ACT English Practice Test 14

A Flute in the Forest

A quiet walk along a forest path during an early spring dusk surprisingly Q1 revealed an unexpected gift of nature. The sound of a flute seemed to float from the tallest trees in the near distance. This flute song was like none ever made by man. Our guide quickly raised his hand in a signal for us to stop and remain still, and then whispered these simple words: “Wood Thrush.” Truly, Q2 any attempts to describe this spectacular birdsong with words does a grave injustice to its unique vocalizations.

The Wood Thrush is a rather plain, brown, robin-like bird. Its most distinctive features are its white spotted chest and pinkish legs. Viewing these birds can be especially difficult, as Q3 they enjoy perching on the tallest branch that is still able to offer seclusion among its leaves and twigs. Binoculars are a must. With each Wood Thrush song, a birdwatcher is able to track the bird’s location. Because it is a migratory bird, early spring is generally the first opportunity to observe the Wood Thrush in the United States. Q4 A mixed forest is its preferred habitat, one with both deciduous and evergreen trees of varying heights. Interestingly, while the Wood Thrush enjoys singing from the tallest branches, it’s Q5 nest is often found much closer to the ground.

[1] As the birds Q6 settle into their spring nesting areas, the race to find a mate starts in earnest. [2] Fortunately for bird lovers, this is when the male Wood Thrush begins perfecting his song as he attempts to attract a willing female. [3] Starting in the late evening, just as dusk begins to encompass the landscape and most other birds have quieted down, the Wood Thrush tentatively begins his symphony of love. [4] His songs come in distinct parts, Q7 and he can sometimes even sing two sweet notes simultaneously. [5] His concert generally lasts for a full half hour, and he completes more than 100 songs in that time. [6] With each song, the listener begins to hear Q8 this fancy flutist working on new combinations of notes, extending a particular collection of chords, and changing pitch and volume at will. [7] Abruptly, the singing stops, indicating that Q9 the bird’s pure exhaustion. Q10

Following a long rest, the male Wood Thrush awakens to begin his quest anew. Q11

Early in the morning, before the other forest birds awaken, the Wood Thrush by starting Q12 his melody all over again, waking the world up to another long and harmonious musical arrangement. Q13

It seems unimaginable that more than one such display is necessary to attract an interested partner, but the songs continue for the entire spring and even into the summer months. One can only determine that the Wood Thrush chosen Q14

female and subsequent offspring are begging him for to keep singing. Q15

As poet Henry David Thoreau wrote, the Wood Thrush “alone declares the immortal wealth and vigor that is in this forest.”