The Great Silence - ELA Regents Jan. 24

The Fermi Paradox (line 10) explains why...

• (1) the age of the universe cannot be determined

• (2) the Arecibo experiment has not succeeded

• (3) other galaxies are expanding into space

• (4) some planets could support intelligent life

The figurative language in line 19 suggests that intelligent extraterrestrials

• (1) prefer to interact with other species in space

• (2) have no reason to converse with other species

• (3) miss the opportunity to connect with humans

• (4) relate to humans without need of language

Alex’s death (lines 33 and 34) is expressed using which literary device?

• (1) an anecdote

• (2) a metaphor

• (3) an allegory

• (4) a simile

Lines 39 through 44 suggest that extraterrestrials may

• (1) maintain contact only with nonhuman species

• (2) prove to be more intelligent than humans

• (3) prefer nonverbal modes of communication

• (4) mimic communications coming from Earth

In line 64, the word “primal” most nearly means

• (1) unique

• (2) natural

• (3) deceptive

• (4) unknowable

Lines 67 through 76 serve to show the historical

• (1) similarities among ancient and modern creation beliefs

• (2) connection between vocalization and spiritual expression

• (3) shared ways people celebrate important events

• (4) role of vocal performances in preserving cultural traditions

As used in line 81, “resonant” most nearly means

• (1) rich

• (2) muffled

• (3) startling

• (4) harsh

According to the narrator, “the voice of creation” (line 83) is the result of

• (1) “the music of the spheres” (line 67)

• (2) “the language used by angels” (lines 69 and 70)

• (3) “reciting mantras” (line 71)

• (4) “the Big Bang” (line 79)

1. Which statement best represents a central idea of the text?
   

• 1. (1) “The universe is also so old that even one technological species would have had time to expand and fill the galaxy” (lines 7 through 9)

• 1. (2) “Hundreds of years ago, my kind was so plentiful that the Rio Abajo Forest [Puerto Rico] resounded with our voices” (lines 20 and 21)

• 1. (3) “But parrots are more similar to humans than any extraterrestrial species will be” (line 56)

• 1. (4) “Look at Arecibo. Any species who can build such a thing must have greatness within them” (lines 93 and 94)