Address on the 50th Anniversary of Thomas Edison's Invention...

What claim does the author make about Edison?

• Edison underestimated the importance of his invention.

• Edison enjoyed his work as an inventor.

• Edison transformed society through his invention.

• Edison faced many challenges as an inventor.

Answer explanation

Paragraph 1 explains how the electric lamp revolutionized everyday life, making activities safer, more efficient, and more comfortable.

Which detail from the passage supports the claim?

• “When Mr. Edison invented the electric lamp he may perhaps have thought just to produce plain light and more of it at less cost.” (paragraph 1)

• “And by all its multiple uses it has lengthened the hours of our active lives, decreased our fears, replaced the dark with good cheer, increased our safety, decreased our toil…” (paragraph 1)

• “Mr. Edison has given a long life to such service.” (paragraph 10)

• “Mr. Edison by his own genius and effort rose from modest beginnings…” (paragraph 10)

Answer explanation

This detail highlights the transformative effects of Edison's invention on society, supporting the claim that Edison changed society.

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How does the author develop the central idea regarding the significance of inventions?

• by bringing attention to the annual number of inventions

• by clarifying what motivates scientists to create new inventions

• by elaborating on the many ways in which people have benefited from inventions

• by explaining how scientists transform ideas into practical inventions

Answer explanation

Throughout the passage, the author emphasizes the societal benefits of inventions, such as improved safety and extended active hours.

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What does *arduous* mean in paragraph 5?

• difficult

• frequent

• important

• proven

Answer explanation

In paragraph 5, 'arduous' describes the long, patient, and challenging research process required for discovery and invention.

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What connection does the author establish between Edison and modern inventors?

• Like Edison, modern inventors often arise from humble beginnings.

• Like Edison, modern inventors conduct research in organized laboratories.

• Like Edison, modern inventors become well-known leaders of society.

• Like Edison, modern inventors seldom realize the full impacts of their works.

Answer explanation

Paragraph 2 explains that Edison's method of using a highly equipped and organized laboratory is mirrored in the practices of modern inventors.

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How do paragraphs 7-8 develop the author’s ideas about inventions?

• by describing the problems that inventions have resolved successfully

• by emphasizing the importance of inventions to the welfare of society

• by highlighting the competitiveness of countries to produce the best inventions

• by referencing the beliefs of an important historical figure about inventions

Answer explanation

Paragraphs 7–8 connect inventions to societal benefits, such as increased standards of living and surplus food.

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Read the sentence from paragraph 9. "Our scientists and inventors are amongst our most priceless national possessions." Select two examples of rhetoric in paragraph 9 that advance the author’s point of view.

• carry scientific thought forward in steps and strides...

• not the material for headlines.

• usually known but to a few.

• their efforts are not unappreciated.

• pay its tribute to the men of this genius...

Answer explanation

 A ('…carry scientific thought forward in steps and strides…') and E ('…pay its tribute to the men of this genius…') emphasize the significant contributions and impacts of inventors, aligning with the author’s praise.

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CCSS.RI.11-12.5

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Which idea is expressed through the extended metaphor in paragraph 11?

• Some inventors are more important and beneficial to society than others.

• Great inventors arise when people have the freedom to experiment and dream.

• Modern inventors have learned a great deal from experiments of the past.

• Many inventors display great appreciation for the beauty of the world around them.

Answer explanation

 The extended metaphor in paragraph 11 compares civilization to a garden, suggesting that liberty fosters creativity and innovation.

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