Some kids gravitate toward individual competitions, whereas others prefer tournaments. Competition can prove stressful,

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Some kids gravitate toward individual competitions, whereas others prefer tournaments. Competition can prove stressful, so be sure your child can handle it. Even a well-prepared child has to learn to face disappointment. Some have trouble coping with defeat. Crying is the most obvious sign that their child isn't ready for competition. But it is a natural response to loss. Even adults have been known to shed tears after an especially excruciating defeat. Chees is a good way to help children deal with these issues. They learn that they cannot always win, but that giving their best effort is worthwhile in its own right. Kids begin competing at all ages. When a child is ready for individual or team competition depends on many factors.

1. The author's attitude toward children competing in chess tournaments can best be summed up by which of the following statements?

A. Children are naturally too delicate to compete in chess tournaments and should not be allowed to do so

B. Chess tournaments are for children who are exceptionally good at chess

C. A child can compete in chess tournaments up to the point he begins to cry; then he should no longer be allowed to compete

D. Competing in a chess tournament can be emotionally grueling for children, but doing so can also teach them resilience and other valuable lessons

E. Chess competitions at any level or for any age group are inappropriate

The OA is D

2. According to the passage, at what age is a child ready for competitive chess?

A. 8 years old
B. At any age so long as the child wishes to compete
C. 13
D. Children should not play competitive chess.
E. The author does not believe in competitive chess at any age

The OA is B

3. Which of the following best describes the author’s tone in this passage?

A. Straightforward, gently leading
B. Suggestive, provocative
C. Laissez-faire, individualistic
D. Hectoring, demanding
E. Unscrupulous, conniving

The OA is A

4. Based on the information in this passage, what should a parent recognize about their child’s tears after losing a chess competition?

A. The child is unready to compete in chess
B. The child is most likely not very talented at chess
C. The child is reacting to a loss in a natural way
D. Losing may be too much for the child; she should be allowed to quit chess
E. The child was most likely bullied by her competitor

The OA is C

5. Which of the following would be the best title for this passage?

A. Toughen Up Your Kid Through Chess
B. Chess Is Not for Wimps
C. Delicate Children Play Chess
D. Chess Will Teach Children Valuable, If Sometimes Painful, Lessons
E. First, Know Which Pieces Are Which!

The OA is D