Uncle Wilbur - TOEFL Reading Practice Test Paper with Answer Key

Success in the TOEFL Reading section relies heavily on a candidate’s ability to understand academic texts in English proficiently. This part of the test reflects the difficulties encountered when reading academic materials in English-speaking settings. It evaluates various skills such as identifying key concepts, extracting specific information, drawing conclusions, and understanding the structure of the text.

Are you feeling anxious about the TOEFL Reading section? Don’t worry! Engaging in practice tests is an effective approach to boost your confidence and succeed in this section of the test. These practice tests are meticulously crafted to closely resemble the actual TOEFL Reading section. 

Through consistent practice with such resources, you'll enhance your ability to comprehensively analyze intricate academic texts. So, let’s start your TOEFL Practice with the test centered on the topic- ‘Uncle Wilbur’. 

Reading Instructions

• You have 15 minutes to read the following passage and answer all 10 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. 

My uncle Wilbur used to dedicate countless hours each day to inspecting the lightning rods positioned atop his house. Given the frequent storms in our state, featuring winds reaching up to sixty miles per hour and hailstones as large as baseballs, Uncle Wilbur often likened lightning to a living entity, cautioning that it would strike anything in motion. He consistently advised my cousins and me to remain vigilant of the nearest sheltering tree and to swiftly drop to the ground at the first sound of thunder. Aware that lightning is drawn to the tallest object in its vicinity, Uncle Wilbur harbored constant concerns for my cousin Jared, who, at the age of sixteen, stood at a towering 6’2” and was still growing.

Uncle Wilbur has long been regarded as a wise individual. We attentively heeded his views when he disregarded the automobile as merely a temporary trend. Despite witnessing an increasing influx of Model Ts in our town each year, Uncle Wilbur steadfastly maintained that nothing could surpass the dependability of a traditional mule for transportation, labor, or even recreation. Indeed, Uncle Wilbur's Mule Olympics, featuring obstacle courses and a long jump, gained widespread recognition. Regrettably, the Mule Olympics ceased to exist in the following decade as the mules aged and lost interest.

Nevertheless, despite the changing times, my uncle Wilbur persisted in forecasting future developments and cautioning us about potential disasters. Even now, he recalls how he foresaw the stock market crash of 1929, which prompted him to safeguard his savings by wrapping them in a handkerchief beneath his mattress. Additionally, when the government initiated income tax collection a few years later, Uncle Wilbur reluctantly complied by contributing a portion of his wealth to Uncle Sam, though he maintained that it was merely a temporary loan.

Uncle Wilbur strongly opposed the power company representative who visited our home one day in 1936. This coincided with the government's initiative to extend electricity to rural areas like ours. Similar to many others, Uncle Wilbur harbored reservations about introducing electricity into our homes. Some of us already had access to running water, and the idea of combining the two utilities seemed unsettling. Uncle Wilbur was particularly taken aback when the representative proposed installing power lines to our house. Almost losing his composure, Uncle Wilbur exclaimed, "Here I am doing everything in my power to avoid lightning strikes, and you want to bring it right to my doorstep?" He politely dismissed the man with a "No, thank you," and a "Good day, sir." However, in the ensuing months, we eventually acquiesced and embraced the introduction of electricity. I must confess, that playing checkers in the dark requires a skill that diminishes without regular practice.

Many changes have occurred since then. Uncle Wilbur, still gripped by the fear of lightning strikes, now leads a more sedentary lifestyle, causing most of his lightning rods to deteriorate and collapse to the ground due to rust. He primarily relies on Social Security for sustenance, which he proudly considers a triumph, often remarking that the government eventually repaid his money. Nowadays, he likely spends more time reflecting on the past than envisioning the future. Nevertheless, Uncle Wilbur staunchly maintains his convictions, adamantly asserting that television will never surpass the popularity of radio and dismissing the notion of human space travel as absurd.

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

Paragraph 1

My uncle Wilbur used to dedicate countless hours each day to inspecting the lightning rods positioned atop his house. Given the frequent storms in our state, featuring winds reaching up to sixty miles per hour and hailstones as large as baseballs, Uncle Wilbur often likened lightning to a living entity, cautioning that it would strike anything in motion. He consistently advised my cousins and me to remain vigilant of the nearest sheltering tree and to swiftly drop to the ground at the first sound of thunder. Aware that lightning is drawn to the tallest object in its vicinity, Uncle Wilbur harbored constant concerns for my cousin Jared, who, at the age of sixteen, stood at a towering 6’2” and was still growing.

1. According to the passage, what does Uncle Wilbur compare lightning to?
   1. A ferocious animal
   2. A racing car
   3. A protective shield
   4. A guiding light

Paragraph 2

Uncle Wilbur has long been regarded as a wise individual. We attentively heeded his views when he disregarded the automobile as merely a temporary trend. Despite witnessing an increasing influx of Model Ts in our town each year, Uncle Wilbur steadfastly maintained that nothing could surpass the dependability of a traditional mule for transportation, labor, or even recreation. Indeed, Uncle Wilbur's Mule Olympics, featuring obstacle courses and a long jump, gained widespread recognition. Regrettably, the Mule Olympics ceased to exist in the following decade as the mules aged and lost interest.

1. What is the primary reason for the cessation of Uncle Wilbur's Mule Olympics?
   1. Declining attendance from participants
   2. Financial difficulties in organizing the event
   3. Loss of interest from the mules due to aging
   4. Environmental concerns related to the event

1. What is the meaning of the word "steadfastly" as used in the passage?
   1. Eagerly
   2. Consistently
   3. Randomly
   4. Occasionally

Paragraph 3

Nevertheless, despite the changing times, my uncle Wilbur persisted in forecasting future developments and cautioning us about potential disasters. Even now, he recalls how he foresaw the stock market crash of 1929, which prompted him to safeguard his savings by wrapping them in a handkerchief beneath his mattress. Additionally, when the government initiated income tax collection a few years later, Uncle Wilbur reluctantly complied by contributing a portion of his wealth to Uncle Sam, though he maintained that it was merely a temporary loan.

1. What was Uncle Wilbur's reaction to the power company representative's proposal to install power lines in their house in 1936?
   1. He welcomed the idea with enthusiasm, considering it a sign of progress.
   2. He expressed hesitation, citing concerns about the potential risks of combining electricity and water.
   3. He rejected the proposal outright, expressing frustration at the thought of inviting lightning strikes.
   4. He agreed reluctantly, realizing the benefits of having access to electricity despite his reservations.

1. What was Uncle Wilbur's main concern about the power company representative's proposal?
   1. The potential impact on the aesthetic appeal of their home.
   2. The inconvenience of having to coordinate the installation process.
   3. The risk of increased utility bills due to the introduction of electricity.
   4. The perceived contradiction of inviting lightning strikes while trying to avoid them.

Paragraph 4

Uncle Wilbur strongly opposed the power company representative who visited our home one day in 1936. This coincided with the government's initiative to extend electricity to rural areas like ours. Similar to many others, Uncle Wilbur harbored reservations about introducing electricity into our homes. Some of us already had access to running water, and the idea of combining the two utilities seemed unsettling. Uncle Wilbur was particularly taken aback when the representative proposed installing power lines to our house. Almost losing his composure, Uncle Wilbur exclaimed, "Here I am doing everything in my power to avoid lightning strikes, and you want to bring it right to my doorstep?" He politely dismissed the man with a "No, thank you," and a "Good day, sir." However, in the ensuing months, we eventually acquiesced and embraced the introduction of electricity. I must confess, that playing checkers in the dark requires a skill that diminishes without regular practice.

1. Which phrase best describes Uncle Wilbur's reaction to the proposal to install power lines in their house?
   1. He was mildly skeptical but ultimately agreed to the installation.
   2. He was initially uncertain but eventually embraced the idea.
   3. He was deeply concerned and vehemently opposed the suggestion.
   4. He was cautiously optimistic and offered suggestions for alternative solutions.

1. What was Uncle Wilbur's attitude toward the idea of introducing electricity into their home?
   1. He was enthusiastic and eagerly embraced the proposal.
   2. He was hesitant and expressed reservations about combining utilities.
   3. He was indifferent and remained passive during the decision-making process.
   4. He was apprehensive and adamantly opposed the introduction of electricity

1. Based on the passage, what does "acquiesced" mean?
   1. Encouraged
   2. Resisted
   3. Relented
   4. Hesitated

Paragraph 5

Many changes have occurred since then. (A) Uncle Wilbur, still gripped by the fear of lightning strikes, now leads a more sedentary lifestyle, causing most of his lightning rods to deteriorate and collapse to the ground due to rust. (B) He primarily relies on Social Security for sustenance, which he proudly considers a triumph, often remarking that the government eventually repaid his money. (C) Nowadays, he likely spends more time reflecting on the past than envisioning the future. (D)Nevertheless, Uncle Wilbur staunchly maintains his convictions, adamantly asserting that television will never surpass the popularity of radio and dismissing the notion of human space travel as absurd. 

1. Directions: Look at the part of the passage that is displayed above. The letters (A), (B), (C), and (D) indicate where the following sentence could be added.
   
   Despite his advancing age and declining physical activity, Uncle Wilbur's unwavering belief in traditional values remains steadfast, serving as a testament to his resilience in the face of changing times.
   
   Where would the sentence best fit?
   1. Choice A
   2. Choice B
   3. Choice C
   4. Choice D

1. Instructions: Below is an introductory sentence for summarizing the passage. You need to choose three answer choices that represent the most significant ideas in the passage to complete the summary. Some answer choices are irrelevant or minor ideas not discussed in the passage. This question is worth 2 points.
   
   Uncle Wilbur's steadfast beliefs and eccentric lifestyle reflect his unique perspective on modernity and traditional values.
   
   

   Answer Choices

   1. Uncle Wilbur's dedication to maintaining lightning rods in his house symbolizes his fear of natural disasters.
   2. The passage discusses Uncle Wilbur's skepticism towards modern innovations like automobiles and electricity.
   3. Uncle Wilbur's reliance on Social Security and his predictions about future trends showcase his adaptability to changing circumstances.
   4. Uncle Wilbur's interest in the Mule Olympics indicates his passion for outdoor activities and community events.
   5. The passage highlights Uncle Wilbur's role as a family mentor, providing guidance to his relatives based on his experiences and beliefs.
   6. Uncle Wilbur's resistance to accepting electricity into his home underscores his apprehension towards technological advancements and his preference for traditional living.

Answer Key with Explanation for TOEFL Reading Passage - Uncle Wilbur

1. Answer: A

Explanation: This is an Inference question seeking details from the first paragraph. Based on the passage, Uncle Wilbur compares lightning to "a living entity," cautioning that it will "strike anything in motion." This comparison implies that Uncle Wilbur perceives lightning as a force of nature that acts with intent, much like a ferocious animal hunting its prey. The comparison emphasizes the potentially dangerous and unpredictable nature of lightning, suggesting that it behaves aggressively and poses a threat to anything in its path, particularly during storms. Therefore, option A) "A ferocious animal" best reflects Uncle Wilbur's comparison in the passage. It accurately captures the idea that Uncle Wilbur sees lightning as a powerful and potentially harmful force akin to a wild animal.

2. Answer: C

Explanation: The primary reason for the cessation of Uncle Wilbur's Mule Olympics can be inferred from the passage. Uncle Wilbur's Mule Olympics, featuring obstacle courses and a long jump, gained widespread recognition. However, the passage states that the Mule Olympics ceased to exist in the following decade "as the mules aged and lost interest." This indicates that option C) "Loss of interest from the mules due to aging" is the correct choice. The passage suggests that the mules' aging process led to a decline in their enthusiasm or ability to participate in the Mule Olympics, ultimately resulting in the event's discontinuation.

3. Answer: B

Explanation: This is a Vocabulary Question. The correct answer is B) Consistently. In the context of the passage, "steadfastly" is used to describe how Uncle Wilbur maintained his belief in the superiority of traditional mules despite the increasing popularity of automobiles. This implies that he held onto his conviction consistently over time. "Eagerly," "randomly," and "occasionally" do not accurately reflect the meaning of "steadfastly" in this context.

4. Answer: C

Explanation: The correct answer is C) He rejected the proposal outright, expressing frustration at the thought of inviting lightning strikes. This is evident from Uncle Wilbur's reaction, where he exclaims, "Here I am doing everything in my power to avoid lightning strikes, and you want to bring it right to my doorstep?" This indicates his strong opposition to the installation of power lines due to his fear of lightning. Options A, B, and D are not supported by the passage.

5. Answer: D

Explanation: The correct answer is D) The perceived contradiction of inviting lightning strikes while trying to avoid them. Uncle Wilbur's main concern, as expressed in the passage, was the irony of inviting lightning strikes by installing power lines to their house when he was actively trying to avoid them. This concern is evident from his exclamation, "Here I am doing everything in my power to avoid lightning strikes, and you want to bring it right to my doorstep?" Options A, B, and C are not supported by the passage.

6. Answer: C

Explanation: The correct answer is C) He was deeply concerned and vehemently opposed the suggestion. This is evident from Uncle Wilbur's reaction, where he expresses his frustration and opposition to the proposal by exclaiming, "Here I am doing everything in my power to avoid lightning strikes, and you want to bring it right to my doorstep?" Options A, B, and D do not accurately represent Uncle Wilbur's reaction as described in the passage.

7. Answer: D

Explanation: The correct answer is D) He was apprehensive and adamantly opposed the introduction of electricity. This is evident from Uncle Wilbur's strong opposition to the proposal, as he vehemently expresses his concerns about inviting lightning strikes to their home. Option A is incorrect because Uncle Wilbur was not enthusiastic about the idea. Options B and C do not accurately represent Uncle Wilbur's attitude as described in the passage.

8. Answer: C

Explanation: This is a Vocabulary Question. The correct answer is C) Relented. In the passage, it mentions that despite Uncle Wilbur's initial opposition to the proposal to install power lines, they eventually acquiesced and embraced the introduction of electricity. "Acquiesced" means to accept something reluctantly but without protest, which aligns with the context provided in the passage. Options A, B, and D do not accurately capture the meaning of "acquiesced" as described in the passage.

9. Answer: A

Explanation: This is an Insert Text Question. The sentence "Many changes have occurred since then." serves as an introductory statement to summarize the passage before detailing Uncle Wilbur's current lifestyle and beliefs. Since it sets the stage for discussing the changes that have taken place, it logically fits before any specific details are provided about Uncle Wilbur's present situation. Therefore, it would best fit at the beginning of the paragraph, before any of the other sentences. So, the correct answer is Choice A

10. Answer: A, B, C

Explanation: This is a prose summary question. The table is completed correctly below.

Option A: Uncle Wilbur's dedication to maintaining lightning rods on his house is mentioned in the passage as a reflection of his fear of natural disasters, particularly lightning strikes.

Option B: The passage indeed discusses Uncle Wilbur's skepticism towards modern innovations like automobiles and electricity, highlighting his preference for traditional values.

Option C: Uncle Wilbur's reliance on Social Security and his predictions about future trends are highlighted in the passage, demonstrating his adaptability to changing circumstances and his forward-thinking attitude.

Option D: The passage does mention Uncle Wilbur's involvement in the Mule Olympics, but it is not a central theme or significant idea in the passage. It serves more as an anecdote rather than a focal point for understanding Uncle Wilbur's character or beliefs.

Option E: While Uncle Wilbur does provide guidance to his relatives based on his experiences and beliefs, this aspect of his character is not a central theme or significant idea in the passage. It is mentioned briefly but does not contribute substantially to the overall message or focus of the passage.

Option F: While Uncle Wilbur's resistance to accepting electricity into his home is mentioned in the passage, it is just one aspect of his overall skepticism towards modern innovations. The passage focuses more broadly on Uncle Wilbur's eccentric lifestyle, his beliefs about traditional values, and his adaptability to changing circumstances. Therefore, this choice does not capture the most significant ideas in the passage.

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