Which of the following words does the author use to express a derogatory tone?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is 'Predictable' because the author uses it in a negative context to imply something as uninspired or lacking creativity. In the passage, the author mentions that following rules can make writing difficult, contrasting writers who adhere to rules with those who break them to succeed. 'Predictable' reflects a derogatory tone as it suggests monotony or lack of originality. Choices B, C, and D do not convey a derogatory tone in the context of the passage. 'Noisy,' 'Delicate,' and 'Roar' are neutral or descriptive words that do not carry a negative connotation.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Based on the timeline provided, Barton working on the frontlines of the Civil War is the second event to occur. This event happened after her work as a patent clerk but before other events. Barton's travel to Europe and identification of anonymous soldiers happened after her service on the frontlines of the Civil War, making them later events in the timeline.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The author's tone in the passage is informal. The passage provides a narrative about Hedy Lamarr's life and inventions, offering insights into her challenges and achievements in a conversational manner. The use of phrases like 'To relieve this boredom' and 'Just think, we might not have any of those things' indicates a casual and engaging tone, suitable for storytelling. Choice A, 'Sarcastic,' is incorrect as there is no evident use of sarcasm or irony in the passage. Choice B, 'Formal,' is incorrect because the tone is not stiff or ceremonious; instead, it is relaxed and personal. Choice D, 'Scientific,' is also incorrect as the tone is not focused on presenting technical information or research findings but rather on sharing a personal story.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. The passage does not mention anything about the author's emotional state or preference for concerts. However, it does discuss cicadas and their emergence, life cycle, and behavior. Therefore, the reader can conclude that the author is likely interested in cicadas and their natural history, indicating that they go to the theater as often as possible. Choice A is incorrect because there is no evidence regarding the author being overly emotional. Choice B is incorrect as there is no mention of the author's preference for concerts. Choice D is incorrect as the passage does not provide any information about the author enjoying theater decor.

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.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct conclusion that can be drawn from the passage is that plastic pollution poses a significant environmental threat due to its lasting nature and difficulty in recycling. The passage highlights the challenges of recycling plastic due to its low quality when recycled, leading to pollution and environmental hazards. It mentions the presence of a large island of plastic in the Pacific Ocean, showing the severe impact of plastic pollution on the environment. Therefore, choice A is the most accurate conclusion. Choice B is incorrect as the passage mentions that plastic has many advantages despite its recycling challenges. Choice C is incorrect as the passage indicates that recycling plastic is difficult due to its low quality when recycled. Choice D is incorrect as the passage clearly states that plastic consumption by marine life like fish and birds is a reality, showing the impact of plastic pollution on marine ecosystems.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The statement that rested people have better impulse control supports the claim that napping during the workday can lead to employees being happier, healthier, and more productive. Improved impulse control can result in better decision-making, including choosing nutritious food over junk food, which contributes to overall well-being and productivity. Choices A, C, and D do not directly address the relationship between napping and improved well-being or productivity, making them less relevant to supporting the claim.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Cicadas make a buzzing sound primarily to attract a mate. This sound is a mating call produced by the males to attract females for reproduction. While echolocation is used by some animals like bats for navigation, cicadas do not use buzzing for orientation. Buzzing is not related to locating a food source or warding off predators in the case of cicadas.