The History of Ballet - TOEFL iBT® Reading Practice Test

In the TOEFL Reading section, you may encounter passages like 'The History of Ballet' that explore significant cultural developments. This task will test your ability to comprehend historical context, analyze details, and grasp the evolution of art forms. Engaging with such topics helps you become comfortable with reading tasks that require both factual recall and deeper understanding.

By practicing with passages like this, you’ll improve your reading skills, making the TOEFL exam more manageable.

Reading Instructions:

• You have 15 minutes to read the following passage and answer all 9 questions related to 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 section/paragraphs have been provided again with the question for ease of understanding and quick solution.
• Some questions include a word or phrase that is highlighted in the question as well as in the paragraph for quick reference.

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

Paragraph 1

The history of ballet is a rich story that blends art, culture, and social change. It started in the Italian Renaissance courts in the 15th century, where ballet was a form of fun for the wealthy, complete with fancy costumes and complex dance moves. The word "ballet" comes from the Italian term "ballare," which means "to dance." At first, these performances were not just artistic shows; they were social events that strengthened the status of the nobility. As ballet grew, it moved beyond its royal beginnings to become a major cultural force across Europe and eventually around the world.

Factual Information Questions

1. According to paragraph 1, where did ballet originate? 
   
   1. France 
   2. Italy 
   3. England 
   4. Spain 

Negative Factual Information Questions

1. The author mentions all of the following about ballet in paragraph 1 EXCEPT: 
   
   1. It was initially a form of entertainment for the wealthy. 
   2. It was performed in royal courts. 
   3. The term "ballet" is derived from a French word. 
   4. It played a role in reinforcing the nobility's status. 

Paragraph 2 

By the late 16th century, ballet found its way to France, where it changed a lot. Under King Louis XIV, who loved to dance, ballet became a formal theatrical art. The founding of the Acadmie Royale de Danse in 1661 was a key moment in ballet's journey, as it created a structured space for training dancers and developing dance techniques. This organization raised the profile of ballet and led to the first professional ballet company, the Ballet de l'Opra. Louis XIV's support didnt just boost performances; it also helped cement ballet's role in French culture and society.

Inference Questions

1. What can be inferred about King Louis XIV's influence on ballet? 
   
   1. He was indifferent to the art form. 
   2. He played a crucial role in formalising ballet as a theatrical art. 
   3. He discouraged the establishment of ballet schools. 
   4. He preferred other forms of entertainment over ballet. 

Rhetorical Purpose Questions

1. Why does the author mention the founding of the Acadmie Royale de Danse in paragraph 2? 
   
   1. To highlight the decline of ballet in France. 
   2. To illustrate the importance of structured training in ballet's development. 
   3. To discuss the financial aspects of ballet. 
   4. To compare ballet with other art forms. 

Paragraph 3 

The 18th century saw ballet emerge as a unique art form, separate from opera. This time is often called the "Golden Age of Ballet," marked by new styles and techniques. Important figures like Jean-Georges Noverre pushed for a more expressive dance that told stories and conveyed emotions. His influential work, "Letters on Dancing and Ballet," published in 1760, highlighted the importance of storytelling in ballet, leading to narrative ballets that interested audiences. This shift towards a more dramatic style laid the groundwork for future developments, though it also sparked debates about the balance between technical skill and emotional expression.

Vocabulary Questions

1. The word "expressive" in paragraph 3 is closest in meaning to: 
   
   1. emotional 
   2. rigid 
   3. dull 
   4. technical 

Sentence Simplification Questions

1. Which of the sentences below best expresses the essential information in the following text from paragraph 3? 

   "His influential work, 'Letters on Dancing and Ballet,' published in 1760, highlighted the importance of storytelling in ballet, leading to narrative ballets that interested audiences." 

   1. Noverre's work emphasised storytelling in ballet, resulting in narrative ballets. 
   2. Noverre's work was published in 1760 and was not influential. 
   3. Storytelling was not important in ballet until Noverre's time. 
   4. Narrative ballets were created without any influence from Noverre. 

Paragraph 4

The 19th century introduced Romantic ballet, focusing on light themes and the magical. This era brought the idea of the "ballerina," a female dancer who represented grace and delicacy. The creation of the pointe shoe allowed dancers to perform en pointe, creating a weightless appearance. Iconic ballets like "Giselle" and "La Sylphide" captured the Romantic spirit, exploring themes of love, loss, and the magical. But this time also had its challenges; the focus on female dancers often overshadowed the roles of male dancers and choreographers, sparking discussions about gender roles in the art.

Prose Summary Questions

1. What is the main idea of paragraph 4? 
   
   1. The 19th century was a time of challenges for male dancers. 
   2. Romantic ballet introduced new themes and the concept of the ballerina. 
   3. Pointe shoes were invented in the 19th century. 
   4. Iconic ballets were only performed by male dancers. 

Paragraph 5 

Moving into the 20th century, ballet underwent significant changes influenced by various artistic movements like Modernism and Expressionism. Choreographers such as Igor Stravinsky and George Balanchine transformed ballet by blending contemporary music with new choreography. Balanchine, in particular, is known for redefining ballet for modern times, emphasizing athleticism and general movement. He founded the New York City Ballet in 1948, which further established ballet's place in American culture, showcasing a mix of classical technique and modern ideas. But this evolution raised questions about how to preserve traditional ballet techniques while pushing for innovation.

Insert Missing Sentence Question

1. In paragraph 5, there is a missing sentence. The paragraph is repeated below and shows four letters (A, B, C, and D) that indicate where the following sentence could be added. 

   "Balanchine's work has had a lasting impact on the evolution of ballet." 

   Where would the sentence best fit? 

   (A) Moving into the 20th century, ballet underwent significant changes influenced by various artistic movements like Modernism and Expressionism. (B) Choreographers such as Igor Stravinsky and George Balanchine transformed ballet by blending contemporary music with new choreography. (C) Balanchine, in particular, is known for redefining ballet for modern times, emphasising athleticism and general movement. (D) He founded the New York City Ballet in 1948, which further established ballet's place in American culture, showcasing a mix of classical technique and modern ideas. 

Paragraph 6

Today, ballet keeps evolving, reflecting modern themes and social issues. While classic ballets are still a big part of the repertoire, modern choreographers are experimenting with new styles, mixing in elements from various dance forms like hip-hop and contemporary dance. The global spread of ballet has led to diverse interpretations and styles, enriching the art form. As ballet moves forward, it holds onto its historical roots while embracing new ideas, ensuring it stays relevant in the ever-changing world of performing arts. The lasting legacy of ballet shows its ability to adapt and connect with audiences across generations, while also inviting ongoing questions about how it can reflect the complexities of modern society.

Purpose of the Passage Questions

1. What is the main purpose of the passage? 
   
   1. To provide a detailed history of ballet. 
   2. To argue that ballet is no longer relevant. 
   3. To discuss the challenges faced by ballet in the 21st century. 
   4. To illustrate how ballet has evolved and adapted over time. 

Prose Summary Questions

1. Directions: An introductory sentence for a brief summary of the passage is provided below. Complete the summary by selecting the THREE answer choices that express the most important ideas in the passage. Some sentences do not belong in the summary because they express ideas that are not presented in the passage or are minor ideas in the passage. This question is worth 2 points. 
   1. Ballet originated in the Italian Renaissance courts and became a significant cultural force in Europe.
   2. The 19th century introduced the concept of the ballerina and the use of pointe shoes.
   3. Modern choreographers are experimenting with new styles while maintaining traditional techniques.
   4. Ballet has remained unchanged since its inception, focusing solely on classical techniques.
   5. King Louis XIV played a minor role in the development of ballet as a theatrical art.
   6. Jean-Georges Noverre’s work led to the development of narrative ballets that conveyed emotions and stories.

Answer Key with Explanation for TOEFL Reading Passage - The History of Ballet 

1. Answer: B

Explanation: The passage clearly states that ballet originated in the Italian Renaissance courts in the 15th century. This historical context is essential to understanding the roots of ballet, as it highlights the initial social and cultural environment in which ballet developed.

2. Answer: C

Explanation: The passage specifies that the term "ballet" comes from the Italian word "ballare," meaning "to dance." This directly contradicts option C, which incorrectly states that it is derived from a French word. The other options accurately reflect the information presented in the paragraph.

3. Answer: B

Explanation: The passage indicates that under King Louis XIV, ballet transitioned into a formal theatrical art, suggesting that his support was instrumental in its development. This implies that his influence was significant, rather than indifferent or discouraging, as suggested by the other options.

4. Answer: B

Explanation: The founding of the Acadmie Royale de Danse is highlighted as a key moment in ballet's history, emphasizing the establishment of structured training for dancers. This indicates that the author aims to show how such institutions contributed to the formalisation and advancement of ballet as an art form.

5. Answer: A

Explanation: The term "expressive" refers to the ability to convey emotions and feelings through dance. In the context of ballet, it suggests a focus on emotional storytelling, aligning closely with the meaning of "emotional."

6. Answer: A

Explanation: This option succinctly captures the essence of the original sentence by stating that Noverre's work highlighted storytelling, which led to the creation of narrative ballets. The other options either misrepresent the information or introduce inaccuracies.

7. Answer: B

Explanation: The paragraph discusses the emergence of Romantic ballet, focusing on its themes and the introduction of the ballerina as a central figure. This encapsulates the main idea, while the other options focus on narrower aspects of the paragraph.

8.Answer: C

Explanation: The sentence about Balanchine's lasting impact fits best after mentioning him specifically, as it reinforces his significance in the evolution of ballet. Placing it here maintains the flow of information regarding his contributions.

9. Answer: D

Explanation: The passage provides a comprehensive overview of ballet's history, focusing on its evolution and adaptation to cultural changes. This aligns with option D, while the other options either misrepresent the passage's intent or focus on specific aspects rather than the overall purpose.

10. Answer Choices: A. Ballet originated in the Italian Renaissance courts and became a significant cultural force in Europe. 

B. The 19th century introduced the concept of the ballerina and the use of pointe shoes. 

C. Modern choreographers are experimenting with new styles while maintaining traditional techniques.

Explanation: These three choices encapsulate the key themes of the passage: the origins of ballet, the introduction of the ballerina and pointe shoes in the 19th century, and the ongoing evolution of ballet in modern times. Option D is incorrect as it contradicts the passage's emphasis on ballet's adaptability and change over time.

Practicing passages like 'The History of Ballet' will enhance your reading comprehension and critical thinking. With consistent effort, you’ll develop the ability to analyze complex historical texts and perform well in the TOEFL exam.

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