Praxis Reading : Effect of word and phrase choice on tone or meaning

Study concepts, example questions & explanations for Praxis Reading

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Example Questions

Example Question #1 : Praxis Core Skills: Reading

Kevin's performance leaves a lot to be desired. His appearance is sloppy, his punctuality is lacking, and he's a traitor.

The use of the word "traitor" serves which of the following purposes in this passage?

Possible Answers:

It suddenly shifts the tone of the passage from negative but professional to emotionally charged and angry

None of these

It suddenly shifts the tone from charged and angry to discrete and professional

It subtly shifts the tone of the passage from negative but professional to emotionally charged and angry

It does not change the tone at all. The tone remains negative throughout.

Correct answer:

It suddenly shifts the tone of the passage from negative but professional to emotionally charged and angry

Explanation:

The first sentence expresses a negative evaluation of Kevin, but it does so in neutral, professional language. Even the two claims that follow about his appearance and punctuality, while maybe a bit stronger ("sloppy"), remain in this register. The emotionally charged, judgmental term "traitor" suddenly shifts the mood to a more intense and emotional one.

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