SAT test writers have created a large and diverse cluster of questions built around the topic of a children’s book conference. Scholars, authors, and illustrators CONVENE or gather to discuss their common interest in children’s books. The organizers STIPULATE or specify that the conference is devoted to recognizing the excellent work of writers and illustrators.
This STIPULATION is not a problem since presenters are eager to share their INSIGHTS or understandings. For example, one presenter credited her inspiration to an AFFINITY or special liking for a book she enjoyed as a child. Other presenters lauded the work of a noted illustrator claiming that no one has ever ECLIPSED or surpassed his powerfully expressive drawings.
It is important to point out that the questions in this cluster confront students with a number of tempting wrong answers. For example, AUGMENT means to increase, CITED means to mention or quote, LAMENT means to regret, and ASCRIBE means to attribute something to a common source. None of the answers convey the ideas described in the passage.
CONVENE – to gather together
STIPULATE – to specifically require
INSIGHTS – deep understandings
AFFINITY – a strong liking for someone or something
ECLIPSE – to surpass