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On February 2 of each year, the United States observes the unusual holiday Groundhog Day, a day of hope that winter is over and spring is beginning. The tradition has been officially observed in the US since the 1800s and is believed to have developed from European folk traditions in which a bear, fox, badger, or even hedgehog would serve as the symbolic metrologist. Although other cultures and towns observe Groundhog Day (or something similar) the town of Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania takes special pride in being home to the one true forecasting, the groundhog, Punxsutawney Grounding Club to perpetuate the joyful rituals and events surrounding Groundhog Day. Over the years, these rituals and events have come to include a scavenger hunt, a talent show, and a ball. Legend has it that on Groundhog Day the official weather-forecasting groundhog awakens from hibernation and comes out of his burrow to look for his shadow. If he sees his shadow, six more weeks of winter are to come and Punxsutawney Phil goes back to bed. However, if he does not see his shadow, Punxsutawney Phil takes this as a sign that spring has arrived and he remains above ground. Of course, common sense tells us that February 2 is too early for spring to begin and that while animals may be attuned to various elements of nature from which humans might learn, they are unlikely to act on their instincts based on a schedule set by the Gregorian calendar. Nevertheless, a visit to Pennsylvania to the Punxsutawney Phil and all the fun inspires each year might provide the loath of hope needed to reach the end of winter. What source would be most useful in determining reliability of Punxsutawney Phil’s predictions over a number of years?

A. A historical survey of customs in Pennsylvania

B. An encyclopedia entry on mammals in the northeast U.S

C. A record of weather patterns in the last decade

D. A memoir from a member of the Groundhog Club

Answer Explanation:

Weather patterns in the last decade would determine the reliability of the predictions of the symbolic metrology of the Groundhog’s day.

Therefore, the Correct Answer is C.

More Questions on TEAS 7 Reading

  • Q #1: “The Santa Barbara journal.” Exciting news today from Vandenberg Space Fore Base as it has ended its Delta IV Heavy rocket program to make way for the new Atlas V program. Riddled with difficulties, Delta IV Heavy saw only moderator success throughout its 21-year history. Developed on the heels of the last tragic Space Shuttle flight expectations for Delta IV Heavy far exceeded its reality. Future hopes now lie with the Atlas V program developed by the Lockheed Martin. A social media post: @ggh723 The space program is an outdated use of taxpayer funds. We have enough problems on earth to worry about what’s happening in the universe Which of the following themes do the two above passages share?

    A. Economics play an important role in society

    B. The space program evokes a variety of reactions

    C. Space travel inspires the populace to look beyond our planet

    D. Technical innovation can sometimes lead to tragedies

    Answer Explanation

    The Santa Barbara Journal and the social media post have conflicting opinions about the space program

  • Q #2: Cicada Emergence Cicadas, those intriguing insects that emerge en masse after years of hiding underground, have captured the attention of both entomologists and the general public alike. These remarkable insects, known for their distinct chirping sounds and striking appearances, have a unique life cycle that is both fascinating and cyclical in nature. The lifecycle of cicadas is a testament to the cyclical rhythms of nature. After spending several years in nymph form beneath the earth's surface, cicadas finally emerge during certain years in massive numbers. This phenomenon, known as a "cicada emergence," has become a subject of great interest and anticipation among enthusiasts. Entomologists study the patterns of these emergences, noting the regularity with which they occur. What's even more captivating is the simultaneous surge of public interest that accompanies these cicada emergences. Communities come alive with discussions, articles, and even events centered around these creatures. It's as if cicadas have a way of bringing people together and rekindling their curiosity every few years. The cyclical nature of cicada emergences can't be denied. Just like clockwork, these insects resurface, capturing our attention and reminding us of the beauty and complexity of the natural world. As the years go by and cicadas once again retreat underground, we can rest assured that their return, much like the changing seasons, is inevitable and awaited with eager anticipation. Which of the following perspectives can be inferred from the passage?

    A. Cicadas and public interest about cicadas are global

    B. Cicadas and public interest about cicadas are cyclical

    C. Cicadas and public interest about cicadas are inspirational

    D. Cicadas and public interest about cicadas are inexplicable

    Answer Explanation

    According to the passage, the discussion about cicadas has emerged about as predictably as the cicadas themselves from their underground refuge

  • Q #3: Dear Aunt Suzanne, I have a few minutes before I get on the bus from Galway back to Dublin and wanted to tell you how my class trip to Ireland is going. We just spent 2 days on inis Mor, the largest of the Aran Islands, which are just off the central west coast of Ireland. We took a ferry from Galway, a ride that takes about an hour and was quite gray and stormy. For an island that is only about 12 square miles, there is a lot to do and see on this Mor! After eating steak and vegetable stew and brown bread with butter, we went to the sweater market, where all kinds of woolen products are sold. The Aran Islands are known for their wool because sheep thrive here and generations have used woolen sweaters and hats to survive long cold days of fishing on the open sea. In fact, I learned that each family or clan has its own signature knitting pattern and some are able to tell which family someone belongs to by the pattern of their sweater! The healthy pattern is an interesting combination of twists and braids and I found you a birthday souvenir with a beautiful example. Which of the following sentences accurately summarizes the passage? The next day, we rented bicycles and toured the island. We saw ancient rums, a prehistoric hill fort, and a white sand beach. We climbed down to a mysterious rock formation known as the “wormhole,” a rectangular hole in a stone shore that fills with thrashing waves ad looks like houses of a terrible serpent. The wormhole will be difficult to find, and when we stopped someone for directions, she only spoke Galect. Sometimes this island seems stuck in an earlier fame.

    A. On a personal trip abroad, Eva is focused on seeing as much as possible in a short amount of time gathering souvenirs for everyone she knows

    B. In an email to ger aunt, Eva reports that the Aran Islands contain a strong agricultural community with long-standing traditions

    C. In an email to her aunt, Eva brags about touring Ireland and the extravagant purchases she made there

    D. On a school trip to Ireland, Eva has spent time in the Aran islands, where she learned about the culture and visited several significant landmarks

    Answer Explanation

    This sentence includes all aspects of her trip that Eva wrote to her aunt about.