Page 1174 - Wordsmith A Guide to College Writing

b. admire.
c. look up to.

d. worry about.

3. The phrase pick up the baton most nearly means

a. conduct an orchestra.

b. continue a tradition of leadership.
c. pick up the pieces.

d. choose the correct instruments.

4. The word inalienable most nearly means

a. very fragile.

b. not understandable.
c. not given to everyone.

d. can’t be taken away or transferred.

5. The word palatable most nearly means

a. delicious.
b. reprehensible.

c. disagreeable.

d. acceptable.

Understanding the Essay

1. According to the author, people are concerned that America is

falling behind in all but one of the following. Which one is it?

a. education

b. military might