MTEL Communication Literacy Skills : Reading Practice Test

When drawing conclusions, what should you look for?

1. Conclusive statements made by the author

2. Subtle phrases suggesting uncertainty, like "may" or "likely"

3. Direct information provided in the text

4. Outside knowledge relating to the topic

The correct answer is: Subtle phrases suggesting uncertainty, like "may" or "likely"

The focus on subtle phrases suggesting uncertainty, such as "may" or "likely," is crucial when drawing conclusions because these phrases indicate the author's level of certainty and the possibility of multiple interpretations. Recognizing these nuances allows readers to understand that the author's claims might not be definitive and that conclusions should be drawn with careful consideration of the evidence presented. This critical acknowledgment of uncertainty helps ensure that readers do not overgeneralize or misinterpret the information, particularly when the author is exploring hypotheses or presenting arguments that may not be fully established. While direct information and conclusive statements can provide a solid basis for conclusions, understanding the context in which uncertainty is presented can lead to deeper insights and more thoughtful reasoning. Additionally, considering outside knowledge can also inform understanding but is less directly linked to the textual evidence necessary for drawing conclusions specific to the text.