PSSA Vocabulary Groups

Group 1

100

The practice of representing things by symbols, or of investing things  with a symbolic meaning or character

 Symbolism 

200

To make an overstatement or to stretch the truth  

 Exaggeration 

300

The formation of a word by imitating the sound it makes 

Ex: buzz, hum, slap, splash 

Onomatopoeia

400

The comparison of two unlike things using "like" or "as"

Simile 

500

Language that appeals to the five senses; taste, touch, sight, sound and touch

Ex: The yeasty aroma of fresh baked bread filled the kitchen (smell)

Imagery 

Group 2

100

The ending of a story  or the summary of ideas in a nonfictional text 

Conclusion  

200

The sequence in which the author arranges the events in a story 

Plot Events 

300

Cause statements stem from actions and events. Effects are what happen as a result of the action or event

Cause and Effect 

400

The sentence that tell what the entire essay is about and can be found in the introduction 

Thesis Statement 

500

The (Theme) lesson, or message which the author wants you to take away from the story. This is directly stated at the end of a fable 

Moral 

Group 3

100

To restate a text or passage in other words, often to show understanding or clarify the meaning.

Paraphrase 

200

The authors purpose for writing (facts) argumentative, (emotions) persuade, (information) inform, or (enjoyment) entertain

Authors Purpose 

300

To convince others to feel a particular way about a topic 

Persuade 

400

The fluency, rhythm and liveliness in writing that make it unique to the writer. your written personality the "style" you write with (friendly, formal, everyday, short/long sentences) 

Voice 

500

The title at the start of a page or section, usually bold or dark print.

Heading