CliffsNotes CBEST - BTPS TESTING Ph.D., Jerry Bobrow Ph.D. & 8 more 2021

Practice using the suggested strategies
The reading section

Let’s practice the CBEST reading question types presented in the tables on pp. 11—12 using the suggested strategies that follow.

Questions 1—4 refer to the following passage.

The idea of America as a “melting pot” has changed over time because the demographics of the country have changed. In many communities, immigrant populations are transforming American society rather than being transformed by it. Some sociologists argue that assimilation is not always a positive experience—for either society or the immigrants. According to some researchers, assimilation sometimes means “Anglo conformity.” Rúben G. Rumbaut, a sociology professor at Michigan State University, suggests that “If assimilation is a learning process, it involves learning good things and bad things.” Rumbaut developed the concept of “segmented assimilation” that refers to the different paths that immigrants follow to transition into American society. At one end, some immigrants follow the classic American ideal of blending into the middle class, while at the other end, some become part of an adversarial underclass. In the middle are most immigrants who form “immigrant enclaves”—living together, maintaining their ethnic heritage, and adopting many aspects of mainstream American culture.

Strategy 1: Look for the Main Point of the Passage

Always look for the main point of the passage. Looking for the author’s main point will provide you with a holistic view of the passage and give you insights into its content. After you preread the question and take notes from the passage, try to synthesize the ideas by asking yourself, “What is the author really saying?” or “What point is the author trying to convey?” (Note: It’s not necessary to spend valuable time reading all the answer choices at this time; just preread the question.)

Example:

1.   The author’s main purpose in writing this passage is to

A.  argue that immigration has a negative impact on immigrants.

B.  describe how American demographics have changed over time.

C.  describe modern relationships between immigrants and society.

D.  present a professor’s theory that cultural assimilation is learning only good things.

E.  explain why conformity is sometimes beneficial to immigrants.

Although the passage reads Some sociologists argue that assimilation is not always a positive experience, this statement applies to both immigrants and society. Therefore, choice A is incorrect. Remember to always look for the best answer among the choices. Choice B is a true statement; however, it is a secondary point, and is not the author’s main point of the passage. Choice D is incorrect because the author states that . . . assimilation is a learning process [that] involves learning good things and bad things. The author does not suggest that conformity is beneficial, making choice E contrary to the author’s intent. Choice C describes both the introductory sentences and the specific theories presented by the author, making it the best summary of the author’s main purpose. The correct answer is choice C. (Comprehension and Context Question Type)

Strategy 2: Look for Supporting Points

This type of question often requires that you know the difference between the author’s main point and supporting points. To accomplish this, break the passage down into its smaller components and identify reasons, examples, or facts that support the author’s main point. Remember, your answer must contain information that is either directly stated or indirectly implied to support the main point of the passage.

Example:

2.   Based on the information contained in the passage, which of the following statements about the history of American immigrant communities supports the author’s point of view?

A.  Immigrant communities have tended to be segregated across religious lines.

B.  Immigrant community members have generally belonged to the lower class of society.

C.  Immigrants have caused the “melting pot” idea of America to become irrelevant.

D.  Immigrants have traditionally adapted themselves to American culture, rather than vice versa.

E.  Immigrants have recently grown susceptible to “Anglo conformity.”

Choice A can immediately be identified as incorrect because the passage does not mention religion. Choice B is not supported by the passage; while it does mention that some immigrants become part of an underclass, it also notes that many blend into the middle class. Choice C is incorrect because the author does not suggest that the “melting pot” has become irrelevant. Carefully read the answer choices because the word “recently” stated in choice E is never mentioned in the passage. The first sentence of the passage discusses a change in American cultural dynamics over time, while the second sentence describes how many immigrant communities are now transforming society, rather than being transformed by it. This statement supports the idea that immigrant communities have historically adapted themselves to American culture, rather than vice versa. The correct answer is choice D. (Critical Analysis and Evaluation Question Type)

Strategy 3: Make Inferences

Some information is not stated directly in the passage but can be gleaned by “reading between the lines.” As you read between the lines, look for confirming evidence among the author’s words to support your conclusion. For example, what can you infer from the following statement? Only a minority of children under the age of six have visited a dentist. Because only a small number of children have visited a dentist, the inference is that most children under age six have not visited a dentist. It can be confusing at first when you approach this type of question, but once you understand what the author is communicating in the passage, your inference should make logical sense.

Review the following five answer choices to determine which answer is most plausible based on the evidence that you have gathered from the passage.

Example:

3.   Which of the following is inferred by Rumbaut’s statement “If assimilation is a learning process, it involves learning good things and bad things?”

A.  Many aspects of American culture should be adopted by immigrants.

B.  Much of America’s modern culture has been shaped by immigrants.

C.  Some immigrants pick up bad habits from assimilation.

D.  Assimilation is a benefit to society.

E.  Assimilation provides the opportunity for immigrants to learn professional skills that they might not have otherwise learned.

The correct answer must be directly inferred by Rumbaut’s statement: If assimilation is a learning process, it involves learning good things and bad things. Choice C describes that some immigrants learn bad things from assimilation. Therefore, the inference is that other immigrants must learn good things, as expressed in Rumbaut’s statement. Choice A can be eliminated because it is contrary to the author’s intent. It suggests that many aspects of American culture should be adopted, but it does not define these things as good, bad, or indifferent. Choices B and E are unrelated to the statement and can be eliminated. Choice D is incorrect because Rumbaut’s claim does not reference any benefit to society. The correct answer is choice C. (Comprehension and Context Question Type)

Strategy 4: Draw a Conclusion

If you are asked to draw a conclusion, your answer must be supported by evidence from the information in the passage. When in doubt, plug in each answer choice to see which one best fits the evidence provided. Several answer choices in the following question may be possible, but only one follows the correct line of reasoning.

Example:

4.   It can be concluded that supporters of segmented assimilation would most likely agree that

A.  distinct trends of segmented assimilation appear in different time periods.

B.  immigrants must choose whether to adopt American customs or to remain true to their roots.

C.  immigrant enclaves are formed by immigrants who reject the idea of assimilation.

D.  a significant number of immigrants maintain their cultural traditions after assimilating into American society.

E.  an adversarial underclass is necessary for the preservation of unique cultural identities.

The author defines segmented assimilation in the sixth sentence and then provides three examples. Trends of segmented assimilation are not mentioned in the passage, choice A. The author does not suggest that immigrants must choose which path to take, choice B. The author does not mention that immigrant enclaves are formed by immigrants who reject the idea of assimilation, choice C. Choice E is not suggested by the discussion of the adversarial underclass. The author explains that most immigrants are able to both maintain their heritage and adopt new customs. Therefore, it can be concluded that supporters of segmented assimilation would agree with choice D. The correct answer is choice D. (Comprehension and Context Question Type)

Questions 5—6 are based on the following passage.

The obesity epidemic among adults and children in the United States has reached serious proportions. Although former First Lady Michelle Obama launched an initiative to encourage childhood health and fitness, called “Let’s Move,” the trend toward unhealthy lifestyles continues today. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that children participate in one hour or more of physical activity per day to improve cardiovascular health, muscle strengthening, and bone strengthening. Studies suggest that a comprehensive physical education program is the most significant factor in the development of cardio-respiratory endurance, which includes the ability of the heart, blood vessels, and respiratory system to sustain work by delivering oxygen and nutrients to the tissues of the body over a period of time. One of the most important lessons that we can give our children is to give them the necessary tools to maintain a healthy body.

Strategy 5: Identify the Author’s Point of View

Identify the author’s point of view, attitude, or opinion of the passage by looking for the author’s tone. The overall mood of the passage is communicated through words that help the reader feel a sense of connection with how the author wants you to feel or think (e.g., the description of events, people, or places).

Pay careful attention to the types of words the author uses. The answer to a question can be as simple as identifying positive or negative words that set the entire mood of the passage. For example, if you read the word tentative, you may feel a sense of uncertainty or hesitancy. Also, look for words that stir up a subtle feeling or emotion. For example, the word shrouded may create a sense of mystery, ambiguity, or secrecy. Remember that punctuation marks and/or italicized words or phrases can also convey the author’s viewpoint.

Example:

5.   Which of the following best characterizes the author’s opinion about a physical education program?

A.  It should be considered equally important to traditional academic fields.

B.  It has become even more important since the implementation of the “Let’s Move” initiative.

C.  It should be the top priority in a child’s education.

D.  It should be included in a student’s core curriculum when funding is available.

E.  It is the only solution to childhood obesity in the United States.

The author claims that physical education is one of the most important lessons that we can give our children, as paraphrased by choice C. Although choices A and D are true statements, these choices do not accurately reflect the author’s opinion that physical education is a top priority. Choices B and E are not suggested by the author in the passage. The correct answer is choice C. (Critical Analysis and Evaluation Question Type)

Strategy 6: Identify Word Meanings

Pay close attention to the word or phrase in the context of the whole sentence, paragraph, or passage. Even if you’re unfamiliar with the words, use the context of the sentence to figure out the meaning. Sometimes you will need to read the sentences just before and after the one containing the word to understand the word’s association to the surrounding text. In cases in which several answer choices might fit, select the one that fits the meaning of the author’s intent most exactly. If you feel stuck, consider all of your options and literally plug in each answer choice to see which one makes the most logical sense (or sounds the best).

Example:

6.   The author’s reference to the word epidemic in the first sentence serves to

A.  provide authority to an otherwise subjective claim.

B.  illustrate how rapidly physical education programs can benefit school-aged children.

C.  provide an example of the success of the grassroots fitness movement.

D.  provide evidence that the neglect of physical education can lead to death.

E.  provide additional validity that the trend of obesity is widespread in the United States.

The author makes reference to an epidemic to provide support to the point that obesity is considered a valid, widespread disease in the United States, choice E. Choice A is incorrect because the author proves that he is not otherwise subjective by citing Michelle Obama and the CDC in the following two sentences. Choices B and C incorrectly describe the primary purpose of referencing the word epidemic. Choice D is incorrect because the author does not claim that the neglect of physical education can lead to death. The correct answer is choice E. (Comprehension and Context Question Type)

TEST TIP: Some of the passages in the critical analysis and evaluation section appear with numbered sentences. This numbering allows you to focus your attention on specific phrases or words by directing your attention to a particular place in the passage. This is especially helpful for computer-based test-takers. Always look back in the passage after reading the question to verify the sentence(s) that the test question references.

Questions 7—8 refer to the following passage.

(1) People who Googled anything on the first day of spring were met with a particularly charming version of the search engine’s logo. (2) The Very Hungry Caterpillar, a beloved children’s book character created by Eric Carle in 1969, crawled across the page, eating holes in letters brilliantly colored in characteristic collage style. (3) The only other children’s literature icon the Internet giant has deemed recognizable enough to grace its opening search page is Dr. Seuss.

(4) No wonder. (5) The Very Hungry Caterpillar has celebrated over 50 years in print and has sold more than 50 million copies in over 65 languages. (6) Among the 70 or so books that Carle has written and illustrated, it holds a special place in popular culture. (7) Every 30 seconds, somewhere in the world, a copy of the book is sold, and its publisher, Penguin Books, crows.

(8) Crowing penguins are something you won’t find in an Eric Carle book. (9) His stories combine scientific accuracy with emotional resonance, a winning combination for preschoolers.

Strategy 7: Evaluate Strengths and Weaknesses

Look for information in the answer choice that strengthens (supports) or weakens (undermines) the reasoning of the passage.

Example:

7.   Which of the following numbered sentences strengthens the writer’s opinion that Carle is a prominent author?

A.  Sentence 1

B.  Sentence 2

C.  Sentence 5

D.  Sentence 6

E.  Sentence 8

On any reading comprehension test, be alert to the strengths and weaknesses of supporting evidence. Sentences 1 and 2 introduce the passage but do not add to the strength of the argument that Carle is a prominent author, eliminating choices A and B. Sentences 6 and 8, choices D and E, do not address the fact that Carle is a well-known author. Sentence 5, choice C, provides facts about the author’s accomplishments—over 50 years in print and sold more than 50 million copies—confirming his notoriety and strengthening the writer’s opinion of Carle. The correct answer is choice C. (Critical Analysis and Evaluation Question Type)

Strategy 8: Distinguish Fact from Opinion

Sometimes CBEST reading questions ask you to distinguish fact from opinion. Your ability to read with a critical eye and draw reasonable conclusions about the information presented in the passage are important skills for this type of question. Look for clues to compare the author’s underlying opinion to the facts presented in the passage.

Example:

8.   In this passage, sentences 5 and 6 can be described as

A.  opinions about Eric Carle’s work.

B.  facts about The Very Hungry Caterpillar’s popularity.

C.  persuasive techniques used to convince the reader.

D.  descriptions of Carle’s illustrations.

E.  examples of figurative language.

As you read sentences 5 and 6, notice that most of the information consists of statistical facts. While it holds a special place in popular culture is an opinion, it is of minor significance when compared to the specific details of the two sentences. Knowing that you’re not looking for opinions, persuasive techniques, descriptions, or figurative language, you can eliminate choices A, C, D, and E. The correct answer is choice B. (Critical Analysis and Evaluation Question Type)

Questions 9—11 refer to the following passage.

Coyotes can be found in 49 of the 50 states. Thirty years ago, most of the coyote population was confined to the western United States, but now they prowl from Maine to Florida, and increasingly in urban areas. The coyote’s range has extended north as far as Alaska and south through almost all of Central America.

This population explosion has alarmed sheep ranchers in the western states, and they have responded with a new weapon: a collar worn by sheep that contains the fiercely toxic Compound 1080. Ranchers say the amount of deadly poison is so small that it does not present a threat to the environment. _____ the Environmental Protection Agency has approved the use of the collars in several sheep-raising states. _____ there is still opposition from many environmental groups. They point to the cruelty of the coyotes’ death, which can last from three to twelve hours. They claim that Compound 1080 can kill innocent animals and poses a special threat to eagles. Because the collars may find their way into stream beds, environmentalists fear the widespread killing of fish and fish-eating birds and animals.

Strategy 9: Identify Key Transitional Words

Look for transitional words or phrases that either continue or contrast the meaning of a sentence. These “trigger” words signal a change in the flow of a sentence. For example, the words therefore, thus, and consequently show cause and effect. The words conversely, however, and on the other hand show a contrast or change. Common transitional words or phrases on the CBEST are but, although, on the other hand, however, despite, rather than, instead, subsequently, therefore, thus, consequently, furthermore, and yet.

On the CBEST, transitional word questions often appear as a “fill-in-the-blank” question based on the context of the passage. Start by making a prediction about possible word choices in the blank spaces.

Example:

9.   Which of the following words or phrases used respectively to fill in the blanks would make the passage clearer?

A.  However; Also

B.  Thus; And

C.  But; On the other hand

D.  Furthermore; But

E.  Yet; However

The first blank space requires a conjunctive adverb showing a continuation of the author’s thought from the preceding sentence. The poison is not a threat, and thus and furthermore, as in choices B and D, support that opinion. Next, notice that the second blank space requires a contrasting conjunctive adverb, which expresses that an opposing opinion will follow. On the other hand, But, and However are all good choices, C, D, and E. The use of Furthermore makes it clear that the sentence about the EPA is part of the argument on one side. The But signals the shift to the opposition’s point of view. The correct answer is choice D. (Comprehension and Context Question Type)

Strategy 10: Summarize the Passage

The best method of isolating the main point or supporting ideas of the passage is to paraphrase the passage. The goal is to consolidate the author’s ideas in your own words. If you are short on time, read the first sentence (thesis statement) and the last sentence (conclusion) of the passage to get an overall gist of what the author is conveying. When you practice summarizing the passage, it will not only help you master this question type, it will also serve to develop a foundation of tackling the slightly more challenging inference questions.

Example:

10.  Which of the following best summarizes the author’s position on using poisoned collars to protect sheep?

A.  The author favors their use since the passage points out that they have been approved by the Environmental Protection Agency.

B.  The author disapproves of their use since the passage describes the poison as “fiercely toxic.”

C.  The author presents the point of view of both sides without clearly taking sides.

D.  The author favors their use if they can be used without posing a threat to other wild animals.

E.  Though the author’s position is never explicit, the author disapproves of the killing of any wild animals.

Before reading the passage, you should have noted “author’s position” and “using poisoned collars” from the question prompt. After reading the entire passage, notice that it’s difficult to summarize the author’s main point of view. The author presents a perspective from both sides of the argument regarding the use of poisoned collars, choice C. The author does not commit to one side or the other. On the one hand, the author reports that the ranchers and the EPA have spoken in favor of the devices, choice A. He also reports the objections of the environmentalists, choices B and E. Choice D contradicts the passage because the author does not favor the use of poisoned collars. The correct answer is choice C. (Comprehension and Context Question Type)

Strategy 11: Identify the Sequence of Events

Read the passage carefully to understand the logical sequence of ideas. As you become aware of the passage’s content and the relationship between ideas, you can identify its logical organization.

Example:

11.  Which of the following is the most appropriate addition as a final sentence in the second paragraph?

A.  So you can see that there is no easy answer to the problem of the coyote versus the sheep rancher.

B.  Americans have been trying to control the coyote for over 100 years, but its population and range have relentlessly increased; there is no reason to be optimistic about the results of this latest battle in the coyote wars.

C.  I think that maybe we should try out the collar under restrictions, which could prevent any accidents and make sure nothing goes wrong to hurt the environment.

D.  If the collar can save the sheep, don’t you think it’s a good idea?

E.  The rancher’s battle with the coyote is part of a long war with nature, and the collar is a new device, like a James Bond gadget, that might bring victory.

Choice B is consistent with the style and tone of the rest of the paragraph and relates the content of the second paragraph to the information about the coyote’s range that began the first paragraph. Choice A is weak and, unlike the rest of the passage, directly addresses the reader. Choice C is ineffectual, and for the first and only time, uses the first person pronoun I. Choice D surprisingly takes sides and uses a direct question. Choice E overuses figurative language and also takes sides. The correct answer is choice B. (Comprehension and Context Question Type)

Questions 12—13 refer to the following passage.

The recycling of electronic waste (or “e-waste”) is becoming an increasingly complicated worldwide issue. Often, only parts of electronics that contain reusable metals like copper are recycled, and the rest of the waste is “outsourced” to third-world countries, including West Africa, where it is burned or buried in scrap yards. ________________________________________________. Burning often releases chemicals such as lead and mercury into the air, which results in severe health implications for anyone who inhales the chemical vapors. Less than 20 percent of discarded electronics are actually sent to recyclers, which is one reason why manufacturers have started including more recyclable parts in their products.

Strategy 12: Organize the Ideas or Events

On the CBEST, some questions will ask you to recognize the structural and organizational development of a passage. You may be asked to improve the passage by reorganizing, combining, or inserting sentences in the passage. The best strategy to tackle this type of question is to look for the relationship between the author’s main and supporting points so that you demonstrate your knowledge of the author’s structural flow of ideas.

Example:

12.  Which sentence, if inserted into the blank line, would be most consistent with the author’s purpose and intended audience?

A.  West Africa has suffered from severe air pollution.

B.  Electronic devices compose 2 percent of the waste found in U.S. landfills.

C.  Electronic devices contain a number of hazardous chemicals.

D.  Burning electronic devices is economically efficient in the United States.

E.  Electronic waste is a small part of hazardous chemicals in West Africa.

Choice C supports the author’s concern that burning electronic devices causes the release of hazardous chemicals that result in severe health implications. Choice A is not mentioned in the passage (although it can be inferred that burning chemicals will contribute to air pollution). Choices B and D are irrelevant to burning e-waste in underdeveloped countries like those in West Africa (although it may be a true statement that burning e-waste is economically efficient in the U.S.). Choice E does not address the author’s main concern of the potential consequences of releasing toxic chemicals into the atmosphere by burning e-waste. The correct answer is choice C. (Research and Reference Skills Question Type)

Strategy 13: Identify Facts and Details

Focus on the central facts of the passage and avoid distractions. Approach this type of problem like a detective looking for specific clues to answer the question. Work actively between the passage and the questions until you can identify specific details that will support your answer.

Example:

13.  Which of the following facts most strongly supports the author’s argument about e-waste?

A.  West Africans’ health has suffered as a result of recycling outsourcing.

B.  Burning e-waste always results in negative consequences.

C.  If a part of an electronic device does not contain a reusable metal, it is rarely recycled.

D.  The current method of e-waste recycling is unsustainable.

E.  Electronics should not be recycled under the current system.

This type of question can be challenging because some of the answer choices are true statements, but remember that you can only use the facts presented in the passage (not outside knowledge or information). The passage reads only parts of electronics that contain reusable metals like copper are recycled; therefore, choice C strongly supports the argument in the passage. Choice A is incorrect because the passage never states that any West Africans have actually inhaled the chemical vapors (nor does it state that harmful vapors are always released by the burning of e-waste), only that it would be harmful if they did. Although it can be inferred by the passage that there are negative consequences from burning e-waste, it does not specifically state that negative consequences occur every time e-waste is burned, choice B. Choice D is never explicitly implied, nor is choice E (it is possible that the recycling of e-waste is better than any alternative options, despite the flaws of the system). The correct answer is choice C. (Comprehension and Context Question Type)

Questions 14—16 refer to the following passage.

Urban legends are a form of modern folklore—a combination of fairy tales, parables, and information from the grapevine. Unlike fairy tales, however, urban legends are intended to be taken as truth, stories of real events happening to real people, even when the events seem not only unlikely but also bizarre or farcical. Usually urban legends are passed on in the form of “I heard it from a friend of a friend.” The audience assumes that while the story isn’t firsthand information, it comes from a source close enough to be verified, if one chose to verify it, which one seldom does. While some urban legends are elaborate stories filled with gruesome details, others are succinct. For example, the story that Mrs. O’Leary’s cow caused the Chicago fire by knocking over an oil lamp is an urban legend captured in a single line.

With the advent of the Internet, cyber legends are born every day and cover subjects ranging from massive governmental conspiracies to animals performing incredible feats to medical mishaps and miracles to tear-jerking stories of redemption. Some contain warnings about products (deodorant causes cancer, for example) or the end of the world. The Internet has become the backyard fence of the good old days, when gossip and stories were exchanged without the filter of facts and hardcore information.

Like every form of mythology and folklore, urban legends reveal aspects of human nature. A quick look at urban legends in today’s world reveals our fears, our suspicions, and our need to believe in miracles, as well as both our taste for shocking details and our need for a good cry.

Strategy 14: Compare and Contrast

Analyze the differences and similarities of two distinct points of information presented in the passage. Ask yourself, “What is alike, different, or the same?” The answer may be obvious, but remember that there may be multiple similarities and differences. Evaluate all of the answer choices before making your selection.

Example:

14.  According to the passage, the difference between fairy tales and urban legends is that

A.  fairy tales have individual authors, whereas urban legends do not.

B.  urban legends are produced for adults, whereas fairy tales are for children.

C.  fairy tales don’t deal with grotesque behavior, whereas urban legends often relish bizarre details.

D.  the intention of urban legends is to cause people to change behavior, whereas the intention of fairy tales is to entertain.

E.  fairy tales are intended to be seen as fiction, whereas urban legends are intended to be seen as true.

Fairy tales are intended to be seen as fiction, whereas urban legends are intended to be seen as true, choice E. The second sentence makes this point. Choices A and B are not supported, and choice C is not true; fairy tales sometimes deal with grotesque behavior. Nothing in the passage indicates that the intention of urban legends is to change behavior, choice D; in fact, no change of behavior whatsoever is suggested in the passage. The correct answer is choice E. (Critical Analysis and Evaluation Question Type)

Strategy 15: Identify Assumptions and Predictions

An assumption is an unstated idea that is necessary for the reader to reach a conclusion. In an assumption question, you are asked to determine what the author assumes but has not directly stated. Ask yourself, “What is assumed to be true, but is not stated to support the conclusion?”

Example:

15.  Which of the following is an unstated assumption expressed in the passage?

A.  Urban legends are part of an oral tradition.

B.  If a story is particularly bizarre, it is untrue.

C.  People will try to verify a story that is passed on to them by a friend.

D.  Urban legends are dangerous and can cause serious misunderstandings.

E.  The story of Mrs. O’Leary’s cow and the Chicago fire is unlikely but true.

The third sentence of the passage indicates that the author sees urban legends as part of an oral tradition, choice A. Choice C is directly contradicted in the passage, and although it is stated that urban legends are often bizarre, no assumption is made that bizarre is equal to untrue, choice B. The passage does not say that the story of Mrs. O’Leary’s cow is not true, choice E, nor does the passage make the judgment in choice D. The correct answer is choice A. (Critical Analysis and Evaluation Question Type)

Strategy 16: Determine the Meaning of Figurative Language

Authors use figurative language to amplify the meaning of a descriptive word or phrase (called a figure of speech) without directly saying the literal word. On the CBEST, the most common types of figurative language are metaphors, similes, and irony. To figure out the meaning, pay close attention to the word or phrase in the context of the whole sentence, paragraph, or passage. For example, “Robert slept like a log,” or “The room is as cold as ice.”

Example:

16.  In the second paragraph, the author uses the metaphor of the backyard fence to describe the Internet for which of the following reasons?

A.  Both can be sources of uncensored tales and information.

B.  Both are means by which uneducated people can communicate with each other.

C.  A backyard fence, like the Internet, has a definite purpose.

D.  The Internet, like the backyard fence, encourages casual friendships.

E.  Both are the result of urban existence.

According to the passage, both the backyard fence and the Internet are places where information is passed without the filter of facts, choice A. Nothing in the passage suggests that people who use the Internet and talk over the backyard fence are uneducated, choice B. Choice D may be true, but it isn’t the reason the metaphor is used. Choice C is vague, and choice E is untrue. The correct answer is choice A. (Comprehension and Context Question Type)

Strategy 17: Identify Inconsistencies

As you read the passage, look for inconsistencies in logic. For example, the answer choice may use a generalization to prove a specific point, or vice versa. Or the answer choice may use an invalid or unrelated comparison. If you know what you’re looking for from prereading the question, you will quickly recognize the inconsistency as soon as you reach it.

Question 17 refers to the following passage.

It is no wonder that most metropolitan cities have a significant increase in homeless populations. As a result of gentrification, middle- and high-income populations are renovating and settling in the low-rent areas of cities. Property values and rents have escalated, resulting in the inability of the lower income tenants to pay increased rents. If the governing bodies of cities could impose rent control, then the problem of homelessness would be virtually eliminated.

Example:

17.  Which of the following ideas does not fit with the reasoning that rent-control housing solves the problem of homelessness?

A.  Homelessness was a problem before low-rent areas became gentrified.

B.  Homeless populations are eager to find affordable housing.

C.  The renovation of the low-rent areas has created more jobs and therefore more income for low-income city inhabitants.

D.  Some homeless people cannot afford to pay for low-income housing.

E.  Jobs and training are already available to the homeless through county job service programs.

In this question, you need to find a statement that is inconsistent with the idea that rent-control housing will end homelessness. The best choice here is choice A. If homelessness was a problem even when rents were low, then making rents low again by controlling rent logically would not solve the homeless problem. Choices B, C, and E strengthen the argument’s reasoning by implying that homeless populations are eager to find affordable housing (choice B), or are willing to secure jobs (choices C and E). The next best choice is D, but without more information on what some homeless people means, choice A is better because choice D implies that some homeless people can afford low-income housing. The correct answer is choice A. (Critical Analysis and Evaluation Question Type)

Question 18 refers to the following information and graph.

Allison tutors six different seventh-grade students. The following chart tracks the scores of each student across three major tests.

Student Scores on Class Tests

Strategy 18: Identify Information

Draw on your knowledge of interpretation to analyze graphic illustrations (tables, charts, or graphs). In order to answer this type of question, you will need to combine your reading comprehension skills and research skills. Use only the information that is directly provided to analyze the data in the graphic illustration from general to specific. This means that you should briefly examine the statement and whole graphic display to see how it is organized before you answer the specific questions.

Look for obvious high points or low points and look at the headings that clarify the data (legends, units of measurement, or tabs). Remember to scan the graphic display. Do not try to memorize the data; just get a general sense of the overall picture.

Example:

18.  Which of the following students scored in the top two on at least two tests?

A.  Johnson and Alexander

B.  Alexander and Ellison

C.  Alexander and Jones

D.  Johnson and Ellison

E.  Ellison and Carroll

The top scorers on Test 1 were Johnson and Alexander; on Test 2, Jones and Ellison; and on Test 3, Ellison and Alexander. Ellison and Alexander are the only two names that appear twice; therefore, the correct answer is choice B. (Research and Reference Skills Question Type)

Questions 19—20 refer to the following table of contents.

Quick Reference Writing Skills

Strategy 19: Notice How Information Is Organized

The CBEST will test your ability to organize information in the context of reference materials (index, table of contents, and other various reference materials). These questions test your ability to identify, edit, or locate information while using the guidelines of standard written English.

Example:

19.  Which of the following best represents the organizational pattern illustrated in the table of contents?

A.  By topic, alphabetically

B.  By category and subcategory

C.  By level of difficulty

D.  By length of section

E.  By importance of concepts

A careful review of the table of contents shows that the organizational pattern is by category and subcategory, choice B. The correct answer is choice B. (Research and Reference Skills Question Type)

Strategy 20: Locate Specific Information

The CBEST will test your ability to effectively search and locate print and electronic resources. You should be familiar with the proper documentation and bibliographic citations of books, academic papers, academic journals, periodicals, and encyclopedias.

Example:

20.  According to this table of contents, where would one find information on plural subjects and verbs?

A.  Pages 30—32

B.  Pages 45—47

C.  Pages 25—26

D.  Pages 35—36

E.  Pages 47—49

This question requires you to decode headings and subheadings. At first glance you might choose pages 25—26 since Multiple Subjects is listed under Sentence Style. However, verbs are not listed in this heading. Skim the table of contents to look for specific information related to subjects and verbs. The best answer is on page 49, choice E. This question requires you to be familiar with grammar, but even if you’re not, look for recognizable words to find your answer. Subject-Verb Agreement is listed under Grammar. The correct answer is choice E. (Research and Reference Skills Question Type)