English II Benchmark Review

Read the following excerpt from a text: "The sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink." What can be inferred about the time of day?

• It is early morning.

• It is midday.

• It is late afternoon.

• It is evening.

What is the central idea of a text that discusses the impact of climate change on polar bears, focusing on their shrinking habitat and decreasing food sources?

• Polar bears are becoming more aggressive.

• Climate change is causing polar bears to migrate south.

• The shrinking habitat and food scarcity threaten polar bear survival.

• Polar bears are adapting well to climate change.

In a text that describes the process of photosynthesis, how does the author introduce and develop the concept of chlorophyll's role?

• By listing the chemical formula of chlorophyll.

• By explaining its function in capturing sunlight and converting it into energy.

• By comparing chlorophyll to other plant pigments.

• By discussing the history of photosynthesis research.

In the sentence, "The lawyer's argument was as sharp as a razor," what is the connotative meaning of "sharp"?

• Dull

• Intelligent and precise

• Dangerous

• Blunt

What is the author's purpose in a text that uses emotional anecdotes and vivid imagery to describe the plight of refugees?

• To entertain the reader with stories of adventure

• To inform the reader about refugee statistics

• To persuade the reader to empathize with refugees and support humanitarian efforts

• To criticize government policies on immigration

Which of the following statements from a text provides strong textual evidence for the claim that "deforestation contributes to climate change"?

• "Many animals lose their habitats due to deforestation."

• "Deforestation releases stored carbon dioxide into the atmosphere."

• "Forests are beautiful and provide recreational spaces."

• "Deforestation is a major economic activity in some regions."

How does the central idea of a text about the benefits of renewable energy develop over the course of the text?

• It starts with a historical overview and ends with future predictions.

• It begins with the economic benefits and expands to environmental impacts.

• It focuses solely on the technological advancements in renewable energy.

• It discusses the disadvantages of fossil fuels throughout.

In a text about the American Revolution, how does the author unfold the series of events leading to the Declaration of Independence?

• By listing the battles in chronological order

• By describing the political tensions and key figures involved

• By focusing on the economic impact of the war

• By detailing the daily life of soldiers

What is the cumulative impact of the word choices in a text that describes a storm as "raging," "relentless," and "merciless"?

• It creates a calm and peaceful tone.

• It emphasizes the storm's destructive power.

• It suggests the storm is beneficial.

• It downplays the severity of the storm.

In a speech advocating for environmental conservation, how does the author use rhetoric to advance their point of view?

• By using technical jargon to confuse the audience

• By appealing to the audience's emotions with stories of endangered species

• By presenting only statistical data without explanation

• By criticizing the audience for their lack of action