Benchmark Unit 9 W1

What does the word damage mean as it is used in paragraph 4 of Passage 1?

• to cause harm to

• to send away

• to appear suddenly

• to make better

In Passage 1, paragraph 2, what is the meaning of "I have the worst itch in the world!"?

• Insects can make trees itch.

• The itch is very uncomfortable.

• Everyone has had an itch before.

• The itch cannot be reached.

What is the theme of Passage 1? (Part A)

• Animals can talk to each other just like people do.

• It is always better to tell the truth than to tell a lie.

• Insects can make both people and maple trees feel terrible.

• If you help a friend in need, that friend may help you one day.

Which sentence from the passage best develops the theme in Part A? (Part B)

• "Maple Tree called to his animal friends, 'Please help me! I have the worst itch in the world!'" (paragraph 2)

• "I could claw at your bark with my long, sharp claws, but that would hurt you." (paragraph 5)

• "The following spring, there was not enough rain for all the animals to drink."(paragraph 8)

• "He was delighted to help the friend who had helped him in his own time of need." (paragraph 8)

What claim does the author of Passage 2 make?

• Sap only flows during certain times of the year.

• Drilling is the hardest part of making syrup.

• Lighter maple syrup is more flavorful.

• Maple roots grow deep in the ground.

Which two sentences from the passage best support the author's claim in Part A?

• The time is right when nighttime temperatures are below freezing and daytime temperatures are above freezing.

• Once the sap is rising, Tom drills holes in the trees and places a tap in each hole.

• Soon, the sweet, clear sap starts flowing out of the taps.

• Depending on the tree and the weather conditions, the sap can flow for a few hours or a few days at a time.

• The syrup can now be safely sold at grocery stores.

What does the word refines mean as it is used in paragraph 13 of Passage 2?

• makes thicker

• improves the look of

• adds a sweet taste to

• removes harmful elements

Think about the passages "The Maple Tree with an Itch" and "Hard Work, but Worth It." Which detail is presented by the authors of both passages?

• Maple sap contains water.

• Insects can damage maple trees.

• Maple syrup comes in three grades.

• Woodpeckers peck at maple trees.

How do the authors of "The Maple Tree with an Itch" and "Hard Work, but Worth It" present information about maple trees in different ways?

• The author of "The Maple Tree with an Itch" presents events in time order; while the author of "Hard Work, but Worth It" does not.

• The author of "The Maple Tree with an Itch" presents a fable, while the author of "Hard Work, but Worth It" presents an informational text about a real-world process.

• The author of "The Maple Tree with an Itch" presents a true story; while the author of "Hard Work, but Worth It" presents a make-believe story.

• The author of "The Maple Tree with an Itch" presents information only about maple trees; while the author of "Hard Work, but Worth It" includes information about birds.