Drill 2 · Reading & Writing · Words in Context
SAT Reading & Writing: Words in Context (Drill 2) is a Reading & Writing practice drill covering Words in Context. It contains 5 original questions created by Brian Stewart, a Barron's test prep author with over 20 years of tutoring experience.
SAT Words in Context questions ask you to identify the word that most precisely fits the tone, meaning, and context of a sentence. This drill includes academic passages from science, history, and literary analysis, where subtle differences in word meaning matter.
Question 1. Preservationists worry that heavy foot traffic will ________ Machu Picchu's ancient stone structures, which have already shown signs of wear.
Which is the most logical and precise word?
Explanation: 'Erode' means gradually wear away, matching 'signs of wear' from foot traffic. 'Bolster' (strengthen) contradicts the concern.
Question 2. Despite growing international recognition, many Indigenous Australian writers remain ________ in most university curricula outside Australia, appearing only rarely in syllabi.
Which is the most logical and precise word?
Explanation: 'Marginal' means occupying a peripheral position, matching 'appearing only rarely.' 'Pivotal' (crucially important) contradicts this.
Question 3. Yo-Yo Ma is known for performances that ________ the boundaries between classical music and other genres. His Silk Road Ensemble blends Western classical with Central Asian, Chinese, and Middle Eastern styles.
Which is the most logical and precise word?
Explanation: 'Transcend' means go beyond limits; Ma actively crosses genre boundaries through deliberate artistic blending.
Question 4. From Austen's Pride and Prejudice: Mr. Darcy drew attention by 'his fine, tall person, handsome features, noble mien.'
As used in the text, what does 'mien' most nearly mean?
Explanation: 'Mien' means a person's manner and appearance. Listed alongside physical attributes (tall, handsome), it describes bearing/demeanor. Wealth is mentioned separately.
Question 5. To survive Antarctic winters, emperor penguins ________ in large, tightly packed groups, rotating positions so each takes a turn at the warmer center.
Which is the most logical and precise word?
Explanation: 'Congregate' means gather together, matching 'large, tightly packed groups.' They're stationary (not migrating) and cooperating (not competing).