PSAT Reading

1. 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"

2. 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")

3. 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

4. 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.

5. 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.

6. 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

7. 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")

8. 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 on another.

• don't quit before you're finished.

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

• avenged.

• set free.

• defended against.

• proven right.