SAT Reading: from Mark Slouka, Brewster: A Novel

Based on the passage, which character would most likely agree with the idea that, when trying something new, it is best not to push one’s limits?

• Falvo

• McCann

• Mosher

• The person who said “Let him go”

Which choice provides the best evidence for the answer to the previous question?

• Lines 14-17 (“All right... McCann”)

• Lines 19-22 (“He turned... yourself”)

• Lines 55-60 (“I remember... sprint”)

• Lines 76-79 (“he caught... horse”)

In the context of Falvo’s instructions to the runners, the main purpose of lines 24-27 (“Pace... OK”) is to

• provide useful general information to the group.

• emphasize and elaborate on advice given earlier.

• introduce a philosophy applicable to sports and life.

• reveal Falvo’s underlying motivation.

In the context of the passage, “I shrugged” (line 23) and “‘Sure,’ I said” (line 28) mainly serve to show the narrator’s

• shyness.

• dismissiveness.

• dishonesty.

• hostility.

Based on the passage, how did the experienced runners respond to Falvo’s advice?

• They enthusiastically embraced it.

• They acted like they hadn’t heard it

• They generally accepted it.

• They only pretended to take it seriously.

What does the narrator say about his motivation for performing as he did in the time trial?

• That he was determined to keep up with the other runners

• That he wanted to prove something to himself

• That he wished to improve on his previous time

• That he was unable to provide a reason for his behavior

Which choice provides the best evidence for the answer to the previous question?

• Lines 36-39 (“They didn’t... power”)

• Line 61 (“I don’t... explain it”)

• Lines 73-76 (“I remember... into him”)

• Lines 91-94 (“I’ll... needed”)

Based on the passage, when Falvo says, “Don’t drain the well” (line 83), he most probably means

• don’t use up all of your energy.

• don’t get sick.

• don’t try to outdo one another.

• don’t quit before you’re finished.

As used in line 89, “vindicated” most nearly means

• avenged.

• set free.

• defended against.

• proven right.