Test Ninjas sample Digital SAT reading/writing practice questions

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In the 19th century, the development of the railroad system ______ a significant impact on the American
economy, leading to increased trade and industrial growth.

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

A) had
B) having
C) have
D) will have

The Kessler Syndrome, a hypothetical scenario proposed by Donald J. Kessler in 1978, suggests that the
increasing density of space debris in low Earth orbit could lead to a cascading effect, where collisions create more
debris, making further collisions more likely. If left unchecked, this phenomenon may eventually make certain
orbital regions unusable, posing a serious threat to ______.

Which choice most logically completes the text?

A) deep space exploration missions targeting distant galaxies

B) the development of advanced propulsion systems for interstellar travel
C) satellites, space stations, and future space-based activities in low Earth orbit
D) the search for habitable exoplanets in other solar systems

During the 19th century, the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood emerged as a group of artists who sought to challenge
the artistic conventions of their time. They were inspired by the detailed realism and intense colors of the
Quattrocento, an early period of Italian Renaissance art. The Pre-Raphaelites' rejection of the techniques taught by
the Royal Academy of Arts indicates that they likely believed ______.

Which choice most logically completes the text?

A) the Royal Academy of Arts was outdated and irrelevant

B) the artistic principles endorsed by the Royal Academy of Arts stifled creativity and expression
C) Italian Renaissance art was superior to all other forms of art
D) art should only be created by a select few

In 2016, the Paris Agreement was adopted, aimed at combatting climate change by maintaining the global
temperature increase well below 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. World leaders, including President
Barack Obama, emphasized the importance of this accord as a critical step towards preserving our planet for
future generations. The agreement encouraged countries to set and regularly review their climate targets, as well
as mobilize financial support for developing nations. Despite some setbacks, such as the United States
withdrawing from the agreement in 2017, the Paris Agreement remains a key milestone in global efforts to
address climate change.

What is the central idea of the passage?

A) The importance of renewable energy

B) The role of financial support in climate change efforts
C) The significance of the Paris Agreement in addressing climate change
D) The consequences of the United States withdrawing from the Paris Agreement

Charlotte Bronte's novel 'Jane Eyre' is a coming-of-age story that follows the life of the titular character, Jane
Eyre, as she navigates love, loss, and self-discovery. In one passage, Jane reflects on her situation at Thornfield
Hall: 'I am no bird; and no net ensnares me; I am a free human being with an independent will, which I now exert
to leave you.' In this passage, the metaphor of a bird in a net is used to convey the idea of ____.

What idea does the metaphor of a bird in a net convey in the passage from 'Jane Eyre'?

A) entrapment
B) freedom
C) flight
D) transformation

The Venus flytrap, a carnivorous plant, captures and digests small insects. Its trapping mechanism consists of
modified leaves with sensitive trigger hairs. When an insect touches the hairs, the plant's ______, trapping the
prey.
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?

A) leaves snap shut

B) leave snap shut
C) leaves snaps shut
D) leave snaps shut

In recent years, the rise of social media has greatly impacted the way people communicate and share information.
While platforms like Facebook and Twitter have enabled users to connect with friends and family, they have also
been criticized for their role in spreading misinformation and exacerbating political polarization. Some argue that
the algorithms used by these platforms prioritize engagement over accuracy, resulting in a distorted view of
reality. Others, however, believe that social media has democratized access to information, allowing individuals
to bypass traditional gatekeepers like news organizations and government institutions.

Which rhetorical strategy does the author employ to discuss the effects of social media on the dissemination of
information?

A) Comparing and contrasting different viewpoints

B) Providing a chronological account of social media's development
C) Focusing solely on the negative aspects of social media
D) Discussing the benefits of social media without acknowledging any drawbacks

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

• Modern art history includes various movements such as Cubism, Surrealism, and Abstract Expressionism.
• Pablo Picasso and Georges Braque were pioneers of the Cubism movement.
• Surrealism, with Salvador Dalí as a prominent figure, emerged in the 1920s.
• Jackson Pollock and Willem de Kooning were key artists in the Abstract Expressionism movement.

Which choice most effectively uses relevant information from the notes to explain the diversity of modern art
history?

A) Pablo Picasso and Georges Braque were well-known artists in modern art history.
B) The emergence of Surrealism in the 1920s marked a turning point in modern art history.
C) Abstract Expressionism, which includes artists like Jackson Pollock and Willem de Kooning, is a significant
movement in modern art history.
D) Modern art history is diverse, encompassing movements such as Cubism with Picasso and Braque,
Surrealism led by Dalí, and Abstract Expressionism featuring Pollock and de Kooning.
 9

Reality television has been a popular genre for decades, with countless shows featuring ordinary people in
unscripted situations. Despite criticisms of reality TV's impact on society, the sustained popularity of the genre
may indicate that it serves to ______

Which choice most logically completes the text?

A) encourage educational programming

B) promote traditional family values
C) fulfill a need for relatable entertainment
D) increase appreciation for scripted television

10

The Himalayas are one of the most geologically active mountain ranges on Earth, continuously forming as the
Indian tectonic plate moves northwards and collides with the Eurasian plate. This ongoing geological activity
results in frequent earthquakes and landslides, making the region vulnerable to natural disasters. Thus, it is crucial
for local communities and governments to invest in ______.

Which choice most logically completes the text?

A) disaster preparedness and infrastructure improvements

B) promoting tourism to the area
C) increasing agricultural production
D) developing new transportation systems

11

Charlotte Bronte's novel 'Jane Eyre' is a coming-of-age story that follows the life of the titular character, Jane
Eyre, as she navigates love, loss, and self-discovery. In one passage, Jane reflects on her situation at Thornfield
Hall: 'I am no bird; and no net ensnares me; I am a free human being with an independent will, which I now exert
to leave you.' In this passage, the metaphor of a bird in a net is used to convey the idea of ____.

What idea does the metaphor of a bird in a net convey in the passage from 'Jane Eyre'?

A) entrapment
B) freedom
C) flight
D) transformation
 12

A geographer argues that the presence of natural resources, such as oil and minerals, can influence a country's
political stability. They suggest that countries with abundant resources may be more susceptible to political unrest
and conflict.

Which finding, if true, would most directly support the geographer's argument?

A) Countries with significant natural resource wealth have a higher likelihood of experiencing political turmoil
and civil strife.
B) Developed countries with advanced economies tend to import resources from countries rich in natural
resources.
C) Some countries with abundant natural resources have established sovereign wealth funds to invest in social
and economic development.
D) Countries with limited natural resources often focus on developing their human capital and technological
advancements.

13

Due to climate change, many coastal cities are experiencing more frequent and severe flooding. As a result, city
planners and engineers have started to develop innovative solutions to mitigate the effects of these floods. One
such solution involves the construction of large underground reservoirs that can store excess water during flood
events, thus ______.

Which choice most logically completes the text?

A) eliminating the need for further urban planning

B) increasing property values in flood-prone areas
C) reducing the damage caused by floods in urban areas
D) preventing climate change from worsening

14

The invention of the printing press by Johannes Gutenberg in the 15th century revolutionized the way information
was disseminated. Books became more widely available, leading to an increase in literacy rates. _______ the
internet, which emerged in the late 20th century, further transformed the way people access and share
information.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?
A) Similarly,
B) Conversely,
C) Likewise,
D) Nevertheless,

15

Mountains are known to create their own microclimates, which can lead to different vegetation and wildlife
existing at various altitudes. This phenomenon is known as altitudinal zonation. A study of a specific mountain
range revealed a distinct change in vegetation every 1,000 meters. Based on this observation, it can be inferred
that______.

Which choice most logically completes the text?

A) altitudinal zonation is present in the studied mountain range

B) all mountain ranges have the same altitudinal zonation patterns
C) vegetation changes are unrelated to altitude
D) wildlife does not vary with altitude

16

In the field of psychology, the Stanford prison experiment, conducted by Philip Zimbardo in 1971, aimed to
investigate the psychological effects of perceived power. The study, however, ______ due to ethical concerns and
the mistreatment of participants.

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

A) has ended
B) was terminated
C) terminating
D) will terminate

17

The rare, brightly colored peacock mantis shrimp can deliver a blow to its prey with a force more than 2,500 times
its own body weight. The shrimp's powerful strike is due to the unique structure of its ______ which stores and
then releases large amounts of energy quickly.
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?

A) appendage,
B) appendage;
C) appendage:
D) appendage

18

Abstract Expressionism, an art movement that emerged in the mid-20th century, is known for its focus on
spontaneous, emotional, and gestural art. Artists like Jackson Pollock and Willem de Kooning gained prominence
through their innovative techniques and unique styles. The movement's emphasis on individuality and
self-expression suggests that Abstract Expressionist artists may have been seeking to ______.

Which choice most logically completes the text?

A) break away from traditional artistic norms and conventions

B) emulate the styles of earlier European art movements
C) promote a specific political or social agenda
D) create artwork that is easily understood by the general public

19

In the late 1800s, Thomas Edison and Nikola Tesla were involved in a fierce competition known as the 'War of
the Currents.' The main point of contention between the two inventors was whether direct current (DC) or
alternating current (AC) ______ the best way to distribute electricity.

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

A) was
B) were
C) being
D) will be

20

A geographer suggests that the development of renewable energy infrastructure in the Great Lakes region could
reduce local dependence on fossil fuels. The researcher argues that the region's abundant wind and solar resources
could be effectively harnessed.
Which finding, if true, would most strongly support the geographer's claim?

A) Renewable energy projects in the Great Lakes region have successfully reduced fossil fuel usage in the area
by 50%.
B) The Great Lakes region has been experiencing a steady decline in industrial output.
C) Several large fossil fuel companies have invested in renewable energy projects in other regions.
D) The Great Lakes region has a history of difficulty in implementing large-scale infrastructure projects.

21

The formation of river deltas occurs when a river deposits sediment into a body of water, creating a landform that
protrudes from the coastline. Deltas often contain fertile soil, making them prime locations for agriculture. A
country with numerous river deltas has recently experienced a boom in agricultural production. This suggests
that______.

Which choice most logically completes the text?

A) all deltas are suitable for agriculture

B) agricultural production is unrelated to the presence of deltas
C) the fertile soil in the deltas has contributed to the country's agricultural growth
D) deltas are the only locations suitable for agriculture

22

The Atacama Desert, located along the western coast of South America, is considered one of the driest places on
Earth. Some areas within the desert receive less than 1 millimeter of rainfall per year. Despite its harsh conditions,
the Atacama Desert is home to unique plant and animal species that have adapted to survive in this extreme
environment by ______.

Which choice most logically completes the text?

A) relying on humans for water

B) utilizing alternative sources of water and moisture
C) hibernating during dry periods
D) migrating to nearby, more hospitable areas

23
Quantum computing, an advanced form of computing that uses quantum mechanics principles, has the potential to
revolutionize various industries. Unlike classical computers, which use bits to represent data as 0s or 1s, quantum
computers use qubits, which can be in a superposition of states. This property allows quantum computers to
perform complex calculations much faster than classical computers. Despite their potential, they also pose a threat
to current cryptographic systems, which rely on the difficulty of factoring large numbers—a task that could be
performed more efficiently by a quantum computer.

How does the author's choice to present both the benefits and potential drawbacks of quantum computing
contribute to the overall rhetorical purpose of the passage?

A) To provide a balanced perspective on quantum computing

B) To argue that the disadvantages outweigh the advantages
C) To convince readers to invest in quantum computing
D) To downplay the importance of quantum computing

24

In his book 'The Tipping Point,' Malcolm Gladwell presents the concept that social epidemics spread in a manner
similar to infectious diseases. He uses examples such as the sudden decline in crime rates in New York City and
the rapid spread of certain fashion trends to illustrate his point. According to Gladwell, there are three key factors
that can cause an idea or trend to reach a tipping point: the Law of the Few, the Stickiness Factor, and the Power
of Context. These factors work together to create a phenomenon where ideas, products, or behaviors can suddenly
gain widespread popularity or change drastically.

What is the central idea of the passage about 'The Tipping Point'?

A) Social epidemics spread like infectious diseases

B) Crime rates in New York City have declined dramatically
C) Fashion trends are the best example of tipping points
D) Malcolm Gladwell's book is about the history of social epidemics

25

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

• The Chernobyl disaster occurred on April 26, 1986, at the No. 4 reactor in the Chernobyl Nuclear Power
Plant.
• The explosion released large amounts of radioactive particles into the atmosphere.
• The nearby city of Pripyat was evacuated, displacing around 50,000 residents.
• The Chernobyl Exclusion Zone was established, and it covers an area of approximately 2,600 square
kilometers.

Which choice most effectively uses relevant information from the notes to describe the consequences of the
Chernobyl disaster?
A) The Chernobyl disaster happened in 1986 at the No. 4 reactor in the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant.
B) The explosion at the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant resulted in the evacuation of the nearby city of Pripyat.
C) The Chernobyl disaster led to the evacuation of 50,000 residents from Pripyat and the creation of the
Chernobyl Exclusion Zone, which spans 2,600 square kilometers.
D) The Chernobyl disaster occurred in 1986, and its effects are still felt today in the 2,600 square kilometer
Chernobyl Exclusion Zone.

26

The concept of a circular economy is an alternative to the traditional linear economy, where resources are
extracted, used, and then discarded. A circular economy focuses on minimizing waste by designing products and
systems to be reusable, repairable, and recyclable. This approach can contribute to more sustainable economic
growth, reducing the strain on finite resources and the environment. However, transitioning to a circular economy
requires a significant shift in mindset, infrastructure, and policy, as well as cooperation among various
stakeholders.

How does the author's use of contrast between the linear and circular economies serve the rhetorical purpose of
the passage?

A) To emphasize the benefits of the circular economy

B) To discredit the linear economy completely
C) To provide a neutral comparison of the two systems
D) To argue that the circular economy is unrealistic

27

In the early 20th century, the assembly line revolutionized manufacturing. This innovation, introduced by Henry
Ford, significantly decreased the time it took to produce a single automobile, making cars more affordable for the
______ population.

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

A) generals
B) general
C) generals'
D) general's