Context Clues
the word “relentless” most nearly means
A. forgiving
B. continuous and harsh
C. careless
D. temporary
B- Continuous and Harsh
The school noticed a steady decline in student reading scores over the past three years. Teachers reported that students were struggling to stay focused during independent reading time. In response, the administration implemented a daily 20-minute reading block across all grade levels. Within one semester, teachers observed increased engagement, and test scores began to improve.
❓ Questions
What text structure is used in this passage ?
Structure: Cause/Effect
Schools should start later in the morning to support student success. Research shows that teenagers need more sleep due to changes in their biological clocks. However, many schools begin as early as 7:30 a.m., forcing students to function while sleep-deprived. As a result, students often struggle to focus, leading to lower academic performance.
❓ Questions
What is the author’s purpose?
Purpose: Persuade
Which sentence is correct?
A. Me and him went to the store.
B. Him and I went to the store.
C. He and I went to the store.
D. Me and he went to the store.
He and I went to the store.
Who wrote Charlotte’s Web?
A. Dr. Seuss
B. E.B. White
C. Roald Dahl
D. Shel Silverstein
E.B White
"The crowd’s reaction was lukewarm, a stark contrast to the roaring applause earlier."
What does lukewarm suggest?
Weak or unenthusiastic response
Unlike traditional classrooms, which rely heavily on lectures, project-based learning encourages students to actively engage with content. In a lecture-based classroom, students often take notes and memorize information. However, in project-based settings, students collaborate, research, and present their findings, leading to deeper understanding.
❓ Questions
What structure is used?
Compare/Contrast
Many people believe that social media negatively impacts teenagers; however, it can also provide meaningful connections. For example, students can collaborate on schoolwork, join support groups, and express creativity through digital platforms. While excessive use may cause harm, responsible use can offer significant benefits.
❓ Questions
What is the author’s purpose?
Purpose: Inform/Persuade (balanced argument)
What does the word enormous most nearly mean?
A. tiny
B. very large
C. quiet
D. slow
Very Large
Who wrote Green Eggs and Ham?
Dr. Seuss
How does the word “fragile” contribute to the tone of the passage?
Creates a sense of vulnerability or tension
Jalen wanted to improve his performance in track, but he often felt exhausted during practice. After speaking with his coach, he realized he was not eating enough nutritious food. He began following a balanced diet and staying hydrated. As a result, his energy increased, and his performance improved significantly.
What is the problem?
Problem: Low energy
Recycling is one of the simplest ways individuals can help protect the environment. When materials like plastic and paper are reused, fewer natural resources are needed. Additionally, recycling reduces the amount of waste sent to landfills, which helps decrease pollution. Small actions, such as separating recyclables, can lead to significant environmental benefits.
❓ Questions
What is the author’s purpose?
Purpose: Persuade
What is 12 × 8?
96
Who wrote Harry Potter?
J.K. Rowling
Explain how the author’s word choice shapes the reader’s understanding of the character.
Must cite + explain
First, the scientist gathered data from multiple sources. Next, she organized the information into categories. Then, she analyzed patterns within the data. Finally, she presented her findings in a detailed report.
What structure is used?
What signal words show this?
Structure: Chronological/Sequence
Signals: First, Next, Then, Finally
Some argue that homework is essential for reinforcing learning outside the classroom. However, studies have shown that excessive homework can lead to stress and burnout among students. In fact, researchers have found little correlation between large amounts of homework and improved academic performance. Therefore, schools should reconsider the amount of homework assigned to students.
❓ Questions
What is the author’s claim?
What evidence is used to support it?
Claim: Schools should reduce homework
Evidence: Research + lack of correlation
What planet is known as the “Red Planet”?
Mars
Which author is MOST associated with speeches about freedom and equality?
A. Martin Luther King Jr.
B. Dr. Seuss
C. Mark Twain
D. J.K. Rowling
Martin Luther King
The supreme court voted to abrogate the outdated law.
What does the word ABROGATE mean
To abolish or annul by authority
Many students believe that studying longer leads to better results; however, research suggests that the quality of study time matters more than the quantity. For example, students who use active strategies such as self-testing and summarizing tend to retain more information than those who passively reread notes. Therefore, effective study habits focus on engagement rather than duration.
❓ Questions
What TWO structures are used in this passage?
Which sentence introduces a shift in thinking?
Structures: Compare/Contrast + Cause/Effect (or Argument structure)
Shift: “however…”
Technology has transformed the way students learn, offering access to information at unprecedented levels. While some educators argue that technology can be distracting, others believe it enhances engagement and prepares students for the future. For instance, digital tools allow for interactive lessons and personalized learning experiences. Although concerns about misuse remain valid, the benefits of technology in education outweigh the drawbacks when used effectively.
❓ Questions
What is the author’s primary purpose?
What is the main claim?
Identify ONE counterargument and ONE rebuttal.
Purpose: Persuade
Claim: Technology benefits outweigh drawbacks
Counterargument: Technology is distracting
What gas do plants use to make food?
Carbon dioxide
Who wrote The Lightning Thief?
Rick Riordan