses relevant information from the notes to accomplish this goal?

A: J.M. Coetzee's experience during the apartheid era deeply influenced his writing, as evident in his novel
'Disgrace', which led to him winning the Nobel Prize in Literature in 2003.

B: 'Disgrace' is a renowned novel by J.M. Coetzee that won the Booker Prize in 1999, showcasing his status
as a prominent South African author.

C: J.M. Coetzee's novel 'Disgrace', which discusses the apartheid era, earned him the Nobel Prize in
Literature in 2003 due to its profound impact.

D: 'Disgrace' by J.M. Coetzee, which won the Booker Prize in 1999, is a significant work that explores the
complex dynamics of post-apartheid South Africa, reflecting the profound influence of the apartheid era on
Coetzee's writing.