Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'Witty.' The tone of the passage is light-hearted and humorous, characterized by amusing details like the eccentric birthday party with zebras, monster trucks, and a limited buffet of boiled asparagus and pickled carrots. The mention of Dr. Creekstone planning an even bigger party with more zebras adds to the whimsical and humorous tone. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as there is no indication of disbelief, hostility, or anxiety in the passage; instead, it conveys a sense of fun and amusement.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'The custom of tipping should be abolished in favor of paying servers a living wage.' The rationale is that the passage argues for eliminating tipping and ensuring servers receive a fair wage. This is supported by the idea that servers should be paid adequately rather than relying on tips. Choice B is incorrect because the passage does not support the idea that tipping enhances service quality; it argues for a living wage instead. Choice C is incorrect as there is no mention of paying servers based on performance in the passage. Choice D is incorrect as the passage does not focus on customers' enjoyment of tipping but rather on the need to abolish the practice for fairer wages.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Hedy Lamarr took up inventing due to boredom from her film roles lacking spoken lines. The extract mentions that to relieve her boredom, Lamarr turned to inventing after her film roles did not provide much dialogue.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: 'After' is used to indicate that one event happened following another in time. In the context of a timeline, 'After' signifies the sequence of events, showing what occurred subsequent to a particular point in time. In the provided extract, events unfold in a specific order, with each event happening 'after' the previous one. Choices A, B, and D do not inherently convey the idea of chronological order and are not suitable for indicating the sequence of events in a timeline.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Male cicadas are known for making strident, high buzzing sounds by vibrating two membranes on their abdomen, reaching up to 80 to 100 decibels, similar to the roar of a loud engine. This behavior is distinct to male cicadas and serves as a way to attract females for mating. Choice A is incorrect because it describes physical characteristics of cicadas, not behavior. Choice B is incorrect as it describes the behavior of female cicadas, not males. Choice D is incorrect as it pertains to the behavior of female cicadas after mating, not males.