新年早々に地震と津波のニュースに慄然とさせられる。北陸地方および日本海沿岸の方々の無事を祈るしかない。

2023年12月26日に仕事納めはしたものの、年明け早々に片付けるべき仕事も山ほどある。それを思うと気が重い。なので気分転換かつスキルアップのために、空き時間を使ってTOEFL iBTの模擬試験を作っている。前回の記事で模擬TOEFL iBTリスニング問題01をシェアしたが、ここでは模擬リーディング問題をシェアしたい。

パッセージは主として Google Bard に指示を出して、ドラフトを書かせる。その論理展開や内容を自分で微調整して、さらに書き直しさせて・・・というサイクルを何度か繰り返して作った。設問は基本的に自力で作成。実際のTOEFL iBTとTOEFL Juniorの中間か、ややiBT寄りの難易度かなと思う。TOEFL好きという方は取り組んでみてください。感想をお知らせ頂けると非常にありがたいです。

Scott Joplin: A Ragtime Revolutionary

Born on November 24, 1868, in Texarkana, Texas, Scott Joplin's musical destiny bloomed amidst the post-Civil War complexities of America. Though formal education was limited, his musical journey took root in fertile soil. Local musicians like Jules Perkins and Charles Lunn provided early guidance, while the vibrant sounds of gospel, blues, and ragtime pulsated through his life. Joplin's genius lay in his masterful manipulation of these influences. He blended classical European techniques, reminiscent of composers like Chopin and Strauss, with the rhythmic drive and syncopation of African American music.

Compositions like "Maple Leaf Rag," with its cascading arpeggios and infectious counterpoint, and "The Entertainer," with its jaunty syncopation and toe-tapping rhythm, became instant landmarks. He further explored ragtime's potential in pieces like "Elite Syncopations," characterized by its elegant chromaticism, and "Magnetic Rag," with its powerful, percussive drive.

However, Joplin's influence extended far beyond ragtime. His impact is evident in the works of subsequent musical giants like James Scott, whose "Honey Rag" echoed Joplin's playful virtuosity, and Jelly Roll Morton, the Father of Jazz, who credited Joplin as a key inspiration. Notably, Joplin's "Solace" directly influenced Morton's iconic "The Jelly Roll Blues," proving the cross-pollination of genres.

Yet, Joplin's journey wasn't without hardship. Racial prejudice and the nascent state of the music industry meant financial security remained elusive. Despite composing gems like "Wall Street Rag," a vibrant portrayal of urban life, and the hauntingly beautiful "Bethena," he often faced financial struggles due to predatory music publishers at the time.

Joplin's work was not confined to the lively rhythms of ragtime alone. He ventured into different musical realms, composing operatic works like "Treemonisha." This ambitious piece delved into African American themes and social realities, touching on issues of education and community. Although it faced initial rejection, "Treemonisha" was a pioneering effort that paved the way for future operatic compositions by black composers.

Scott Joplin's legacy transcends the genre he helped define. He was a pioneer, an innovator, and a storyteller through music. His compositions remain cornerstones of the American musical canon, his influence weaving through jazz, stride piano, and even classical music. Today, "The Entertainer" continues to ring out, a testament to a man who dared to blend his roots with musical revolution, forever changing the landscape of American music.

In considering Joplin's contribution, we must dissect the very essence of ragtime itself. Ragtime emerged as a distinctive genre in the late 19th century, capturing the energy and spirit of the time. Joplin's role in shaping this genre was unparalleled. His meticulous attention to detail in crafting intricate melodies and complex harmonies elevated ragtime from a popular form of entertainment to an art form.

One cannot discuss Joplin without acknowledging his role as a music educator. Despite limited formal schooling, he became a mentor to aspiring musicians in the African American community. His commitment to passing on his knowledge and skills contributed to the flourishing ragtime scene. Joplin's dedication to musical education extended beyond racial boundaries, as he actively collaborated with musicians from diverse backgrounds.

Joplin's influence on the evolution of American music is immeasurable. His compositions provided a bridge between various musical traditions, fusing elements from different cultures into a harmonious tapestry. His impact on subsequent generations of musicians, from the jazz age to the present, is a testament to the enduring power of his artistry.

The enduring popularity of "The Entertainer" can be attributed to its infectious melody, but also to the cultural resonance embedded in its notes. Joplin, through this composition, captured the essence of an era marked by change and transition. The buoyant optimism of the piece reflects the spirit of the times, making it a timeless representation of American musical history.

As we celebrate the legacy of Scott Joplin, we recognize not only a maestro of ragtime but a visionary who transcended musical boundaries. His ability to blend diverse influences, educate future musicians, and create compositions that resonate across genres solidifies his place in the pantheon of American musical pioneers. The melodies of Joplin continue to echo through time, a reminder of the enduring power of music to unite, inspire, and transform.

Born on November 24, 1868, in Texarkana, Texas, Scott Joplin's musical destiny bloomed amidst the post-Civil War complexities of America. Though formal education was limited, his musical journey took root in fertile soil. Local musicians like Jules Perkins and Charles Lunn provided early guidance, while the vibrant sounds of gospel, blues, and ragtime pulsated through his life. Joplin's genius lay in his masterful manipulation of these influences. He blended classical European techniques, reminiscent of composers like Chopin and Strauss, with the rhythmic drive and syncopation of African American music. 

1. The word “bloomed” in paragraph 1 is closest in meaning to

A. ended
B. improved
C. exacerbated
D. blossomed

Compositions like "Maple Leaf Rag," with its cascading arpeggios and infectious counterpoint, and "The Entertainer," with its jaunty syncopation and toe-tapping rhythm, became instant landmarks. He further explored ragtime's potential in pieces like "Elite Syncopations," characterized by its elegant chromaticism, and "Magnetic Rag," with its powerful, percussive drive.

2. What can be inferred from paragraph 2?

A. Joplin came out with tunes with many different styles.
B. Of the four songs, “Maple Leaf Rag” was the biggest hit.
C. Joplin was a performer rather than a composer.
D. Joplin was always in pursuit of the same musical technique.

However, Joplin's influence extended far beyond ragtime. His impact is evident in the works of subsequent musical giants like James Scott, whose "Honey Rag" echoed Joplin's playful virtuosity, and Jelly Roll Morton, the Father of Jazz, who credited Joplin as a key inspiration. Notably, Joplin's "Solace" directly influenced Morton's iconic "The Jelly Roll Blues," proving the cross-pollination of genres.

3. What can be inferred from paragraph 3?

A. Joplin was heavily influential within the realm of ragtime.
B. Later musicians, such as Jelly Roll Morton, truthfully played in the way Joplin did.
B. The creation of jazz might have happened differently if it hadn’t been for Joplin.
C. “The Jelly Roll Blues”  was a collaborative work of Joplin and Morton.

4. The word “virtuosity” in paragraph 3 is closest in meaning to

A. mind 
B. attitude
C. skill
D. rhythm

Yet, Joplin's journey wasn't without hardship. Racial prejudice and the nascent state of the music industry meant financial security remained elusive. Despite composing gems like "Wall Street Rag," a vibrant portrayal of urban life, and the hauntingly beautiful "Bethena," he often faced financial struggles due to predatory music publishers at the time.

5. The word “nascent” is closest in meaning to 

A. immature
B. harsh
C. nasty
D. inclusive

Joplin's work was not confined to the lively rhythms of ragtime alone. He ventured into different musical realms, composing operatic works like "Treemonisha." This ambitious piece delved into African American themes and social realities, touching on issues of education and community. Although it faced initial rejection, "Treemonisha" was a pioneering effort that paved the way for future operatic compositions by black composers.

6. In paragraph 5, each of the following is mentioned as a subject matter of Joplin’s music EXCEPT FOR:

A. schooling
B. society
C. political correctness
D. racial discrimination

Scott Joplin's legacy transcends the genre he helped define. He was a pioneer, an innovator, and a storyteller through music. His compositions remain cornerstones of the American musical canon, his influence weaving through jazz, stride piano, and even classical music. Today, "The Entertainer" continues to ring out, a testament to a man who dared to blend his roots with musical revolution, forever changing the landscape of American music.
In considering Joplin's contribution, we must dissect the very essence of ragtime itself. Ragtime emerged as a distinctive genre in the late 19th century, capturing the energy and spirit of the time. Joplin's role in shaping this genre was unparalleled. His meticulous attention to detail in crafting intricate melodies and complex harmonies elevated ragtime from a popular form of entertainment to an art form.

7. In paragraphs 6 and 7, the author discusses Scott Joplin’s legacy in order to 

A. question whether his influence is observable in today’s music scene.
B. show how the themes reflected in his music are non-existent in this day and age.
C. maintain that his contribution to the evolution of the genre was immense.
D. reveal that the popularity of "The Entertainer" has lasted over time.   

The enduring popularity of "The Entertainer" can be attributed to its infectious melody, but also to the cultural resonance embedded in its notes. Joplin, through this composition, captured the essence of an era marked by change and transition. The buoyant optimism of the piece reflects the spirit of the times, making it a timeless representation of American musical history.

8. Which of the following best expresses the essential information in the highlighted sentence? Incorrect answer choices change the meaning in important ways or leave out essential information.
＊ハイライトできないので太字にしています。

A. The long-lasting popularity of “The Entertainer” was due in large part to its contagious melody and had little to do with the cultural message that it conveyed. 
B. The reason why “The Entertainer” has been popular with people for a long time is because its melody is catchy and its tune is culturally meaningful.
C. “The Entertainer” has stood the test of time even though the impact of its melody and notes were confined within a specific cultural group. 　
D. Neither its appealing melody nor its cultural message has any relevance to  the enduring popularity of “The Entertainer.” 

9. In paragraph 1 of the passage, there is a missing sentence. The paragraph is repeated below and shows four letters (A, B, C, and D) that indicate where the following sentence could be added. 

This fusion culminated in the birth of classic ragtime, a genre forever intertwined with Joplin's name. 

Where would the sentence best fit?

Born on November 24, 1868, in Texarkana, Texas, Scott Joplin's musical destiny bloomed amidst the post-Civil War complexities of America. [A] Though formal education was limited, his musical journey took root in fertile soil. [B] Local musicians like Jules Perkins and Charles Lunn provided early guidance, while the vibrant sounds of gospel, blues, and ragtime pulsated through his life. [C] Joplin's genius lay in his masterful manipulation of these influences. He blended classical European techniques, reminiscent of composers like Chopin and Strauss, with the rhythmic drive and syncopation of African American music. [D]

10. Directions: An introductory sentence for a brief summary of the passage is provided below. Complete the summary by selecting the THREE answer choices that express the most important ideas in the passage. Some sentences do not belong in the summary because they express ideas that are not presented in the passage or are minor ideas in the passage. This question is worth 2 points. Write your answer choices in the spaces where they belong. You can either write the letter of your answer choice or you can copy the sentence.

Born in post-Civil War America, Scott Joplin incorporated classical influences and mastered ragtime.
・
・
・

A. Joplin attended school to receive a formal education at a young age.
B. Addressing social issues with his unique music, Joplin's influence reached beyond ragtime and inspired posterity.
C. "Treemonisha" was Joplin’s first operatic work that was published to initial acclaim.
D. Despite financial struggles and racial prejudice, Joplin became a music educator and pioneer, elevating ragtime from entertainment to art.
E. Joplin was an avid educator who taught young pupils with the same ethnic background.
F. Joplin's melodies and cultural resonance, embodied in his tunes such as "The Entertainer," solidified his place as an American music legend.

正解
1. D
2. A
3. C
4. C
5. A
6. C
7. C
8. B
9. D
10. B, D, F