CASAS Level D Reading Coach

Worked Example: How to Think

Due to unexpected track repairs at the 5th Avenue station, Blue Line trains will operate on a modified schedule. Expect 15-minute delays throughout the weekend. We suggest using the Green Line as an alternative route.

Question: What should passengers do if they want to avoid delays?

A) Wait at the 5th Avenue station.
B) Use the Green Line instead.
C) Travel only on weekdays.
D) Fix the tracks themselves.
Step 1: Identify Text & Topic I can see this is an email or official notice. The subject line says it is about "Service Delay." Step 2: Analyze the Question The question asks "What should passengers do?" It's looking for a specific action or suggestion. Step 3: Scan the Text I'm looking for "alternative" or "instead" or "passengers should." Step 4-7: Find the Answer The last sentence says: "We suggest using the Green Line as an alternative." This matches Option B. Step 8: Advice Don't guess if you have no idea what the answer might be as that could give you a false score.

More Practice Questions

FREE COMPUTER CLASSES

Learn Microsoft Word, Excel, and Email Safety!
Registration begins Monday, April 5th.
Limited to 15 students per class.
First come, first served.

1. When can students start signing up for classes?

A) Today
B) April 15th
C) Monday, April 5th
D) Any weekend

2. What does "first come, first served" imply?

A) The classes are about cooking.
B) Students should register early to get a spot.
C) Only 5 students are allowed.
D) Teachers will serve lunch.
EMPLOYEE DRESS CODE POLICY

Employees must maintain a professional appearance. Business casual attire is required Monday through Thursday. On Fridays, "Casual Day" allows for clean, non-ripped jeans. Open-toed shoes are prohibited at all times for safety reasons.

3. Based on the text, what is true about Fridays?

A) No shoes are allowed.
B) Jeans are permitted if they are in good condition.
C) Employees do not have to work.
D) Suits must be worn.

4. Why are open-toed shoes forbidden?

A) They are too expensive.
B) To keep the office looking clean.
C) To ensure the safety of the workers.
D) Because it is winter.

The Future of Urban Farming

As metropolitan populations expand, the concept of "vertical farming" has moved from science fiction to reality. Unlike traditional agriculture, which requires vast tracts of land, vertical farms stack crops in layers within climate-controlled buildings. This innovative method uses 90% less water than soil-based farming and eliminates the need for chemical pesticides.

Critics argue that the electricity needed for 24-hour LED lighting is too costly. However, proponents point out that growing food in the city reduces transportation costs and carbon emissions. By bringing the farm to the consumer, the food stays fresher longer. Many believe this will be the primary way we feed city dwellers by 2050.

(...Text continues to meet 300-word requirement...) Indoor farming also allows for year-round production regardless of the weather outside. While a drought might destroy a traditional corn crop, a vertical farm inside a skyscraper in Chicago remains unaffected. This stability provides food security for areas prone to natural disasters. Furthermore, urban farms can be built in "food deserts"—neighborhoods where fresh produce is otherwise unavailable. Despite the initial high setup costs, the long-term benefits to public health and the environment are undeniable. Most experts agree that a hybrid approach, using both traditional and vertical methods, is the most sustainable path forward.

9. In the text, the word "innovative" most nearly means:

A) Old-fashioned
B) New and creative
C) Very expensive
D) Difficult to understand

10. What is a major advantage of vertical farming mentioned in the article?

A) It uses much less water than traditional farming.
B) It requires no electricity.
C) It is only possible in small villages.
D) It increases carbon emissions from trucks.

Your Final Score: