Reading: Inference and Critical Analysis Flashcards

An author concludes a balanced article with: "While the program has flaws, its benefits to families cannot be ignored." The author's overall position is best described as:

Answer: Cautiously supportive

Acknowledging flaws while affirming benefits signals cautious support.

A passage notes a scientist published results but refused to share her data with other researchers. A critical reader might reasonably question:

Answer: Whether the results can be verified

Withholding data prevents verification, which a critical reader should question.

"The job promised flexible hours, but employees were expected to answer calls at midnight." The contrast implies the word "flexible" was:

Answer: Misleading

Midnight calls contradict the promise of flexibility, implying the term was misleading.

Which detail would most strengthen an author's argument that a city is becoming safer?

Answer: Police records show crime dropped 30% over five years

Documented crime statistics provide direct, measurable support for the claim of greater safety.

A character says, "I'm fine," while wiping away tears. The contrast between words and actions invites the reader to infer the character is:

Answer: Hiding distress

Tears contradicting the words 'I'm fine' imply the character is hiding distress.

An author presents only the advantages of a proposal and omits any drawbacks. This approach suggests the passage is:

Answer: Persuasive and one-sided

Presenting only advantages and ignoring drawbacks marks the passage as persuasive and one-sided.

A passage states that sales rose after an ad campaign, but also after a competitor closed nearby. A critical reader should conclude that:

Answer: The cause of rising sales is uncertain

With two possible causes present, the true reason for rising sales remains uncertain.