SAT Reading & Writing Practice Set 4

Former marine biologist Dr. Alex Johnson asserts that while he cannot predict the exact timeline, he firmly believes that humanity will _________ face the necessity of inhabiting environments beyond Earth’s boundaries. This conviction drives his passion for advocating further exploration and research missions to the depths of the ocean.

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

Embracing the ethos of sustainable agriculture, local farmers and agricultural research institutions form mutually beneficial partnerships in crop experimentation and development. In one such collaborative initiative between a farming cooperative and a renowned agricultural university, they adopted the same model: farmers actively collaborated with scientists to co-create _______ farming techniques, and they continue to work together in gathering and analyzing agricultural data.

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

George, an urban artist and architect, spent most of his life amidst the bustling cityscape, surrounded by towering skyscrapers and concrete jungles. Despite this, he had a deep appreciation for the harmony of architectural symmetry and design. Whenever he encountered a striking building or a well-designed public space, he felt a sense of connection, as if the urban landscape resonated with his artistic sensibilities. The city, with its constant movement and vibrant energy, became a reflection of his own dynamic personality.

Which choice best describes the function of the underlined sentence?

Text 1

In recent years, solar energy has emerged as a promising and sustainable alternative to traditional fossil fuels. Advocates of solar power argue that harnessing energy from the sun offers numerous benefits, both for the environment and the economy. Solar panels generate electricity without emitting greenhouse gases, reducing our carbon footprint and combating climate change. Moreover, solar energy is abundant and inexhaustible, unlike finite fossil fuel reserves. As technology has improved, the cost of solar panels has decreased significantly, making solar energy more accessible to a wider range of consumers. Embracing solar power can lead to energy independence, create jobs in the renewable energy sector, and contribute to a cleaner, greener future.

Text 2

While solar energy presents certain advantages, it is essential to consider its limitations and challenges. Critics of solar power point out that solar panels are dependent on sunlight, making them less reliable in regions with inconsistent or limited sunlight. Additionally, the manufacturing and disposal of solar panels can produce environmental waste and toxins, raising concerns about the overall sustainability of solar energy. The initial investment in solar panels can also be prohibitive for many individuals and businesses, even with decreasing costs. Furthermore, the efficiency of solar panels decreases over time, requiring periodic maintenance and replacements. To fully transition to solar energy, significant infrastructural changes and technological advancements are necessary. While solar energy is a step in the right direction, it is not without its drawbacks and demands careful consideration.

Based on the texts, both authors would most likely agree with which statement?

The following text is adapted from Emily Dickinson’s poem “Hope is the Thing with Feathers,” written in the mid-19th century. The poem reflects on the concept of hope as an intangible and uplifting force in the face of adversity.

Hope is the thing with feathers

That perches in the soul,

And sings the tune without the words,

And never stops at all,

And sweetest in the gale is heard;

And sore must be the storm

That could abash the little bird

That kept so many warm.

I’ve heard it in the chilliest land,

And on the strangest sea;

Yet, never, in extremity,

It asked a crumb of me.

Which choice best states the main idea of the text?

John was not the type of person to sit idle and let life pass him by. He actively engaged in his children’s lives, always there to play with them and read them bedtime stories. John took an active role in their education, assisting them with their homework and encouraging their curiosity. He even claimed that he took the time to write personalized stories for them, which he would read aloud during family gatherings. On special occasions like birthdays, he would compose humorous and heartwarming poetry, making every celebration memorable and joyful for his loved ones.

Which finding, if true, would most directly support the John’s claim?

Humans have been harvesting the small, dry seeds known as grain for thousands of years. The two main categories of grains are cereals, such as wheat, rye, and corn, and legumes, such as beans, lentils, peanuts and soybeans. Many grains are capable of being stored for long periods of time, easily transported over long distances, processed into flour, oil, and gas, and consumed by animals and humans. The use of grains in producing ethanol has increased significantly in recent years. Researchers’ claim that corn is the most important grain produced globally.

Worldwide production of grain in 2022/23, by type (in million metric tons)*

Which choice best describes data from the table that support the researchers’ claim?

In the vast and enigmatic realms of the cosmos, astronomers have been tirelessly peering into the depths of space, striving to unlock the mysteries of the universe. Among the countless celestial wonders they have discovered, black holes stand out as some of the most captivating and puzzling entities. These cosmic enigmas, with their unfathomable gravitational pull, possess an intense allure that has captured the imagination of scientists and the public alike. As researchers delve deeper into the intricacies of black holes, they have uncovered tantalizing evidence that suggests these cosmic giants __________.

Which choice most logically completes the text?

Established in the early 2000s with a mission to conserve the world’s most precious natural areas and the rich biodiversity they harbor; the Global Wildlife Conservation (GWC) organization has been at the forefront of global conservation efforts. Initially focusing on protecting endangered species and their habitats, the GWC’s scope and impact _________ exponentially over the years, propelling it to the forefront of the conservation movement.

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

In the vast expanse of the desert, extreme temperatures and arid conditions pose formidable challenges to survival. The relentless heat and dryness exert a profound impact on the physiological processes of desert-dwelling creatures ________ the intricate structures of their cellular proteins. However, these resilient organisms have evolved a remarkable adaptation to counter the harsh environmental stress: the chemical compound trehalose.

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

In the depths of the lush rainforest, a peculiar creature___________ exhibits a stunning display of colors that perplexes researchers. Unlike other insects that rely on camouflage to avoid predators, this brightly adorned leafhopper appears to flaunt its vibrant hues for all to see. As researchers delve into the enigmatic world of this little creature, they begin to unravel the mystery behind its striking coloration.

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

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

• A significant period in history marked by the widespread transition from agrarian and handcraft-based economies to industrial and machine-based production methods.
• The Industrial Revolution originated in Britain during the late 18th century and gradually spread to other parts of Europe and North America.
• Key technological advancements that fueled the Industrial Revolution included the steam engine, which revolutionized transportation and powered factories, and the mechanization of textile production, which led to the rise of factories and mass production.
• The Industrial Revolution brought about profound social changes, such as urbanization, as people migrated from rural areas to cities in search of employment opportunities. It also led to the formation of the working class and the rise of labor movements.
• The shift to industrialization resulted in significant economic growth and increased productivity, but it also led to income inequality and exploitation of labor in many industries.

Given this information, which question effectively utilizes relevant details from the notes to accomplish the student’s objective?