"The Raven" Vocabulary Pre-Assessment

"Despite her calm countenance, she was feeling nervous about the presentation."

The word countenance most likely means:

• A person's facial expression or demeanor

• A type of clothing or accessory

• A formal title or position

• A sudden burst of energy or emotion

"The craven soldier fled from the battlefield, abandoning his comrades in their time of need."

The word craven most likely means:

• Brave and heroic

• Cowardly and lacking courage

• Strong and courageous

• Loyal and devoted

"The professor's discourse on the theme of the poem was thought-provoking."

The word discourse most likely means:

• A short conversation

• A formal and extended discussion

• A written report

• A brief announcement

"She implored him to reconsider his decision, hoping he would change his mind."

The word implore most likely means:

• To suggest casually

• To ask with importance

• To ignore completely

"The placid lake reflected the clear blue sky, with hardly a ripple disturbing its surface."

The word placid most likely means:

• Stormy and turbulent

• Calm and peaceful

• Shallow and dirty

• Rough and windy

"After the tornado, the once lively town appeared desolate, with abandoned buildings and empty streets."

The word desolate most likely means:

• Crowded and exciting

• Cheerful and welcoming

• Empty and bleak

• Clean and orderly

"The dark clouds and the distant thunder created an ominous atmosphere, signaling that a storm was approaching."

The word ominous most likely means:

• Pleasant and inviting

• Threatening and dark

• Bright and cheerful

• Clear and calm

"The girl who spread rumors about me gave me the most beguiling smile when pretending she was my friend."

The word beguiling most likely means:

• Deceptively charming; tricking

• Stern and serious

• Quiet and reserved

"The forecast looks bleak for the next 10 days, as it is supposed to be cold and rainy."

The word bleak most likely means:

• Bright and cheerful

• Dreary and gloomy

• Warm and inviting

• Peaceful and calm

"He pondered the offer for a long time, weighing the pros and cons before making his decision."

The word pondered most likely means:

• Ignored quickly

• Thought about deeply

• Asked about casually

• Decided quickly