Milestone Practice #1

What is the main purpose of this passage?

• To inform the reader about forest wildlife

• To entertain with a story about an adventure

• To persuade the reader to explore the outdoors

• To describe how to read a map

Which sentence best shows Lena’s determination?

• "Lena hesitated at the forest’s edge, the cool morning mist clinging to her skin."

• "The towering trees cast long shadows as the sun peeked over the horizon."

• "Determined, she followed the trail, stopping occasionally to check the map."

• "What she saw made her gasp."

What is the meaning of "shimmering" as used in paragraph 4?

• Fading away

• Reflecting light

• Staying hidden

• Changing color

How does the author build suspense in the passage?

• By describing Lena’s hesitation and the mysterious glow

• By including dialogue between Lena and her grandfather

• By explaining the scientific reason behind glowing butterflies

• By listing the items Lena brought on her journey

What is the main idea of the passage?

• Fireflies are disappearing because of artificial light

• Fireflies use bioluminescence to communicate

• Scientists are trying to understand firefly light

• Fireflies are interesting insects with unique abilities

Which detail best supports the idea that firefly light is useful to science?

• "Some flash quickly, while others blink in long, slow bursts."

• "Scientists have studied fireflies to learn how they control their light."

• "Many scientists urge people to protect fireflies."

• "Fireflies use their light to attract mates and communicate with one another."

What is the meaning of "bioluminescence" as used in the passage?

• The way some animals breathe

• The ability to make sound underwater

• The production of light by living things

• The speed of a firefly’s wing movement

According to the passage, what is one way people can help protect fireflies?

• Studying their flashing patterns

• Keeping fireflies in gardens

• Reducing artificial light at night

• Collecting fireflies for research

How are Lena’s experience in "The Unexpected Journey" and fireflies in "The Mystery of Fireflies" similar?

• Both describe how insects communicate

• Both focus on the importance of maps

• Both include glowing creatures

• Both emphasize the importance of conservation

Which research question would best help a student learn more about the topic of Passage 2?

• "What types of animals glow in the dark?"

• "How do scientists study insects?"

• "Where do fireflies live?"

• "What is the difference between fireflies and butterflies?"