STAAR Vocabulary and Definitions

What is the main claim or argument in an essay called?

• Thesis

• Transition Words

• Synonym

• Antonym

Answer explanation

The main claim or argument in an essay is called the 'thesis.' It presents the central idea that the writer will support throughout the text, distinguishing it from other terms like transition words, synonyms, or antonyms.

What are words that connect ideas called?

• Thesis

• Transition Words

• Synonym

• Antonym

Answer explanation

Words that connect ideas are called transition words. They help to guide readers through the text by linking sentences and paragraphs, making the writing flow more smoothly. Other options like thesis, synonym, and antonym do not serve this purpose.

What is a word with the same or similar meaning called?

• Synonym

• Antonym

• Figurative Language

• Compare and Contrast

Answer explanation

A word with the same or similar meaning is called a synonym. Antonyms are words with opposite meanings, while figurative language and compare and contrast are different concepts. Therefore, the correct answer is synonym.

What is a word with the opposite meaning called?

• A) Synonym

• B) Antonym

• C) Figurative Language

• D) Compare and Contrast

Answer explanation

A word with the opposite meaning is called an antonym. For example, 'hot' and 'cold' are antonyms. Synonyms are words with similar meanings, while figurative language and compare and contrast are different concepts.

What are expressions that are not literal called?

• Synonym

• Antonym

• Figurative Language

• Compare and Contrast

Answer explanation

Expressions that are not literal are referred to as figurative language. This type of language uses figures of speech, such as metaphors and similes, to convey meanings beyond the literal interpretation.

What term is used to show similarities and differences?

• A) Synonym

• B) Antonym

• C) Figurative Language

• D) Compare and Contrast

Answer explanation

The term 'Compare and Contrast' is used to identify similarities and differences between two or more subjects. This makes it the correct choice, as the other options do not specifically address this analytical process.

What term identifies an issue and how it is resolved?

• Problem and Solution

• Chronological Order

• Description

• First-Person Point of View

Answer explanation

The term 'Problem and Solution' identifies an issue and its resolution, making it the correct choice. The other options do not specifically address the relationship between a problem and how it is resolved.

What is the term for events in time order?

• Problem and Solution

• Chronological Order

• Description

• First-Person Point of View

Answer explanation

The term 'Chronological Order' refers to arranging events in the sequence they occur in time. This is the correct choice, as it directly addresses the question about the order of events.

What term refers to details that explain a topic?

• Problem and Solution

• Chronological Order

• Description

• First-Person Point of View

Answer explanation

The term 'Description' refers to details that explain a topic, providing clarity and context. Other options like 'Problem and Solution' or 'Chronological Order' do not specifically focus on explaining a topic.

What is the point of view called when told by a character using "I"?

• First-Person Point of View

• Third-Person Point of View

• Theme

• Main Idea

Answer explanation

The point of view called when a story is told by a character using "I" is known as the First-Person Point of View. This perspective allows readers to experience the thoughts and feelings of the narrator directly.