Sample Test: English - CLAT MCQ

The passage primarily focuses on Southern France, especially the regions of "le Midi," including the French Mediterranean coastline, the French Riviera, and the inland areas. It describes the geography, popular tourist spots, landscapes, and historical cities of the region, emphasizing what makes it attractive to tourists. While the passage briefly mentions the crowded nature of some areas, the main purpose is to showcase the appeal of Southern France in terms of its climate, history, and natural beauty.

Other options are less fitting:

• A is too broad, as the passage specifically highlights Southern France, not all of France.
• C is incorrect, as the passage doesn't compare Southern France with Paris or claim superiority.
• D is inaccurate because the passage focuses more on tourism and landscapes rather than the history of the inner parts of France.

In the passage, "hinterland" refers to the inland areas away from the busy, populated coastal regions of Southern France. The term is used to describe areas that are less crowded, more rural, and mountainous compared to the coastal areas. Thus, "hinterland" most nearly means a remote region. The other options don't fit the context of the passage, as the hinterland is not described as a popular tourist spot, a downtrodden area, or a densely populated area.

The passage highlights that the French Riviera and other coastal regions in Southern France are very popular, particularly in summer, and attract large crowds. Due to this high demand and the region's fame, especially in well-known resorts like St. Tropez, Cannes, or Nice, accommodation tends to be expensive. This high demand drives prices up, making it a costly area for tourists.
Other options don't align with the context of the passage:

• A is incorrect because Paris is not mentioned as a nearby city.
• C is inaccurate because the passage doesn't mention the resorts as being particularly affordable.
• D while mentioning the beauty of Southern France, does not specifically explain the cost of resorts in terms of natural scenery alone.

The passage mentions that those who do not want to spend their holidays on crowded beaches may prefer the inland areas, such as the hills and mountains of Provence. These areas offer a different climate and landscape, with cooler and more tranquil environments compared to the hotter and busier coastal areas. Therefore, people looking for cooler climates are most likely to choose the hills over the coasts and beaches.

Other options don't fit as well:

• A doesn't imply a preference for hills specifically.
• B refers to people native to hilly areas but doesn't necessarily explain their preference for vacation destinations.
• D is inaccurate as the passage doesn't describe beaches as dry, but rather crowded.

The passage mentions that the region of "le Midi" in France consists of the Mediterranean coastline and its hinterland, stretching from the Italian to the Spanish borders. Therefore, the two countries referenced in the passage are Spain and Italy. The other options mention countries that are not relevant to the passage's description of the southern French region.

"Prodigious" refers to something extraordinary in size, amount, or degree. In the passage, it describes the remarkable energy and creativity of the American people that was unleashed for national development and world leadership. This suggests something large or significant, which aligns with the meaning of "very impressive."
Here's a quick breakdown of why the other options don't fit:

• Deep rooted: Refers to something that is strongly established or ingrained, which doesn’t convey the sense of scale or impressiveness.
• Enthusiastic: Relates to excitement or eagerness, which doesn’t capture the magnitude suggested by "prodigious."
• Untamed: Means wild or uncontrolled, which doesn't fit the context of impressive and significant energy.

So, the correct meaning is "very impressive."

• In the passage, it is mentioned that the translation of idealistic democratic principles into practical realities was the key factor that unleashed the energy and creativity of the American people, leading to national development and eventual world leadership.
• The passage emphasizes the importance of democratic ideals and how their implementation allowed the country to rise rapidly in terms of economic and global influence.

Why the other options are incorrect:

• B: The American Civil War is mentioned, but its role was primarily in abolishing slavery and uniting the country, not directly boosting domestic industries.
• A: The passage does not mention America's victory in the world wars or an alliance with the British as a reason for its rise to world leadership.
• D: While natural resources and hardworking people may have contributed to America’s success, the passage specifically highlights the importance of democratic principles rather than these factors.

Thus, Option C is the most relevant factor according to the passage.

• The passage discusses how West Germany transformed itself by moving away from authoritarianism and embracing democracy, inclusivity, and cooperation both domestically and internationally. This approach fostered internal harmony and international cooperation, helping Germany develop into a prosperous and influential country.
• It highlights how inclusivity and reconciliation with differing political and social groups contributed to Germany’s peaceful unification and growth.

Incorrect Answers:

• A: The passage does not suggest that Germany had a desire to dominate the world order. Instead, it emphasizes cooperation and fostering integration with its neighbors, not dominance.
• D: Germany’s actions were not based on accepting defeat; rather, they were focused on rebuilding through inclusivity and democratic reforms.
• C: While the passage mentions Germany's efforts toward unification, the focus is on promoting democracy and cooperation rather than just persistent efforts leading to unification.

Thus, Option B is the inference best supported by the passage.

The word "exemplary" in the passage refers to West Germany becoming a model or ideal example for others to follow. "Imitable" means something that can be copied or is worth emulating, which aligns with the meaning of "exemplary."

Incorrect Answer:

• A (envious): This means feeling or showing jealousy, which doesn't fit the context.
• C (formidable): This refers to something inspiring fear or respect through being impressively large or powerful, which isn't synonymous with "exemplary."
• D (suitable): This means appropriate or fitting, but it doesn’t capture the idea of being a model example.

So, "imitable" (Option B) is the best synonym for "exemplary" in this context.

• The passage emphasizes how both America and West Germany successfully overcame their challenges through democratic principles and inclusivity. For America, the translation of idealistic democratic principles into practical realities led to significant national development and leadership. Similarly, West Germany's transformation from an authoritarian state into a vibrant democracy and its efforts toward European unification highlight the effectiveness of fostering tolerance, cooperation, and cultural harmony.
• In contrast, options A and B suggest aggression or military strength, which are not supported by the passage's examples. Option D suggests authoritarian control, which goes against the core theme of the passage advocating for democracy and inclusivity. Therefore, Option C captures the essential lesson Korea can learn from these historical examples.

• Personal: The author shares personal experiences and reflections about writing and reading poetry, which gives the writing a relatable and intimate quality. For example, the author discusses their journey in writing poetry and the emotional challenges faced, such as the importance of vulnerability.
• Inclusive: The author addresses the reader directly, inviting them to engage with poetry by opening their hearts. Phrases like "we must do the same" suggest a shared experience between the writer and the reader, making the message feel inclusive and accessible.

Incorrect Answer:

• A: Analytical and comprehensive: While the passage includes some analysis, it is more focused on personal experience and emotional connection rather than a thorough analysis of poetry as a whole.
• B: Authoritative and stern: The tone is not stern or commanding; rather, it is reflective and encouraging, emphasizing personal growth and emotional expression.
• D: Factual and rigid: The writing style is expressive and fluid, not strictly factual or rigid. It explores emotions and experiences, which goes beyond mere facts.

Overall, the author's style is characterized by personal anecdotes and a warm, inviting tone that encourages readers to connect emotionally with poetry.

Nuances refer to subtle distinctions or variations in meaning, expression, or tone. In the context of poetry, nuances highlight the delicate and complex layers of meaning that can be interpreted differently by each reader.
Incorrect option:

• A: artistic tone: While nuances can contribute to the tone of a piece, this option does not capture the full meaning of "nuances," which relates more to variations in meaning rather than just tone.
• B: subtle faults: This implies errors or mistakes, which is not what "nuances" refers to. Nuances are more about complexity and depth rather than faults.
• C: deep rooted mistakes: Similar to option B, this suggests a negative connotation of mistakes rather than the positive complexity found in nuances.

Therefore, "delicate meanings" accurately reflects the concept of nuances in poetry as described in the passage.

The passage emphasizes that both reading and writing poetry require an openness to truly connect with the art form. The author states that “opening your heart to poetry is the only way to get fulfillment from it,” highlighting the necessity of emotional receptiveness.
Incorrect Answer: 

• A: A daily habit of reading all kinds of poetry: While reading poetry is important, the passage suggests that the way one approaches it (with an open heart) is more crucial than simply making it a daily habit.
• C: The need to keep a journal: Keeping a journal can be a helpful practice for writing poetry, but it is not emphasized in the passage as essential for understanding the essence of poetry.
• D: Writing poems with great feeling: This is certainly important for a writer, but the passage stresses the necessity of emotional openness for both reading and writing poetry, making option C the more comprehensive choice.

Thus, to fully grasp the essence of poetry, an open mind and heart are essential.

The passage discusses how trying to emulate others can prevent a poet from expressing their authentic voice and feelings. When poetry is not original and is instead imitative, it may not resonate with readers on a personal level. The author reflects on their own experience, noting that their poetry was "flat and inert" when they focused on copying others instead of opening their heart.
Incorrect Answer:

• B: Such poetry is repetitive and confusing: While it might imply some issues, the passage does not specifically mention repetition or confusion as a direct consequence of emulating others.
• A: Such poetry requires creative usage and imagination: This option suggests a positive outcome rather than a demerit. Emulating others does not foster creativity but rather stifles it.
• D: Such poetry could potentially lead to sheer success: This option implies a positive outcome and does not address any negative aspects of imitation in poetry.

Thus, the demerit of emulating others in writing poetry is that it can lead to a lack of connection with readers, making option A the most accurate choice.

The passage emphasizes that poetry is about expressing thoughts and feelings that are often suppressed. The writer highlights that being honest with oneself about one’s emotions is crucial for creating poetry that resonates with readers. The author states, “We must be honest with ourselves about what we feel in order to write anything worth reading,” indicating that authenticity is key to the value of poetry.

Incorrect Answer:

• A: The use of rhyming scheme in a contained manner: While technical aspects like rhyming can enhance a poem, the passage focuses more on emotional honesty rather than form.
• C: The vulnerable state of the poet: Although vulnerability is mentioned as important in the writing process, it is ultimately the honesty about thoughts and feelings that makes poetry impactful. Vulnerability can be a part of that honesty but is not the primary factor.
• B: The open-mindedness of the poet: This is important for reading and writing poetry, but the passage specifically emphasizes honesty as the essential element that makes a poem worthwhile.

Therefore, the writer asserts that the honesty of the poet regarding their thoughts and feelings is what truly makes a poem worth reading.