ACT Success - English Practice #1
In the passages that follow, certain words and phrases appear in brackets { }. In the questions, you will find alternatives for the bracketed part. In most cases, you are to choose the option that best expresses the idea, makes the statement appropriate for standard written English, or is worded most consistently with the style and tone of the passage as a whole. If you think the original version is best, choose “NO CHANGE.” You will also find questions about a section of the passage, or about the passage as a whole. These questions do not refer to a bracketed portion of the passage. For each question, choose the alternative you consider best. Read each passage through once before you begin to answer the questions that accompany it. For many of the questions, you must read several sentences beyond the question to determine the answer.
[1] The Kumbh Mela, held every three years at four rotating locations in India, {stand} as one of the most extraordinary religious gatherings on the planet. Millions of Hindus flock to cities like Allahabad, Haridwar, Nashik, and Ujjain, drawn by the promise of spiritual cleansing and renewal through a dip in the sacred rivers. It’s not just a ritual; it’s a profound experience where personal faith meets {collectively} devotion. [2] During the Mela, rivers become sacred spaces. Pilgrims believe that bathing in these waters washes away sins and moves them closer to moksha, or liberation from the cycle of life and death. It’s a ritual that combines physical cleansing with spiritual rebirth. People travel from all over, some walking for days, driven by the hope of transforming their lives in those {fleeing moments} of immersion. [3] But the Kumbh Mela isn’t solely about personal salvation. It’s a celebration of the vastness of Hindu traditions, a place where sadhus—ascetic holy men—mingle with everyday devotees. The event bursts with energy and color, from the echo of conch shells to the sight of saffron-clad pilgrims chanting hymns. For many, meeting these holy men and receiving their blessings {is} as important as the dip itself. [4] The logistics behind the Mela are staggering. Entire cities spring up along the riverbanks, equipped with tents, makeshift hospitals, and kitchens serving free meals to {thousands’}. Despite the chaos, there’s a sense of order and community that binds everyone together. Pilgrims share stories, meals, and prayers, turning strangers into fellow travelers on the path of faith. [5] People often speak of a sense of transformation after attending the Kumbh. They return home with more than just memories; they carry a renewed sense of purpose and spiritual clarity. It’s not just a pilgrimage—it’s a journey that stays with them, shaping their lives long after the crowds {disperse’s}. [6] The Kumbh Mela reminds us that even in our modern world, ancient traditions hold a powerful allure. It’s a testament to the human need for connection and transcendence, offering a glimpse into a world where faith, community, and tradition create something truly {extraordinary}.
Class Companion
Question 1
The Kumbh Mela, held every three years at four rotating locations in India, {stand} as one of the most extraordinary religious gatherings on the planet.
Which choice best corrects the selection in brackets?
NO CHANGE
stands
is standing
are standing
Question 2
It’s not just a ritual; it’s a profound experience where personal faith meets {collectively} devotion.
What is the best version of the selection in brackets?
NO CHANGE
collective
collectivity
collectivist
Question 3
People travel from all over, some walking for days, driven by the hope of transforming their lives in those {fleeing moments} of immersion.
Which choice best corrects the selection in brackets?
NO CHANGE
fleeting moments
fleeing's moment
flee moments
Question 4
For many, meeting these holy men and receiving their blessings {is} as important as the dip itself.
Which of the following alternatives to the selection in brackets would best fit the sentence?
NO CHANGE
are
has been
were
Question 5
The logistics behind the Mela are staggering. Entire cities spring up along the riverbanks, equipped with tents, makeshift hospitals, and kitchens serving free meals to {thousands’}.
Which choice best corrects the selection in brackets?
NO CHANGE
thousands
thousands's
thousand
Question 6
They return home with more than just memories; they carry a renewed sense of purpose and spiritual clarity. It’s not just a pilgrimage—it’s a journey that stays with them, shaping their lives long after the crowds {disperse’s}.
Which choice best corrects the selection in brackets?
NO CHANGE
disperse
dispersed
dispersing
Question 7
The Kumbh Mela reminds us that even in our modern world, ancient traditions hold a powerful allure. It’s a testament to the human need for connection and transcendence, offering a glimpse into a world where faith, community, and tradition create something truly {extraordinary,}.
What is the best version of the selection in brackets?
NO CHANGE
extraordinariness
extraordinarily
extraordinary:
Question 8
The writer wants to add the following sentence to the beginning of the second paragraph (after paragraph [1]): “Many attendees view the rivers not just as sources of water, but as living entities imbued with divine power.”
Where would this sentence best be placed?
Before the first sentence of paragraph [2]
After the first sentence of paragraph [2]
Before the last sentence of paragraph [2]
The sentence should not be added
Question 9
Which of the following changes would best improve the organization of the essay?
Move paragraph [4] to the beginning of the passage.
Combine paragraphs [5] and [6] for greater clarity.
Switch paragraphs [3] and [2] to emphasize personal transformation.
Leave the paragraphs in their current order.
Question 10
The passage as a whole would most likely be described as:
An argument that ancient traditions are still relevant in modern life.
A personal reflection on the spiritual significance of the Kumbh Mela.
A descriptive account of a religious festival’s logistical and spiritual aspects.
A comparative analysis of different religious festivals.
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