Reading Comprehension
Last spring, the sixth-grade class visited a local nature center to study ecosystems. A park ranger explained how plants and animals depend on one another to survive. Students explored hiking trails where they observed birds, insects, and plant life in their natural habitats. During a hands-on activity, students built simple food chains using cards that represented different organisms. Many students were surprised to learn how removing one species could affect the entire ecosystem. On the bus ride home, several students discussed how human actions can also impact nature.
Question: What is the main idea of the passage?
A. Nature centers are difficult to visit.
B. The field trip helped students learn how ecosystems work.
C. Students prefer learning outside rather than in school.
D. Park rangers teach many different subjects.
B. The field trip helped students learn how ecosystems work.
Trevor was practicing baseball in the park when he noticed dark clouds quickly gathering overhead. The wind began to blow stronger, scattering leaves across the field. In the distance, he heard thunder rumble. Trevor glanced at the sky, grabbed his equipment, and hurried toward his house, hoping to make it home before the storm arrived.
Question: What can the reader infer?
A. Trevor enjoys storms.
B. Trevor forgot his baseball glove.
C. Trevor plans to continue practicing.
D. It will likely begin raining soon.
D. It will likely begin raining soon.
After hiking several miles uphill under the hot sun, the group of students felt exhausted. They stopped near a cool stream, removed their backpacks, and rested while drinking water and eating snacks. Several students mentioned that they needed time to recover before continuing the hike.
Question: What does the word exhausted most nearly mean?
A. Excited
B. Extremely tired
C. Angry
D. Confused
B. Extremely tired
This informational article explains how volcanoes form beneath Earth’s surface. It describes how molten rock, gases, and pressure build up over time before causing an eruption. The article also explains the different types of volcanoes and where they are most commonly found around the world.
Question: What is the author’s purpose?
A. To entertain
B. To persuade
C. To inform
D. To describe a character
C. To inform
Many students enjoy recess. It gives them time to relax and socialize with friends. Recess also helps students stay focused during class time. For these reasons, recess is an important part of the school day.
Question: Which sentence best states the main idea?
A. Many students enjoy recess.
B. Recess helps students focus and socialize.
C. Students like talking to friends.
D. Recess happens during the school day.
B. Recess helps students focus and socialize.
The school robotics club meets every Tuesday afternoon after classes end. During meetings, students work in teams to design robots that can complete specific challenges. Some robots are built to pick up small objects, while others are designed to travel through obstacle courses. Students use trial and error to improve their robots. When a design does not work, teams examine the problem, adjust their plans, and test again. Through collaboration, students learn problem-solving skills and gain experience using technology and engineering concepts.
Question: Which detail best supports the idea that students collaborate in the robotics club?
A. The club meets weekly.
B. Students work in teams to design and test robot
C. Robots complete obstacle courses.
D. Students learn engineering concepts.
B. Students work in teams to design and test robot
"I stayed up late reviewing my notes for the science test," Maya said as she slowly walked into class. She stretched her arms, rubbed her eyes, and yawned several times before sitting down. Maya opened her notebook and quietly reviewed a few final facts before the test began.
Question: What does Maya’s behavior suggest?
A. She feels confident and excited.
B. She is tired from studying late.
C. She is upset with her teacher.
D. She forgot to prepare for the test.
B. She is tired from studying late.
Using a microscope, the scientist carefully studied microorganisms collected from pond water. These organisms were too small to be seen with the naked eye, but the microscope allowed the scientist to observe their shapes and movements.
Question: Which context clue helps determine the meaning of microscope?
A. Scientist
B. Pond water
C. Too small to be seen with the naked eye
D. Shapes and movements
C. Too small to be seen with the naked eye
To grow a healthy plant, first place seeds in nutrient-rich soil. Next, water the plant regularly and ensure it receives sunlight. After the plant begins to grow, transfer it into a larger container to allow its roots to expand.
Question: What text structure is used?
A. Problem and solution
B. Chronological order
C. Compare and contrast
D. Cause and effect
B. Chronological order
First, plants need sunlight to grow. Next, they use water and nutrients from the soil to stay healthy. Finally, plants produce oxygen that helps humans and animals survive.
Question: Which organizational structure is used?
A. Problem and solution
B. Chronological/sequence
C. Compare and contrast
D. Cause and effect
B. Chronological/sequence
$300 Passage
Before beginning her history research project, Alana carefully read the assignment directions and highlighted important instructions. She created a checklist to track her progress. While reading articles and books, she paused frequently to reread complex sections and write notes in her own words. When she encountered unfamiliar vocabulary, she used context clues and dictionaries to determine meanings. By taking her time and checking her understanding, Alana was able to create a strong and accurate final project.
Question: Which reading strategy is Alana demonstrating?
A. Predicting
B. Skimming
C. Monitoring comprehension
D. Visualizing
C. Monitoring comprehension
An environmental article explains, "Recycling reduces the amount of waste sent to landfills and helps conserve natural resources such as timber, water, and minerals. Communities that recycle also reduce pollution and save energy during manufacturing processes."
Question: Which choice best uses text evidence to support recycling?
A. Recycling is enjoyable for communities.
B. Recycling is required by all cities.
C. Recycling makes manufacturing easier.
D. Recycling helps reduce waste and conserve resources.
D. Recycling helps reduce waste and conserve resources.
The archaeologists worked to reconstruct an ancient building using pieces of stone and historical records. By carefully studying the ruins and diagrams, they were able to rebuild parts of the structure as it once appeared.
Question: What does the prefix re- in reconstruct mean?
A. Before
B. Under
C. Not
D. Again
D. Again
Every year, millions of plastic bottles end up in oceans, lakes, and rivers. These bottles do not break down easily and can harm sea animals that mistake them for food. Scientists have discovered that plastic waste is also affecting drinking water in some areas. Many communities are now encouraging people to use reusable bottles instead. By making this small change, people can help protect wildlife and keep water sources cleaner for future generations.
Question: What is the author’s main purpose?
A. To entertain readers with a story about oceans
B. To explain how plastic bottles are made
C. To persuade readers to use reusable bottles
D. To describe different types of sea animals
C. To persuade readers to use reusable bottles
Dogs are popular pets because they are loyal and friendly. For example, many dogs help people with disabilities by guiding them safely across streets. In addition, dogs often help police officers locate missing people.
Question: Which writing technique is mainly used?
A. Giving examples to support an idea
B. Asking questions
C. Using dialogue
D. Comparing two animals
A. Giving examples to support an idea
During midterm exam week, the school library extended its hours to give students more time to study. Each afternoon, students filled the tables, quiet study rooms, and computer stations. Some students worked independently, reviewing notes and completing practice questions. Others formed study groups, where they quizzed each other and explained difficult concepts. Librarians helped students locate study materials and provided guidance on research tools. Although the library was busy, it remained calm and organized, allowing students to focus on their preparation.
Question: What conclusion can be drawn about the students?
A. They are working hard to prepare for exams.
B. They are avoiding their classes.
C. They are attending a social gathering.
D. They are waiting for teachers to give assignments.
A. They are working hard to prepare for exams.
When the teacher asked for volunteers to present their group projects, Daniel avoided eye contact and focused on flipping through his notes. He quietly asked his partner if they could present first instead. Although Daniel had completed his portion of the project, he seemed hesitant to speak in front of the class.
Question: What can be inferred about Daniel?
A. He is confident about presenting.
B. He wants to present immediately.
C. He may feel nervous about speaking publicly.
D. He forgot to complete the project.
C. He may feel nervous about speaking publicly.
When the orchestra finished performing, the audience stood and applauded the musicians’ remarkable performance. Many listeners praised the performers’ dedication, skill, and emotional expression.
Question: What does the word remarkable most nearly mean?
A. Impressive
B. Ordinary
C. Loud
D. Confusing
A. Impressive
The first video game consoles were introduced in the 1970s. These early systems had simple graphics and limited controls. Over time, gaming technology improved, allowing players to explore large virtual worlds and interact with others online. Today, video games are used not only for entertainment but also for education and job training. Some schools even use educational games to help students learn difficult subjects.
Question: What is the author’s main purpose?
A. To persuade readers to buy video games
B. To explain the development and uses of video games
C. To entertain readers with a fictional gaming story
D. To compare video games to board games
B. To explain the development and uses of video games
Some people believe schools should start later in the morning. They argue that students would be more alert and ready to learn. Others believe early start times help students prepare for future work schedules. Both sides provide strong reasons for their opinions.
Question: Which structure is mainly used?
A. Cause and effect
B. Compare and contrast
C. Description
D. Chronological order
B. Compare and contrast
After a powerful thunderstorm knocked out electricity across town, many families had to adjust their evening routines. Without televisions, gaming systems, or internet access, families searched for other ways to spend their time. Some families played board games by candlelight, while others shared stories, read books, or talked about their day. Although the power outage was inconvenient, several parents noticed their children were more engaged in conversation than usual. When electricity was restored later that night, some families said they appreciated the unexpected opportunity to spend uninterrupted time together.
Question: Which statement best summarizes the passage?
A. Storms always create problems for communities.
B. Board games are more enjoyable than electronic
C. Families found meaningful ways to connect during the outage.
D. Power outages are beneficial for everyone.
C. Families found meaningful ways to connect during the outage.
A science article states, "Although installing solar panels requires a large upfront investment, homeowners who use solar energy often reduce their monthly electricity bills. Over time, these savings may equal or exceed the original installation costs."
Question: What inference can be made?
A. Solar panels may provide long-term financial benefits.
B. Solar panels never save money.
C. Solar panels are easy to install.
D. Solar panels only work in certain seasons.
A. Solar panels may provide long-term financial benefits.
Modern transportation systems allow people and goods to move efficiently across cities, countries, and continents. The word transportation comes from the Latin root port, which means "to carry," and helps describe how vehicles carry passengers or products from one place to another.
Question: How does the root help explain the meaning of transportation?
A. It involves carrying people or goods between locations.
B. It involves building roads.
C. It involves designing vehicles.
D. It involves studying travel.
A. It involves carrying people or goods between locations.
Lena had always been nervous about speaking in front of her class. When her teacher assigned a presentation about famous explorers, Lena worried she might forget her words. She practiced every afternoon and even presented to her family at dinner. On the day of her presentation, her hands shook at first, but she remembered to breathe slowly and speak clearly. When she finished, her classmates clapped, and Lena felt proud of herself for trying something difficult.
Question: What is the author’s main purpose?
A. To explain how explorers traveled the world
B. To persuade readers to give presentations
C. To entertain readers with a character overcoming fear
D. To describe classroom rules
C. To entertain readers with a character overcoming fear
Pollution has become a serious problem in many cities. One way to reduce pollution is by using public transportation. Another solution is encouraging people to bike or walk instead of driving. By using these solutions, cities can improve air quality.
Question: Which text structure is used?
A. Problem and solution
B. Chronological
C. Compare and contrast
D. Description
A. Problem and solution