R.7.1 - Citing Evidence
R.7.4 - Language
R.7.6 - Author's POV
R.7.8 - Argument
L.7.2 - Words
L.7.5 - Commas
R.7.9 - Compare/Contrast
200

Lena carefully placed the small box on the table, her hands trembling slightly. She took a deep breath before lifting the lid, revealing an old pocket watch. Its golden surface was tarnished, and the hands had long stopped moving. A faint smile crossed her lips as she traced the initials engraved on the back. "Grandpa always carried this," she whispered, lost in thought.

What can be inferred about Lena's grandfather?

A) He was careless with his belongings.

B) He frequently lost his pocket watch.

C) He was important in Lena’s life.

D) He was a professional watchmaker.

C) He was important in Lena’s life.

""Grandpa always carried this," she whispered, lost in thought."

200

Thick fog curled through the empty streets, swallowing the dim glow of the streetlights. The air was heavy with silence, broken only by the distant echo of footsteps that vanished as quickly as they came. Shadows stretched along the cracked pavement, shifting like silent watchers in the night.

The language in these sentences creates a mood of —

A) Cheerfulness and excitement.

B) Mystery and unease.

C) Warmth and comfort.

D) Celebration and joy.

B) Mystery and unease.

200

The recent study on climate change shows how rising temperatures are affecting ocean currents, leading to extreme weather patterns across the globe. Scientists emphasize the urgent need for action to prevent further damage to the environment.

What is the author’s general purpose for writing this article?

A) to describe

B) to entertain

C) to inform

D) to persuade

C) to inform

It is giving the reader information on climate change without persuading them.

200

Sentence:  She started to organize the event to ensure everything ran smoothly.
Now, read this thesaurus entry.
                   organize. v. arrange, classify, coordinate, manage

Which synonym best matches the way the word organize is used in the sentence?

A) arrange

B) classify

C) coordinate

D) manage

C) coordinate

200

Which sentence uses an infinitive phrase?

A) She enjoys running every morning to stay healthy.
B)They went swimming in the lake all afternoon.
C) He decided to study for the exam early.
D) The book is on the table for reading later.

C) He decided to study for the exam early.

200

When would you use the homophone there?

A) When referring to a place or location.
B) To show possession of something.
C) As a contraction of "they are."
D) To describe something belonging to someone.

A) When referring to a place or location.

400

Lena carefully placed the small box on the table, her hands trembling slightly. She took a deep breath before lifting the lid, revealing an old pocket watch. Its golden surface was tarnished, and the hands had long stopped moving. A faint smile crossed her lips as she traced the initials engraved on the back. "Grandpa always carried this," she whispered, lost in thought.

Which inference can be made from the passage?

A) Lena is about to repair the pocket watch.

B) The pocket watch holds sentimental value for Lena.

C) Lena dislikes old objects.

D) The pocket watch is broken beyond repair.

B) The pocket watch holds sentimental value for Lena.

"as she traced the initials engraved on the back. "Grandpa always carried this,"

400

Samantha stared at the towering roller coaster, grinning as she tightened the straps on her seat.

The word "grinning" refers to a type of smile. What is the connotation of the word as it is used here?

A) The smile is forced and insincere.

B) The smile is mischievous and sneaky.

C) The smile is tense and nervous.

D) The smile is excited and eager.

D) The smile is excited and eager.

400

The author argues that adopting a plant-based diet can significantly improve your health by reducing the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and diabetes. He emphasizes that small dietary changes can lead to long-term benefits, encouraging readers to make the switch for a healthier future.

What is the author’s general purpose for writing this article?

A) to describe

B) to entertain

C) to inform

D) to persuade

D) to persuade

"The author argues" cues us in that it is an argumentative/ persuasive piece of writing.

400

Article 1: "The benefits of organic farming are undeniable. Not only do organic farms avoid harmful pesticides and fertilizers, but they also promote biodiversity and soil health. Studies have shown that organic farming practices can improve the long-term sustainability of the land. Furthermore, organic products tend to be fresher and have higher nutritional content, making them a healthier choice for consumers."

Article 2: "While organic farming has gained popularity, it is not without its drawbacks. The process can be more labor-intensive and less efficient compared to conventional farming, which leads to higher costs for consumers. Additionally, organic farming does not always guarantee higher nutritional value, as some studies suggest that the difference between organic and conventional products is minimal. Despite these concerns, organic farming remains a popular choice for those who prioritize environmental sustainability."

The author of Article 2 distinguishes their position from Article 1 by —

A) advocating for a balanced approach to organic and conventional farming.

B) highlighting the positive aspects of organic farming and contrasting them with the drawbacks of conventional farming.

C) refuting the arguments made in Article 1 and presenting a contrary perspective in favor of conventional farming.

D) criticizing the limitations of organic farming while acknowledging its benefits.

D) criticizing the limitations of organic farming while acknowledging its benefits.

400

The word grave features the Latin root -grav-. 

Using your knowledge of the root, choose the meaning of the word grave

A) lighthearted or carefree

B) serious or important

C) shallow or minor

D) loud or forceful

B) serious or important

400

I missed the bus this morning. I woke up late.

Which revision best uses a subordinating conjunction to combine the following sentences?

A) I woke up late because I missed the bus this morning.

B) I missed the bus this morning, even though I woke up late.

C) Even though I woke up late, I missed the bus this morning.

D) I missed the bus this morning because I woke up late.

D) I missed the bus this morning because I woke up late.

400

[1] Your going to love the surprise I have for you! [2] I spent all day preparing your favorite meal. [3] I hope it tastes as good as your mom’s cooking. [4] I can't wait to see your reaction.


Which sentence has an error in homophone usage?

A) Sentence 1

B) Sentence 2

C) Sentence 3

D) Sentence 4

A) Sentence 1

600

The old mansion stood at the end of the deserted road, its once-grand walls now cloaked in ivy and shadows. The wind howled through the broken windows, whispering secrets of the past to anyone who dared to listen.

How does the phrase "whispering secrets of the past" affect the tone of the passage?

A) It creates a tone of mystery and eeriness.

B) It creates a tone of warmth and nostalgia.

C) It creates a tone of excitement and adventure.

D) It creates a tone of joy and celebration.

A) It creates a tone of mystery and eeriness.

600

In this article, the author provides step-by-step instructions on how to create a budget using free online tools. She explains how to track spending, set financial goals, and stick to a budget to achieve financial stability.

The author’s specific purpose for writing this article is to help readers —

A) Understand the importance of saving money.

B) Learn how to create and manage a budget effectively.

C) Find ways to invest their savings.

D) Make large purchases without exceeding their budget.

B) Learn how to create and manage a budget effectively.

600

Article 1: In recent years, electric cars have made significant advancements in terms of performance and affordability. Many car manufacturers now offer electric models that can compete with traditional gas-powered vehicles. The environmental impact of electric cars is far less damaging, as they produce zero emissions. This is crucial in our efforts to combat climate change. Electric cars are also becoming more affordable, with tax incentives and rebates making them a viable option for many consumers. As the technology continues to improve, the price of electric cars is expected to decrease even further. Charging infrastructure is expanding rapidly, making it easier for drivers to keep their electric cars powered up while on the go."

Article 2: Electric cars are an excellent option for those who want to reduce their carbon footprint. But many people still feel hesitant to make the switch because of the upfront cost. Though electric cars are better for the environment, there are still concerns about how the electricity to charge them is generated. If the electricity comes from fossil fuels, it could offset the environmental benefits. Electric cars might save money in the long run, but the initial investment is still too high for many people. Additionally, charging stations can sometimes be difficult to find, especially in rural areas. While electric cars are good for the environment, they are still not as effective as public transportation or cycling in reducing overall pollution."

Question: Which sentences from Article 2 best support the claim that its argument is less logical at points than the argument in Article 1?

A) "Electric cars are an excellent option for those who want to reduce their carbon footprint. But many people still feel hesitant to make the switch because of the upfront cost." 

 B) "Though electric cars are better for the environment, there are still concerns about how the electricity to charge them is generated. If the electricity comes from fossil fuels, it could offset the environmental benefits."

 C) "Electric cars might save money in the long run, but the initial investment is still too high for many people. Additionally, charging stations can sometimes be difficult to find, especially in rural areas."

 D) "While electric cars are good for the environment, they are still not as effective as public transportation or cycling in reducing overall pollution." 

B) "Though electric cars are better for the environment, there are still concerns about how the electricity to charge them is generated. If the electricity comes from fossil fuels, it could offset the environmental benefits."

600

Which revision of the sentence adds an infinitive phrase that functions as an adverb to explain why we need to protect the environment?

A) Efforts to preserve nature, which are important, will not be enough for saving the planet.

B) Efforts to preserve nature, however, have to be enough to protect the environment from further damage.

C) Efforts to preserve nature, which are critical, will not be sufficient for the environment. 

D) Efforts to preserve nature, however, will not be enough for protecting the environment from ongoing destruction.

B) Efforts to preserve nature, however, have to be enough to protect the environment from further damage.

Infinitive = to ________

600

[1] I love visiting the park on weekends. [2] There is always something interesting to see. [3] Sometimes I meet my friends their to enjoy the nice weather. [4] It’s a great way to relax and get some fresh air.

Which sentence has an error in homophone usage?

A) Sentence 1

B)Sentence 2

C) Sentence 3

D) Sentence 4

C)Sentence 3

800

Jason sat on the edge of his bed, turning the old baseball in his hands. The leather was worn, the stitches slightly frayed, but he could still feel the imprint of his father’s grip. He closed his eyes for a moment, remembering the countless afternoons they had spent at the park, practicing curveballs and laughing at his wild throws. With a deep sigh, he placed the ball carefully on his nightstand, as if setting down a piece of the past.

Which quote from the passage best supports the inference that the baseball holds emotional significance for Jason?

A) "Jason sat on the edge of his bed, turning the old baseball in his hands."

B) "The leather was worn, the stitches slightly frayed, but he could still feel the imprint of his father’s grip."

C) "With a deep sigh, he placed the ball carefully on his nightstand, as if setting down a piece of the past."

D) "He closed his eyes for a moment, remembering the countless afternoons they had spent at the park."

D) "He closed his eyes for a moment, remembering the countless afternoons they had spent at the park."

800

The forest stretched endlessly, its towering pines swaying in the icy wind. A thick mist wove between the trees, shrouding the path in an eerie glow. Every snapped twig echoed through the silence, a whispered warning from the shadows.

Which is the best description of the writer’s diction in this passage?

A) The writer combines vivid and suspenseful language, creating a mysterious tone.

B) The writer mixes technical and conversational language, creating an engaging tone.

C) The writer uses only casual terms, creating a lighthearted tone.

D) The writer uses only technical terms, creating a serious tone.

A) The writer combines vivid and suspenseful language, creating a mysterious tone.

800

Article 1: Exercise is essential for maintaining both physical and mental health. Numerous studies have shown that regular physical activity helps reduce stress, improve mood, and boost overall well-being. In addition, exercise can help prevent chronic diseases such as heart disease and diabetes, making it a crucial aspect of a healthy lifestyle.

Article 2: Although exercise has numerous benefits, it’s important to remember that rest and recovery are just as crucial for health. Overtraining can lead to physical injury, burnout, and mental fatigue. In fact, many athletes find that their performance improves when they incorporate rest days into their routine, allowing their bodies to heal and regenerate.

Compare Article 1 with Article 2. Which statement best evaluates the reasoning in the two paragraphs?

A) Both authors fail to provide sufficient evidence or sound reasoning, making their arguments weak and unconvincing.

B) Both authors provide relevant and sufficient evidence to support their claims about the benefits of exercise, demonstrating sound reasoning.

C) The author of Article 1 provides relevant evidence about the benefits of exercise, but the reasoning overlooks the importance of rest. The author of Article 2 presents a weak argument, lacking evidence about the benefits of rest.

D) The author of Article 1 provides sound reasoning by emphasizing the importance of exercise, while the author of Article 2 presents a convincing argument for the importance of rest in maintaining overall health.

D) The author of Article 1 provides sound reasoning by emphasizing the importance of exercise, while the author of Article 2 presents a convincing argument for the importance of rest in maintaining overall health.

800

As the forest path twisted around the corner, I caught a glimpse of a deer in the distance. It was standing still, its ears flicking back and forth, as if listening for any sound. I didn’t want to disturb it, so I kept moving quietly, careful not to make any noise.

PART A: [NEED BOTH CORRECT FOR POINTS]
Based on context clues in paragraph 1 of the passage, what does the word glimpse most likely mean?

A) a quick look
B) a long stare
C) a deep analysis
D) a sudden sound

PART B:
Which words in paragraph 1 best support the answer to Part A?

A) "Views for hours"
B) "observed carefully"
C) "made an impression"
D) "caught sight of"

PART A: A) a quick look

PART B: D) "caught sight of"

800

The company invested a significant amount of money in the new project. They believed it would revolutionize the industry and bring immense profits.
Which revision best uses a subordinating conjunction to combine the following sentences?

A) Because they believed it would revolutionize the industry and bring immense profits, the company invested a significant amount of money in the new project

B) Although the company invested a significant amount of money in the new project, they believed it would revolutionize the industry and bring immense profits.

C) The company believed it would revolutionize the industry and bring immense profits because they invested a significant amount of money in the new project.

D) They believed the new project would revolutionize the industry and bring immense profits although the company invested a significant amount of money.

A) Because they believed it would revolutionize the industry and bring immense profits, the company invested a significant amount of money in the new project

Because = Reason Why (Before and After)

Although = Contradictory (opposite arguments)

800

The cat loves to play outside. Its favorite toy is a small ball that bounces everywhere. I often throw the ball, and its happy to chase after it. It's quick movements are always fun to watch.
Which sentence has an error in homophone usage?

A) The cat loves to play outside.

B) I often throw the ball, and its happy to chase after it.

C) Its favorite toy is a small ball that bounces everywhere.

D) It's quick movements are always fun to watch.

D) It's quick movements are always fun to watch.

It's = It Is

Its = possessive

1000

Honeybees play a crucial role in pollination, helping plants reproduce by transferring pollen between flowers. Without bees, many crops such as apples, almonds, and blueberries would struggle to grow. In recent years, however, bee populations have been declining due to habitat loss, pesticide use, and climate change. Scientists and farmers are working together to create bee-friendly environments by planting wildflowers, reducing pesticide use, and protecting natural habitats.  

Which two inferences can be made from the passage?  [NEED BOTH CORRECT]

A) Honeybees are essential for the growth of many crops.  

B) Scientists and farmers are ignoring the decline of bee populations.  

C) The decline of bee populations is caused by multiple environmental factors.  

D) Bees are the only pollinators in nature.  

E) Honeybees are useless.


A) Honeybees are essential for the growth of many crops.  

C) The decline of bee populations is caused by multiple environmental factors.  

1000

The author describes the city's traffic as a never-ending struggle, with cars crawling forward in an endless sea of frustration.

How does the word choice of "never-ending struggle" affect the tone of the passage?

A) It adds an unbiased tone, making the passage more informative and neutral.

B) It adds a positive tone, emphasizing the excitement of a bustling city.

C) It conveys a negative tone, suggesting that traffic is exhausting and frustrating.

D) It creates a humorous tone, making light of the challenges of city driving.

C) It conveys a negative tone, suggesting that traffic is exhausting and frustrating.

1000

Article 1: "School uniforms promote equality among students, eliminating the pressure to wear expensive or trendy clothes. When students wear uniforms, the focus shifts from appearance to learning, which can create a more serious and focused classroom environment."

Article 2: "School uniforms restrict students’ ability to express their individuality. Clothing is a way for students to showcase their personalities and creativity, and enforcing uniforms takes away that freedom. It’s important for students to feel comfortable in what they wear to feel confident in school."

How does Article 1 differ from Article 2?

A) Article 1: argues that uniforms help improve the focus of students

Article 2: argues that uniforms limit students’ ability to express themselves

B) Article 1: supports the idea of students expressing their individuality through clothing

Article 2: supports the idea that uniforms create a more equal environment

C) Article 1: suggests that uniforms lead to bullying

Article 2: suggests that uniforms encourage a sense of community

D) Article 1: claims that uniforms should be optional

Article 2: claims that uniforms are necessary for a successful education

A) Article 1: argues that uniforms help improve the focus of students

Article 2: argues that uniforms limit students’ ability to express themselves

1000

In recent years, there has been growing concern about the impact of social media on mental health. Several studies have found a correlation between heavy social media use and increased rates of anxiety and depression, especially among younger individuals. One study, conducted by the National Mental Health Institute, followed over 500 teenagers for six months, examining their social media habits and mental health outcomes. The study found that participants who spent more than three hours a day on social media were significantly more likely to report feelings of loneliness, sadness, and low self-esteem. However, the study only measured the amount of time spent on platforms like Instagram and Twitter, without taking into account the type of content consumed or other external factors that could influence mental well-being, such as sleep patterns or physical activity levels.

If  the author claims that social media usage negatively affects mental health. Which is the most accurate evaluation of the evidence the author provides for this claim?

A) The studies referenced may not be relevant, because they only involve adolescents, not adults.

B) The studies referenced may not be relevant or sufficient, because they do not account for other factors, like sleep quality or physical health.

C) The studies referenced are clearly relevant and sufficient evidence for the claim, as they include a wide range of participants and social media platforms.

D) The studies referenced may not be sufficient, because they focus only on the frequency of social media use, not the content consumed.

B) The studies referenced may not be relevant or sufficient, because they do not account for other factors, like sleep quality or physical health.

1000

The calamity struck without warning, leaving the town in disarray. Buildings were damaged, and roads were blocked by debris. People rushed to help one another, trying to salvage what they could from the aftermath of the disaster.

PART A: [NEED BOTH CORRECT FOR POINTS]
Based on context clues in paragraph 1 of the passage, what does the word calamity most likely mean?
A) a minor inconvenience
B) a sudden disaster or misfortune
C) a long-lasting event of joy
D) a temporary setback

PART B:

Which words in paragraph 1 best support the answer to Part A?

A) "leaving the town in disarray"

B) "trying to salvage what they could"

C) "people rushed to help one another"

D) "buildings were damaged"

B) a sudden disaster or misfortune

A) "leaving the town in disarray"

1000

Which revision of the sentences adds a dependent clause that is an adjective clause that tells more about the impact of climate change on ecosystems?

A) In addition, ignoring the effects of climate change on ecosystems leads to irreversible damage.

B) In addition, ignoring the effects of climate change on ecosystems, which have been shown to deteriorate rapidly, leads to irreversible damage.

C) In addition, ignoring the effects of climate change on ecosystems leads to irreversible damage, as ecosystems have been shown to deteriorate rapidly.

D) In addition, ignoring the effects of climate change on ecosystems leads to irreversible damage, that is because ecosystems have been shown to deteriorate rapidly.

B) In addition, ignoring the effects of climate change on ecosystems, which have been shown to deteriorate rapidly, leads to irreversible damage.