SAT: Vocab in Context Illusion

Test Preparation
1

<p>At my SAT prep school, I was taught this. "For Vocab in context questions in Critical Reading, the answer has to always match the definition of the word and also in the context"
For me, every time I read the answers, I know that the definition fits in the passage but does not match with the actual word. Example from part of a passage.</p>

<p>In either event, the sudden, sharp, report made by the paddle-like tail contacting the water surface is calculated to surprise an enemy and put it off balance long enough for the beaver to recognize it or, if need be, to escape.</p>

<p>As used in the Passage, the word "report" most nearly means
A) crack
B)coded signal
C) information
D) answer
I put D)answer because "crack" does not fit the true definition of "report" but then the true answer is A. Should I just follow my instincts from now on and also on the actual test to?</p>

2

<p>Yes, you should follow your instincts. Use common sense especially around simpler words, since sometimes it will be using an alternate definition. I found that happened on the literature subject test too</p>

3

<p>The easiest way to find the correct answer for this type of question is to simply replace the original word with the MC options and see which makes the most sense. On the SAT, all definitions provided are correct, but what you must determine is WHICH definition fits best. Here, “the sudden, sharp crack” is the best substitute which still maintains the original intention.</p>

4

<p>one of the ones they often include is “flagging”</p>

5

<p>lol this is the recent test from elite, correct?</p>

6

<p>yeah i go to elite too and they gave us this test like yeaterday. i put crackle because info doesnt make sense in the sent. post what you got when you get it back and i will too=)</p>

7

<p>The advice you were given is correct, Kildare. What tripped you up was that there is a 6th meaning of the word “report,” which can be found at [report</a> - definition of report by the Free Online Dictionary, Thesaurus and Encyclopedia.](<a href=“Report]report - definition of report]report by The Free Dictionary”>Report - definition of report by The Free Dictionary)</p>

<p>The 6th definition is “an explosive noise.” It is uncommon, but this is the sense in which it’s being used in context.</p>

8

<p>Haven’t you ever heard of a “report” from a firearm?</p>

9

<p>Who, me? I’ve heard of it. I think it’s a lot more common in reading than in conversation.</p>

10

<p>No, I was referring to the OP who said he/she overlooked that answer because " ‘crack’ does not fit the true definition of ‘report’ ". Report has several different definitions and no “true” one.</p>

11

<p>Go with your gut.</p>

<p>Sometimes I coax myself that the other answers are correct O.o</p>

12

<p>Second definition of “crack” from the Oxford American Dictionary:</p>

<p>“a sudden sharp noise”</p>

<p>It is not only the specified word’s meaning you must know (report), but also the meanings of the choices.</p>