Main/Central Idea
Author's Purpose
Vocabulary
100

Florida is home to an amazing array of fish, wildlife, and the habitats in which they live and thrive.  These multitudes of species are dependent upon natural habitats such as tropical coral reefs, and the grasses of the Everglades. 

Which key idea is being developed with this excerpt?

A. The beauty of Florida’s tropical reefs.

B. Florida’s wildlife and their habitats should be protected.

C. The expense of maintaining habitats for wildlife in Florida.

D.  Photographers love the wildlife and their habitats found in Florida.

B. Florida’s wildlife and their habitats should be protected.


100

When writing to convince others of a particular point of view, the author’s purpose is – 

A. To inform

B. To entertain

C. To persuade

D. To explain

C. To persuade
100

Which is a synonym for “absurd”?

A.  Deface  

B.  Preposterous

C.  Succumb

D.  Pithy 

B. Preposterous

200

Athletes of the past and present have played a huge role in giving young people a voice and inspiring them to take action. Rock the Vote is teaming up with those in the sports world to empower and inspire a new generation.

What is the central idea of this excerpt?

A. The importance of playing a sport.  

B. Rock the Vote inspires young people to vote for athletes who want to run for office.

C. Athletes can help inspire young people to vote.

D. The connection between rock music and playing sports.

C. Athletes can help inspire young people to vote.

200

When writing to enhance the general knowledge of the reader about something new the author’s purpose is – 

A. To inform

B. To entertain

C. To persuade

D. To explain

A.  To inform

200

Fullness : Void ::

(Fullness is to Void just like - )

A.  Shack : Cave

B.  Piano : Organ

C.  Large : Miniscule

D.  Crowd : Mob

C. Large : Miniscule (They are opposites)

300

Hospital volunteers work without pay in health care settings, under the supervision of nurses.  Their work is difficult, but they persevere.  Hospitals are grateful for their volunteers. Most have openings for this position.

Which is an objective summary of the excerpt?

A. Hospital volunteers work harder than other volunteers. 

B. Volunteers are needed at every hospital.  

C. Hospital volunteers work just as hard as nurses.

D.  Hospital volunteers work hard and are greatly appreciated.

D.  Hospital volunteers work hard and are greatly appreciated.

300

In narrative writing, the author’s purpose is – 

A. To inform

B. To entertain

C. To persuade

D. To explain

B. To entertain

300

“Arnie is interested in the position,” said Cindy.

“Oh really,” replied Ed.
“Yes.  He wants to talk with you about it,” said Cindy.
“You should deter him,” replied Ed.

The use of the word “deter” indicates that –

A.  Cindy wants to apply for the position herself.

B.  Ed wants Cindy to encourage Arnie to apply for the position.

C.  Cindy thinks Arnie deserves the new position.

D.  Ed wants Cindy to discourage Arnie from applying for the position. 

D.  Ed wants Cindy to discourage Arnie from applying for the position.  

“Deter” means to discourage someone from doing something.

400

Candy wrappers, cups, and other items on the ground, entangled in tree branches, or floating in water can wash away the enjoyment of spending time with your friends and family.  Littering should have serious financial consequences.  

What does this excerpt infer?

A. Families should spend time together.  

B. Litter on the ground is worse than litter in the water.  

C. Fines should be given to those who litter.  

D.  Litter in the water is dangerous to marine life.    

C. Fines should be given to those who litter.  

400

What is the author’s purpose?

The winner of the contest will be announced on Thursday.  Jenny thought to herself, “How can I wait that long?  If my project doesn’t come in 1st place, I will never live it down.”

A. To entertain

B. To inform

C. To persuade

D.  To explain

A. To entertain

400

You will need to do more than simply complete your homework in order to succeed.  You need to pay attention in class, complete all of the activities, and ask questions when you are confused.  

What is the tone of this excerpt?

A.  Authoritative

B.  Optimistic

C.  Sarcastic

D.  Humorous  

B. Authoritative

500

“For three years, George played truant, failed exams, and shut himself away from people to create a new personality in his electronic universe.”  

Which idea is being introduced with this anecdote?  

A. Better personalities can be developed by playing video games.

B. Video games are great way to relieve stress.  

C. Playing video games should be illegal.  

D.  Video games have a negative influence both academically and socially.    

D.  Video games have a negative influence both academically and socially.    

500

What is the author’s purpose?

The board will meet again on Tuesday night at 7:00 p.m. to discuss the proposed budget.  A vote will be taken at the conclusion of the meeting.  All interested parties should attend.

A. To entertain

B. To inform

C. To persuade

D.  To explain  

B. To inform

500

“Is Ben coming over to your house tonight?” asked Kim.

“Yes,” replied Suzie.

“How do you feel about that?” asked Kim.
“He’s atrocious.  How do you think I feel?” asked Suzie.

Which word could be substituted for “atrocious” to change the tone?

A.  Heinous

B.  Villainous

C.  Diabolical

D.  Magnificent  

D. Magnificent

The word “magnificent” if substituted for “atrocious” would change the tone from negative to positive.