501 Critical Reading Questions

a. bored haberdasher who stumbled upon scientific discovery.
b. trained researcher with an interest in microbiology.
c. proficient hobbyist who made microscopic lenses for 
entertainment.
d. inquisitive amateur who made pioneer studies of microbes.
e. talented scientist interested in finding a cure for disease.
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Critical Reading Questions
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173.
In line 3, inspired most nearly means
a. introduced.
b. invested.
c. influenced.
d. indulged.
e. inclined.
174.
The quotation from Leeuwenhoek (lines 23–28) is used to
illustrate
a. the value he placed on sharing knowledge among scientists.
b. that scientific discoveries often go unrecognized.
c. that much important research is spurred by professional 
ambition.
d. the serendipity of scientific progress.
e. the importance of Leeuwenhoek’s discoveries in fighting infec-
tious diseases.
175.
The author’s attitude toward Leeuwenhoek’s contribution to
medicine is one of
a. ecstatic reverence.
b. genuine admiration.
c. tepid approval.
d. courteous opposition.
e. antagonistic incredulity.
Questions 176–179 are based on the following passage.
The following passage discusses the findings of several recent health surveys
investigating the physical activity level of American adolescents.
Almost 50% of American teens are not vigorously active on a regular
basis, contributing to a trend of sluggishness among Americans of all
ages, according the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC). Ado-
lescent female students are particularly inactive—29% are inactive
compared with 15% of male students. Unfortunately, the sedentary
habits of young “couch potatoes” often continue into adulthood.
According to the Surgeon General’s 1996 Report on Physical Activ-
ity and Health, Americans become increasingly less active with each
year of age. Inactivity can be a serious health risk factor, setting the
stage for obesity and associated chronic illnesses like heart disease or
diabetes. The benefits of exercise include building bone, muscle, and
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