Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Based on the information provided in the extract, it is evident that despite the United States spending a substantial amount on education, it does not translate to top performance in standardized math tests. Countries spending less outperformed the United States, indicating that spending more money does not guarantee success on standardized tests. Choice A is incorrect because the extract does not specify benefits beyond tests. Choice B is incorrect as the extract does not explicitly state that the US education system is corrupt and broken. Choice C is incorrect as the extract talks about the performance on standardized math tests rather than American proficiency in general.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The sentence in answer choice D expresses the opinion of the author by suggesting that scholars in the 21st century are hasty in dismissing the role of religion in political disputes. This opinion is presented without factual evidence or support within the passage, making it an opinion rather than a statement based on information provided in the text. Choice A simply states facts about James being a practicing Catholic and how it affected him, without expressing any opinion. Choice B also presents a factual statement about King Charles I's commitment to the Protestant Church of England. Choice C provides historical information about the Battle of Culloden and the religious state of England and Scotland, without any opinion from the author.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The best guide for Raul would be 'Who Built the Great Pyramids?' as it focuses on the construction of the pyramids, providing detailed research on the topic. Choices A, B, and C are less relevant as they do not specifically address the construction of the pyramids. Choice A is about Giza in general, Choice B is a biography, and Choice C is about hieroglyphics, none of which directly relate to the construction of the pyramids.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The 'nature of the fairy tale genre' in Passage 2 refers to how fairy tales capture basic, fundamental human desires and fears, representing the most essential form of fictionalized human experience. This includes the portrayal of characters as purely good or purely evil, the celebration of themes such as romance and commoners becoming royalty, which all contribute to portraying basic human experiences in a symbolic and imaginative manner. The other choices are incorrect because while they may be elements present in fairy tales, they do not encompass the overarching concept of capturing basic human experiences as referred to in Passage 2.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The best cinema option for Thomas and his sister after the unexpected rearrangement of their schedules is Best Seat in The House. This is because the only showing available after 10:30 p.m. is at 11:25 p.m. at Best Seat in The House. None of the other cinemas have showings available after 10:30 p.m., making Best Seat in The House the optimal choice for them to catch the film. Twin Theatres, Reveler Cinema, and Big Screen 14 do not have showings after 10:30 p.m., so they are not suitable options for Thomas and his sister given their schedule constraints.