Controlling Idea
Key Details
Text Structure
Author's Purpose
Text Features
100

You can do fun things when you go to the ocean. You can swim in the ocean. You might play in the sand. You can also look for shells. 


What is this mostly about?

A. swimming in the ocean

B. toys to bring in the ocean

C. fun things to do in the ocean

C. fun things to do in the ocean

100

What are Key Details?

A.  Important Details that support the Table of Contents.

B.  Important Details that support the controlling idea.

C.  Important Details that support the conclusion of the paragraph.

B.  Important Details that support the controlling idea

100

When I wake up in the morning, the first thing I do is brush my teeth. After that, I make my breakfast and drink my coffee. Then, I like to sit on the couch and watch Tiktoks. When I finish my breakfast, I start to get ready for the day. The last thing I do everyday is get dressed. 

A. Compare and contrast

B. Description

C. Order and sequence

D. Problem and solution

C. Order and sequence

100

It takes many people to make a book. Some write the words. Some make sure all the words are right. Other people draw or take pictures for the book. 

Why did the author write this? 

A. to show some of the jobs people do to make books

B. to help people pick which books to buy

C. to tell people why reading books is a good idea 

A. to show some of the jobs people do to make books

100

What text feature is above?

A. Picture

B. Glossary

C. Diagram

D. Chart

C. Diagram
200

Soccer is not just about kicking a ball around. If you have ever watched a game, you will agree. Soccer players have many skills. They can control the ball with only their feet. They can pass and dribble the ball. Most importantly, soccer players work together with their teammates. If they do not work as a team, they probably will not win.

Which sentence from the passage is the central idea?

A. They can control the ball with only their feet.

B. Soccer players have many skills. 

C. They can pass and dribble the ball.


B. Soccer players have many skills

200

Holly’s Book

Holly got a book for her birthday. Once she started reading it, it seemed that she never put it down. She read at the breakfast table in the mornings. She read on the bus on the way to school. She read at recess. She read after school until time for dinner. She forgot to do her chores. She forgot to do her homework. She forgot to take a bath. She hardly talked to her family at all during the few days it took Holly to finish the book!

Choose two Relevant Details of this story:

A.  Holly forgot to take a bath.

B.  She read the book after school until time for dinner.

C.  Holly read the book with her friends.

D.  She read on the bus on the way to school.

B.  She read the book after school until time for dinner.

D.  She read on the bus on the way to school.

200

Soccer, often referred to as football outside of North America, is a fast-paced and exhilarating sport played between two teams of eleven players each. The game is characterized by its vibrant atmosphere, where fans passionately cheer for their favorite teams, creating a lively environment. Players skillfully maneuver a round, black-and-white ball on a large grass field, showcasing their agility and teamwork. The objective is to score goals by getting the ball into the opposing team's net, which requires not only precise kicking but also strategic passing and clever positioning. Renowned tournaments, such as the FIFA World Cup, highlight the global appeal of soccer, bringing together diverse cultures and showcasing exceptional talent. Overall, soccer is not just a sport; it embodies excitement, competition, and unity among its players and fans alike. 


A. Cause and effect

B. Order and sequence

C. Problem and solution

D. Description

D. Description

200

Lightly place each orange on the counter. Cut each one in half. Squeeze into a glass. You may also use a citrus reamer to do this. If you want less pulp, use a hand juicer with a strainer.

Why did the author write this passage? 

A. teach someone how to pick out an orange

B. teach someone how to use a citrus reamer

C. teach someone how to make orange juice

C.  teach someone how to make orange juice

200

Why would an author present the reader with this diagram?

A. To show what precipitation looks like.

B. To show the reader what the stages of the water cycle are.

C. To help the reader visualize rain falling from the clouds.

B. To show the reader what the stages of the water cycle are.

300

Hands Across America was a public event on Sunday, May 25, 1986, in which approximately 6.5 million people held hands for fifteen minutes in an attempt to form a continuous human chain across the United States. Many participants donated ten dollars to reserve their place in line.

What is the central idea of this excerpt?

A. Hands Across America was fun. 

B. Hands Across America was an attempted show of unity. 

C.  Hands Across America occurred on May 25, 1986.

B. Hands Across America was an attempted show of unity.

300

Soccer is not just about kicking a ball around. If you have ever watched a game, you will agree. Soccer players have many skills. They can control the ball with only their feet. They can pass and dribble the ball. Most importantly, soccer players work together with their teammates. If they do not work as a team, they probably will not win.

Which relevant detail supports the central idea that soccer players have many skills?

A. They can pass and dribble the ball.

B. Playing soccer is not just about kicking a ball around.

C. If you have ever watched a game, you will agree.

A. They can pass and dribble the ball.

This is the only detail that describes the players skill. 

300

Plastic pollution is a significant environmental problem affecting our planet. Every year, millions of tons of plastic waste end up in oceans and landfills, harming wildlife and disrupting ecosystems. Sea turtles, for example, can mistake plastic bags for jellyfish, leading to severe health issues or even death. To combat this problem, communities and organizations are implementing solutions such as increasing recycling efforts, reducing single-use plastics, and promoting awareness about the importance of using eco-friendly materials. By working together to change our habits and support sustainable practices, we can help reduce plastic pollution and protect our environment for future generations.

How does the organizational pattern help develop the controlling idea?

A. It explains problems that could result from plastic pollution and provides possible solutions.

B. It orders the events chronologically to show how plastic pollution can effect the environment.

C. It classifies the results of plastic pollution to support the idea that people need to recycle.

D. It compares and contrasts the ways past generations have protected the environment with the current generation. 


A. It explains problems that could result from plastic pollution and provides possible solutions.

300

Birchwood School offers two spring sports. They are baseball and track. Baseball requires the ability to hit a ball, run to the bases, throw a ball, and catch a ball. Track requires short sprints and long-distance running. Both sports will keep students in good shape.

Why did the author write this passage?

A. To explain how baseball works.

B. To describe what sports the school offers.

C. To compare baseball to track.

C. To compare baseball to track.

300

Lake Superior is the largest freshwater lake by surface area in the world, covering approximately 31,700 square miles. This vast body of water holds about 10% of the world's freshwater supply, showcasing its immense size and significance in terms of natural resources and ecological diversity. Driving around Lake Superior typically takes about 10 to 12 hours, covering a distance of approximately 1,300 miles.

What is the purpose of the map?

A. To show the Great Lakes.

B. To show how large Lake Superior is compared to the other Great Lakes.

C. To show where Lake Superior is.

B. To show how large Lake Superior is compared to the other Great Lakes.


400

In three studies, we provided a test of how rudeness affects performance at the workplace. The results were all the same. They showed that rudeness reduced performance on routine tasks, as well as creative tasks.

What is the central idea of this passage?

A. Rudeness should be against the law.

B. Rudeness happens in all workplaces.

C. Rudeness affects people's work performance.

C. Rudeness affects people's work performance.

400

So you just purchased a new computer? Remember to follow all of the directions for setting it up. Most computers come with step by step directions. It is also important to install antivirus software. Without it, your computer can slow down, crash, or become exposed to spammers. Various antivirus software is available online.


Which detail supports the central idea that people should take care of their computers?

A. "...your computer can slow down, crash, or become exposed to spammers."

B. "Various antivirus software is available online."

C. "...follow all of the directions for setting it up."

A. "...your computer can slow down, crash, or become exposed to spammers."

This detail tells you why you should take care of your computer. 

400

Cell phone use has increased dramatically in recent years, leading to various effects on individuals and society. One major cause of this rise is the convenience that cell phones offer, allowing people to communicate instantly and access information at their fingertips. As a result, many teenagers now rely on their phones for social interactions, which can lead to decreased face-to-face communication skills. Furthermore, excessive cell phone use can cause distractions in school, affecting students' academic performance and focus during classes. On the other hand, cell phones can also provide educational tools and resources, helping students learn more effectively when used responsibly. Therefore, while cell phone use has its benefits, it also presents challenges that can impact both personal development and academic success.

What is the most likely reason the author uses a cause-and-effect structure in this paragraph?

A. To explain why cell phones should be banned in schools.

B. To explain the impact excessive cell phone use has on teenagers.

C. To explain why people are reliant on their phones.

D. To explain the cons of cell phone usage. 

B. To explain the impact excessive cell phone use has on teenagers. 

400

Renewable energy sources, such as solar, wind, and hydropower, are essential for creating a sustainable future. Unlike fossil fuels, which can deplete and contribute to pollution, renewable resources are abundant and can be replenished naturally. They help reduce greenhouse gas emissions, combating climate change and improving air quality. As technology advances, renewable energy is becoming more efficient and cost-effective, making it a viable option for powering homes, businesses, and vehicles.

Why did the author write this passage?

A. To describe why renewable energy is a good source of power.

B. To compare renewable energy to nonrenewable energy.

C. To describe the problem of climate change and discuss possible solutions.

A. To describe why renewable energy is a good source of power.

400

Why would this picture be included in an article about how people traveled in the Wild West?

A. To show the reader how people dressed in that time period.

B. To help the reader visualize the landscape of the Wild West.

C. To help the reader visualize how long ago people travelled by horseback.

C. To help the reader visualize how long ago people travelled by horseback.

500

Educational volunteers work without pay in elementary, middle and high school classrooms.  Their work is difficult, but very rewarding. Teachers are very grateful for their volunteers. Most schools have openings for this type of work.  

What is the central idea of the excerpt?

A. Volunteering for schools is fun. 

B. Volunteers are needed at every school.

C. Educational volunteers work in elementary school classrooms.

D. Educational volunteers work hard and are greatly appreciated.

   D. Educational volunteers work hard and are greatly appreciated.

500

In three studies, we provided a test of how rudeness affects performance at the workplace. The workers were given tasks in rude or not rude ways. The results were all the same. They showed that rudeness reduced performance on routine tasks, as well as creative tasks.

Which key detail supports the central idea that rudeness results in less work? 

A. Rudeness should be against the law.

B. In three studies, we provided a test of how rudeness affects performance at the workplace.

C. They showed that rudeness reduced performance on routine tasks, as well as creative tasks.

C. They showed that rudeness reduced performance on routine tasks, as well as creative tasks.

This detail supports the central idea by giving the result of the study.

500

Serena Williams, born in Saginaw, Michigan, began playing tennis at a young age under the guidance of her father, Richard Williams. By the age of 14, she turned professional and quickly made her mark on the sport, winning her first major title at the US Open in 1999. Throughout the early 2000s, Serena continued to excel, securing multiple Grand Slam titles and establishing herself as a fierce competitor on the court. In 2002, she achieved a remarkable feat by winning four consecutive Grand Slam tournaments, completing what's known as the "Serena Slam." After taking time off to become a mother, she returned to tennis and made history by reaching the finals of the 2018 Wimbledon and the 2019 US Open, showcasing her resilience and skill. Serena's powerful playing style and relentless determination helped her overcome challenges, including injuries and fierce rivals. In 2021, she reached a record of 23 Grand Slam singles titles, making her one of the greatest tennis players of all time. Beyond her athletic achievements, Serena has also been a strong advocate for gender equality and social justice, further solidifying her legacy as an influential figure in both sports and society.  

How is the information organized to help develop the thesis?

A. By ranking the accomplishments of Serena Williams in order of importance.

B. By comparing the work of Williams' early in his career to the work she completed later.

C. By explaining solutions to problems she faced while playing tennis.

D. By chronologically detailing information about William's career in tennis.

D. By chronologically detailing information about William's career in tennis.

500

After a challenging first year marked by harsh conditions and food shortages, the Pilgrims were grateful for the assistance provided by the Wampanoag people, who taught them essential farming techniques and helped them gather food. To celebrate their successful harvest, the Pilgrims invited the Wampanoag to join them for a feast that lasted three days. This event is often regarded as the first Thanksgiving. 

What is the author's purpose for writing this selection?

A.  To describe the traditions of Thanksgiving.

B. To show us the problem the Pilgrims had.

C. To explain how Thanksgiving got started.

C.  To explain how Thanksgiving got started.

500

Read the following subheading-

How Was Thanksgiving Created?

What can you infer this section of text will be about?

A. Pilgrims and Native Americans came together to celebrate their successful harvest after a harsh year.

B. How Thanksgiving was created.

C. Thanksgiving is a national holiday that is observed on the last Thursday of November.

A. Pilgrims and Native Americans came together to celebrate their successful harvest after a harsh year.

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