Central Idea/Theme
What is the definition of theme?
author's universal message about life
What is the definition of tone?
What does "author's perspective" mean?
the author's viewpoint, opinions, beliefs, and biases that shape how they present information or tell a story, influenced by their personal experiences and cultural background (basically, their POV or point of view)
What are context clues?
Words or phrases that help you figure out an unknown word
Name three different types of text structures for informational text
cause/effect
problem/solution
sequencing
description
compare/contrast
What is the definition of central idea?
main idea, or author's important idea conveyed in the text
Which phrase has a more positive connotation (feeling)?
a. a peculiar object
b. a unique object
b. a unique object
Read the passage, then answer the question.
The old library books were being replaced with shiny new tablets. Students marveled at the lightweight devices, swiping through digital pages with ease. Yet, a faint smell of paper and ink lingered in the air, a bittersweet reminder of times past.
What is the author's perspective on the switch from books to tablets?
A) The author is excited about the new technology
B) The author is completely against the change
C) The author sees both the benefits and the nostalgia of the transition
C) The author sees both the benefits and the nostalgia of the transition
Read the passage. Then, identify one clue in the sentence that would help you figure out what the word aroma means.
The aroma of freshly baked cookies filled the kitchen. As soon as Sarah walked in, her nose twitched, and she smiled. The sweet smell coming from the oven made her mouth water.
her nose twitched, and she smiled
OR
The sweet smell coming from the oven made her mouth water.
What type of text structure is this passage?
Plastic pollution is a growing problem in our oceans, threatening marine life and ecosystems. Every year, millions of tons of plastic waste end up in the sea, harming fish, sea turtles, and other creatures that mistake it for food. To address this issue, many countries are implementing bans on single-use plastics like bags and straws. Additionally, organizations are developing new technologies to clean up existing ocean plastic and creating alternatives to plastic products. By combining these efforts with increased public awareness, we can work towards cleaner, healthier oceans for the future.
a. cause and effect
b. compare/contrast
c. problem/solution
d. sequence
e. description
c. problem/solution
Read the passage, then figure out the best theme for the passage.
Kay's soccer team had lost every game of the season. Some teammates wanted to quit, but Kay encouraged them to keep practicing. They worked hard, focusing on teamwork and skills. In their final game, they didn't win, but they played their best match yet. Kay and her teammates realized that the scoreboard didn't tell the whole story.
Theme Choices:
A. True success is measured by effort and improvement, not just winning.
B. Working together as a team can help overcome challenges.
C. Perseverance in the face of setbacks leads to personal growth.
C. Perseverance in the face of setbacks leads to personal growth.
Which phrase has a negative connotation (feeling)
a. a conceited leader
b. a confident leader
a. a conceited leader
Read the passage, then answer the question.
The new recycling program at school was met with mixed reactions. Some students eagerly sorted their trash, while others grumbled about the extra effort. As more colorful bins appeared in the hallways, it became clear that change was here to stay.
How does the author feel about the recycling program?
A) The author is enthusiastic about the program
B) The author is against the recycling initiative
C) The author is neutral, presenting both positive and negative reactions
D) The author is confused by the program's implementation
C) The author is neutral, presenting both positive and negative reactions
Read the passage. Identify one clue that helps you figure out what the word sputtered means.
The old car sputtered down the road, making loud popping noises. Tom worried it might break down at any moment. The engine coughed and wheezed as he drove slowly to the mechanic.
loud popping noises
OR
might break down at any moment
OR
engine coughed and wheezed
What type of text structure is this passage?
Energy sources can be divided into two main categories: renewable and non-renewable. Renewable energy comes from sources that can be naturally replenished, such as sunlight, wind, and water. These sources are considered clean and sustainable, but they can be less reliable due to weather conditions. On the other hand, non-renewable energy sources like coal, oil, and natural gas are finite and will eventually run out. While they provide consistent power, they also contribute to pollution and climate change. As the world seeks to reduce its environmental impact, many countries are shifting towards renewable energy sources.
a. cause and effect
b. compare/contrast
c. problem/solution
d. sequence
e. description
b. compare/contrast
Read the passage, then choose the best theme.
Sarah had always been afraid of the dark. One night, during a power outage, she found herself alone in her room. Instead of panicking, she took deep breaths and remembered her mom's words: "It's okay to feel scared, but don't let it stop you." Sarah slowly made her way to the kitchen, found a flashlight, and felt proud of herself for her actions.
Theme Choices:
A. Facing our fears can lead to personal growth.
B. Preparation is key to handling unexpected situations.
C. Family support helps us overcome difficult times.
A. Facing our fears can lead to personal growth.
What is the tone of the following passage?
The first day of middle school can be so exciting! New classes, new teachers, and maybe even some new friends await you. The hallways buzz with energy as students find their lockers and classrooms. It's like starting a whole new adventure, and you never know what amazing experiences are just around the corner!
A) Enthusiastic
B) Nervous
C) Angry
A) Enthusiastic
Read the passage, then answer the question.
The old oak tree stood tall in the park, its branches reaching for the sky. Children laughed as they climbed its sturdy limbs, their joy echoing through the air. The tree seemed to smile, proud to be a source of happiness for generations.
Which statement best describes the author's perspective towards the oak tree?
A) The author views the tree as a nuisance
B) The author sees the tree as a beloved community landmark
C) The author is indifferent to the tree's presence
D) The author thinks the tree should be cut down
B) The author sees the tree as a beloved community landmark
Read the passage. Identify two clues that helped you figure out what the word fatigued means.
The hiker felt fatigued after walking for hours. Her legs were heavy, and she could barely keep her eyes open. She decided to rest for a while before continuing her journey.
Any TWO clues
walking for hours
OR
Her legs were heavy
OR
she could barely keep her eyes open
OR
She decided to rest for a while
What text structure type is this passage?
Social media has dramatically changed how people communicate in the 21st century. Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter allow users to instantly share thoughts, photos, and videos with friends and followers around the world. As a result, people now have access to more information and can connect with others more easily than ever before. However, this constant connectivity has also led to issues such as cyberbullying, decreased face-to-face interactions, and concerns about privacy. The effects of social media continue to shape our society in both positive and negative ways.
a. cause and effect
b. compare/contrast
c. problem/solution
d. sequence
e. description
a. cause and effect
Read the passage and answer the question.
Honeybees play a crucial role in our ecosystem and food supply. These tiny insects are responsible for pollinating about one-third of the food we eat, including fruits, vegetables, and nuts. As bees fly from flower to flower collecting nectar, they transfer pollen, allowing plants to reproduce. Without bees, many of our favorite foods would become scarce or disappear entirely. Unfortunately, bee populations have been declining in recent years due to factors such as pesticide use, habitat loss, and climate change. Scientists and beekeepers are working hard to protect these important pollinators and ensure the future of our food supply. By understanding the vital role of honeybees, we can all take steps to help protect them, such as planting bee-friendly flowers and avoiding harmful pesticides.
What is the central idea of this passage?
A. Honeybees make honey that humans enjoy eating.
B. Honeybees are essential for pollination and our food supply.
C. Scientists are trying to find ways to replace honeybees.
B. Honeybees are essential for pollination and our food supply.
What is the tone of the following passage, AND what is one piece of evidence from the text to support your choice?
Why do we have to do so much homework? It's not fair that we spend all day in school and then have to work more at home. I'd rather be playing video games or hanging out with my friends. Teachers just don't understand how busy we are with other things!
A) Grateful
B) Curious
C) Frustrated
C) Frustrated
possible evidence:
"It's not fair that we spend all day in school and then have to work more at home."
OR
"Teachers just don't understand how busy we are with other things!"
Read this passage and answer the question.
There's been a lot of talk lately about the future of our little town. Gull's Haven has certainly seen better times, and people often wonder, What does our town have left to offer? The answer isn't hard to find, even if it is in the dark. Just go outside at night, and look up. Very few places still have what you can see here: a dazzling display of stars and the Milky Way.
Our town has a rare opportunity to be named a Dark Sky Community by the International Dark-Sky Association. The process could take years; we'd have to adopt lighting restrictions and establish dark-sky educational programs.
It wouldn't be easy, but in return for our efforts, we'd get publicity that would bring tourists and businesses to Gull's Haven. People from light-drenched areas could come here for a dark respite under our beautiful night skies. Let's seize this chance to find a renewed purpose for Gull's Haven and preserve the wonder of our night sky for future generations.
Which sentence best summarizes the author's point of view about the town of Gull's Haven becoming a Dark Sky Community?
Read the passage. Identify THREE clues that helped you to figure out what the word resilient means.
The resilient plant survived despite the harsh drought. While other flowers wilted and died, this one continued to grow and even bloom. Its ability to bounce back impressed the gardener.
All THREE clues:
survived despite the harsh drought
AND
While other flowers wilted and died, this one continued to grow
AND
ability to bounce back
What text structure is this passage AND what are two words from the passage that prove it?
The water cycle is a continuous process that moves water around Earth. It begins when the sun heats water in oceans, lakes, and rivers, causing it to evaporate into water vapor. Next, this vapor rises into the atmosphere and forms clouds as it cools. Then, when the clouds become heavy with moisture, precipitation occurs in the form of rain or snow. Finally, the water returns to the Earth's surface, where it either soaks into the ground or flows back into bodies of water, starting the cycle again.
a. cause and effect
b. compare/contrast
c. problem/solution
d. sequence
e. description
d. sequence
possible words: then, finally, next, begins, finally