(1) The scientist’s explanation was so meticulous that even the smallest details were addressed. (2) She reviewed each step of the experiment carefully, ensuring that no errors could compromise the results. (3) Her colleagues admired this level of precision, noting that such thoroughness often leads to groundbreaking discoveries. (4) However, some critics argued that spending excessive time on minor aspects could delay progress. (5) Despite these concerns, her approach demonstrated an unwavering commitment to accuracy.
Based on the excerpt, which words or phrases best help the reader determine the meaning of meticulous in sentence (1)?
A. “even the smallest details were addressed” and “reviewed each step of the experiment carefully”
B. “admired this level of precision” and “groundbreaking discoveries”
C. “critics argued” and “delay progress”
D. “unwavering commitment to accuracy” and “minor aspects”
A. “even the smallest details were addressed” and “reviewed each step of the experiment carefully”
Jared carefully placed the final brushstroke on his mural, stepping back to admire the bright colors spreading across the wall. Passersby slowed down to watch, some even stopping to compliment his work. Seeing their reactions filled him with a renewed spark of confidence. With his supplies packed and the evening light fading, he began planning where his next piece of art should go.
Based on the paragraph, what will most likely happen in the future?
A. Jared will decide to stop painting murals altogether.
B. Jared will create another mural in a new location.
C. Jared will erase the mural because he feels unsure about it.
D. Jared will avoid showing his artwork to others.
B. Jared will create another mural in a new location.
Where can you usually find the claim of an argumentative text?
A.) In the counterargument section, after presenting opposing views.
B.) In the title, as a hint to what the text is about.
C.) In the body paragraphs, mixed with supporting details.
D.) In the introduction & conclusion, often stated as the thesis or main point.
D.) In the introduction & conclusion, often stated as the thesis or main point.
Honeybees play a crucial role in agriculture by pollinating crops. Without them, many fruits and vegetables would struggle to grow. However, in recent years, bee populations have declined due to factors such as pesticide use and habitat loss. Farmers and scientists are working together to create solutions, like planting wildflowers and reducing harmful chemicals, to help bees survive.
What can you infer about the relationship between bees and human food production based on the excerpt?
A) Bees are not important for agriculture because crops can grow without them.
B) The decline in bee populations could negatively affect the availability of certain foods.
C) Farmers do not care about bee populations because they only focus on growing crops.
D) Scientists believe pesticides have no impact on bee survival.
B) The decline in bee populations could negatively affect the availability of certain foods.
In the sentence below, what does the word audible most likely mean based on its Latin root audire, which means “to hear”?
"The teacher spoke so softly that her voice was barely audible to the students in the back of the room."
A.) Visible
B.) Easy to understand
C.) Able to be heard
D.) Difficult to see
C.) Able to be heard
(1) The school board introduced a plan to renovate the district’s science labs to improve educational opportunities. (2) They explained that updated equipment would help students develop stronger research skills. (3) Some parents worried that the construction would disrupt classes for several months. (4) Meanwhile, others argued that the money should be used to hire more teachers instead.
(5) As discussions continued, supporters and critics shared passionate opinions at community meetings. (6) In the end, the final decision highlighted the difficulty of choosing between long‑term improvements and immediate needs.
Which is the best way to combine sentences (1) and (2) without losing meaning or clarity?
A.) The school board introduced a plan to renovate the district’s science labs to improve educational opportunities, and they explained that updated equipment would help students develop stronger research skills.
B.) The school board introduced a plan to renovate the district’s science labs to improve educational opportunities, explaining that updated equipment would help students develop stronger research skills.
C.) The school board introduced a plan to renovate the district’s science labs, which would help students develop stronger research skills.
D.) The school board introduced a plan to renovate the district’s science labs because they wanted students to develop stronger research skills.
A.) The school board introduced a plan to renovate the district’s science labs to improve educational opportunities, and they explained that updated equipment would help students develop stronger research skills.
After finishing her final task of the day, Elena leaned back in her chair and let out a warm, contented sigh. The soft glow of the late afternoon sun made the room feel peaceful, as if it were rewarding her hard work. She glanced at her completed checklist, a small smile spreading across her face. Everything she had hoped to accomplish was done, leaving her with a gentle sense of ease and satisfaction.
What overall mood does the paragraph create?
A. Tense
B. Satisfied
C. Confused
D. Anxious
B. Satisfied
What is a counterargument?
A.) A statement that supports the main argument with additional evidence.
B.) An opposing viewpoint that challenges the main argument.
C.) A summary of the main argument presented in simpler terms.
D.) A conclusion that restates the thesis of the argument.
B.) An opposing viewpoint that challenges the main argument.
The Amazon rainforest is often called the “lungs of the Earth” because it produces about 20% of the world’s oxygen. It is home to millions of species of plants and animals, many of which cannot be found anywhere else. However, deforestation has become a major threat to this ecosystem. Large areas of forest are cleared every year for agriculture, logging, and urban development. This destruction not only endangers wildlife but also contributes to climate change by releasing stored carbon into the atmosphere.
Which sentence best summarizes the excerpt?
(A) The Amazon rainforest is important because it produces oxygen and is home to unique species, but deforestation threatens its survival.
(B) The Amazon rainforest is a large forest where people cut down trees for farming and building cities.
(C) The Amazon rainforest is called the “lungs of the Earth” because it has many plants and animals.
(D) Deforestation is a problem that happens when people clear land for agriculture and development.
(A) The Amazon rainforest is important because it produces oxygen and is home to unique species, but deforestation threatens its survival.
Which group of words would best help an author create a curious tone?
A.) astonishing, mysterious, intriguing
B.) ordinary, predictable, common
C.) strict, formal, rigid
D.) joyful, cheerful, playful
A.) astonishing, mysterious, intriguing
(1) Last month, the community center planned a weekend workshop to teach families about healthy eating. (2) Organizers hoped the event would encourage more residents to cook nutritious meals at home. (3) The weather forecast predicted rain. (4) The organizers continued with their plans. (5) Many families appreciated the effort and showed up despite the gloomy skies. (6) By the end of the day, participants said the workshop helped them build healthier habits.
What is the best way to combine sentences (3) and (4)?
A.) The weather forecast predicted rain, and the organizers continued with their plans.
B.) The weather forecast predicted rain; the organizers continued with their plans.
C.) The weather forecast predicted rain because the organizers continued with their plans.
D.) Although the weather forecast predicted rain, the organizers continued with their plans.
D.) Although the weather forecast predicted rain, the organizers continued with their plans.
Dinner was silent except for the clinking of forks. Elena’s father stared at his plate, his jaw tight, while her mother’s smile stretched thin like paper. Elena wanted to speak, to break the tension, but the words tangled in her throat. She wondered if families could fracture without a sound.
What is the effect of the author's use of a simile in this excerpt?
A.) It suggests fragility and strain, showing that the cheerful appearance is forced and easily breakable.
B.) It suggests that silence reflects comfort rather than conflict.
C.) It illustrates that she is eager to speak but overwhelmed with joy.
D.) It conveys that the atmosphere is due to tiredness rather than emotional strain.
A.) It suggests fragility and strain, showing that the cheerful appearance is forced and easily breakable.
Which sentence best represents a counterargument in an argumentative essay?
A.) Although recycling can be costly, it significantly reduces waste and conserves resources.
B.) Many people believe that recycling is important for the environment.
C.) Recycling programs have been shown to lower landfill use and protect wildlife.
D.) Recycling is one of the most effective ways to reduce pollution.
A.) Although recycling can be costly, it significantly reduces waste and conserves resources.
Coral reefs are among the most diverse ecosystems on Earth, supporting thousands of marine species. They provide food, coastal protection, and income for millions of people worldwide. However, coral reefs are under severe threat due to rising ocean temperatures, pollution, and destructive fishing practices. When water temperatures increase, corals experience bleaching, a process that causes them to lose their vibrant colors and, eventually, their ability to survive. Scientists warn that if current trends continue, many reefs could disappear within decades, leading to devastating consequences for marine life and human communities that depend on them. Conservation efforts, such as reducing carbon emissions and creating marine protected areas, are essential to preserving these fragile ecosystems.
What is the author’s primary purpose in writing this excerpt?
(A) To explain how coral reefs form and describe their physical characteristics
(B) To persuade readers to take action to protect coral reefs from threats
(C) To inform readers about the importance of coral reefs and the dangers they face
(D) To entertain readers with stories about marine life in coral reefs
(C) To inform readers about the importance of coral reefs and the dangers they face
(1)The collection of rare coins was displayed in the museum’s main hall. (2) Each exhibit, along with its detailed descriptions, draw visitors into the history of currency. (3) Neither the curator nor the assistants are available for questions during the restoration period.
Which sentence can best replace the mistake in sentence 2?
A. Each exhibit, along with its detailed descriptions, draw visitors into the history of currency.
B. Each exhibit, along with its detailed descriptions, draws visitors into the history of currency.
C. Each exhibit, along with its detailed descriptions, have drawn visitors into the history of currency.
D. Each exhibit, along with its detailed descriptions, were drawing visitors into the history of currency.
B. Each exhibit, along with its detailed descriptions, draws visitors into the history of currency.
(1) Artificial intelligence (AI) has transformed industries by automating tasks and improving efficiency. (2) From healthcare diagnostics to financial forecasting, AI systems are reshaping how decisions are made. (3) These advancements promise convenience and innovation, but they also raise ethical concerns about privacy and bias. (4) As technology evolves, society must grapple with both its benefits and its risks.
(5) Critics warn that unchecked AI development could lead to job displacement and algorithmic discrimination. (6) Supporters argue that proper regulation and transparency can mitigate these dangers while maximizing progress. (7) The debate reflects a broader question: how can humanity balance innovation with responsibility? (8) AI is important and people should think about it more.
What should replace sentence 8 to conclude this text on a strong note?
A) AI is important and people should think about it more.
B) Ultimately, AI matters because it changes everything about life and work.
C) The future of AI depends not only on technological breakthroughs but also on society’s ability to establish ethical frameworks that safeguard fairness and accountability.
D) AI is something that will keep growing, so we need to pay attention to it.
C) The future of AI depends not only on technological breakthroughs but also on society’s ability to establish ethical frameworks that safeguard fairness and accountability.
The public library hummed with a quiet that seemed to open a doorway in the mind. Sunlight filtered through tall windows, casting calm, steady patterns that invited readers to slow their thoughts. In this peaceful space, distractions faded, allowing ideas to stretch and take shape. Surrounded by shelves of possibilities, visitors found room to think more deeply than the outside world often allowed.
What is the main effect of the library setting in the paragraph?
A. It distracts visitors with noise and movement.
B. It creates an atmosphere that encourages deeper, more focused thinking.
C. It pressures visitors to rush through their reading.
D. It limits visitors’ access to different ideas.
B. It creates an atmosphere that encourages deeper, more focused thinking.
The morning rose like a gentle whisper,
Unfolding light across the quiet street.
Hope fluttered in her chest—
a small bird waking after a long winter.
What is the effect of the metaphor “a small bird waking after a long winter”?
A. It shows that her hope is weak and unlikely to grow.
B. It suggests her hope is returning slowly and delicately after a difficult time.
C. It reveals that she is thinking about actual birds outside her window.
D. It indicates that she dislikes the change from winter to spring.
B. It suggests her hope is returning slowly and delicately after a difficult time.
Pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and certain birds are indispensable to global food systems. Nearly one-third of the crops consumed by humans rely on these creatures for reproduction. Alarmingly, recent studies indicate a sharp decline in pollinator populations, attributed to pesticide exposure, habitat fragmentation, and climate change. In response, agricultural experts advocate for integrated pest management and the restoration of native plant habitats to mitigate further losses.
Which sentence or phrase from the excerpt best supports the inference that pollinators are essential for maintaining food security?
A) “Recent studies indicate a sharp decline in pollinator populations.”
B) “Pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and certain birds are indispensable to global food systems.”
C) “Agricultural experts advocate for integrated pest management.”
D) “Climate change contributes to habitat fragmentation.”
B) “Pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and certain birds are indispensable to global food systems.”
The pay gap between NBA and WNBA players has been a topic of debate for years. NBA players often earn millions annually, while WNBA salaries are significantly lower, with many players making under $150,000 per season. Supporters of the current system argue that NBA players generate far more revenue through ticket sales, broadcasting rights, and merchandise. In contrast, WNBA games typically attract smaller audiences and bring in less advertising income. Critics, however, claim that the disparity reflects deeper issues of gender inequality in sports rather than just economics.
Efforts to close the gap have included increasing WNBA salaries and providing better benefits, such as maternity leave and travel accommodations. In 2020, the WNBA signed a landmark collective bargaining agreement that raised the maximum salary to over $200,000 and improved working conditions. Despite these changes, the difference remains vast, as NBA stars can earn over $40 million in a single season. Advocates for equal pay argue that investment in marketing and media coverage could help grow the WNBA’s audience, eventually leading to higher revenue. They believe that visibility, not just profitability, should guide decisions about player compensation.
Which sentence best supports the idea that marketing and media coverage could help reduce the pay gap over time?
A.) “NBA players often earn millions annually, while WNBA salaries are significantly lower, with many players making under $150,000 per season.”
B.) “Efforts to close the gap have included increasing WNBA salaries and providing better benefits, such as maternity leave and travel accommodations.”
C.) “Supporters of the current system argue that NBA players generate far more revenue through ticket sales, broadcasting rights, and merchandise.”
D.) “Advocates for equal pay argue that investment in marketing and media coverage could help grow the WNBA’s audience, eventually leading to higher revenue.”
D.) “Advocates for equal pay argue that investment in marketing and media coverage could help grow the WNBA’s audience, eventually leading to higher revenue.”
(1) Climate change has become one of the most pressing issues of our time, influencing ecosystems and human societies alike. (2) Rising global temperatures have led to melting ice caps, severe droughts, and unpredictable weather patterns. (3) These changes threaten food security and increase the frequency of natural disasters, creating challenges for governments worldwide. (4) Scientists argue that immediate action is necessary to prevent irreversible damage to the planet.
(5) Conversely, renewable energy offers a promising solution to these challenges. (6) Solar and wind power reduce dependence on fossil fuels, lowering greenhouse gas emissions significantly. (7) Countries that invest in clean energy technologies often experience economic growth and job creation, making sustainability financially appealing. (8) Therefore, transitioning to renewable energy is not only an environmental necessity but also a strategic economic decision.
What is the best way to revise sentence 6?
A) Solar and wind power reduce dependence on fossil fuels, and renewable energy is important.
B) Solar and wind power reduce dependence on fossil fuels and they are renewable energy sources.
C) Solar and wind power reduce dependence on fossil fuels, which is good for the environment.
D) Solar and wind power, two forms of renewable energy, reduce dependence on fossil fuels and lower greenhouse gas emissions significantly.
D.) Solar and wind power, two forms of renewable energy, reduce dependence on fossil fuels and lower greenhouse gas emissions significantly.
Maya paused at the edge of the stage, palms damp, telling herself that mistakes only mattered if you let them define you. She scanned the expectant faces and felt the old doubt rise, but she pushed it down, repeating her mother’s mantra that courage is a choice you make every minute. When the microphone crackled, her stomach flipped, yet she straightened her back as if bravery could be worn like a coat. She began to speak, voice trembling, convinced that honesty would carry farther than perfection. With each sentence, she clung to the belief that flaws, shown openly, could invite others to step forward too.
Why did the author most likely choose to use a third‑person limited point of view in this story?
A. To reveal every character’s private thoughts and beliefs
B. To hide the main character’s motives and keep them mysterious
C. To closely reveal Maya’s beliefs about courage, honesty, and imperfection
D. To focus only on the setting instead of any character’s inner life
C. To closely reveal Maya’s beliefs about courage, honesty, and imperfection
Many basketball fans believe that Luka Dončić will eventually be considered a better player than LeBron James. Luka’s ability to control the pace of the game, create scoring opportunities, and deliver clutch performances at such a young age suggests he has the potential to surpass LeBron’s legacy. His versatility and high basketball IQ make him a unique talent who could redefine the modern game. However, some argue that LeBron James’s accomplishments are unmatched and set a standard that Luka may never reach. LeBron has four championships, multiple MVP awards, and has dominated the league for two decades, proving his greatness through longevity and consistency. Yet, championships and awards do not fully measure greatness. Luka’s trajectory shows that he could achieve similar accolades while also influencing the game in new ways. If Luka continues to break records and lead his teams with the same dominance he has shown early in his career, he could be remembered as the player who surpassed LeBron.
Which sentence from the excerpt is the counterargument?
A.) Luka’s ability to control the pace of the game, create scoring opportunities, and deliver clutch performances at such a young age suggests he has the potential to surpass LeBron’s legacy.
B.) Luka’s trajectory shows that he could achieve similar accolades while also influencing the game in new ways.
C.) Yet, championships and awards do not fully measure greatness.
D.) However, some argue that LeBron James’s accomplishments are unmatched and set a standard that Luka may never reach.
D.) However, some argue that LeBron James’s accomplishments are unmatched and set a standard that Luka may never reach.
1 Climate change represents one of the most pressing challenges of our time. Rising global temperatures, driven largely by human activities such as burning fossil fuels, have led to severe consequences for ecosystems and communities worldwide. Scientists warn that if greenhouse gas emissions continue at their current rate, the planet will face increasingly destructive storms, prolonged droughts, and rising sea levels that threaten coastal cities. These changes are not distant possibilities—they are unfolding now, and their impact on food security, health, and economic stability cannot be ignored.
2 To address these issues, many countries are investing in renewable energy sources like solar and wind power. These technologies reduce reliance on fossil fuels and help lower carbon emissions. Additionally, international agreements, such as the Paris Climate Accord, encourage nations to set goals for reducing emissions and protecting vulnerable environments. While progress has been made, experts emphasize that continued cooperation and innovation are essential to slow the pace of climate change and safeguard the planet for future generations.
How does the author illustrate a serious tone in paragraph 1?
A.) By presenting optimistic predictions to create a hopeful tone
B.) By including humorous examples to make the tone lighthearted
C.) By using casual language to make the tone informal
D.) By using urgent phrases and warnings to create a serious tone
D.) By using urgent phrases and warnings to create a serious tone
Excerpt 1
The city square pulsed with neon lights, each sign screaming for attention, while a lone violinist played a mournful tune beneath a flickering streetlamp. Around him, laughter spilled from crowded cafés, and the scent of roasted coffee mingled with exhaust fumes. His bow moved slowly, deliberately, as if resisting the chaos that surged like a tide around him.
Excerpt 2
In the countryside, silence stretched across the fields like a heavy quilt. A single tractor rumbled in the distance, its metallic growl slicing through the stillness. The golden wheat swayed gently, whispering secrets to the wind, while the farmer’s shadow loomed long and sharp against the fading light—a stark figure in a world otherwise soft and serene.
What is the difference between the authors' use of juxtaposition in these excerpts?
A.) Both excerpts use juxtaposition to portray the overwhelming power of technology in modern life, as seen in Excerpt 1’s “neon lights… screaming for attention” and Excerpt 2’s “metallic growl slicing through the stillness.”
B.) Excerpt 1 uses juxtaposition to show harmony between music and city life by pairing “his bow moved slowly, deliberately” with “the city square pulsed with neon lights”, while Excerpt 2 uses it to depict the farmer’s dominance over nature through “the farmer’s shadow loomed long and sharp” against “the golden wheat swayed gently.”
C.) In Excerpt 1, the author contrasts “a lone violinist played a mournful tune beneath a flickering streetlamp” with “laughter spilled from crowded cafés” to emphasize isolation within abundance, while in Excerpt 2, the author contrasts “a single tractor rumbled in the distance” with “silence stretched across the fields like a heavy quilt” to highlight tension between progress and tradition.
D.) Excerpt 1 contrasts rural simplicity with industrial noise by describing “the scent of roasted coffee mingled with exhaust fumes”, while Excerpt 2 contrasts urban chaos with peaceful solitude through “silence stretched across the fields”—though this misrepresents the settings.
C.) In Excerpt 1, the author contrasts “a lone violinist played a mournful tune beneath a flickering streetlamp” with “laughter spilled from crowded cafés” to emphasize isolation within abundance, while in Excerpt 2, the author contrasts “a single tractor rumbled in the distance” with “silence stretched across the fields like a heavy quilt” to highlight tension between progress and tradition.