Reading STAAR Test Prep

The Latin word ob, meaning “in the way,” helps the reader understand that the word obstructs in the sentence below means —
The construction truck parked on the freeway often obstructs traffic during rush hour. 

• hinders

• reverses

• defeats

• lengthens

Why does the narrator use a metaphor to describe his response to playing the piano?

• To explain how he is able to remember a piece of music

• To show how sharing music increases enjoyment

• To suggest that owning a piano can spark enthusiasm

• To reveal the depth of his feelings towards the piano

If something is revealed in a text, that means it is ___.

• hidden

• shown or made known

• done again

• closed

Inferencing means ________.

• a. understanding exactly what the text says

• b. using background knowledge and the text to read between the lines

• c. determining what's a fact and what's an opinion

• d. using word parts to decode an unknown word

Which statement about an inference is correct?

• a. an inference is not based on any evidence.

• b. an inference is based only on what a text says.

• c. an inference always turns out to be right.

• d. an inference requires that you use clues.

What is tone?

• where and when a story takes place

• the author's reason for writing a story

• the author's attitude toward the story

• how the story makes you feel

On the reading section, I should...

• Just start reading and skim through the boring parts

• Don't read the whole passage, just go question by question

• Read and annotate the passage

Which of the following sentences uses the word 'obstruct' correctly?

• The curtains obstruct the sunlight from entering the room.

• The flowers obstruct the garden with their beauty.

• The music obstructs the silence of the night.

• The book obstructs the knowledge of the reader.

What is the main purpose of a metaphor in literature?

• To create a direct comparison between two things.

• To exaggerate a statement for effect.

• To provide a visual image to the reader.

• To suggest a deeper meaning beyond the literal.

In the context of reading comprehension, what does the term 'inferencing' mean?

• Understanding the literal meaning of the text.

• Reading between the lines using clues from the text.

• Summarizing the main idea of the text.

• Identifying the author's purpose.