READING SECTION

Skills 1 to 10

TOFEL test

Booklet Contents:
 Explanation

 Examples

 Tests

 Answer Key

Yarmouk university
Done by : Morad Tashman
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READING COMPREHENSION
SKILL 1: ANSWER THE MAIN IDEA (Topic sentence) QUESTIONS CORRECTLY
Title: Finding the Topic Sentence of a Passage
Introduction:
Understanding the topic sentence of a passage is crucial for comprehending the main idea and
organizing the information presented. In this lesson, we will explore strategies and examples to help
you identify the topic sentence in a passage effectively. Mastering this skill will enhance your reading
comprehension and analytical abilities.

I. What is a Topic Sentence?

A. Definition: A topic sentence is a sentence that expresses the main idea or central point of a
paragraph or passage.
B. Purpose: It introduces the topic, sets the tone, and guides the reader's understanding of the overall
content.
C. Characteristics:

Usually found at the beginning or end of a paragraph.

Concisely summarizes the main idea.
Provides a focus for the supporting details.
II. Strategies for Finding the Topic Sentence:
A. Look for placement clues:

Beginnings and endings: Topic sentences are often found at the beginning or end of a paragraph.
Transitional phrases: Words or phrases like "Firstly," "In conclusion," or "On the other hand" can
indicate the topic sentence.
B. Identify the main idea:
Look for the sentence that presents the most general or comprehensive statement.
Consider the overall theme or subject of the passage.

Pay attention to repeated keywords or ideas throughout the passage.

C. Analyze supporting details:
Topic sentences often introduce or summarize the supporting details that follow.
Look for sentences with context, explanations, or evidence supporting the main idea.
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III. Examples:
A. Example 1:
Passage: The benefits of regular exercise are numerous. Firstly, exercise improves cardiovascular
health by strengthening the heart and improving blood circulation. Additionally, it boosts mood and
reduces stress levels. Furthermore, regular physical activity helps in maintaining a healthy weight and
prevents chronic diseases such as diabetes and hypertension. In conclusion, incorporating exercise into
our daily routine is vital for overall well-being.
Topic Sentence: The benefits of regular exercise are numerous.

B. Example 2:
Passage:Climate change is a pressing global issue that requires immediate action. Rising temperatures
have led to the melting of polar ice caps, causing a rise in sea levels. Furthermore, extreme weather
events, such as hurricanes and droughts, have become more frequent and severe. In addition, changes
in climate patterns have negatively impacted agriculture, leading to food scarcity. To mitigate these
effects, governments and individuals must take proactive measures to reduce greenhouse gas
emissions.
Topic Sentence: Climate change is a pressing global issue that requires immediate action.

IV. Practice Activity:

Read the following passage and identify the topic sentence:
Passage: The Industrial Revolution was a pivotal period in human history. It began in the late 18th
century in Great Britain and quickly spread to other parts of Europe and North America. The
revolution marked a transition from manual labor to mechanized production, which greatly increased
productivity and led to significant social and economic changes. The invention of steam engines and
the establishment of factories played a central role in this transformative period.
Topic Sentence: _____________________

Conclusion:
Identifying the topic sentence is a valuable skill that helps you grasp the main idea and structure of a
passage. By paying attention to placement clues, analyzing supporting details, and identifying the main
idea, you can confidently identify the topic sentence and improve your reading comprehension skills.
Practice this skill regularly to become a more effective reader and critical thinker.
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Skill 2 and 3
In the Reading Comprehension section of the TOEFL, one important skill is to recognize the
organization of ideas within a given passage. This involves understanding how the information is
structured and how the different ideas and details are presented. Here are some common organizational
patterns that you may encounter:
1. Chronological Order: Information is presented in the order in which events occurred or in a
time sequence. Words and phrases like "first," "next," "then," "finally," or time-related phrases
can indicate this pattern.
2. Cause and Effect: The passage presents a cause followed by its effects or vice versa. Key words
such as "because," "since," "due to," "as a result," or "consequently" can signal this pattern.
3. Compare and Contrast: The passage highlights similarities and differences between two or
more things or ideas. Look for phrases like "similarly," "on the other hand," "in contrast," "like,"
or "unlike" to identify this pattern.
4. Problem and Solution: The passage introduces a problem or issue and then proposes one or
more solutions. Signal words like "issue," "problem," "challenge," "solution," or phrases like
"one way to address this is" can indicate this pattern.
5. General to Specific: The passage begins with a general statement or idea and then provides
specific examples or details to support it. Words like "for example," "specifically," "such as," or
phrases like "one instance is" may suggest this pattern.
6. Topical Organization: The passage is structured around different topics or subtopics related to
the main theme. Each paragraph may focus on a specific aspect or subtopic within the broader
context.
To effectively recognize the organization of ideas, it is helpful to read the passage actively, paying
attention to transition words, topic sentences, and the overall flow of information. Identifying the
organizational pattern can assist in understanding the main ideas, relationships between ideas, and
locating specific information within the passage. Practice reading a variety of passages and analyzing
their organization to improve your skills in this area.
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Here are some examples of passages with different organizational patterns commonly found in
the Reading Comprehension section of the TOEFL:

1. Chronological Order:
"In the history of aviation, several key milestones marked the progress of human flight. The first
successful powered flight was achieved by the Wright brothers in 1903. Then, in the 1920s,
commercial air travel began to take off with the establishment of the world's first airlines. Over the
years, technological advancements led to the development of supersonic jets and ultimately, space
exploration."
In this passage, the information is organized chronologically, starting with the earliest event (the
Wright brothers' flight in 1903) and progressing through time.
2. Cause and Effect:
"Poor nutrition and sedentary lifestyle are major contributors to the increasing obesity rates. Due to the
prevalence of processed foods high in fats and sugars, people are consuming excess calories, leading to
weight gain. Additionally, a lack of physical activity and increased screen time further exacerbate the
problem."
This passage presents the causes (poor nutrition, sedentary lifestyle) and their effects (increasing
obesity rates). The cause-and-effect relationship is emphasized through the use of words like "due to"
and "additionally."

3. Compare and Contrast:

"The advantages and disadvantages of online education have sparked debates among educators and
students. On one hand, online learning offers flexibility and convenience, allowing students to study at
their own pace. On the other hand, traditional classroom learning provides face-to-face interaction and
immediate feedback, which some learners find more effective."
This passage presents a comparison between online education (advantages) and traditional classroom
learning (advantages). The phrases "on one hand" and "on the other hand" signal the comparison and
contrast.
4. Problem and Solution:
"The issue of traffic congestion in urban areas is a pressing problem that requires immediate attention.
To address this, cities can invest in improving public transportation systems, implementing carpooling
incentives, and creating dedicated bike lanes. By promoting alternative modes of transportation and
reducing the number of private vehicles on the road, traffic congestion can be alleviated."
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This passage introduces the problem of traffic congestion and suggests potential solutions. Words like
"issue," "address," and "by promoting" indicate the problem-and-solution organizational pattern.

5. General to Specific:
"In biology, ecosystems are complex systems that encompass various levels of organization. At the
highest level, there are biomes, such as deserts or rainforests. Each biome has different habitats, like
lakes, forests, or grasslands. Further down, individual organisms inhabit these habitats, each playing a
specific role within the ecosystem."
This passage starts with the general concept of ecosystems and then provides specific examples of
levels of organization within ecosystems.

These examples illustrate different organizational patterns commonly found in TOEFL Reading
Comprehension passages. By recognizing these patterns, you can better understand the structure
and flow of the information presented in the passage.
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SKILL 4 FIND “UNSTATED” DETAILS

Finding unstated details in a passage can be a challenging task, as these details are not explicitly
mentioned but are implied or can be inferred from the given information. Here are some strategies to
help you identify unstated details while reading a passage:

1. Pay attention to context: Look for clues within the passage that provide hints or context for
the unstated details. Consider the surrounding information, the tone, and the purpose of the
passage to make logical connections and fill in the missing information.
2. Use prior knowledge: Utilize your own background knowledge and experiences to make
logical inferences about the unstated details. Draw upon your general knowledge of the topic or
subject matter to make educated guesses about what might be implied but not explicitly stated.
3. Look for patterns and implications: Analyze the information provided in the passage for
patterns, cause-and-effect relationships, or logical implications. Consider the logical
consequences or outcomes of the stated details to infer additional information that may be left
unstated.
4. Make logical connections: Connect the dots between the given information and any logical
assumptions or implications that can be made. Identify any cause-and-effect relationships,
relationships between ideas, or patterns of behavior that may help you infer additional details.

5. Consider the author's purpose and perspective: Evaluate the author's intentions and
perspective to uncover any unstated details. Think about what the author may assume the reader
already knows or what they may leave unsaid to achieve their communicative goals.

6. Look for implied information: Pay attention to the language used in the passage and look for
hints or suggestions that can imply additional details. This can include implied comparisons,
hypothetical situations, or logical extensions of the stated information.

Remember, inferring unstated details requires careful reading, critical thinking, and making logical
connections based on the information provided. It's essential to support your inferences with evidence
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from the passage to ensure your conclusions are well-grounded. Practice reading a variety of texts and
actively engage with the material to improve your ability to identify unstated details.

Here are some examples to illustrate how to find unstated details in a passage:
Example 1:
"John arrived late to the meeting and rushed into the conference room. He quickly apologized and
mentioned that his car broke down on the way. Despite the setback, he confidently presented his ideas
and impressed everyone with his thorough research."
Unstated detail: John managed to find an alternative mode of transportation to the meeting.

In this example, the passage mentions that John's car broke down on the way to the meeting. However,
it does not explicitly state how John managed to arrive at the meeting despite the car trouble. Based on
the context, it can be inferred that John found an alternative mode of transportation, such as taking a
taxi, using public transport, or getting a ride from someone else.
Example 2:
"The students gathered in the library to study for the upcoming exam. They exchanged notes, discussed
challenging topics, and borrowed books from each other. By the end of the study session, they felt
confident and well-prepared."

Unstated detail: The students used various study resources and materials.
In this example, the passage mentions that the students gathered in the library to study and engaged in
activities such as exchanging notes and discussing challenging topics. However, it does not explicitly
state that the students used various study resources and materials like textbooks, reference books, or
online resources. It can be inferred that the students utilized different study materials to enhance their
understanding and preparation for the exam.
Example 3:
"The restaurant offered a diverse menu with a variety of international cuisines. Customers could
choose from Italian, Mexican, Chinese, and Indian dishes. The chef prided himself on using fresh,
locally sourced ingredients to create flavorful and authentic meals."
Unstated detail: The restaurant also provided vegetarian and vegan options.
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In this example, the passage mentions the diverse menu with different international cuisines and
highlights the use of fresh, locally sourced ingredients. However, it does not explicitly state that the
restaurant also provided vegetarian and vegan options. Considering the increasing demand for
vegetarian and vegan choices in restaurants, it can be inferred that the restaurant would likely offer
such options to cater to a wider range of customers.

These examples demonstrate how to identify unstated details by analyzing the context, drawing logical
inferences, and making connections based on the information provided in the passage.
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SKILL 5 HOW TO FIND A PRONOUN REFERENT IN THE PASSAGES

To find pronoun referents in a passage, follow these steps:
1. Identify the pronouns: Look for pronouns used in the passage, such as he, she, it, they, we,
etc. Pay attention to both subject pronouns (e.g., he, she, they) and object pronouns (e.g., him,
her, them).
2. Determine the antecedent: Identify the noun or noun phrase to which the pronoun refers. This
noun or noun phrase is called the antecedent. It may appear in the same sentence as the pronoun
or in a previous sentence.
3. Analyze the context: Read the sentence or sentences containing the pronoun and the
surrounding sentences to understand the context. Consider the information provided to
determine the most likely antecedent for the pronoun.
4. Match the pronoun to the antecedent: Once you have identified the antecedent, ensure that the
pronoun and the antecedent agree in number, gender, and person. For example, if the antecedent
is a singular noun, the pronoun referring to it should be singular as well.
5. Verify clarity and coherence: Make sure that the pronoun-antecedent relationship is clear and
coherent within the context of the passage. Ensure that the pronoun refers unambiguously to the
intended antecedent and that the sentence flows smoothly.

Here's an example passage to illustrate the process:

"Lisa and Emily went to the park. They played on the swings and had a picnic. She brought
sandwiches and juice for them to enjoy."
Pronoun: She
Antecedent: Lisa or Emily
In this example, the pronoun "she" is used, and the antecedent could refer to either Lisa or Emily since
it is not explicitly mentioned. To determine the antecedent, we need to analyze the context. The
preceding sentence mentions Lisa and Emily going to the park, so either one of them could be the
antecedent.
To match the pronoun with the correct antecedent, we need to consider the agreement in number. In
this case, since "she" is a singular pronoun, it is likely to refer to one person. Let's assume it refers to
Lisa.
Revised sentence: Lisa brought sandwiches and juice for them to enjoy.
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Here are a few examples to illustrate how to find pronoun referents in a passage:
Example 1:
"John walked into the room
and greeted everyone with a warm smile. He then proceeded to give a presentation on his latest
project."

Pronoun: he
Antecedent: John

In this example, the pronoun "he" refers to the antecedent "John" in the previous sentence. The
pronoun and the antecedent agree in number and gender.

Example 2:
"The dog chased its tail in circles. It seemed to be enjoying the playful activity."

Pronoun: It
Antecedent: The dog

In this example, the pronoun "it" refers to the antecedent "The dog." The pronoun and the antecedent
agree in number and gender.

Example 3:
"Samantha and Robert went to the movies. She bought popcorn for both of them."
Pronoun: She
Antecedent: Samantha
In this example, the pronoun "she" refers to the antecedent "Samantha." Since Samantha is the only
female mentioned, it is clear that "she" refers to her. The pronoun and the antecedent agree in gender.

Example 4:
"The students gathered in the classroom. They discussed the homework assignment and shared their
ideas with one another."
Pronoun: They
Antecedent: The students
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In this example, the pronoun "they" refers to the antecedent "The students." The pronoun and the
antecedent agree in number.
Example 5:
"Alex found a book at the library. It was an exciting adventure story."

Pronoun: It
Antecedent: The book
In this example, the pronoun "it" refers to the antecedent "The book." The pronoun and the antecedent
agree in number.
These examples demonstrate how to identify pronoun referents by analyzing the context and matching
the pronoun to its appropriate antecedent.

Part two: indirectly answered questions

Skill 6: Answer Implied Detail Questions Correctly

In addition to directly stated details, the TOEFL exam may also include questions that require you to
identify implied details. These are details that are not explicitly mentioned in the passage but can be
inferred or understood based on the information provided. Here are some strategies to answer implied
detail questions correctly:

1. Read the passage carefully: Pay close attention to the details and information presented in the
passage. Understand the main ideas, supporting evidence, and relationships between different
parts of the text.

2. Analyze the context: Consider the surrounding information and the author's purpose or point
of view. Evaluate how the stated information may imply or suggest additional details that are
not explicitly mentioned.

3. Make logical inferences: Use your critical thinking skills to draw conclusions based on the
information provided. Consider cause-and-effect relationships, comparisons, or logical
deductions to fill in the gaps and identify implied details.
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4. Look for clues: Look for keywords, transitional phrases, or hints in the passage that may lead
to implied details. Pay attention to words like "therefore," "because," "consequently," or
"however," which can indicate a relationship between ideas and imply additional information.

5. Consider the author's perspective: Think about what the author may assume the reader
already knows or what information may be left unsaid to convey their message effectively.
Consider the author's purpose and how it influences the implied details.

6. Use your background knowledge: Draw upon your own knowledge and experiences to make
educated guesses about the implied details. Relate the information in the passage to your
general knowledge of the subject matter to make logical inferences.

7. Support your answers: When selecting an answer choice for an implied detail question, ensure
that your choice is supported by evidence from the passage. Look for specific phrases or
sentences that hint at or indirectly convey the implied detail.

Remember, answering implied detail questions correctly requires careful reading, critical thinking,
and the ability to make logical inferences based on the given information. Practice identifying implied
details by reading a variety of texts and actively engaging with the material. By honing this skill, you
can improve your performance on the TOEFL exam.

Here are some examples of implied detail questions and how to answer them correctly:
Example 1:
Passage: "The company implemented cost-cutting measures and streamlined operations. As a result,
their profits increased significantly."

Question: What was the impact of the cost-cutting measures on the company?
Answer: The implied detail is that the cost-cutting measures had a positive impact on the company's
profits. While the passage does not explicitly state this, it can be inferred from the information
provided.

Example 2:
Passage: "The team had been practicing diligently for weeks. On the day of the competition, they
performed flawlessly."
Question: How did the team's practice impact their performance in the competition?
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Answer: The implied detail is that the team's diligent practice led to a flawless performance in the
competition. Although the passage does not directly state this cause-and-effect relationship, it can be
inferred based on the information provided.

Example 3:
Passage: "The politician's controversial statements sparked widespread public debate. As a result, their
popularity declined."

Question: What was the consequence of the politician's controversial statements?

Answer: The implied detail is that the consequence of the controversial statements was a decline in the
politician's popularity. While the passage does not explicitly mention this cause-and-effect
relationship, it can be inferred from the information presented.

Example 4:
Passage: "The hiker encountered a steep, rocky terrain. Despite the challenging conditions, they
persisted and reached the mountaintop."

Question: What was the outcome of the hiker's persistence in the challenging terrain?
Answer: The implied detail is that the hiker's persistence led to reaching the mountaintop. Although
the passage does not explicitly state this outcome, it can be understood from the information provided.

These examples demonstrate how implied detail questions require you to infer information that is not
explicitly stated but can be deduced from the context and relationships between ideas. By carefully
analyzing the passage and making logical inferences, you can answer implied detail questions correctly
on the TOEFL exam.
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Skill 7: Answer Transition Questions Correctly

Transition questions in the TOEFL exam ask you to identify the logical connections between ideas and
how they are linked within a passage. Here are some strategies to answer transition questions correctly:

1. Understand the types of transitions: Familiarize yourself with common transition words and
phrases such as "however," "in contrast," "on the other hand," "therefore," "consequently," "for
example," and "in conclusion." These words indicate the relationships between ideas, such as
contrast, addition, cause and effect, or summarization.

2. Identify the context: Pay attention to the preceding and subsequent sentences or paragraphs to
understand the overall flow of the passage. Consider how the ideas are connected and how one
idea leads to another.
3. Analyze the function of each transition: Determine the purpose of the transition word or
phrase in the context of the passage. Is it introducing a new idea, providing a contrast, offering
supporting evidence, or summarizing information?
4. Look for clues in the passage: Examine the sentence structures, keywords, or phrases that
signal a change in direction or a shift in ideas. Transitional words or phrases are often used to
guide readers through the passage.
5. Consider the logical relationship between ideas: Evaluate how the ideas in the passage are
related. Does one idea support, contradict, or expand upon another? Think about the cause and
effect, comparison, or continuation of ideas.
6. Eliminate incorrect answer choices: Exclude options that do not fit the logical progression of
ideas in the passage. Look for choices that create inconsistencies or disrupt the flow of
information.
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7. Choose the most appropriate transition: Select the transition word or phrase that best reflects
the relationship between the ideas in the passage. Consider the meaning, context, and coherence
of the transition within the overall structure of the passage.

Example 1:
Passage: "Some people believe that technology isolates individuals. However, others argue that it
enhances connectivity and facilitates communication."

Question: Which transition best connects the two contrasting viewpoints in the passage?
Answer: The transition "However" is the most appropriate choice as it indicates a contrast between the
belief that technology isolates individuals and the opposing viewpoint that it enhances connectivity.

Example 2:
Passage: "Many students struggle with time management. Consequently, they often experience high
levels of stress."

Question: Which transition best indicates the cause-and-effect relationship in the passage?
Answer: The transition "Consequently" is the correct choice as it signifies the cause-and-effect
relationship between students struggling with time management and the resulting high levels of stress.

Example 3:
Passage: "To illustrate, consider the case of renewable energy. For example, solar power harnesses the
energy from the sun."
Question: Which transition is used to provide an example in the passage?

Answer: The transition "For example" is the appropriate choice as it introduces a specific example of
renewable energy, which is solar power.
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These examples demonstrate how to analyze the logical connections between ideas in a passage and
choose the appropriate transition that reflects that relationship. By understanding different types of
transitions and their functions, you can answer transition questions correctly on the TOEFL exam.

Skill 8: Finding Definitions from Structural Clues

In the TOEFL exam, finding definitions from structural clues can be an important reading skill. Here
are some tips to help you with this:

1. Pay attention to prefixes and suffixes: Break down unfamiliar words into their constituent
parts. Look for common prefixes (e.g., un-, dis-, re-) and suffixes (e.g., -tion, -able, -ive). These
can provide hints about the word's meaning or function.

2. Identify root words: Determine the root or base word of an unfamiliar term. Familiarize
yourself with common roots and their meanings. For example, "bio-" relates to life, "graph-"
refers to writing or recording, and "tele-" denotes distance or communication.

3. Consider word families: Look for other words derived from the same root word. If you
encounter a familiar word within the same word family, it can help you infer the meaning of the
unknown word. For instance, if you know the word "photograph," you can infer that
"photography" refers to the process or art of taking photographs.

4. Use context clues: Pay close attention to the surrounding words and sentences. Look for
synonyms, antonyms, or explanatory phrases that shed light on the meaning of the unknown
word. The context can provide valuable clues to help you understand its definition.
5. Compare and contrast: Look for analogies or comparisons within the text. Sometimes,
authors use known concepts or ideas to explain unfamiliar terms. By drawing connections to
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something you already know, you can infer the meaning of the unknown word. Look for
phrases like "similar to," "like," or "analogous to."
6. Use your knowledge of topic-specific vocabulary: Depending on the TOEFL reading passage
topic, you may encounter subject-specific terminology. If you are familiar with the subject
matter, you can use your prior knowledge to make educated guesses about the meaning of
unfamiliar words.

Practice is key to improving this skill. Work on reading comprehension exercises, practice reading a
variety of texts and gradually expand your vocabulary. The more exposure you have to different words
and their contexts, the better equipped you'll be to find definitions from structural clues in the TOEFL
reading section.

Examples:
When trying to find definitions from structural clues, there are several strategies you can use.
Here are a few examples:

Prefixes and suffixes: Break down the word into its constituent parts and examine any prefixes or
suffixes. These can often provide clues about the meaning of the word. For example:

 "Un-" typically indicates negation or reversal (e.g., uncertain, uncomfortable).

"-tion" often indicates a noun derived from a verb (e.g., completion, exploration).
Root words: Identify the root of the word and consider its meaning. Many English words come from
Latin or Greek roots, which can provide insights into their definitions. For example:

 "Bio-" refers to life (e.g., biology, biography).

"Graph" relates to writing or recording (e.g., graphic, autobiography).
Contextual clues: Look for contextual hints within the sentence or paragraph that can help you infer the
meaning. Pay attention to synonyms, antonyms, or explanatory phrases that provide additional
information. For example:

 "Despite his aversion to public speaking, he reluctantly took the podium." Here, "aversion"
suggests a strong dislike or avoidance of something.
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Word families: Examine other words derived from the same root or word family to understand the
common theme or meaning. For example:

"Integrity," "integrate," and "integral" all share the root "integ-" and relate to wholeness or
completeness.
Analogies or comparisons: Compare the unknown word to a known word or concept that you are
familiar with. This can help you draw parallels and make educated guesses about the meaning. For
example:

"Her writing style is reminiscent of Hemingway's concise prose." The word "reminiscent" suggests
similarity or resemblance.
By using these strategies, you can decipher the meaning of words based on their structural clues. Practice
and exposure to a wide range of vocabulary will enhance your skills in this area.

Skill 9: determine meanings from word parts

In the TOEFL exam, the ability to determine meanings from word parts can be a valuable reading skill.
Here's how you can effectively use word parts to decipher meanings:
1. Prefixes: Pay attention to prefixes, which are added to the beginning of a word. Many prefixes
have consistent meanings, allowing you to make educated guesses about the word's definition.
For example:

 "Un-" usually indicates negation or reversal (e.g., unlikely, undo).

 "Re-" often signifies repetition or returning to a previous state (e.g., revisit, reorganize).
2. Suffixes: Focus on suffixes, which are added to the end of a word. Suffixes can provide
information about the word's function or part of speech. They can also indicate specific meanings.
For example:
 "-ity" typically forms abstract nouns (e.g., equality, stability).
 "-able" usually indicates the ability or capacity for something (e.g., understandable, enjoyable)

3. Root words: Identify the root or base word, which forms the core meaning of the word.
Familiarize yourself with common roots and their definitions. By recognizing the root, you can
better understand unfamiliar words. For example:
 "Aud-" refers to hearing or sound (e.g., auditorium, audio).
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 "Morph-" relates to form or shape (e.g., metamorphosis, morphology).

4. Combining word parts: Once you've identified the prefixes, suffixes, and root words, combine
their meanings to form a complete understanding of the word. Consider how the word parts work
together to convey a specific concept or idea.

5. Contextual clues: Use the surrounding text or sentence to gain further insights into the meaning
of the word. Look for contextual clues, such as synonyms, antonyms, or explanations, that can
help you infer the definition.
6. Expand your vocabulary: Continuously work on building your vocabulary by studying word
parts, roots, prefixes, and suffixes. The more familiar you are with these elements, the more
equipped you'll be to determine meanings from word parts.
To enhance this skill, practice reading a variety of texts and expose yourself to different word structures.
Use flashcards or vocabulary exercises that focus on word parts to reinforce your understanding. Over
time, you'll become more proficient at determining meanings from word parts in the TOEFL reading
section.
Skill 9: Use Context to Determine Meanings of Difficult Words

Using context to determine the meanings of difficult words is a crucial reading skill. Here are some steps
to help you utilize context effectively:
1. Read the surrounding text: Carefully read the sentences or paragraph containing the difficult
word. Look for clues, such as synonyms, antonyms, or explanations that can provide insights
into the word's meaning.
2. Identify familiar words: Pay attention to familiar words within the same sentence or passage.
These words can serve as context clues to help you infer the meaning of the difficult word.
Consider how the familiar words relate to the overall message or topic.
3. Analyze word relationships: Examine how the difficult word is used in relation to other words
in the sentence. Look for grammatical connections, such as subject-verb relationships or
comparisons, that can provide hints about the word's meaning. Consider the word's role in the
sentence (e.g., noun, verb, adjective) to gain further insights.
4. Look for definitions or explanations: Sometimes, authors provide definitions or explanations
of difficult words within the text itself. These may appear in parentheses, footnotes, or through
clarifying phrases. Stay alert for such clues that directly define or elaborate on the word's
meaning.
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5. Consider the broader context: Think about the overall theme, tone, or subject matter of the
passage. This can help you make educated guesses about the meaning of the difficult word.
Consider how the word fits into the author's main argument or point.
6. Be cautious of tone and language usage: Pay attention to the author's tone and the general style
of the writing. Words that carry a positive or negative connotation can indicate the intended
meaning. Also, consider the register of the language used (formal, informal, technical) to
understand the word's intended definition.
7. Check for word repetition: If you encounter the difficult word multiple times throughout the
passage, examine how it is used in different contexts. This repetition can provide additional clues
to help you determine its meaning.

Remember that context is key, and understanding the overall message and purpose of the text will
greatly assist you in determining the meanings of difficult words. Regular practice with reading
comprehension exercises and exposure to various texts will sharpen your skills in using context
effectively.

Here are some examples to illustrate how to use context to determine the meanings of difficult
words:
1. Example sentence: "The scientist conducted an extensive analysis of the data, meticulously
examining every detail."
Context clues:
 "Extensive" suggests that the analysis was thorough and comprehensive.
 "Meticulously" implies that the examination was done with great attention to detail and precision.
Based on these context clues, we can infer that "analysis" refers to a detailed examination or study of the
data.
2. Example sentence: "The novel's protagonist was tormented by his inner demons, which led to
his eventual downfall."
Context clues:
 "Tormented" indicates that the protagonist was deeply troubled or distressed.
 "Downfall" suggests a negative outcome or a significant decline.
From these clues, we can deduce that "inner demons" refers to the protagonist's inner struggles or
personal conflicts that contributed to his ultimate failure.
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3. Example sentence: "The politician's eloquent speech captivated the audience and swayed their
opinions."
Context clues:
 "Eloquent" describes the speech as persuasive, articulate, and well-spoken.
 "Captivated" suggests that the audience was deeply engrossed or captivated by the speech.
 "Swayed" indicates that the speech had an impact on the audience's opinions or beliefs.
Based on these context clues, we can infer that "eloquent" means having the ability to express oneself
effectively and convincingly through speech.
4. Example sentence: "The hiker trekked through the dense forest, grappling with the challenging
terrain."
Context clues:
 "Dense" describes the forest as thick and closely packed with trees or vegetation.
 "Challenging" indicates that the terrain presented difficulties or obstacles.
From these clues, we can deduce that "grappling" means struggling or dealing with the demanding
conditions of the terrain.

5. Example sentence: "The artist's abstract painting elicited mixed reactions from viewers, sparking
a lively debate about its meaning."
Context clues:
 "Abstract" suggests that the painting is non-representational or non-realistic.
 "Mixed reactions" indicates that viewers had diverse and varying responses to the painting.
 "Lively debate" implies that the artwork generated a spirited discussion or argument.

Based on these context clues, we can infer that "elicited" means caused or provoked, referring to
the painting's ability to generate different reactions and initiate a lively debate.

These examples demonstrate how context clues can help determine the meanings of difficult words.
By analyzing the surrounding text and considering the overall message, you can make educated
guesses about the intended definitions of unfamiliar words. Regular practice with reading
comprehension exercises and exposure to various texts will enhance your ability to effectively use
context to determine word meanings.
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Here's an example for practice purposes:

Reading Passage: Title: The Benefits of Outdoor Exercise
Exercise is essential for maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and while many individuals choose to work out
at the gym, there are numerous benefits to engaging in outdoor exercise. Research has shown that
exercising in nature provides both physical and mental advantages.

One major advantage of outdoor exercise is the exposure to natural sunlight. Sunlight is a natural source
of vitamin D, which is crucial for maintaining healthy bones and preventing diseases like rickets and
osteoporosis. Additionally, sunlight exposure boosts the production of serotonin, a hormone that
regulates mood and promotes a sense of well-being. This can have a positive impact on mental health.
Moreover, outdoor exercise offers a variety of terrain and settings that can challenge the body in different
ways. Running on uneven surfaces like trails or beaches engages the muscles in the legs and core more
than running on a treadmill. Hiking or climbing uphill builds endurance and strengthens the
cardiovascular system. These diverse physical challenges contribute to improved overall fitness levels.
Outdoor exercise also provides a refreshing change of scenery and the opportunity to connect with
nature. Being surrounded by greenery and natural elements can reduce stress and increase relaxation.
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Studies have indicated that spending time in nature improves cognitive function and attention span.
Furthermore, outdoor exercise can enhance social interactions, as parks and trails often bring together
individuals with similar interests.

In conclusion, outdoor exercise offers numerous benefits for both physical and mental well-being. The
exposure to sunlight, diverse physical challenges, connection with nature, and social aspects all
contribute to a holistic exercise experience. Incorporating outdoor activities into one's fitness routine can
lead to improved health and a more enjoyable exercise regimen.
Sample Questions:

1. According to the passage, what is one advantage of outdoor exercise compared to gym
workouts?
A) Access to various exercise equipment.
B) Availability of personal trainers.
C) Exposure to natural sunlight.
D) Greater convenience for busy individuals.

Answer: C) Exposure to natural sunlight.

2. What is the role of serotonin in the context of outdoor exercise?

A) It helps in the production of vitamin D.
B) It prevents diseases like rickets and osteoporosis.
C) It regulates mood and promotes well-being.
D) It enhances cognitive function and attention span.

Answer: C) It regulates mood and promotes well-being.

3. How does outdoor exercise challenge the body differently from indoor exercise?
A) It focuses on strengthening the upper body.
B) It engages the muscles in the legs and core more.
C) It provides a more controlled and predictable environment.
D) It requires less endurance and cardiovascular effort.
Answer: B) It engages the muscles in the legs and core more.
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4. According to the passage, what is one benefit of spending time in nature during outdoor
exercise?
A) Improved cognitive function and attention span.
B) Increased availability of exercise facilities.
C) Enhanced access to personal trainers.
D) Higher intensity of physical exertion.
Answer: A) Improved cognitive function and attention span.