7.RL.1.B Pre-Test

As the storm raged outside, Maria sat by the window, watching the trees bend and sway like dancers caught in a wild, untamed rhythm. The wind howled through the cracks in the old house, whispering secrets of the past.

What is the intended meaning of the phrase "the trees bend and sway like dancers caught in a wild, untamed rhythm" within this passage?

• The trees are performing an elegant and graceful dance.

• The trees are moving chaotically due to the force of the storm.
  

• The trees are controlled by an unseen force, like puppets on strings.
  

• The trees are moving slowly and peacefully in the breeze.

  
  

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7.RL.1.B

 As the storm raged outside, Maria sat by the window, watching the trees bend and sway like dancers caught in a wild, untamed rhythm. The wind howled through the cracks in the old house, whispering secrets of the past.

Which phrase best expresses the meaning of the word "howled" as used in the passage?

• Made a loud, wailing noise

  
  

• Spoke in a quiet and calm voice
  

• Barked like a dog
  

• Sang a pleasant tune

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7.RL.1.B

 Lena hesitated at the edge of the diving board, her heart pounding like a drum in a parade. Below, the water shimmered invitingly, but the height made her legs feel like jelly. Taking a deep breath, she closed her eyes and jumped.

 What is the intended meaning of the phrase "her heart pounding like a drum in a parade" within this passage?

• Lena’s heart is beating loudly and quickly due to nervousness.
  

• Lena can hear actual drums playing in the distance.
  

• Lena is excited about watching a parade.
  

• Lena’s heart is beating in a slow and steady rhythm.

  
  

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7.RL.1.B

Lena hesitated at the edge of the diving board, her heart pounding like a drum in a parade. Below, the water shimmered invitingly, but the height made her legs feel like jelly. Taking a deep breath, she closed her eyes and jumped.

Which phrase best expresses the meaning of the word "invitingly" as used in the passage?

• In a way that seems dangerous and frightening
  

• In a way that appears cold and unwelcoming
  

• In a way that looks dark and mysterious

  
  

• In a way that looks welcoming and appealing
  

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7.RL.1.B

  Jonah was known for his atypical approach to problem-solving. While most people followed standard procedures, he often thought outside the box, coming up with creative and unexpected solutions. His teachers sometimes found his methods puzzling, but they couldn’t deny his success.

 The prefix a- means “not.” As it is used in the passage, the word atypical means:

• Completely incorrect
  

• Very common and ordinary
  

• Unusual or not standard
  

• Difficult to understand

  
  

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7.RL.1.B

 Despite his best efforts to fix the old clock, Marcus found it irreparable. No matter how many times he adjusted the gears and tightened the screws, the clock refused to tick again. Eventually, he sighed and accepted that some things simply couldn’t be fixed.

The prefix ir- means “not.” As it is used in the passage, the word irreparable means:

• Easy to fix
  

• Slowly breaking down
  

• Working better than before

  
  

• Not able to be repaired
  

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7.RL.1.B

Ethan trudged through the thick snow, his boots sinking deep with each step. The wind lashed against his face, sharp as needles. Ahead, the cabin’s warm glow flickered like a beacon in the storm. He quickened his pace, his breath coming in ragged gasps as he fought against the relentless cold.

What is the meaning of the author’s use of the word "beacon"?

• A dangerous obstacle

• A small flickering candle
  

• A bright signal or guiding light
  

• A mysterious shadow

  
  

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7.RL.1.B