SSAT Middle Level Reading Practice Test 27

Originally, cell phones were only used to send and receive calls, but with new technology, they are a lot more than just phones. Everyday, a new cell phone enters the market with a new amazing feature. First, it was games for your phone. Next, came the digital camera, and then after that the video camera. What used to be a tool for making calls now has the ability to do much more.

A few years ago, a cell phone came out that could take pictures using a built-in digital camera.This was seen as a huge stepping-stonefor the cell phone market. Over the last few years, the quality of the photos has started to catch up to that of real digital cameras. Soon, there may be no need for digital cameras as every cell phone will have one of excellent quality. Over time, cell phones with digital cameras have become increasingly cheaper, and now most people can afford to buy one.

The advancements in the cell phone go beyond photo and video capabilities. For example, some versions of the cell phone make it possible to keep a detailed schedule. It used to be you had to have a palm device as well as a cell phone to be truly organized and connected. Now, you can do both with a cell phone.

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1. Which of the following best describes the cell phone written about in the passage?

• A. high-priced
• B. complicated
• C. multipurpose
• D. convenient
• E. entertaining

2. According to the passage, a cell phone and a palm device are both able to

• A. measure your pulse and heart rate
• B. store a calendar of events
• C. take high-quality photographs
• D. translate languages
• E. make international phone calls

3. All of the following are mentioned as examples of how cell phones have changed EXCEPT:

• A. They have a longer battery life.
• B. They have become cheaper.
• C. They can play games.
• D. They help keep the user organized.
• E. They have become more widely used.

4. Which of the following questions is answered by information in the passage?

• A. Which type of cell phone has the most features?
• B. Where are most cell phones manufactured?
• C. How does the video camera work on a cell phone?
• D. When will palm devices no longer be necessary?
• E. What is the quality of photos taken by cell phones?

5. What does the author mean by, "This was seen as a huge stepping-stone" in the second paragraph?

• A. For the first time, pictures of cell phones were seen on advertisements.
• B. The technology was now in place to improve digital cameras.
• C. Manufacturers started to build both cell phones and digital cameras.
• D. The ability to take pictures greatly increased cell phone popularity.
• E. New technology made cell phones as valuable as precious stones.