Craftsmen vs Industrialization - TOEFL Reading Practice Questions with Answer Key

Preparing for the TOEFL exam can be prominently facilitated by practicing tests. Not only do they boost your chances of success on exam day, but also maximize your score potential. Engaging in such assessments for the TOEFL Reading section will acquaint you with the exam's format and also enhance the essential skills needed to ace it. 

These include accurate comprehension of complex texts, identification of key information and effective time management. Let's dive in and embark on your journey to TOEFL success with these Reading Practice questions on ‘Craftsmen vs Industrialization’. 

Reading Instructions

• You will be given 15 minutes to read the following passage and answer all 9 questions following it.
• Most questions are worth 1 point, but the last question is worth more. The directions indicate how many points you will receive for that specific question. 
• The specific paragraphs have been provided alongside the question for quick solutions and better understanding.
• Some questions include a word or phrase that is highlighted in the question as well as in the paragraph for quick reference. 

Craftsmen vs Industrialization

Before 1815, manufacturing in the United States was primarily conducted within homes or workshops by proficient artisans. These master craftworkers transmitted their trade expertise to apprentices and journeymen. Additionally, women frequently engaged in part-time work from home, crafting finished goods using raw materials provided by merchant capitalists. However, following 1815, this traditional mode of manufacturing gradually yielded to factory-based production, where machinery was operated by unskilled or semi-skilled workers. Factors such as affordable transportation systems, urbanization, and increased access to capital and credit played pivotal roles in driving this transition towards factory production.

The establishment of a workforce accustomed to factory labor didn't take place smoothly. Prior to the emergence of factories, artisans typically worked from home. Apprentices were considered part of the family, with masters tasked not only with teaching them a trade but also providing education and overseeing their moral conduct. Journeymen understood that by honing their craft, they could ascend to respected master artisans with their own workshops. Moreover, skilled artisans didn't adhere to fixed schedules or work at a consistent pace; instead, they engaged in intermittent periods of intense labor interspersed with leisurely intervals. 

The introduction of factories brought about a significant shift. Items manufactured in factories lacked the refined quality and intricate craftsmanship of handmade goods. The emphasis on pride in one's craftsmanship yielded to the necessity of increasing productivity rates. With the advent of new business methods came a heightened adherence to punctuality. Factory life imposed a structured schedule, with work commencing at the signal of a bell, and workers being expected to maintain a steady pace of operation. Additionally, industrialization necessitated a departure from old habits, demanding workers who were vigilant, reliable, and self-disciplined. Instances of absenteeism or tardiness hindered productivity and disrupted the established factory routine, given the specialized nature of tasks. Industrialization not only revolutionized the organization of work but also fundamentally altered its essence.

The initial generation to encounter these transformations found it challenging to embrace these mindsets. The factory clock emerged as a symbol of the altered work regulations. An example is provided by a mill worker who eventually resigned, articulating discontent about "obedience to the ding-dong of the bell—just as though we are so many living machines." With the erosion of personal liberties, there also came a decline in social standing. Unlike artisan workshops where apprentices closely collaborated with overseeing masters, factories created a distinct separation between laborers and management. Few workers ascended to supervisory roles, and even fewer realized the artisan's aspiration of establishing their own enterprise. Despite receiving adequate wages, workers sensed a deterioration in their societal status.

In this emerging economic landscape, workers occasionally came together to safeguard their rights and traditional lifestyles. Artisans such as carpenters, printers, and tailors formed unions, culminating in the formation of the National Trades’ Union in 1834. While the labor movement gained traction in the years leading up to the Panic of 1837, the subsequent depression saw a sharp decline in labor's influence. During these challenging times, few workers were willing to strike or participate in collective actions. Moreover, skilled craft workers, who spearheaded the unionization drive, felt little affinity with semi-skilled factory workers and unskilled laborers. Despite over a decade of agitation, the achievement of a 10-hour workday for most industries and the legal recognition of workers' right to strike in the 1850s had minimal immediate impact.

Workers shared a common resentment towards industrialization and the decline in their status, yet they were fragmented by various factors such as ethnic and racial divisions, gender disparities, conflicting religious beliefs, differing occupations, political affiliations, and disagreements regarding strategies. They viewed the factory and industrialism not as avenues for advancement, but rather as symbols of their diminished independence and control over their lives. With the increasing specialization and differentiation of United States society, wealth disparities became more pronounced. While the emergence of new markets brought fortunes to a select few, the factory system reduced wages for workers by breaking down labor into smaller, less specialized tasks.

Directions: Once you have read the passage, answer the following questions.

1. What inference can be drawn from the passage regarding articles made before 1815?
   1. They were predominantly crafted by women.
   2. They were typically manufactured in workshops rather than households.
   3. They were crafted with greater emphasis on quality rather than speed.
   4. They were mainly produced in large cities with well-developed transportation systems. 

Paragraph 2

The establishment of a workforce accustomed to factory labor didn't take place smoothly. Prior to the emergence of factories, artisans typically worked from home. Apprentices were considered part of the family, with masters tasked not only with teaching them a trade but also providing education and overseeing their moral conduct. Journeymen understood that by honing their craft, they could ascend to respected master artisans with their own workshops. Moreover, skilled artisans didn't adhere to fixed schedules or work at a consistent pace; instead, they engaged in intermittent periods of intense labor interspersed with leisurely intervals. 

1. Which option accurately conveys the main idea highlighted in the sentence from the passage? Incorrect choices alter or omit crucial information.
   1. Masters expected moral conduct from apprentices but sometimes treated them irresponsibly.
   2. Masters had obligations towards apprentices beyond just teaching a trade.
   3. Masters favored keeping the trade within the family through mentoring younger relatives.
   4. Masters who trained family members as apprentices insisted on their excellence.

Paragraph 3

The introduction of factories brought about a significant shift. Items manufactured in factories lacked the refined quality and intricate craftsmanship of handmade goods. The emphasis on pride in one's craftsmanship yielded to the necessity of increasing productivity rates. With the advent of new business methods came a heightened adherence to punctuality. Factory life imposed a structured schedule, with work commencing at the signal of a bell, and workers being expected to maintain a steady pace of operation. Additionally, industrialization necessitated a departure from old habits, demanding workers who were vigilant, reliable, and self-disciplined. Instances of absenteeism or tardiness hindered productivity and disrupted the established factory routine, given the specialized nature of tasks. Industrialization not only revolutionized the organization of work but also fundamentally altered its essence.

1. The word "disrupted" in the passage is most similar in meaning to which of the following?
   1. Prolonged
   2. Established
   3. Followed
   4. Upset

Paragraph 4

The initial generation to encounter these transformations found it challenging to embrace these mindsets. The factory clock emerged as a symbol of the altered work regulations. An example is provided by a mill worker who eventually resigned, articulating discontent about "obedience to the ding-dong of the bell—just as though we are so many living machines." With the erosion of personal liberties, there also came a decline in social standing. Unlike artisan workshops where apprentices closely collaborated with overseeing masters, factories created a distinct separation between laborers and management. Few workers ascended to supervisory roles, and even fewer realized the artisan's aspiration of establishing their own enterprise. Despite receiving adequate wages, workers sensed a deterioration in their societal status.

1. In paragraph 4, why does the author incorporate the quotation from a mill worker?
   1. To bolster the notion that workers found it challenging to adapt to factory work.
   2. To illustrate instances where workers left their jobs due to the loud noise of machinery.
   3. To contend that clocks served no practical purpose in factories.
   4. To underscore the idea that factories thrived when workers voiced their grievances.

1. In paragraph 4, which of the following is NOT listed as a consequence of the new system for workers?
   1. Freedom
   2. Community status
   3. Advancement opportunities
   4. Interaction among non-managerial workers

Paragraph 5

In this emerging economic landscape, workers occasionally came together to safeguard their rights and traditional lifestyles. Artisans such as carpenters, printers, and tailors formed unions, culminating in the formation of the National Trades’ Union in 1834. While the labor movement gained traction in the years leading up to the Panic of 1837, the subsequent depression saw a sharp decline in labor's influence. During these challenging times, few workers were willing to strike or participate in collective actions. Moreover, skilled craft workers, who spearheaded the unionization drive, felt little affinity with semi-skilled factory workers and unskilled laborers. Despite over a decade of agitation, the achievement of a 10-hour workday for most industries and the legal recognition of workers' right to strike in the 1850s had minimal immediate impact.

1. Which of the assertions regarding the labor movement of the 1800s is backed by paragraph 5?
   1. It thrived during periods of economic downturn.
   2. Its main aim was to aid unskilled laborers.
   3. Progress in enhancing conditions for workers was sluggish.
   4. It facilitated the formation of a robust camaraderie among workers of varying skill level

Paragraph 6

Workers shared a common resentment towards industrialization and the decline in their status, yet they were fragmented by various factors such as ethnic and racial divisions, gender disparities, conflicting religious beliefs, differing occupations, Political party loyalties, and differences in strategies. They viewed the factory and industrialism not as avenues for advancement, but rather as symbols of their diminished independence and control over their lives. With the increasing specialization and differentiation of United States society, wealth disparities became more pronounced. While the emergence of new markets brought fortunes to a select few, the factory system reduced wages for workers by breaking down labor into smaller, less specialized tasks.

1. The writer points out that among various factors, "political party loyalties" and "differences in strategies" are two that:
   1. Motivated workers to seek increased wages
   2. Led to rifts within the workforce
   3. Resulted in the specialization of labor
   4. Heightened workers' animosity toward the industrial system

Paragraph 1

Before 1815, manufacturing in the United States was primarily conducted within homes or workshops by proficient artisans. (A) These master craftworkers transmitted their trade expertise to apprentices and journeymen. (B) Additionally, women frequently engaged in part-time work from home, crafting finished goods using raw materials provided by merchant capitalists. (C) However, following 1815, this traditional mode of manufacturing gradually yielded to factory-based production, where machinery was operated by unskilled or semi-skilled workers. (D) Factors such as affordable transportation systems, urbanization, and increased access to capital and credit played pivotal roles in driving this transition towards factory production.

1. Consider the excerpt provided above. The labels (A), (B), (C), and (D) indicate potential insertion points for the following statement. This emerging method of manufacturing relied on the transportation of products to remote areas and a centralized pool of workers.
   
   In which option would the sentence be most appropriately placed?
   1. Choice A
   2. Choice B
   3. Choice C
   4. Choice D

1. Instructions: Fill in the table provided by distinguishing between the answer choices that represent features of the era preceding 1815 and those that represent features of the period between 1815 and 1850. This question is worth 3 points.
   

   Before 1815	1815-1850

   
   Answer Choices
   1. A cohesive and notably effective labor movement emerged.
   2. Workers found satisfaction in the quality of their craftsmanship.
   3. The disparity in wealth between the affluent and the impoverished widened significantly.
   4. Transportation infrastructure started to deteriorate.
   5. Priority was given to adhering to timetables.
   6. Laborers underwent prolonged training processes.
   7. There was minimal anticipation among workers to become a business owner

Answer Key with Explanation for TOEFL Reading Passage - Craftsmen vs Industrialization

1. Answer: C

Explanation: Numerous sentences throughout the passage support option C. The first paragraph elucidates that prior to 1815, manufacturing in the United States was predominantly carried out by skilled artisans either in homes or workshops. However, post-1815, this traditional method yielded to factories equipped with machinery operated by unskilled or semi-skilled workers. Additionally, the second paragraph elucidates that artisans didn't adhere to strict timekeeping and worked in sporadic bursts rather than maintaining a steady pace. Furthermore, the third paragraph accentuates that the emergence of factories led to a decline in craftsmanship, with goods produced by them being less refined compared to handmade ones, as the focus shifted towards enhancing productivity rates.

Collectively, these three statements, detailing production rates, the ascent of factories post-1815, and the deterioration of craftsmanship thereafter, lend credence to the inference that preceding 1815, the paramount concern was on ensuring quality rather than prioritizing the swiftness of production. Answer choices A, B, and D are all invalidated by the passage. 

2. Answer: B

Explanation: This is a Sentence Simplification question. As with all of these questions, a single sentence in the passage is highlighted. 

Apprentices were considered part of the family, with masters tasked not only with teaching them a trade but also providing education and overseeing their moral conduct. 

The correct answer, choice B, encapsulates all the necessary details presented in the highlighted sentence. It elucidates both the reason (part of the family) and the method (education, moral behavior) through which a master's obligations extended beyond merely imparting a trade. The crux of the matter lies in acknowledging that the master's duty surpassed vocational training. Therefore, choice B encompasses all pertinent information without altering the essence of the highlighted sentence.

Choice A distorts the intended meaning of the highlighted sentence by suggesting that masters frequently mishandled their apprentices.

Choice C contradicts the core message of the highlighted sentence. The assertion that "Apprentices were considered part of the family" implies that they were not actual relatives.

Similarly, choice D, akin to choice C, distorts the intended meaning of the highlighted sentence by equating family members with apprentices.

3. Answer: D

Explanation: This is a Vocabulary question focusing on the word "disrupted," highlighted in the passage. The correct answer, choice D, is "upset." In this context, "upset" pertains to hindering productivity. When something is harmed or impaired, it is considered "upset."

4. Answer: A

Explanation: This is a Factual Information question seeking specific details from paragraph. The correct answer, choice A, indicates that the paragraph supports the notion that workers faced challenges in adapting to factory work. The paragraph commences by highlighting the workers' reluctance to embrace new work attitudes, with the clock symbolizing the imposition of new work regulations. The provided quotation serves as evidence of this difficulty. There is no indication within the paragraph suggesting that workers resigned due to excessive noise, rendering choice B incorrect. Choice C, which posits the usefulness of clocks, is refuted by the paragraph's assertion that while the factory clock was functional, workers detested it. Furthermore, choice D, which discusses workers' grievances as a contributing factor to a factory's success, is not addressed in this paragraph.

5. Answer: D

Explanation: This is a Negative Factual Information question seeking a specific detail from the paragraph. The correct answer, choice D, is "Interaction among non-managerial workers". The paragraph directly refutes this assertion by stating that factories sharply separated workers from management. Additionally, the paragraph explicitly mentions that workers did not retain choice A (freedom), choice B (Community status), or choice C (Advancement opportunities) within the new system, rendering those choices incorrect.

6. Answer: C

Explanation: This is a Factual Information question seeking specific details from paragraph 5. The correct answer, choice C, indicates that improvements in workers' conditions were slow to materialize. The paragraph affirms this by mentioning, "Despite over a decade of agitation, the achievement of a 10-hour workday for most industries and the legal recognition of workers' right to strike in the 1850s had minimal immediate impact". This assertion directly aligns with choice C. Conversely, all other options are refuted by the content of the paragraph.

7. Answer: B

Explanation: This is a Factual Information question seeking specific details about a highlighted phrase in the passage. The correct answer, choice B, indicates the phrase- created divisions among workers. The paragraph elucidates, "they were fragmented by various factors such as ethnic and racial divisions, gender disparities, conflicting religious beliefs, differing occupations, Political party loyalties, and differences in strategies" are expressly mentioned as two factors contributing to divisions among workers. Conversely, the other options are not explicitly stated and are therefore incorrect.

8. Answer: 

Explanation: This is an Insert Text question. You can see the four possible answer

choices in paragraph 1. Before 1815, manufacturing in the United States was primarily conducted within homes or workshops by proficient artisans. (A) These master craftworkers transmitted their trade expertise to apprentices and journeymen. (B) Additionally, women frequently engaged in part-time work from home, crafting finished goods using raw materials provided by merchant capitalists. (C) However, following 1815, this traditional mode of manufacturing gradually yielded to factory-based production, where machinery was operated by unskilled or semi-skilled workers. The sentence provided, “This emerging form of manufacturing relied on the transportation of products to remote areas and a centralized pool of workers” is best inserted at choice (D). The inserted sentence refers explicitly to an “emerging form of manufacturing.” This “emerging form of manufacturing” is the one mentioned in the sentence before choice (D), “factory-based production, where machinery was operated by unskilled or semi-skilled workers.” The inserted sentence then explains that this new system “relied on the transportation of products to remote areas and a centralized pool of workers.” The sentence that follows choice (D) goes on to say, “affordable transportation systems, urbanization, and increased access to capital and credit played pivotal roles in driving this transition towards factory production.” Therefore, the sentence inserted references both the sentence preceding choice (D) and the sentence following choice (D). None of the other potential insertion points possess this characteristic, making choice (D) the correct answer.

9. Explanation: This is a Fill in Table question, and the table has been accurately completed below. The appropriate selections for the "Before 1815" column are B and F. Choices C, E, and G are suitable for the "1815–1850" column. Choices A and D do not fit into either column. 

Answer Choices

1. A cohesive and notably effective labor movement emerged.
2. Workers found satisfaction in the quality of their craftsmanship.
3. The disparity in wealth between the affluent and the impoverished widened significantly.
4. Transportation infrastructure started to deteriorate.
5. Priority was given to adhering to timetables.
6. Laborers underwent prolonged training processes.
7. There was minimal anticipation among workers to become a business owner

Correct Choices

Choice B: “Workers found satisfaction in the quality of their craftsmanship” belongs in the “Before 1815” column because it is mentioned in the passage as one of the characteristics of labor before 1815.

Choice C: “The disparity in wealth between the affluent and the impoverished widened significantly” belongs in the “1815–1850” column because it is mentioned in the passage as one of the characteristics of society that emerged in the period between 1815 and 1850.

Choice E: “Priority was given to adhering to timetables” belongs in the “1815–1850” column because it is mentioned in the passage as one of the characteristics of labor in the factory system that emerged between 1815 and 1850.

Choice F: “Laborers underwent prolonged training processes.” belongs in the “Before 1815” column because it is mentioned in the passage as one of the characteristics of labor before 1815.

Choice G: “There was minimal anticipation among workers to become business owner” belongs in the“1815–1850” column because it is mentioned in the passage as one of the characteristics of society that emerged in the period between 1815 and 1850.

Incorrect Choices

Choice A: “A cohesive and notably effective labor movement emerged” does not belong in the table because it negates the passage.

Choice D: “Transportation infrastructure started to deteriorate” does not belong in the table because it is not cited in the passage in connection with either the period before 1815 or the period between 1815 and 1850. 

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