Reading Comprehension
What is the main idea of a passage?
The central point or message the author is trying to convey.
What is a simile?
A comparison using “like” or “as.”
What are the three main purposes an author may have?
To inform, persuade, or entertain.
What does chronological order mean?
Events are arranged in the order they happened.
What does “context clues” mean?
Hints in the surrounding text that help define a word.
What is a theme?
A universal message or lesson explored in a story.
Define personification.
Giving human traits to non-human things.
What does tone mean in literature?
The author’s attitude toward the subject.
What is cause and effect text structure?
Explains why something happened and what happened as a result.
What type of context clue is used in this sentence: “He was elated, or extremely happy, after hearing the news”?
Definition clue
What is the difference between explicit and implicit information?
Explicit is directly stated; implicit must be inferred.
What is irony?
A contrast between what is expected and what actually happens.
How can you identify the tone of a passage?
Look at word choice and sentence structure.
What clues help identify a compare and contrast structure?
Words like “similarly,” “on the other hand,” and “both.”
What type of context clue is used when a sentence gives an opposite meaning?
Antonym clue
In a passage, how can you determine the narrator’s point of view?
Look at pronouns and how much the narrator knows about characters' thoughts.
What is the difference between a metaphor and a symbol?
A metaphor is a direct comparison; a symbol stands for something beyond itself.
What is the difference between tone and mood?
Tone is the author’s attitude; mood is how the reader feels.
What’s the difference between a summary and a paraphrase?
A summary is shorter and gives main ideas; a paraphrase is rewording in your own words.
If a word you don’t know appears in a sentence, what should you do?
Use the words around it to infer the meaning.
Read this paragraph
"Every year, thousands of marine animals are injured or killed by plastic pollution in our oceans. Plastic bags, straws, and fishing lines are often mistaken for food, leading to tragic consequences. We must take action—reduce our plastic use, participate in clean-up efforts, and support policies that protect our waters. The future of marine life depends on us."
What is the author’s purpose?
To persuade the reader to reduce plastic use and take action to protect marine life.
Identify the literary device: “The wind whispered through the trees.”
Personification
Identify the tone: “She slammed the door and gritted her teeth, blinking back tears.”
Frustrated or angry
Why might an author choose to use flashback in a story?
To provide background information or reveal something important about a character.
Find the meaning of the word “reluctant” in this sentence: “She was reluctant to go on stage, hesitating with each step.”
Unwilling or hesitant