Analyze How Authors Shape Presentations Practice Test

Read the two passages about planting trees near schools.

Author A:

Planting more trees around schools can make campuses healthier and more comfortable. Trees provide shade that lowers playground temperatures on hot days and can reduce energy costs by cooling nearby buildings. Some research links greener schoolyards to improved attention and lower stress. Tree-planting projects also give students a way to help the environment through service learning. While trees require watering and care, communities can plan maintenance and choose hardy species.

Author B:

Planting more trees around schools sounds positive, but it can bring overlooked problems. Trees can trigger allergies for some students and create extra maintenance costs for pruning, watering, and cleanup. If the wrong species are planted, roots can damage sidewalks and cause safety hazards. Claims about improved attention are interesting, but the research is not always clear about whether trees are the real cause. Schools should prioritize basic needs first and plant trees only with careful planning and long-term funding.

How does selective emphasis shape each author’s presentation?

Read the two informational passages about the same school uniform policy.

Author A:

The Riverdale School Board voted to require uniforms for grades 6–8 starting next fall. Supporters say uniforms can lower clothing costs because families buy fewer trendy items and can reuse shirts year to year. The district noted that several nearby schools reported fewer dress-code arguments after adopting uniforms, which could mean more time for learning. Uniforms may also reduce visible differences between students, since brand names and expensive outfits are less noticeable. The board plans a “swap day” so families can trade sizes, and it will offer vouchers for students who need help paying.

Author B:

Riverdale’s new uniform rule for grades 6–8 begins next fall, but the policy may create more problems than it solves. Even if families buy fewer fashion items, they still must purchase specific shirts and pants, which can be costly when kids grow quickly. Uniforms also limit self-expression, and some students feel pressured to “fit in” in other ways when clothing choices disappear. The board mentioned fewer dress-code arguments in other districts, yet it did not share strong research showing uniforms raise grades or improve behavior long-term. If the goal is better learning, focusing on tutoring and counseling may be more effective.

Which choice best analyzes how the authors shape their presentations of the same policy?