Types of Passages for CLAT - Practice Questions & MCQ

Types of Passages

 

In the VARC (Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension) section of exams, you will encounter various types of passages. Familiarising yourself with these types is essential for effective comprehension and timely answering of questions.

 

Let's delve deeper into each type of passage mentioned:

 

1. Expository Passages:

 

Characteristics:

• Focuses on providing factual information.
• Aims to educate or explain a topic.
• Often presents a balanced view.

 

Reading Strategy:

• Look for key details, statistics, and data.
• Identify cause-effect relationships.
• Pay attention to any supporting evidence provided.

 

Example:

"A comprehensive study of the geological formations in the region reveals a rich history of tectonic activity. This has led to the diverse landscapes we observe today, ranging from towering mountain ranges to fertile valleys."

 

2. Argumentative Passages:

 

Characteristics:

• Presents a specific viewpoint or argument.
• Provides evidence, examples, or reasons to support the perspective.
• May acknowledge counterarguments.

 

Reading Strategy:

• Identify the author's viewpoint and the evidence presented.
• Evaluate the validity and strength of the arguments.
• Consider any counter arguments presented.

 

Example:

"The adoption of renewable energy sources is not only an ethical imperative but also an economic necessity. The long-term benefits far outweigh the initial investment, leading to a sustainable and resilient energy future."

 

3. Descriptive Passages:

 

Characteristics:

• Focuses on providing vivid details about a subject.
• Aims to create a vivid mental image for the reader.
• Utilises sensory language and descriptive techniques.

 

Reading Strategy:

• Create a mental image of the subject being described.
• Pay attention to sensory details (sight, sound, smell, etc.).
• Consider the atmosphere and mood conveyed.

 

Example:

"The sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm, golden glow over the tranquil lake. The gentle ripples mirrored the fiery hues, creating a mesmerising tableau of nature's beauty."

 

4. Narrative Passages:

 

Characteristics:

• Tells a story or recounts an event.
• Includes characters, settings, and a chronological sequence of events.
• May have a plot with a beginning, middle, and end.

 

Reading Strategy:

• Follow the sequence of events and identify the main elements (characters, settings, etc.).
• Understand the purpose or message conveyed through the narrative.

 

Example:

"As the clock struck midnight, Emily's heart raced with anticipation. She stepped onto the cobbled path, guided only by the pale moonlight. The old manor loomed ahead, its dark silhouette holding secrets of generations past."

 

5. Analytical Passages:

 

Characteristics:

• Delves into deeper layers of a topic.
• Often dissects complex ideas, theories, or phenomena.
• May explore the implications and significance of concepts.

 

Reading Strategy:

• Break down complex ideas into manageable components.
• Identify the main theories or concepts being discussed.
• Understand how these components relate to each other.

 

Example:

"The theory of relativity revolutionised our understanding of the universe, challenging Newtonian physics. Einstein's groundbreaking work revealed the interplay between space, time, and gravity, reshaping the fabric of modern physics."

 

Mastering the nuances of each type of passage equips you with a versatile toolkit for tackling the diverse range of reading materials encountered in the VARC section of exams.

 

Examples:

 

1. Passage (Analytical):

"In the realm of economics, the concept of 'elasticity' plays a pivotal role. Elasticity measures the responsiveness of demand or supply to changes in price. Understanding the different types of elasticity is essential for making informed market predictions."

 

Approach: For this analytical passage, focus on understanding the concept of elasticity and its importance in economics. Pay attention to the mention of responsiveness to price changes.

 

2. Passage (Argumentative):

"In the ongoing debate about urbanisation, proponents argue for its role in economic growth and innovation. They posit that concentrated urban centres foster collaboration and creativity. However, critics contend that rapid urbanisation can lead to social inequality and environmental degradation, necessitating a balanced approach for sustainable development."

 

Approach: For this argumentative passage, focus on identifying the viewpoints of both proponents and critics of urbanisation. Evaluate the arguments presented by each side and consider any potential counterarguments. Pay attention to the need for a balanced approach to address the challenges posed by rapid urbanisation.

 

3. Passage (Descriptive):

"The ancient city of Petra, nestled within the rugged terrain of southern Jordan, stands as a testament to the architectural marvels of the Nabateans. Carved into rose-red cliffs, the city's intricate facades and tombs reveal a rich history dating back to 312 BC. Visitors are transported through time as they wander through the narrow Siq, beholding the grandeur of this UNESCO World Heritage site."

 

Approach: In this descriptive passage, focus on creating a vivid mental image of Petra. Pay attention to the sensory details provided, such as the rose-red cliffs and intricate facades. Immerse yourself in the historical context and appreciate the significance of this ancient city.

 

Remember, adapting your approach based on the type of passage is crucial for effective comprehension. This skill will greatly enhance your performance in the VARC section.