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Assessment

Passage

•

•

Hard

Created by

Angela Lock

FREE Resource

6 questions

Show all answers

1.

MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTION

30 sec • 1 pt

According to the passage, what is the source of common synthetic food dyes like Red 40 and Yellow 5?

Beet juice and turmeric

Petroleum

Crushed insects

Genetically modified plants

Answer explanation

The passage states, 'Most of the common food dyes approved for use in the United States, such as Red 40 and Yellow 5, are derived from petroleum...'

2.

MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTION

30 sec • 1 pt

What is the author's main purpose for writing this article?

To provide a list of foods that contain synthetic dyes.

To explain the process of how the FDA approves food additives.

To argue that consumers should be wary of synthetic dyes due to potential risks and available alternatives.

To prove that all artificial colors cause hyperactivity in all children.

Answer explanation

The author presents concerns about dyes (hyperactivity, petroleum source) and contrasts the U.S. position with Europe's, highlighting natural alternatives to build a cautionary case. The final sentence calls the use of these dyes an 'unnecessary risk,' which supports this persuasive purpose.

3.

MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTION

30 sec • 1 pt

How does the author distinguish their position from the FDA's position?

By proving that the FDA's scientific testing is flawed and incorrect.

By stating that the FDA intentionally misleads the public.

By using the example of European countries and global companies that use natural alternatives.

By listing all the foods that the FDA has approved that are now considered unsafe.

Answer explanation

After explaining the FDA's position that the dyes are safe, the author introduces a counterpoint: 'However, the author's position is clarified by looking at global trends. Many European countries have taken a more precautionary stance...This demonstrates that viable, natural options exist.' This directly contrasts the FDA's stance with a different, successful approach.

4.

CATEGORIZE QUESTION

1 min • 1 pt

Based on the passage, sort the following points into the arguments for or against the use of synthetic food dyes.

Groups:

(a) Arguments Against Synthetic Dyes

,

(b) Arguments For Synthetic Dyes

They are banned in some European countries.

They have undergone extensive testing by the FDA.

They are derived from petroleum.

They are used in small, regulated amounts.

Studies have suggested a link to hyperactivity.

They make food visually appealing and consistent.

Answer explanation

The passage presents two sides of the debate. The arguments against dyes include their petroleum origin, link to hyperactivity, and being banned elsewhere. The arguments for their use, presented from the perspective of manufacturers and the FDA, include that they are tested, used in small amounts, and make food look appealing.

5.

MATCH QUESTION

1 min • 1 pt

Match each group or substance to the position it represents or its description in the passage.

Views synthetic dyes as an 'unnecessary risk'.

Author's implied position

Takes a 'precautionary stance' by banning some dyes.

European countries' approach

Includes substances like beet juice and turmeric.

Natural alternatives

Believes current evidence shows dyes are safe.

The FDA's official position

Answer explanation

The author concludes that using the dyes is an 'unnecessary risk.' The FDA's position is that the 'evidence does not show a definite cause-and-effect relationship.' The passage states European countries have taken a 'precautionary stance.' Finally, it lists 'beet juice, paprika, and turmeric' as natural alternatives.

6.

OPEN ENDED QUESTION

3 mins • 1 pt

Analyze the two contrasting viewpoints about synthetic food dyes presented in the passage. Which viewpoint does the author seem to favor, and what specific evidence or language does the author use to make that position more persuasive than the other? Support your answer with details from the text.

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