SAT Reading & Writing Practice Set 1

The migratory behavior of certain bird species enhances its survival during harsh weather conditions. Ornithologist Dr. Sarah Johnson and her team found in their 2021 study that these birds accomplish this ____ by sensing changes in the Earth’s magnetic field. This enables them to navigate long distances and find suitable habitats with abundant food sources.

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

Research conducted by psychologist Dr. Emily Martinez explores the intriguing link between weather patterns and decision-making in the workplace. In her study, she analyzed data from various industries over a five-year period, investigating how different weather conditions influenced managers’ financial decisions. Dr. Martinez discovered a fascinating correlation between rainy weather and risk aversion. When managers were exposed to prolonged periods of rain during the weeks leading up to important financial decisions, they tended to adopt a more cautious approach. This was evident in their conservative earnings forecasts and business strategies, reflecting a tendency to play it safe during uncertain times.

Which choice best describes the function of the underlined portion in the text as a whole?

In the realm of culinary artistry, the renowned chef Julia Simmons wields her knife with skill, conjuring delights of joy and satisfaction with every dish she crafts. With a keen understanding of the human palate, she delves into the hearts and minds of those who taste her creations, evoking memories and emotions reminiscent of cherished moments. Just as a seasoned botanist deciphers the language of flowers, Julia reads the flavors and aromas of ingredients, blending them harmoniously into culinary symphonies. Even the most delicate of broths and sauces respond to her culinary command, as she summons forth the essence of flavors with a mere touch of her spatula.

Which choice best states the main purpose of the text?

Text 1:

Astronomers have long puzzled over the coexistence of multiple galaxies in the universe, each containing billions of stars and vast cosmic structures. According to traditional theories, gravitational forces should eventually lead to the merging of galaxies, resulting in the dominance of a single, larger galaxy. However, observations have shown that numerous galaxies coexist in close proximity, raising questions about the mechanisms that maintain their separate identities and prevent complete assimilation.

Text 2:

Astronomer Sarah Turner and her team propose a novel explanation for the persistence of multiple galaxies in close proximity. They suggest that the vast distances between galaxies create a sparse and gravitationally diluted environment. The immense cosmic voids between galaxies hinder their ability to interact directly, reducing the frequency of galaxy mergers. In this vast cosmic expanse, direct gravitational competition occurs less frequently than previously assumed, allowing multiple galaxies to persist over time.

Which choice best describes a difference in how the author of Text 1 view Astronomer Sarah Turner’s proposal in Text 2?

In the field of wildlife conservation, biologist Dr. Sarah Walker embarked on a mission to protect endangered species and their habitats. During her research, she noticed that certain animal calls and behaviors were challenging for automated recording systems to detect accurately, but trained field biologists had no trouble identifying them. Inspired by this observation, Dr. Walker developed a novel method to safeguard wildlife reserves from illegal poaching and human intrusion. She created a specialized security test that required users to distinguish between authentic animal calls and background noises in audio recordings. This innovative test not only helped keep poachers and intruders at bay but also contributed valuable data to her ongoing research on wildlife populations and behavior.

According to the text, why did Dr. Sarah Walker develop a specialized security test for wildlife reserves?

The melting of the Arctic Sea ice is a serious problem having a number of negative impacts on the Arctic region. The impacts of climate change are already being felt in the Arctic and they are only going to get worse in the future. It is important to take action to address climate change in order to protect the Arctic region and the people who live there. The chart shows the average temperature of the Arctic Sea ice from 1980 to 2023. The line graph shows that the average temperature has been decreasing over time, __________.

Average monthly sea ice extent in the Northern Hemisphere from January 1980 to May 2023

Which choice most effectively uses data from the table to complete the statement?

In the heart of a dense and ancient forest, a symphony of life unfolds with each passing day. Towering trees stretch their limbs toward the heavens, their leaves whispering tales of forgotten ages. Among the emerald foliage, an array of vibrant creatures dance through the undergrowth, each playing a role in the intricate web of life that thrives in this natural sanctuary. The forest floor teems with life, bustling with insects of all sizes scurrying about their daily tasks. From the tiniest ants to the majestic beetles, they toil tirelessly, their endeavors essential to the forest’s delicate balance. These miniature architects shape the soil, aerating it and recycling organic matter, while also ___________.

Which choice most logically completes the text?

When exploring the literary works of renowned author Maria Santiago, it is common for critics to highlight her incorporation of Western influences into her storytelling. However, what often goes unnoticed is Santiago’s profound connection to her native Latin American heritage and her deep engagement with its rich artistic traditions, such as magical realism. Throughout her literary career, ___________, blending the fantastical with the realistic in her narratives. While some critics praise her use of Western literary techniques, they may overlook the subtle nods to Latin American folklore, where myths and legends seamlessly intertwine with everyday life.

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

Throughout history, the captivating art of origami has mesmerized people around the world. The ancient Japanese tradition of folding paper into intricate shapes and figures ____________ time, with its origins dating back centuries. Surprisingly, there is no definitive evidence that origami is indigenous to Japan, leading scholars to speculate about its mysterious origins.

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

In a small, quaint town, the summer festival brought joy and laughter to the streets. Families and friends gathered together for fun-filled activities, like face-painting and balloon-animal making. The locals – ever-friendly and welcoming – organized a community potluck, where everyone shared their delicious, home-cooked dishes. The festival-goers couldn’t help but feel a sense of togetherness and camaraderie as they danced and sang under the star-lit sky. It was a truly unforgettable night, and the memories created ____________ would linger for years to come.

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

Engrossed in the captivating world of marine biodiversity, a dedicated student embarks on a research journey, meticulously documenting the following fascinating notes:

• The Great Barrier Reef is the world’s largest coral reef system, stretching over 2,300 kilometers along the northeastern coast of Australia.
• This natural wonder is a biodiverse haven, home to an astounding variety of marine life, including over 1,500 species of fish and around 400 species of coral.
• The Great Barrier Reef’s significance transcends its immense beauty, as it provides habitat and shelter to a myriad of marine species, some of which are endangered or threatened.
• Apart from its ecological importance, the reef system plays a crucial role in supporting Australia’s tourism industry, attracting visitors from across the globe who wish to witness its breathtaking splendor.

Which choice most effectively uses information from the given sentences to emphasize the relative size of the Reef’s diversity?

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

• The Great Fire of London was a major conflagration that swept through the central parts of the English city of London in September 1666.
• The fire burned for three days, destroying over 13,000 homes and 87 churches.
• It is estimated that only 6 people died in the fire, leaving over 70,000 people homeless.
• The fire was caused by a baker’s oven that was left unattended.
• The rebuilding of London after the fire led to the creation of the modern city we know today, with wide streets and brick buildings replacing the narrow, wooden structures of the past.

The student wants to emphasize the uniqueness of the modern city creation. Which choice most effectively uses relevant information from the notes to accomplish this goal?