Vocabulary
Argumentative
Informational
Fiction
Wild Card
100

The author chose to emphasize the importance of teamwork by describing how the characters succeeded only when working together.

What does emphasize most nearly mean?

A. Ignore
B. Highlight or stress
C. Question
D. Remove

B. Highlight or stress

100

Should Schools Start Later in the Morning?

Many students struggle to stay awake during early morning classes. Because of this, some people believe schools should begin later in the day. Starting school later may help students focus, improve their health, and increase academic success.

First, students who get more sleep are better able to concentrate. When students are tired, they often forget instructions and make careless mistakes. However, when students are well-rested, they are more alert and prepared to learn.

In addition, starting school later may improve students’ health. Sleep experts recommend that older students get at least eight hours of sleep each night. When schools begin very early, many students are unable to meet this recommendation.

Some people argue that starting school later would interfere with after-school activities. However, schools could adjust schedules so students still have time for sports and clubs.

For these reasons, schools should consider starting later to support student success and well-being.

What is the author’s main claim?

A. Students should have more homework
B. Schools should shorten the school day
C. Schools should start later in the morning
D. Students should join more activities

C. Schools should start later in the morning

100

The Determination of Temple Grandin

Temple Grandin is known for her contributions to animal science and her work improving the treatment of livestock. However, her journey to success was not easy. As a child, Temple was diagnosed with autism and faced many challenges with communication and social interactions.

Temple often felt overwhelmed by loud noises and crowded spaces. Because of this, she sometimes struggled in school and found it difficult to connect with others. Despite these obstacles, Temple discovered her strength in thinking visually. She could imagine detailed designs and solutions in her mind.

As Temple grew older, she became interested in how animals behaved. She noticed that animals often became frightened in noisy or confusing environments. Using her ability to think visually, Temple designed equipment that helped animals remain calm during handling. Her designs improved safety for both animals and workers.

Although some people doubted her abilities, Temple continued working toward her goals. Over time, her ideas gained recognition, and she became a respected expert in her field. Today, Temple Grandin is known not only for her innovations but also for raising awareness about autism and encouraging others to embrace their differences.

Temple’s story shows how determination and unique thinking can lead to meaningful contributions.

What is the central idea of the biography?

A. Temple Grandin designed equipment for animals
B. Temple Grandin overcame challenges to make important contributions
C. Animals are often frightened by noise
D. Autism makes learning difficult

B. Temple Grandin overcame challenges to make important contributions

100

The Fox and the Quiet River

A fox wandered through the forest during a long, dry summer. The streams had dried up, and the animals searched desperately for water. After hours of walking, the fox discovered a quiet river flowing between smooth rocks.

Excited, the fox hurried to drink. As he lowered his head, he noticed a group of small birds carefully sipping from the river’s edge. The fox pushed past them, causing the birds to scatter in fear.

“This water belongs to everyone,” chirped one brave bird.

“I found it first,” replied the fox proudly. “I will drink whenever I please.”

For several days, the fox returned and chased away any animals that approached the river. Soon, the animals began searching for water elsewhere.

One afternoon, dark clouds filled the sky, and heavy rain began to fall. The quiet river quickly turned into a rushing current. The fox, who had been resting nearby, struggled to escape the rising water.

Hearing his cries, the small birds flew overhead. They noticed a dry path leading away from the river and called down to the fox, guiding him to safety.

Once the fox reached higher ground, he lowered his head in embarrassment.

“I did not share the river, yet you helped me,” said the fox.

The birds replied, “Kindness is often returned when it is given freely.”

From that day forward, the fox welcomed all animals to the river and learned the value of sharing.


What is the theme of this fable?

A. Animals should avoid rivers
B. Sharing and kindness lead to positive outcomes
C. Birds are helpful animals
D. Storms can be dangerous

B. Sharing and kindness lead to positive outcomes

100

Read the paragraph.

(1) Carlos practiced soccer every afternoon.
(2) He wanted to improve his skills.
(3) Carlos kicked the ball.
(4) He eventually made the team.

Which revision would best improve sentence 3?

A. Carlos kicked the ball hard
B. Carlos practiced kicking the ball with accuracy and speed
C. Carlos kicked
D. Carlos kicked the ball outside

B. Carlos practiced kicking the ball with accuracy and speed

200

The character showed determination by continuing to practice even after several failed attempts.

What does determination most nearly mean?

A. Confusion
B. Strong effort to achieve a goal
C. Fear
D. Luck

B. Strong effort to achieve a goal

200

Should Schools Start Later in the Morning?

Many students struggle to stay awake during early morning classes. Because of this, some people believe schools should begin later in the day. Starting school later may help students focus, improve their health, and increase academic success.

First, students who get more sleep are better able to concentrate. When students are tired, they often forget instructions and make careless mistakes. However, when students are well-rested, they are more alert and prepared to learn.

In addition, starting school later may improve students’ health. Sleep experts recommend that older students get at least eight hours of sleep each night. When schools begin very early, many students are unable to meet this recommendation.

Some people argue that starting school later would interfere with after-school activities. However, schools could adjust schedules so students still have time for sports and clubs.

For these reasons, schools should consider starting later to support student success and well-being.

Which detail best supports the author’s argument?

A. Some people believe school should start later
B. Students who get more sleep are better able to concentrate
C. Schools could adjust schedules
D. Students struggle to stay awake

B. Students who get more sleep are better able to concentrate

200

The Determination of Temple Grandin

Temple Grandin is known for her contributions to animal science and her work improving the treatment of livestock. However, her journey to success was not easy. As a child, Temple was diagnosed with autism and faced many challenges with communication and social interactions.

Temple often felt overwhelmed by loud noises and crowded spaces. Because of this, she sometimes struggled in school and found it difficult to connect with others. Despite these obstacles, Temple discovered her strength in thinking visually. She could imagine detailed designs and solutions in her mind.

As Temple grew older, she became interested in how animals behaved. She noticed that animals often became frightened in noisy or confusing environments. Using her ability to think visually, Temple designed equipment that helped animals remain calm during handling. Her designs improved safety for both animals and workers.

Although some people doubted her abilities, Temple continued working toward her goals. Over time, her ideas gained recognition, and she became a respected expert in her field. Today, Temple Grandin is known not only for her innovations but also for raising awareness about autism and encouraging others to embrace their differences.

Temple’s story shows how determination and unique thinking can lead to meaningful contributions.

What can the reader infer about Temple Grandin?

A. She avoided working with animals
B. She gave up easily when facing challenges
C. Her unique way of thinking helped her succeed
D. She preferred working alone

C. Her unique way of thinking helped her succeed

200

The Fox and the Quiet River

A fox wandered through the forest during a long, dry summer. The streams had dried up, and the animals searched desperately for water. After hours of walking, the fox discovered a quiet river flowing between smooth rocks.

Excited, the fox hurried to drink. As he lowered his head, he noticed a group of small birds carefully sipping from the river’s edge. The fox pushed past them, causing the birds to scatter in fear.

“This water belongs to everyone,” chirped one brave bird.

“I found it first,” replied the fox proudly. “I will drink whenever I please.”

For several days, the fox returned and chased away any animals that approached the river. Soon, the animals began searching for water elsewhere.

One afternoon, dark clouds filled the sky, and heavy rain began to fall. The quiet river quickly turned into a rushing current. The fox, who had been resting nearby, struggled to escape the rising water.

Hearing his cries, the small birds flew overhead. They noticed a dry path leading away from the river and called down to the fox, guiding him to safety.

Once the fox reached higher ground, he lowered his head in embarrassment.

“I did not share the river, yet you helped me,” said the fox.

The birds replied, “Kindness is often returned when it is given freely.”

From that day forward, the fox welcomed all animals to the river and learned the value of sharing.

Which word best describes the fox at the beginning of the story?

A. Generous
B. Proud and selfish
C. Fearful
D. Curious

B. Proud and selfish

200

Read the sentence.

My favorite activities are reading hiking and swimming.

Which revision is correct?

A. My favorite activities are reading hiking, and swimming.
B. My favorite activities are reading, hiking, and swimming.
C. My favorite activities are, reading hiking and swimming.
D. My favorite activities are reading hiking and, swimming.

B. My favorite activities are reading, hiking, and swimming.

300

The scientist began to formulate a plan after reviewing the results of the experiment.

What does formulate most nearly mean?

A. Forget
B. Destroy
C. Create or develop
D. Repeat

C. Create or develop

300

Should Schools Start Later in the Morning?

Many students struggle to stay awake during early morning classes. Because of this, some people believe schools should begin later in the day. Starting school later may help students focus, improve their health, and increase academic success.

First, students who get more sleep are better able to concentrate. When students are tired, they often forget instructions and make careless mistakes. However, when students are well-rested, they are more alert and prepared to learn.

In addition, starting school later may improve students’ health. Sleep experts recommend that older students get at least eight hours of sleep each night. When schools begin very early, many students are unable to meet this recommendation.

Some people argue that starting school later would interfere with after-school activities. However, schools could adjust schedules so students still have time for sports and clubs.

For these reasons, schools should consider starting later to support student success and well-being.

Which detail supports the idea that starting later improves health?

A. Students are tired during early classes
B. Schools may change schedules
C. Sleep experts recommend at least eight hours of sleep
D. Students participate in sports

C. Sleep experts recommend at least eight hours of sleep

300

The Determination of Temple Grandin

Temple Grandin is known for her contributions to animal science and her work improving the treatment of livestock. However, her journey to success was not easy. As a child, Temple was diagnosed with autism and faced many challenges with communication and social interactions.

Temple often felt overwhelmed by loud noises and crowded spaces. Because of this, she sometimes struggled in school and found it difficult to connect with others. Despite these obstacles, Temple discovered her strength in thinking visually. She could imagine detailed designs and solutions in her mind.

As Temple grew older, she became interested in how animals behaved. She noticed that animals often became frightened in noisy or confusing environments. Using her ability to think visually, Temple designed equipment that helped animals remain calm during handling. Her designs improved safety for both animals and workers.

Although some people doubted her abilities, Temple continued working toward her goals. Over time, her ideas gained recognition, and she became a respected expert in her field. Today, Temple Grandin is known not only for her innovations but also for raising awareness about autism and encouraging others to embrace their differences.

Temple’s story shows how determination and unique thinking can lead to meaningful contributions.

Which detail best supports the idea that Temple overcame challenges?

A. She designed equipment for animals
B. She became interested in animal behavior
C. Some people doubted her abilities, but she continued working toward her goals
D. She noticed animals became frightened

C. Some people doubted her abilities, but she continued working toward her goals

300

The Fox and the Quiet River

A fox wandered through the forest during a long, dry summer. The streams had dried up, and the animals searched desperately for water. After hours of walking, the fox discovered a quiet river flowing between smooth rocks.

Excited, the fox hurried to drink. As he lowered his head, he noticed a group of small birds carefully sipping from the river’s edge. The fox pushed past them, causing the birds to scatter in fear.

“This water belongs to everyone,” chirped one brave bird.

“I found it first,” replied the fox proudly. “I will drink whenever I please.”

For several days, the fox returned and chased away any animals that approached the river. Soon, the animals began searching for water elsewhere.

One afternoon, dark clouds filled the sky, and heavy rain began to fall. The quiet river quickly turned into a rushing current. The fox, who had been resting nearby, struggled to escape the rising water.

Hearing his cries, the small birds flew overhead. They noticed a dry path leading away from the river and called down to the fox, guiding him to safety.

Once the fox reached higher ground, he lowered his head in embarrassment.

“I did not share the river, yet you helped me,” said the fox.

The birds replied, “Kindness is often returned when it is given freely.”

From that day forward, the fox welcomed all animals to the river and learned the value of sharing.

Why do the birds help the fox even after he chased them away?

A. They wanted the fox to leave
B. They felt sorry for him and believed in kindness
C. They wanted to control the river
D. They were afraid of the fox

B. They felt sorry for him and believed in kindness

300

1) The school garden was planted in the spring.
(2) Students watered the plants each day.
(3) Tomatoes and peppers began to grow.
(4) Gardening is a fun activity.

Which sentence does NOT belong?

A. Sentence 1
B. Sentence 2
C. Sentence 3
D. Sentence 4

D. Sentence 4

400

Despite the unexpected challenge, the team showed resilience and continued working toward their goal.

What does resilience most nearly mean?

A. Ability to recover from difficulty
B. Weakness
C. Anger
D. Confusion

A. Ability to recover from difficulty

400

Should Schools Start Later in the Morning?

Many students struggle to stay awake during early morning classes. Because of this, some people believe schools should begin later in the day. Starting school later may help students focus, improve their health, and increase academic success.

First, students who get more sleep are better able to concentrate. When students are tired, they often forget instructions and make careless mistakes. However, when students are well-rested, they are more alert and prepared to learn.

In addition, starting school later may improve students’ health. Sleep experts recommend that older students get at least eight hours of sleep each night. When schools begin very early, many students are unable to meet this recommendation.

Some people argue that starting school later would interfere with after-school activities. However, schools could adjust schedules so students still have time for sports and clubs.

For these reasons, schools should consider starting later to support student success and well-being.

What opposing viewpoint does the author address?

A. Students prefer early classes
B. Students may become bored in class
C. Schools cannot change schedules
D. Starting later would interfere with after-school activities

D. Starting later would interfere with after-school activities

400

The Determination of Temple Grandin

Temple Grandin is known for her contributions to animal science and her work improving the treatment of livestock. However, her journey to success was not easy. As a child, Temple was diagnosed with autism and faced many challenges with communication and social interactions.

Temple often felt overwhelmed by loud noises and crowded spaces. Because of this, she sometimes struggled in school and found it difficult to connect with others. Despite these obstacles, Temple discovered her strength in thinking visually. She could imagine detailed designs and solutions in her mind.

As Temple grew older, she became interested in how animals behaved. She noticed that animals often became frightened in noisy or confusing environments. Using her ability to think visually, Temple designed equipment that helped animals remain calm during handling. Her designs improved safety for both animals and workers.

Although some people doubted her abilities, Temple continued working toward her goals. Over time, her ideas gained recognition, and she became a respected expert in her field. Today, Temple Grandin is known not only for her innovations but also for raising awareness about autism and encouraging others to embrace their differences.

Temple’s story shows how determination and unique thinking can lead to meaningful contributions.

What does the word recognition most nearly mean in this sentence?

"Over time, her ideas gained recognition, and she became a respected expert."

A. Confusion
B. Attention and respect from others
C. Disagreement
D. Doubt

B. Attention and respect from others

400

The Fox and the Quiet River

A fox wandered through the forest during a long, dry summer. The streams had dried up, and the animals searched desperately for water. After hours of walking, the fox discovered a quiet river flowing between smooth rocks.

Excited, the fox hurried to drink. As he lowered his head, he noticed a group of small birds carefully sipping from the river’s edge. The fox pushed past them, causing the birds to scatter in fear.

“This water belongs to everyone,” chirped one brave bird.

“I found it first,” replied the fox proudly. “I will drink whenever I please.”

For several days, the fox returned and chased away any animals that approached the river. Soon, the animals began searching for water elsewhere.

One afternoon, dark clouds filled the sky, and heavy rain began to fall. The quiet river quickly turned into a rushing current. The fox, who had been resting nearby, struggled to escape the rising water.

Hearing his cries, the small birds flew overhead. They noticed a dry path leading away from the river and called down to the fox, guiding him to safety.

Once the fox reached higher ground, he lowered his head in embarrassment.

“I did not share the river, yet you helped me,” said the fox.

The birds replied, “Kindness is often returned when it is given freely.”

From that day forward, the fox welcomed all animals to the river and learned the value of sharing.

Which event is part of the rising action?

A. The fox learns to share
B. The rain turns the river into a rushing current
C. The fox chases animals away from the river
D. The birds guide the fox to safety

C. The fox chases animals away from the river

400

Short Constructed Response is worth 2 points.

1 point for:

  • Answering the question

1 point for: ___________

Text Evidence

500

The author used dialogue to convey the character’s frustration.

What does convey most nearly mean?

A. Hide
B. Communicate or express
C. Change
D. Explain incorrectly

B. Communicate or express

500

Should Schools Start Later in the Morning?

Many students struggle to stay awake during early morning classes. Because of this, some people believe schools should begin later in the day. Starting school later may help students focus, improve their health, and increase academic success.

First, students who get more sleep are better able to concentrate. When students are tired, they often forget instructions and make careless mistakes. However, when students are well-rested, they are more alert and prepared to learn.

In addition, starting school later may improve students’ health. Sleep experts recommend that older students get at least eight hours of sleep each night. When schools begin very early, many students are unable to meet this recommendation.

Some people argue that starting school later would interfere with after-school activities. However, schools could adjust schedules so students still have time for sports and clubs.

For these reasons, schools should consider starting later to support student success and well-being.

How does the author support the idea that later start times improve learning?

A. By explaining that well-rested students are more alert and prepared to learn
B. By describing school schedules
C. By listing student complaints
D. By comparing different schools

A. By explaining that well-rested students are more alert and prepared to learn

500

The Determination of Temple Grandin

Temple Grandin is known for her contributions to animal science and her work improving the treatment of livestock. However, her journey to success was not easy. As a child, Temple was diagnosed with autism and faced many challenges with communication and social interactions.

Temple often felt overwhelmed by loud noises and crowded spaces. Because of this, she sometimes struggled in school and found it difficult to connect with others. Despite these obstacles, Temple discovered her strength in thinking visually. She could imagine detailed designs and solutions in her mind.

As Temple grew older, she became interested in how animals behaved. She noticed that animals often became frightened in noisy or confusing environments. Using her ability to think visually, Temple designed equipment that helped animals remain calm during handling. Her designs improved safety for both animals and workers.

Although some people doubted her abilities, Temple continued working toward her goals. Over time, her ideas gained recognition, and she became a respected expert in her field. Today, Temple Grandin is known not only for her innovations but also for raising awareness about autism and encouraging others to embrace their differences.

Temple’s story shows how determination and unique thinking can lead to meaningful contributions.

Why did the author most likely write this biography?

A. To explain how animals behave
B. To inform readers about Temple Grandin's accomplishments and perseverance
C. To compare different scientists
D. To explain autism in detail

B. To inform readers about Temple Grandin's accomplishments and perseverance

500

The Fox and the Quiet River

A fox wandered through the forest during a long, dry summer. The streams had dried up, and the animals searched desperately for water. After hours of walking, the fox discovered a quiet river flowing between smooth rocks.

Excited, the fox hurried to drink. As he lowered his head, he noticed a group of small birds carefully sipping from the river’s edge. The fox pushed past them, causing the birds to scatter in fear.

“This water belongs to everyone,” chirped one brave bird.

“I found it first,” replied the fox proudly. “I will drink whenever I please.”

For several days, the fox returned and chased away any animals that approached the river. Soon, the animals began searching for water elsewhere.

One afternoon, dark clouds filled the sky, and heavy rain began to fall. The quiet river quickly turned into a rushing current. The fox, who had been resting nearby, struggled to escape the rising water.

Hearing his cries, the small birds flew overhead. They noticed a dry path leading away from the river and called down to the fox, guiding him to safety.

Once the fox reached higher ground, he lowered his head in embarrassment.

“I did not share the river, yet you helped me,” said the fox.

The birds replied, “Kindness is often returned when it is given freely.”

From that day forward, the fox welcomed all animals to the river and learned the value of sharing.

What does the word embarrassment most nearly mean in this sentence?

"Once the fox reached higher ground, he lowered his head in embarrassment."

A. Anger
B. Pride
C. Shame or regret
D. Fear

C. Shame or regret

500

Why is using a T-Chart helpful?

A. It helps students write longer responses
B. It helps students organize claim and evidence clearly
C. It helps students finish faster
D. It helps students summarize

B. It helps students organize claim and evidence clearly