Remarks at Dedication Ceremonies for the National Air & Space...

Read the claim from paragraph 2. "There is nothing more American than saying, 'If you don’t succeed, try, try again.'" How does the author support the claim?

• The author supports the claim with examples of times when Americans demonstrated determination.

• The author supports the claim with examples of future explorations that will require determination.

• The author supports the claim with opinions about what determination means and why it is important.

• The author supports the claim with opinions about when determination is required and how it is displayed.

Answer explanation

The passage provides historical examples, such as pilgrims and pioneers overcoming challenges, to illustrate American determination.

Based on the context of paragraphs 6 and 7, what does unprecedented mean?

• challenging

• extraordinary

• necessary

• prosperous

Answer explanation

 In paragraphs 6 and 7, 'unprecedented' describes achievements that were remarkable and unmatched at the time.

Select two quotations that express the author’s patriotism and love of country.

• "Confined within these walls and windows are the products of American men and women whose imagination and determination could not be confined." (paragraph 2)

• "Gertrude Stein once wrote, 'In the United States there is more space where nobody is than where anybody is.'" (paragraph 3)

• "The pilgrims feared the perils of the voyage and the misery of the unfamiliar land." (paragraph 5)

• "A continent once remote and isolated now supports a mighty nation, a nation built by those who also dared to reach for the unknown." (paragraph 6)

• "Sometimes Americans built their schools before their own rough cabins." (paragraph 8)

Answer explanation

A ('Confined within these walls and windows…') and D ('A continent once remote and isolated…') reflect patriotism and pride in American achievements.

How does the author develop his ideas about exploration over the course of the passage?

• The author contrasts the country’s early explorations with those being conducted today.

• The author describes different examples of explorations and the feelings of those involved.

• The author explains the problems associated with exploration and how they can be overcome.

• The author relays chronologically the country’s history of exploration as well as future endeavors.

Answer explanation

The passage progresses from historical exploration to modern advancements and future aspirations.

Which describes the author’s point of view in the passage?

• The author is critical of the nation’s past and uncertain about its future.

• The author is curious about the nation’s past and concerned about its future.

• The author is proud of the nation’s past and optimistic about its future.

• The author is sympathetic towards the nation’s past and respectful about its future.

Answer explanation

 The tone reflects admiration for past achievements and a hopeful outlook on future endeavors.

How does the author advance the point of view in Part A?

• The author contrasts the United States with other countries.

• The author uses passionate and emotional language.

• The author threatens the consequences of inactivity.

• The author uses repetition to express the same idea in every paragraph.

Answer explanation

The language conveys pride and optimism, enhancing the author’s point of view.

How does paragraph 16 refine the author’s ideas about attempting something that has never been done?

• by suggesting that failure is unlikely when trying something new

• by suggesting that people must work together when trying something new

• by suggesting that failure should not deter people from trying something new

• by suggesting that people must understand the past before trying something new

Answer explanation

The passage encourages perseverance, using historical quotes to emphasize resilience.

How do the authors of both passages address the theme of discovery?

• by bringing attention to the obstacles standing in the way of discovery

• by emphasizing the necessity of discovery to the progress of society

• by focusing on the contributions of specific individuals to discovery

• by identifying the areas in which future discovery should be directed

Answer explanation

Both passages highlight the role of discovery in societal advancement.

Which factor do the authors of both passages highlight as important to invention and exploration?

• education

• financial support

• freedom

• personal sacrifice

Answer explanation

Both passages underline the importance of liberty in fostering innovation and exploration.