Author's Purpose
Passage: Exploring Redwood National Park
(1) Many people travel to California to see the Pacific Ocean and enjoy the beaches. Others prefer to hike in the mountains. However, one of the best places for your next adventure is Redwood National Park.
(2) Known for its towering redwood trees, Redwood National Park is located along the northern coast of California. The park offers a variety of activities, but the most popular is walking among the ancient giants. Visitors can explore trails that wind through the forest, where the air is fresh and filled with the scent of pine.
(3) The redwood trees can grow to be over 350 feet tall and live for thousands of years. Some trees are so wide that it takes several people holding hands to circle their trunks. As visitors stroll through the park, they may also spot wildlife, including deer, foxes, and numerous bird species.
(4) The park is also home to many beautiful streams and rivers. Families can enjoy picnicking by the water or even going fishing. The serene environment provides a perfect backdrop for camping under the stars.
(5) When planning your next family vacation, consider Redwood National Park. It may not be as famous as Disneyland, but it offers a unique and unforgettable experience in nature.
For which group did the author most likely write the article?
A. To describe adults who enjoy fishing.
B. To describe Redwood National Park to families who are planning a vacation.
C. To instruct people who want to volunteer at the park.
D. To entertain children who like trees.
B. To describe Redwood National Park to families who are planning a vacation.
Sentence: The architect spent all night working on the first draft of the office building design.
Dictionary Entry: Draft (noun) 1. A current of air 2. A preliminary version of a piece of writing or plan 3. A selection of people for a specific duty 4. A drink of liquid
Question: Which definition best matches the way draft is used in the sentence?
A. Definition 1
B. Definition 2
C. Definition 3
D. Definition 4
Correct Answer: B
The context of a building design plan points clearly to a preliminary version.
Passage: The Story of Thomas Edison
(1) Inventions shape our world, and many of the items we use every day were created by brilliant minds. One of those inventors was Thomas Edison, known for his work with electric light bulbs.
Early Life
(2) Thomas Edison was born in 1847 in Milan, Ohio. As a child, he was very curious and loved to experiment. He often conducted small experiments at home, which sometimes got him into trouble.
(3) When Edison grew older, he worked as a telegraph operator. However, he always dreamed of inventing things that could help people.
The Light Bulb
(4) Before Edison’s invention, light bulbs were not very practical. Most lamps used gas or candles, which could be dangerous. Edison wanted to create a safe and effective electric light.
(5) After many experiments, Edison found a way to make a reliable light bulb that lasted a long time. His invention changed the way people lit their homes and streets.
Building a Company
(6) Edison didn’t just stop with the light bulb. He founded a company to produce his inventions. He worked with a team of scientists and engineers to develop new ideas, including the phonograph, which played music.
(7) Edison became very successful and is remembered as one of America’s greatest inventors. He held over 1,000 patents for his inventions, which shows how dedicated he was to innovation.
Legacy
(8) Thomas Edison’s inventions have had a lasting impact on our lives. His work paved the way for future inventors and changed the world for the better.
Which choice describes the text structure used in the "Early Life" section of the article?
A. The "Early Life" section uses descriptions to explain Edison's childhood and interests.
B. The "Early Life" section uses problem and solution to highlight issues with light bulbs.
C. The "Early Life" section uses questions and answers to discuss Edison's life.
D. The "Early Life" section shows the cause and effect relationship of Edison's experiments.
A. The "Early Life" section uses descriptions to explain Edison's childhood and interests.
The Passage: Walking the Dog
(1) Today my brother is helping me walk the dog. (2) I have held my brothers leash for a long time. (3) The dog is active, but I think he is the most energetic dog in the whole neighborhood. (4) My brother says we have to walk fast so the dog stays calm. (5) I have walked him before, but my brother says we have to walk even fastest today. (6) We need to get the dog home once the sky gets dark. (7) The next step is feeding him. (8) We scoop the food into the bowl. (9) My brother opens the bag. (10) Because the dog needs to eat. (11) When the dog is finished, it is time for a treat. (12) Then we relax. (13) My brother holds the treat while I give it to his dog.
Question: What change should be made in sentence 2?
A. Change brothers to brother's.
B. Change brothers to brothers'.
C. Change brothers to brother s.
D. No change is needed.
Correct Answer: A
It is one brother, so the possessive requires an apostrophe before the s (brother's).
Passage: The Joy of Reading
(1) Reading is one of the best things you can do! It helps your brain grow and learn new things. When you read, you can visit new places and meet different characters without leaving your home.
(2) Books can teach you about the world around you. You can read stories about animals, adventures, and even different cultures. Each book can take you on a fun journey!
(3) Reading is also a great way to relax. After a busy day, curling up with a good book can help you feel calm and happy. You can imagine being a superhero or exploring a magical land.
(4) Besides being fun, reading can make you a better writer. When you read different stories, you learn new words and how to tell your own stories in exciting ways.
(5) For all these reasons, reading is very important for everyone. Whether you choose a funny book or a thrilling adventure, reading can bring joy and knowledge into your life.
Which sentence from paragraph 5 is the author's claim?
A. Reading is one of the best things you can do!
B. It helps your brain grow and learn new things.
C. Reading can bring joy and knowledge into your life.
D. You can visit new places and meet different characters.
C. Reading can bring joy and knowledge into your life.
Sentence: We decided to scale the rocky cliff to get a better view of the valley.
Dictionary Entry: Scale (verb) 1. To remove the outer layer from something 2. To climb to the top of something steep 3. To change the size of an image or object 4. To weigh something on a device
Question: Which definition best matches the way scale is used in the sentence?
A. Definition 1
B. Definition 2
C. Definition 3
D. Definition 4
Correct Answer: B
Climbing a steep cliff is the only definition that fits the physical action of "scaling."
Read the sentence from paragraph 5.
"Edison wanted to create a safe and effective electric light."
Now read the dictionary entry.
create (krē-āt) verb 1. to bring something into existence 2. to cause to happen 3. to make something new 4. to form something in your mind
Which definition best matches the way create is used in the sentence?
A. definition 1
B. definition 2
C. definition 3
D. definition
A. definition 1 (to bring something into existence)
The Passage: Walking the Dog
(1) Today my brother is helping me walk the dog. (2) I have held my brothers leash for a long time. (3) The dog is active, but I think he is the most energetic dog in the whole neighborhood. (4) My brother says we have to walk fast so the dog stays calm. (5) I have walked him before, but my brother says we have to walk even fastest today. (6) We need to get the dog home once the sky gets dark. (7) The next step is feeding him. (8) We scoop the food into the bowl. (9) My brother opens the bag. (10) Because the dog needs to eat. (11) When the dog is finished, it is time for a treat. (12) Then we relax. (13) My brother holds the treat while I give it to his dog.
Read sentence 3. The dog is active, but I think he is the most energetic dog in the whole neighborhood.
Question: What is the correct way to write the end of that sentence?
A. ...he is the energetic dog in the whole neighborhood.
B. ...he is the more energetic dog in the whole neighborhood.
C. ...he is the energeticest dog in the whole neighborhood.
D. No change is needed
Correct Answer: D
No change is needed because the sentence is comparing the dog to all others in the neighborhood, making "most energetic" the correct superlative.
Passage: Adventures at Sunny Lake Park
(1) Sunny Lake Park is a wonderful place for families and friends to enjoy outdoor activities. Located in the heart of the city, it offers something fun for everyone.
(2) The park features a beautiful lake where people can rent paddleboats and enjoy a sunny day on the water. Kids love to splash around and feed the ducks that swim by.
(3) There are also playgrounds with swings and slides where children can play and make new friends. Families can have picnics on the grassy lawns, surrounded by tall trees that provide shade.
(4) For those who enjoy nature, there are hiking trails that wind through the woods. Visitors can spot various birds and animals while exploring the trails.
(5) Sunny Lake Park is perfect for everyone, with activities ranging from fishing and boating to picnicking and hiking. No matter your age, there’s always something exciting to do!
Question: Which detail shows that Sunny Lake Park has activities for people of all ages?
A. The park features a beautiful lake where people can rent paddleboats.
B. There are hiking trails that wind through the woods.
C. Kids love to splash around and feed the ducks.
D. Families can have picnics on the grassy lawns.
D. Families can have picnics on the grassy lawns.
Sentence: The pioneers moved west because they wanted to settle near the river and start a farm.
Dictionary Entry: Settle (verb) 1. To pay a debt 2. To become calm and quiet 3. To establish a permanent residence 4. To sink or come to rest on the ground
Question: Which definition best matches the way settle is used in the sentence?
A. Definition 1
B. Definition 2
C. Definition 3
D. Definition 4
Correct Answer: C.
Establishing a permanent home is the definition of settling in a new land.
Read the sentence from paragraph 7.
"Edison became very successful and is remembered as one of America’s greatest inventors."
Think about the suffix -or. What is the meaning of inventor above?
A. a person who tells stories about the past
B. a person who shows others how to do something
C. a person who makes something new
D. a person who studies science
C. a person who makes something new
The Passage: Walking the Dog
(1) Today my brother is helping me walk the dog. (2) I have held my brothers leash for a long time. (3) The dog is active, but I think he is the most energetic dog in the whole neighborhood. (4) My brother says we have to walk fast so the dog stays calm. (5) I have walked him before, but my brother says we have to walk even fastest today. (6) We need to get the dog home once the sky gets dark. (7) The next step is feeding him. (8) We scoop the food into the bowl. (9) My brother opens the bag. (10) Because the dog needs to eat. (11) When the dog is finished, it is time for a treat. (12) Then we relax. (13) My brother holds the treat while I give it to his dog.
Question: What change should be made in sentence 5?
Original Sentence 5: I have walked him before, but my brother says we have to walk even fastest today.
A. Change fastest to fast.
B. Change fastest to faster.
C. Change fastest to more fast.
D. No change is needed.
The correct answer is B.
Since we are comparing two instances of walking (before vs. today), the comparative form "faster" is required.
Passage: Adventures at Sunny Lake Park
(1) Sunny Lake Park is a wonderful place for families and friends to enjoy outdoor activities. Located in the heart of the city, it offers something fun for everyone.
(2) The park features a beautiful lake where people can rent paddleboats and enjoy a sunny day on the water. Kids love to splash around and feed the ducks that swim by.
(3) There are also playgrounds with swings and slides where children can play and make new friends. Families can have picnics on the grassy lawns, surrounded by tall trees that provide shade.
(4) For those who enjoy nature, there are hiking trails that wind through the woods. Visitors can spot various birds and animals while exploring the trails.
(5) Sunny Lake Park is perfect for everyone, with activities ranging from fishing and boating to picnicking and hiking. No matter your age, there’s always something exciting to do!
Question: What is the author's purpose in writing about Sunny Lake Park?
A. To inform readers about the history of the park.
B. To persuade families to visit the park for fun activities.
C. To describe the different types of fish found in the lake.
D. To explain how to rent paddleboats at the park.
B. To persuade families to visit the park for fun activities.
Sentence: The scientist explained that the project would require several weeks of research before we could see results.
Dictionary Entry: Project (noun) 1. A planned piece of work or activity 2. A piece of land that sticks out 3. An image thrown onto a screen 4. A guess about the future
Question:Which definition best matches the way project is used in the sentence?
A. Definition 1
B. Definition 2
C. Definition 3
D. Definition 4
Correct Answer: A.
The context of research and results defines the activity as a planned task.
Passage: The Story of Thomas Edison
(1) Inventions shape our world, and many of the items we use every day were created by brilliant minds. One of those inventors was Thomas Edison, known for his work with electric light bulbs.
Early Life
(2) Thomas Edison was born in 1847 in Milan, Ohio. As a child, he was very curious and loved to experiment. He often conducted small experiments at home, which sometimes got him into trouble.
(3) When Edison grew older, he worked as a telegraph operator. However, he always dreamed of inventing things that could help people.
The Light Bulb
(4) Before Edison’s invention, light bulbs were not very practical. Most lamps used gas or candles, which could be dangerous. Edison wanted to create a safe and effective electric light.
(5) After many experiments, Edison found a way to make a reliable light bulb that lasted a long time. His invention changed the way people lit their homes and streets.
Building a Company
(6) Edison didn’t just stop with the light bulb. He founded a company to produce his inventions. He worked with a team of scientists and engineers to develop new ideas, including the phonograph, which played music.
(7) Edison became very successful and is remembered as one of America’s greatest inventors. He held over 1,000 patents for his inventions, which shows how dedicated he was to innovation.
Legacy
(8) Thomas Edison’s inventions have had a lasting impact on our lives. His work paved the way for future inventors and changed the world for the better.
During the time in which Edison lived, his success was significant. What was the cause of his significant success?
A. Edison’s success was significant because he invented many everyday items.
B. Edison’s success was significant because he worked in factories.
C. Edison’s success was significant because he had a strong interest in science.
D. Edison’s success was significant because he had many friends
A. Edison’s success was significant because he invented many everyday items.
The Passage: Walking the Dog
(1) Today my brother is helping me walk the dog. (2) I have held my brothers leash for a long time. (3) The dog is active, but I think he is the most energetic dog in the whole neighborhood. (4) My brother says we have to walk fast so the dog stays calm. (5) I have walked him before, but my brother says we have to walk even fastest today. (6) We need to get the dog home once the sky gets dark. (7) The next step is feeding him. (8) We scoop the food into the bowl. (9) My brother opens the bag. (10) Because the dog needs to eat. (11) When the dog is finished, it is time for a treat. (12) Then we relax. (13) My brother holds the treat while I give it to his dog.
Question: Ken wants to combine the ideas in sentences 9 and 10. Which sentence would be the correct way to combine these?
A. My brother opens the bag and because the dog needs to eat.
B. My brother opens the bag yet the dog needs to eat.
C. My brother opens the bag because the dog needs to eat.
D. My brother opens the bag so the dog needs to eat.
Correct Answer: C
Using "because" creates the logical explanation for why the brother opened the bag.
Passage: The Importance of Recycling
(1) Recycling is an important activity that everyone can participate in. (2) It helps reduce waste and keeps our planet clean. (3) When we recycle paper, plastic, and glass, we save natural resources and energy. (4) Many people don’t realize that recycling can also help create new products, like toys and clothing. (5) By making an effort to recycle, we can all do our part to protect the environment for future generations.
Question: What is the author's purpose in writing this passage?
A. To entertain readers with funny stories about recycling.
B. To inform readers about the benefits of recycling.
C. To persuade readers not to use plastic products.
D. To describe how to create new products from recycled materials.
B. To inform readers about the benefits of recycling.
The room was tidy, but it used to be a messy disaster before we cleaned it.
Question:Which phrase gives a clue to help you determine the meaning of tidy?
A. The room
B. Messy disaster before we cleaned it
C. It used to be
D. The room was
Correct Answer: B.
This uses a contrast clue. By explaining what it looked like before (a messy disaster), the reader understands that tidy means the opposite... clean and organized.
Passage: The Story of Thomas Edison
(1) Inventions shape our world, and many of the items we use every day were created by brilliant minds. One of those inventors was Thomas Edison, known for his work with electric light bulbs.
Early Life
(2) Thomas Edison was born in 1847 in Milan, Ohio. As a child, he was very curious and loved to experiment. He often conducted small experiments at home, which sometimes got him into trouble.
(3) When Edison grew older, he worked as a telegraph operator. However, he always dreamed of inventing things that could help people.
The Light Bulb
(4) Before Edison’s invention, light bulbs were not very practical. Most lamps used gas or candles, which could be dangerous. Edison wanted to create a safe and effective electric light.
(5) After many experiments, Edison found a way to make a reliable light bulb that lasted a long time. His invention changed the way people lit their homes and streets.
Building a Company
(6) Edison didn’t just stop with the light bulb. He founded a company to produce his inventions. He worked with a team of scientists and engineers to develop new ideas, including the phonograph, which played music.
(7) Edison became very successful and is remembered as one of America’s greatest inventors. He held over 1,000 patents for his inventions, which shows how dedicated he was to innovation.
Legacy
(8) Thomas Edison’s inventions have had a lasting impact on our lives. His work paved the way for future inventors and changed the world for the better.
Which sentence best supports the central idea of the biography that Edison was an important inventor?
A. Edison often conducted small experiments at home. (paragraph 2)
B. He worked with a team of scientists and engineers to develop new ideas. (paragraph 6)
C. He is remembered as one of America’s greatest inventors. (paragraph 7)
D. Edison held over 1,000 patents for his inventions. (paragraph 7)
D. Edison held over 1,000 patents for his inventions. (paragraph 7)
The Passage: Walking the Dog
(1) Today my brother is helping me walk the dog. (2) I have held my brothers leash for a long time. (3) The dog is active, but I think he is the most energetic dog in the whole neighborhood. (4) My brother says we have to walk fast so the dog stays calm. (5) I have walked him before, but my brother says we have to walk even fastest today. (6) We need to get the dog home once the sky gets dark. (7) The next step is feeding him. (8) We scoop the food into the bowl. (9) My brother opens the bag. (10) Because the dog needs to eat. (11) When the dog is finished, it is time for a treat. (12) Then we relax. (13) My brother holds the treat while I give it to his dog.
Question: What is the correct way to write sentence 13?
(13) My brother holds the treat while I give it to his dog.
A. My brother holds the treat while I give it to mine dog.
B. My brother holds the treat while I give it to your dog.
C. My brother holds the treat while I give it to our dog.
D. My brother holds the treat while I give it to hers dog.
Correct Answer: C
Since the narrator and the brother are both involved in the care of the dog, "our" is the correct possessive pronoun.