Question

read the passage. this semester, with some trepidation, i decided to take a class on shakespeare’s tragedies. i appreciate that ms. robertson establishes clear expectations for students: the course requirements are rigorous but fair. on the first day of class, she handed out a detailed syllabus listing all the required readings, in - class projects, homework assignments, and tests. the course is definitely challenging, but in a good way, and ms. robertson is always very supportive and encouraging. select the two words that are most similar in meaning to rigorous as it is used in the passage. 1. demanding 2. harsh 3. rigid 4. severe 5. thorough

Explanation:

In the passage, "rigorous" describes course requirements that are challenging but fair, with high standards. "Demanding" means requiring much effort, matching the challenging but fair tone. "Rigid" means strict and inflexible, which aligns with the structured, high-standard course requirements. The other options do not fit: "harsh" and "severe" imply unfair strictness, and "thorough" means detailed but not specifically challenging.

Answer:

1. demanding
2. rigid