Excerpt from The Secret 'Stache by A. Barber
For thousands of years, several characteristics have been consistent across human societies around the world. Animal husbandry, agriculture, and artistic expression are some of the similarities all societies share. Another similarity is the mustache. So now I mustache a question: why have mustaches had such a notable presence in human history?
Humans have been shaving for as long as there has been facial hair to shave. However, it is in the past several centuries that mustaches have undergone a more creative transformation. Now, there are many different types of mustaches. The Handlebar, Pencil, and Walrus are only a few of the many types known today. With just a sharpened razor and some mustache wax, the creativity of people and their mustaches can be endless.

Though the popularity of the mustache in different cultures varies over time, it has certainly influenced other creations. In the 1800s and early 1900s, mustaches were so popular that a new style of drinking cup, the mustache cup, was created. The mustache cup had a built-in covering over the top so mustaches would not be touched by the beverage. A more recent example of the mark of mustaches can be seen by the first World Mustache Tournament in 2013. The mustache truly is part of the human experience.
Due to its place in the human experience, the mustache is a symbol with varied significance: power, prestige, beauty. When one thinks of mustaches, one may think of a villain from silent films, twisting the ends of his mustache. One may also think of a respected leader with a mustache of prominence. Perhaps one may think of people with famous mustaches: Tom Selleck, Burt Reynolds, and Charlie Chaplin, to name a few. No matter what one pictures when thinking of mustaches, it is clear that the mustache has a substantial effect on human perception.
 

Which of the following additional statements best supports the argument that "the creativity of people and their mustaches can be endless"?

Baking Seasonal Fruit Pies

Baking a pie with seasonal fruit ensures the use of fresh, flavorful ingredients and offers an opportunity to enjoy the distinct tastes of each season. In the spring, a strawberry rhubarb pie balances the sweetness of ripe strawberries with the tartness of rhubarb. Summer brings a variety of choices, including peach, blueberry, and cherry pies. As fall arrives, apples and pears are perfect for classic apple pies or creative pear and cranberry combinations. Although winter may seem less bountiful, it offers citrus fruits at their peak, such as oranges and lemons, ideal for a tangy lemon meringue or a rich caramelized orange tart.

Which of the following statements from the passage is a fact?

Haiku: A Form of Japanese Poetry

Haiku is a form of Japanese poetry known for its simplicity and depth. It consists of three unrhymed lines, where the first and third lines have five syllables, and the second has seven. This 5-7-5 structure succinctly captures a moment, emotion, or natural scene. Traditional haikus often focus on nature or the seasons, but modern poets explore various themes. The beauty of haiku lies in its ability to convey a profound insight within a limited syllable pattern.

For example:
Morning light breaks through,
Silence covers the waking earth,
Day whispers softly.

Which of the following sources would be a valid location to confirm the credibility of this passage?

Dear Diary
Today on my school field trip I learned a lot about penguins. I wasn't very excited at first, but then I found out how cool they can be! For example, even though they're flightless birds, some species of penguins have a maximum swimming speed of over 7 miles per hour! Flying is pretty awesome, but swimming seems really cool too. It makes sense that penguins are such strong swimmers, though. Apparently, they spend half their lives on land, and the other half in the water! And since they usually live close to the water, penguins often eat krill, fish, and other seafood. I've never really liked seafood, but now I want to try some. That's all that I remember for today, but I hope I get to go back to the zoo soon to learn more about them.
 

Which of the following terms describe the author's tone?

Baking Seasonal Fruit Pies

Baking a pie with seasonal fruit ensures the use of fresh, flavorful ingredients and offers an opportunity to enjoy the distinct tastes of each season. In the spring, a strawberry rhubarb pie balances the sweetness of ripe strawberries with the tartness of rhubarb. Summer brings a variety of choices, including peach, blueberry, and cherry pies. As fall arrives, apples and pears are perfect for classic apple pies or creative pear and cranberry combinations. Although winter may seem less bountiful, it offers citrus fruits at their peak, such as oranges and lemons, ideal for a tangy lemon meringue or a rich caramelized orange tart.

Based on the passage, which of the following can be inferred about the availability of fruits in different seasons? 

The Deaf President Now Movement

The Deaf President Now (OPN) movement marked a growing shift in perceptions of deaf people.

Gallaudet University, in Washington DC, was established as a school for deaf students. The founder convinced Congress to fund the school, and it eventually became an institution for higher learning, in a nod of support, US. President Ulysses S. Grant signed the Gallaudet diplomas. Future presidents continued the tradition, so all Gallaudet graduates receive diplomas signed by the U.S. President.

Gallaudet University grew as a center for deaf education and advocacy

In 1988, Gallaudet University was selecting a new university president The board of trustees hard well-qualified candidates, and all but one was deaf. On a Sunday, the board hastily announced they had selected the sole hearing candidate.

The reaction on campus was outrage. Students congregated to protest. Crowds marched to the meeting location and demanded an explanation. Through the closed-door discussion with protest leaders, a trustee created more discontent. He allegedly stated, "Deaf people are not able to function in a hearing world."

Throughout the week, there were more speeches and rallies. A media blitz spread the news globally. Students did not attend class to express their anger. Protest leaders formalized their demands, including a deaf president, the offending trustee must resign, the board of trustees must have 51% deaf leadership, and no reprisals against participants.

Support flowed in from across the world. The U.S. Vice President wrote. "Gallaudet has a responsibility to set an example and thus to appoint a president who is not only highly qualified, but who is also deaf."

After a week of peaceful protests, speeches, and news coverage, the newly appointed hearing president resigned. Students wore buttons that read 3%, indicating how many demands were left.

On the following Sunday, the board of trustees met again. Just a week after it began, the DPN-movement was successful. All demands were met.

Which of the following is a detail that can help the reader infer why the U.S. vice president wrote a letter of support for the DPN movement?

Maria Montessori’s Preface

In the introduction to Dr. Montessori’s Own Handbook, Maria Montessori describes the role of a preface in a book. She states that a preface should provide insight into the purpose of the text and help readers understand its content. Additionally, she expresses her hope that the book will be useful to families, especially those with young children who are constantly learning. She also acknowledges and thanks notable figures like Helen Keller and Anne Sullivan, whose work and lives significantly influenced her views on education and child development.

Based on the passage, who is the intended audience for Maria Montessori’s book?

The Evolution of Modern Libraries

As libraries continue to evolve in the digital age, their offerings have expanded well beyond the traditional rows of books. Today's libraries are vibrant community hubs, well equipped with various technological tools that enhance the learning and research experience for visitors of all ages.

Upon entering the modern library, visitors are often greeted by digital kiosks, where they can easily search the catalog, renew or reserve items, and find their way around the facility. Libraries have also adopted self-checkout machines, allowing patrons to borrow books, DVDs, and other materials without waiting in line.

Moreover, many libraries now offer free access to computers and high-speed internet, making them invaluable resources for those who do not have such access at home. These computers are often equipped with software for word processing, graphic design, and even coding, providing an essential platform for completing school assignments, conducting job searches, or exploring new learning opportunities.

In addition to these resources, some libraries have embraced cutting edge technology such as 30 printers and virtual reality (VR) stations. These tools not only attract a younger demographic but also serve educational and creative purposes. For instance, patrons can use VR to virtually travel to historical sites or natural wonders, greatly enriching their understanding of diverse subjects

Lastly, most libraries also offer technology-oriented classes and workshops, which can range from basic computer skulls for seniors to advanced coding camps for teens. These programs are often led by knowledgeable staff members or special guests who are experts in their fields, thereby fostering a learning environment that helps bridge the digital divide.

The passage emphasizes that libraries have evolved into spaces that integrate technology with learning and community engagement. While books remain an essential part of libraries, the focus is on providing new digital tools.

Which of the following best summarizes the main idea of the passage?

Sashiko, a form of traditional Japanese embroidery, started as a practical technique for reinforcing clothing and enabling warmth Originating in the Edo period in Japan, it was primarily practiced by peasants, farmers, and fishermen who used "little stabs”-which is the literal meaning of sashiko-to quilt together layers of fabric with striking white cotton thread on indigo blue cloth, creating durable and insulated garments.

Over sine, sashiko evolved from its utilitarian roots into an art form. Patterns often mimic nature or symbolize wishes for good health and fortune, turning everyday garments into beautiful pieces of wearable art. The distinctive style of sashiko has even found its way into modern fashion and home decor, inking the past with the present in each loop and stitch

Based on the content in the passage, which of the following is the connotative meaning of "little stabs" in sashiko embroidery?

Sashiko, a form of traditional Japanese embroidery, started as a practical technique for reinforcing clothing and enabling warmth Originating in the Edo period in Japan, it was primarily practiced by peasants, farmers, and fishermen who used "little stabs”-which is the literal meaning of sashiko-to quilt together layers of fabric with striking white cotton thread on indigo blue cloth, creating durable and insulated garments.

Over sine, sashiko evolved from its utilitarian roots into an art form. Patterns often mimic nature or symbolize wishes for good health and fortune, turning everyday garments into beautiful pieces of wearable art. The distinctive style of sashiko has even found its way into modern fashion and home decor, inking the past with the present in each loop and stitch

Which of the following statements best demonstrates the significance of sashiko's evolution from a practical technique to an art form as described in the passage?

Haiku: A Form of Japanese Poetry

Haiku is a form of Japanese poetry known for its simplicity and depth. It consists of three unrhymed lines, where the first and third lines have five syllables, and the second has seven. This 5-7-5 structure succinctly captures a moment, emotion, or natural scene. Traditional haikus often focus on nature or the seasons, but modern poets explore various themes. The beauty of haiku lies in its ability to convey a profound insight within a limited syllable pattern.

For example:
Morning light breaks through,
Silence covers the waking earth,
Day whispers softly.

Based on the passage about haiku, which of the following can be inferred about why haiku poetry frequently focuses on nature?