SAT Reading & Writing Practice Set 8

In the logbook of cosmic exploration, Daniella Della Giustina, a tenacious custodian of knowledge, inscribes a chapter of unparalleled courage. Confronting the unforeseen labyrinth of a terrain adorned with bouldere puzzles, OSIRIS-REx stood as an emblem of audacity, ingeniously _______ a trove of the surface’s essence. A symphony of precision and daring choreography unfolded, birthing a collection of fragments destined to reunite with Earth’s embrace. This narrative resonates as a testament to the human spirit’s unyielding thirst for discovery, underscoring the infinitude of the unexplored and the remarkable journey we undertake to quench it.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical and precise word or phrase?

Spatial awareness, the ability to perceive and navigate one’s environment, is a skill that comes naturally to many animals. This aptitude is especially evident in birds, who intricately navigate through dense forests and open skies. Yet, while this ability is prevalent, it is somewhat _______ in reptiles. This variation has sparked the curiosity of researchers, prompting them to develop intricate experiments that uncover the spatial strategies reptiles employ to traverse their surroundings.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical and precise word or phrase?

The excerpt below is adapted from Mark Twain’s classic novel ‘The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn.’ Huck and Jim, two unlikely companions, find themselves adrift on the Mississippi River.

The raft floated on, and in the stillness of the night I was suddenly seized with an overwhelming desire to confide in Jim. The river whispered secrets, and the stars above seemed like silent witnesses to my inner turmoil. Jim’s gentle snores echoed in the night, a reminder of the camaraderie we had developed over our journey. I hesitated, torn between the weight of my thoughts and the fear of breaking our unique bond. Ultimately, I whispered my secrets to the wind, knowing that the river and Jim were my steadfast confidantes.

Which choice best describes the function of the underlined sentence?

Text 1

 The rise of digital technology has ushered in an era of unprecedented connectivity and information sharing. Proponents of digital communication emphasize its transformative impact on communication, education, and commerce. The internet has transcended geographical barriers, allowing people to communicate in real-time across continents. Online platforms offer diverse educational resources, from online courses to research databases, democratizing access to knowledge. E-commerce has flourished, revolutionizing the way goods and services are bought and sold. This digital landscape fosters innovation, collaboration, and economic growth, reshaping the way we interact with the world.

Text 2

However, the digital revolution comes with a set of complexities and concerns that warrant careful examination. Critics of digital communication highlight the erosion of privacy and the rise of surveillance as pressing issues. Personal data collected by digital platforms can be exploited for targeted advertising or even more nefarious purposes. Moreover, the digital divide perpetuates inequalities, as marginalized communities may lack access to reliable internet connections and technological devices. The rapid pace of technological advancement raises questions about the ethical implications of artificial intelligence and automation. As reliance on digital communication grows, there is a risk of diminished face-to-face interactions and the erosion of social bonds. While digital technology offers unprecedented opportunities, its impact must be assessed through a multifaceted lens that takes into account its benefits and challenges alike.

Based on the texts, both authors would most likely agree with which statement?

Within the intricate dance of electrons and atoms, as the particles twirl and spin in their cosmic choreography, if the magnetic forces and quantum interactions bind them in unison; so does the fabric of reality weave its intricate tapestry, if the fundamental forces of nature maintain their delicate balance. Without this equilibrium, it begins to unravel, much like a symphony of strings played upon discordant vibrations, if the harmony of the universe is not upheld.

According to the passage, why does the fabric of reality begin to unravel if the fundamental forces of nature fail to maintain their delicate balance, similar to a symphony of strings played upon discordant vibrations?

Throughout the dynamic landscape of Post-War and Contemporary art, the year 2022 illuminated the United States as a towering presence. With a commanding presence on the global stage, the United States carved out the highest share of auction revenue, researchers’ claim. This accomplishment speaks to the nation’s unwavering influence and prominence within the art market. The United States’ remarkable achievement in securing the top spot in Post-War and Contemporary art auction revenue is a testament to its thriving art ecosystem. The country’s galleries, collectors, artists, and institutions have collectively contributed to this monumental success. Their dedication to fostering creativity, innovation, and artistic expression has propelled the nation to the forefront of the global art scene.

Geographical distribution of Post-War and Contemporary art auction revenue worldwide in 2022

Which choice best describes data from the table that supports the researchers’ claim?

Several ancient manuscripts discovered within the archives of medieval monasteries reveal depictions of monks diligently transcribing texts illuminated by candlelight. Certain researchers have contended that the presence of illuminated manuscripts indicates the deep spiritual significance of this practice, as the manuscripts often contained religious texts. However, art historian Maria Rodriguez posits that illuminated manuscripts may also signify the reverence for knowledge and the pursuit of wisdom that monks held dear. The fact that such meticulous attention was given to the illumination of texts, therefore, __________.

Which choice most logically completes the text?

Over the past few decades, climate change has become a critical concern for scientists and environmentalists worldwide. One of the ecosystems most vulnerable to these changes is coral reefs. These intricate marine environments are under threat due to rising sea temperatures and increasing ocean acidity. Research indicates that coral bleaching, a phenomenon caused by stress from warming waters, has become more frequent and severe. As temperatures rise, coral reefs struggle ________ from these bleaching events, leading to a decline in biodiversity and ecosystem health. It is essential for us to understand the complex relationship between climate change and coral reef degradation to implement effective conservation strategies.

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

In the face of climate change and depleting fossil fuel reserves, the significance of renewable energy sources cannot be overstated. Unlike non-renewable sources like coal and oil, renewable energy options such as solar, wind, and hydropower offer sustainable alternatives that minimize environmental harm. By harnessing these sources, _____________ greenhouse gas emissions, mitigate air and water pollution, and decrease our reliance on finite resources. Embracing renewable energy not only addresses the pressing issue of climate change but also lays the foundation for a more resilient and ecologically balanced future.

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

The Renaissance, a period of cultural rebirth in Europe spanning from the 14th to the 17th century, marked a profound shift in artistic and intellectual pursuits. The revival of classical learning and the exploration of humanism led to remarkable achievements in art, science, and philosophy. Visionaries like Leonardo da Vinci epitomized this era’s interdisciplinary spirit, with his contributions to anatomy, engineering, and art. The Gutenberg printing press facilitated the spread of knowledge______________. As a result, the Renaissance transformed Europe’s societal landscape, laying the groundwork for modernity.

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

The advent of social media has revolutionized how we connect_________ without its complexities. On one hand, these platforms enable us to maintain relationships across vast distances and share moments with a global audience. Friendships forged online can transcend geographical barriers. However, the virtual nature of interactions can sometimes dilute the richness of face-to-face communication. The pressure to curate a perfect online persona can lead to a disconnect between the online and offline selves. Moreover, the immediacy of digital communication can create misunderstandings due to the absence of tone and body language.

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

Exploring the realm of astronomical wonders, an astrophysicist presents the following intriguing findings:

• The Andromeda Galaxy, our nearest galactic neighbor, is hurtling towards the Milky Way at a staggering pace.
• Within the heart of a black hole, the known laws of physics seem to break down, leading to what scientists term the “singularity.”
• The discovery of exoplanets—planets beyond our solar system—has ignited hopes of finding Earth-like worlds that might support life.
• The cosmic microwave background radiation, a faint glow present throughout the universe, provides a glimpse into the aftermath of the Big Bang.

How might the astrophysicist effectively illuminate the significance of the cosmic microwave background radiation to an audience with limited exposure to the complexities of cosmology and the Big Bang theory?