Reading Comprehension Question for CAT (Basic - 10)

Read the following passage and answer the questions that follow:

Read the following passage carefully and answer the questions that follow:  

Language is more than just a tool for communication—it is the foundation of culture. Every language carries with it a unique worldview, history, and identity that shape how people perceive reality. The relationship between language and culture is so deep that losing a language often means losing an entire cultural heritage.

One of the most striking ways language influences culture is through thought patterns and perceptions. Linguistic relativity, also known as the Sapir-Whorf Hypothesis, suggests that the language we speak affects how we think. For example, some Indigenous languages have multiple words for snow, shaping how speakers interact with their environment. Similarly, languages with gendered nouns may influence societal views on gender roles. This shows that language is not just a means of expression—it actively molds cultural identity.

Moreover, language preserves history and traditions. Folktales, religious texts, and proverbs carry moral lessons and collective wisdom, passing them down through generations. When a language declines, these cultural treasures risk being lost. For instance, the disappearance of Indigenous languages often erases ancient knowledge about medicinal plants and ecological sustainability.

However, globalization poses a threat to linguistic diversity. The dominance of English and other global languages has led to the endangerment of many regional tongues, as younger generations shift towards more widely spoken languages for better economic opportunities. While linguistic evolution is natural, the loss of native languages weakens cultural diversity.

To preserve cultural heritage, efforts must be made to protect and revitalize endangered languages. Governments, educators, and communities must promote multilingualism, ensuring that language continues to serve as both a bridge to the past and a path to the future.

Q.1 Which of the following statements least supports the argument made in the passage?

a.Language is deeply tied to culture and influences how people perceive the world.

b.The loss of a language can lead to the disappearance of cultural traditions and historical knowledge.

c.Language is simply a tool for communication and does not shape human thought or identity.

d.Indigenous languages often contain unique knowledge about ecology and traditional medicine.

Q.2 Which of the following statements does not weaken the argument made in the passage?

a.The dominance of global languages like English has led to the decline of many regional languages.

b.Language is constantly evolving, and cultural identity can be maintained even if a native language fades away.

c.Some cultures have successfully preserved their traditions despite linguistic shifts.

d.Efforts to revitalize endangered languages have helped maintain cultural identity in some communities.

Q.3 What is the primary objective of the passage?

a.To explain the close relationship between language and culture and stress the importance of preserving linguistic diversity.

b.To argue that globalization will inevitably lead to the extinction of smaller languages, and efforts to stop it are futile.

c.To highlight how the evolution of language has improved human communication and removed cultural barriers.

d.To suggest that languages do not significantly influence human perception or cultural identity.

Q.4 Which of the following statements cannot be inferred from the passage?

a.Linguistic relativity suggests that language shapes how people perceive and interact with the world.

b.The loss of native languages due to globalization may weaken cultural diversity.

c.All cultures with endangered languages will inevitably lose their traditions and identities.

d.Multilingualism can help in preserving linguistic and cultural diversity.

Read the following passage carefully and answer the questions that follow:  

Traditional education systems often prioritize academic knowledge over practical skills, leaving many graduates unprepared for the demands of the job market. Vocational education, which focuses on equipping individuals with specialized skills, offers an alternative that bridges this gap. By emphasizing hands-on training and industry-specific expertise, vocational education plays a crucial role in economic development and individual career growth.

One of the key benefits of vocational education is its direct alignment with industry needs. Unlike conventional degree programs, vocational courses train students for specific professions such as plumbing, carpentry, healthcare, and information technology. This ensures employability by providing students with the skills that are in high demand. For instance, in many countries, the rise of automation has increased the need for skilled technicians rather than general graduates.

Moreover, vocational education often leads to faster employment and financial independence. Many vocational programs are shorter and more affordable than traditional university degrees, allowing students to enter the workforce quickly and with less financial burden. In developing economies, this is particularly significant, as it helps reduce unemployment and promotes entrepreneurship.

However, despite its advantages, vocational education still faces societal stigma, with many people perceiving it as inferior to academic degrees. This misconception discourages students from pursuing vocational careers, even when such paths may offer better job prospects than conventional degrees. To overcome this, policymakers and educators must work to integrate vocational training into mainstream education and raise awareness about its value.

In conclusion, vocational education is essential for preparing a skilled workforce and reducing unemployment. By changing perceptions and expanding vocational training opportunities, societies can create a more balanced and job-ready workforce.

Q.5 Which of the following statements does not weaken the argument made in the passage?

a.Many vocational programs focus too narrowly on specific industries, limiting career flexibility.

b.Countries with strong vocational education systems sometimes struggle with skill mismatches due to changing industry demands.

c.Vocational education provides individuals with in-demand skills, improving their job prospects.

d.The perception of vocational education as inferior discourages students from enrolling in such programs.

Q.6 What is the primary objective of the passage?

a.To argue that vocational education is superior to academic education.

b.To highlight the importance of vocational education in improving employability and reducing unemployment.

c.To emphasize that only hands-on training is necessary for career success.

d.To advocate for the elimination of traditional degree programs in favor of vocational training.

Q.7 Which of the following statements cannot be inferred from the passage?

a.Vocational training is often perceived as inferior to traditional education.

b.Governments should integrate vocational education into mainstream schooling.

c.Vocational training ensures higher salaries than academic degrees.

d.Practical skills gained through vocational education improve employment prospects.

Q.8 Which of the following statements least supports the argument presented in the passage?

a.Vocational education provides specialized training, increasing students’ employability.

b.Many countries have seen lower unemployment rates due to increased focus on vocational training.

c.Traditional academic degrees offer more comprehensive career opportunities than vocational training.

d.Vocational education helps bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical skills.

Read the following passage carefully and answer the questions that follow:  

In modern society, discussions on health often focus on either physical fitness or mental well-being, but true health requires a balance between the two. While physical health involves maintaining bodily fitness through diet and exercise, mental well-being is equally crucial, as stress, anxiety, and depression significantly impact overall health. A holistic approach to well-being acknowledges that both physical and mental health are interconnected and must be nurtured together.

Regular exercise is widely recognized for its physical benefits, such as strengthening muscles, improving cardiovascular health, and boosting immunity. However, its impact on mental well-being is just as significant. Studies show that physical activity reduces stress, enhances mood, and even helps alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety. Exercise releases endorphins—natural chemicals that promote happiness—illustrating how physical health supports mental resilience.

Similarly, mental well-being directly influences physical health. Chronic stress and emotional distress can weaken the immune system, increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases, and lead to unhealthy habits like overeating or substance abuse. Practices such as mindfulness, meditation, and therapy are essential for maintaining mental equilibrium, just as exercise and a balanced diet are vital for physical health.

Despite this interconnection, healthcare systems often treat mental and physical health separately, neglecting the importance of an integrated approach. Governments, medical professionals, and individuals must recognize that a truly healthy life involves both physical and mental care. Encouraging wellness programs in schools, workplaces, and healthcare institutions can foster a culture of holistic well-being.

In conclusion, true well-being comes from balancing physical fitness with mental health. By adopting an integrated approach, societies can promote a healthier, happier population.

Q.9 Which of the following statements cannot be concluded from the passage?

a.Regular physical exercise is enough to completely eliminate all mental health disorders.

b.A well-rounded approach to health includes both physical activity and mental health care.

c.Governments and organizations should encourage holistic health initiatives.

d.Mental health challenges can have an effect on physical well-being.

Q.10 What is the main objective of the passage?

a.To argue that mental health is more significant than physical health.

b.To propose that traditional healthcare systems should focus exclusively on mental health.

c.To highlight the equal importance of mental and physical health in achieving overall well-being.

d.To suggest that only diet and exercise are necessary for a healthy life.

Q.11 Which of the following statements weakens the passage’s argument the least?

a.Some people maintain excellent physical health despite facing severe mental stress.

b.Psychological therapies and mindfulness practices alone are sufficient to maintain mental health, regardless of physical well-being.

c.The development of modern medicine has made it possible to treat physical and mental health conditions separately.

d.Companies that invest in workplace wellness programs have seen improvements in employee well-being and productivity.

Q.12 Which of the following statements is least aligned with the argument presented in the passage?

a.High levels of stress can have negative consequences for both physical and mental health.

b.Engaging in regular physical activity contributes to both physical fitness and mental well-being.

c.A sedentary lifestyle affects only physical health and has no significant impact on mental well-being.

d.There is a strong connection between mental and physical health, and both should be addressed together.

Read the following passage carefully and answer the questions that follow:  

Every individual, at some point in life, encounters a terror barrier—a psychological resistance that arises when stepping outside one's comfort zone. This invisible yet powerful force prevents people from pursuing new opportunities, whether in careers, relationships, or personal development. Understanding and overcoming this barrier is essential for growth and success.

The terror barrier is driven by fear of failure, uncertainty, and self-doubt. When faced with unfamiliar challenges, the brain perceives them as threats, triggering a stress response that urges individuals to retreat to safety. For example, someone hesitant to start a new business or take on a leadership role may justify inaction by believing they are not ready or capable. However, this hesitation is often not based on reality but on conditioned fear.

Breaking through the terror barrier requires recognizing fear as a natural but surmountable obstacle. The most successful individuals are not those who never experience fear but those who push through it. Taking action despite fearrewires the brain to become more comfortable with risk, leading to confidence and growth. This explains why entrepreneurs, athletes, and performers often credit their success to their ability to embrace discomfort.

Additionally, support systems and mindset shifts play a crucial role in overcoming the terror barrier. Surrounding oneself with encouraging mentors, developing a positive internal dialogue, and gradually exposing oneself to challenges can make fear more manageable. Rather than avoiding fear, individuals should use it as a signal that they are on the path to progress.

Ultimately, the terror barrier is a psychological hurdle that must be overcome to achieve personal and professional growth. By reframing fear as a stepping stone rather than an obstacle, individuals can unlock their full potential and embrace life’s opportunities.

Q.13 What is the primary purpose of the passage?

a.To suggest that fear is unnecessary in today’s world.

b.To claim that only high achievers and entrepreneurs face significant fears.

c.To explain how fear acts as a barrier to success and why overcoming it is crucial for personal growth.

d.To argue that avoiding fear is the best way to lead a stable life.

Q.14 Which of the following statements least weakens the argument made in the passage?

a.Not all successful individuals have had to overcome significant fears to achieve their goals.

b.Some individuals suffer from severe anxiety that prevents them from taking risks.

c.Pushing through fear often leads to personal and professional advancement.

d.Fear is an instinctive response designed to protect individuals from danger.

Q.15 Which of the following statements least reinforces the argument made in the passage?

a.Avoiding fear-driven situations allows individuals to maintain a stable and risk-free life.

b.Many successful people achieve their goals by confronting and overcoming their fears.

c.Fear is often an indication that an individual is pushing beyond their comfort zone.

d.Facing fear head-on helps in developing confidence and resilience.

Q.16 Which of the following statements cannot be deduced from the passage?

a.Fear is a natural reaction when one steps outside their comfort zone.

b.A supportive environment can help in dealing with fear-based obstacles.

c.Every individual experiences fear when trying something new.d.Success is unattainable without overcoming fear.

1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8
C	D	A	C	C	B	C	C
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A	C	D	C	C	C	A	D