Main Idea
"The New York Knicks’ 2025 playoff run reignited excitement throughout the city. Led by strong team defense, clutch performances, and a passionate fan base, the Knicks advanced deeper into the postseason than they had in years. Fans packed Madison Square Garden and gathered throughout the city to support the team. Their success brought renewed attention to the franchise and created unforgettable moments for basketball fans."
The Knicks successful playoff run
MAIN IDEA: To prepare successfully for a major test, begin by organizing your notes and identifying the most important topics. Next, create a study schedule that allows time to review material over several days rather than cramming the night before. Practice with sample questions and quizzes to identify areas that need improvement. Finally, get enough sleep and arrive prepared on test day.
How to prepare for a test
Schools should begin classes later in the morning. Research suggests that teenagers naturally fall asleep later and require more sleep than younger children. Starting school later can improve student focus, academic performance, and overall well-being. A schedule that aligns with students' biological needs would benefit both learning and health.
The author believes schools start too early.
The New York Knicks' 2025 playoff run was one of the most successful in franchise history.
Which piece of evidence most strongly supports this claim?
A) The Knicks sold a large amount of team merchandise during the season.
B) The Knicks advanced deeper into the playoffs than they had in many years.
C) Many celebrities attended Knicks home games.
B) The Knicks advanced deeper into the playoffs than they had in many years.
Tom Sawyer's long-suffering aunt
Aunt Polly
Video games have changed dramatically since the 1970s. Early games featured simple graphics and limited gameplay, but advances in technology allowed developers to create larger worlds and more complex stories. The rise of online gaming connected players across the globe, while modern consoles offer realistic graphics and immersive experiences. Despite these changes, the goal of entertaining players has remained the same."
Evolution of video games
Throughout my life, I have learned that persistence matters more than natural talent. There were many times when I struggled or failed at something new, but continuing to practice eventually led to improvement. While talent can provide an advantage, determination and effort are what allow people to reach their full potential.
The author believes that persistence is important to success.
"Reading fiction is one of the most valuable activities a person can engage in. Through stories, readers experience different perspectives, develop empathy, and strengthen critical thinking skills. While many forms of entertainment have value, few provide the same combination of enjoyment and personal growth as reading."
The author thinks reading fiction is helpful and important.
Reading regularly improves academic performance..
Which piece of evidence most strongly supports this claim?
A) Students who read frequently often earn higher grades and stronger reading scores.
B) Many libraries contain thousands of books.
C) Reading is a popular hobby among people of all ages.
A) Students who read frequently often earn higher grades and stronger reading scores.
The capital of Missouri
"Jackie Robinson broke Major League Baseball's color barrier in 1947, forever changing professional sports. Years later, athletes such as Billie Jean King fought for equality in women's athletics, while Muhammad Ali used his platform to advocate for social causes. These individuals, along with many others, used sports as a way to challenge barriers and create opportunities for future generations."
Athletes who informed social change
Teachers play one of the most important roles in society. Every day they help students build knowledge, develop critical thinking skills, and prepare for future careers. While the profession can be challenging, the impact teachers have on their students often lasts a lifetime. Their dedication deserves far more appreciation than it often receives.
The author thinks teaching is important and should be respected.
Nikola Jokić has transformed the center position in modern basketball. His combination of scoring, rebounding, and elite passing ability allows him to impact games in ways few players ever have. While many great players have dominated the NBA, Jokić's unique skill set makes him one of the most valuable players in the league today.
The author believes Nikola Jokic is one of the league's most valuable players.
School uniforms have a positive effect on school culture.
Which piece of evidence most strongly supports this claim?
A) School uniforms are sold by many clothing companies.
B) Some uniforms are available in different colors and styles.
C) Schools that adopted uniforms reported fewer discipline issues and improved student focus.
C) Schools that adopted uniforms reported fewer discipline issues and improved student focus.
The capital of Missouri
Jefferson City
"When George Lucas released Star Wars in 1977, few expected it to become a cultural phenomenon. The film introduced audiences to a vast science-fiction universe filled with memorable characters and groundbreaking special effects. Its success led to sequels, television series, books, and merchandise that continue to influence popular culture today. Decades later, Star Wars remains one of the most recognizable franchises in the world."
The creation and impact of Star Wars
Although social media can be entertaining, I believe many people spend far too much time using it. Endless scrolling often replaces meaningful conversations, hobbies, and real-world experiences. While social media has benefits, its negative effects on attention and communication are becoming increasingly difficult to ignore."
"Many cities are expanding bike lane networks to reduce traffic congestion and lower pollution levels. Studies show that communities with safe bike infrastructure often experience improved public health and cleaner air. Investing in bike lanes is a practical step toward creating more sustainable cities."
More cities should invest in bike lanes for many reasons
Claim: Reading for at least 20 minutes each day can improve vocabulary and reading comprehension.
Which piece of evidence best supports this claim?
A) Many students say reading is their favorite hobby.
B) A study found that students who read daily scored significantly higher on vocabulary and comprehension assessments than students who rarely read.
C) Libraries often have comfortable places to sit and read.
B) A study found that students who read daily scored significantly higher on vocabulary and comprehension assessments than students who rarely read.
The number of US Senators
100
A record 10 of how many overall African countries are playing in the 2026 World Cup. (How many African countries are there?)
Jalen Brunson 45 points in a Finals game is the third most for a PG, behind Steph Curry's 47 and this diminutive Sixer, nicknamed The Answer's, 48.
Allen Iverson
Haim
Today's Knicks parade is expected to draw a record crowd, topping the 5 million who attended this midwestern baseball team's long-awaited parade in 2016.
Chicago Cubs
Kurt Vonnegut