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What is all this talk of cicadas lately in the United States? You might be wondering why the media has featured it, but in fact, the discussion about cicadas has emerged about as predictably as the cicadas themselves from their underground refuge. Let's get oriented with some background on cicadas. What is a cicada? A typical definition will at least tell you that the cicada is a large, loud insect with long transparent wings, mostly found in warm countries. A more detailed response might also inform you that cicadas have short antennae and wide-set eyes that jut out, with delicate, translucent wings and that not only is the cicada loud, but few creatures make a louder sound. In fact, it is male cicadas that are the noisy ones, to the tune of 80 to 100 decibels, which is like the roar of a loud engine. This is because male cicadas make a strident, high buzzing by vibrating two membranes on its abdomen called tymbals, effectively turning its body into a kind of echo chamber or drum, Female cicadas cannot replicate the buzzing, though they respond with a clicking sound when they are ready to mate. Although there are several species of cicada, mating typically takes place in trees whereafter the female deposits the eggs into the bark. Wher the eggs hatch, the larval cicadas, called nymphs, drop to the ground and burrow. They then live as nymphs for most of their lives over 6 feet underground, with both male and female cicadas dying within weeks of their emergence from the soil. This is particularly true for North American cicadas, especially the Magicicodo, or periodical cicadas, which regularly emerge in intervals of 13 or 17 years, depending on the species and the location. This is why talk of cicadas in the media is as predictable as their emergence in the US. Which of the following words does the author use to express a derogatory tone?

A. Noisy

B. Roar

C. Delicate

D. Predictable

Answer Explanation:

This term is used in a negative context to describe the male cicadas' loud buzzing, suggesting a critical or disapproving attitude towards this aspect of cicadas.

Therefore, the Correct Answer is A.

More Questions on TEAS 7 Reading

  • Q #1: This label appears on a bottle of over-the-counter cold medicine. This medication should be used to treat mild respiratory infections. Do not take this product unless directed by a doctor if you have a long-term respiratory problem such as emphysema or chronic bronchitis. Which of the following statements best summarizes the warning label?

    A. This medication is intended to treat long-term respiratory illnesses.

    B. Anyone taking this medication must have a doctor's recommendation.

    C. Patients who have a mild respiratory infection should consult a doctor.

    D. If you have a respiratory problem, take this medication only if directed by a doctor.

    Answer Explanation

    This statement encapsulates the cautionary advice provided on the label, advising individuals with long-term respiratory issues to seek medical guidance before using the medication.

  • Q #2: In 1943, the war in the Pacific raged on. First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt went to rally the troops' spirits, despite the disapproval of military command. Roosevelt planned a grueling itinerary. She visited several islands and hundreds of wounded in her first 6 days. The indefatigable First Lady inspected Navy hospitals, delivered a speech, attended receptions, and visited convalescing officers, all within 12 hours of her arrival. She lifted spirits among the wounded and morale among the troops. She continued her exhausting tour for a month, speaking to every patient in troop hospitals and taking down addresses to contact family members. Roosevelt traveled non-stop, risked her life, and greeted the last patient she saw with the same heartfelt sincerity as the first Which of the following conclusions can be drawn from the passage?

    A. Eleanor Roosevelt did not enjoy giving oral speeches to troops.

    B. Eleanor Roosevelt was present during most battles in Asia during WWII.

    C. Eleanor Roosevelt hand wrote notes to every troop's family.

    D. Eleanor Roosevelt became First Lady before the war in the Pacific ended.

    Answer Explanation

    This conclusion is supported by the information that in 1943, during the war in the Pacific, Eleanor Roosevelt, as First Lady, went to rally the troops' spirits. This implies that she was First Lady during the war, which suggests that she assumed the role before the war in the Pacific ended.

  • Q #3: "The Santa Barbara journal: Exciting news today from Vandenberg Space Force Base as it has ended its Delta V Heavy rocket program to make way for the new Atlas V program. Riddled with difficulties, Delta V Heavy saw only moderate success throughout its 21-year history. Developed on the heels of the last tragic Space Shuttle flight, expectations for the Delta V Heavy have far exceeded its reality, Future hopes now lie with the Atlas V program developed by 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? Which of the following themes do the two above passages share?

    A. Economics play an important role in society.

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

    C. The space program evokes a variety of reactions.

    D. Technical innovation can sometimes lead to tragedies.

    Answer Explanation

    “Both passages discuss aspects of the space program and how people perceive it.