Understanding Texts and Their Structures

Read the following passage and determine the main idea: "The sun is a star at the center of our solar system. It provides the light and heat necessary for life on Earth. Without the sun, our planet would be a frozen, lifeless rock."

• The sun is a planet.

• The sun is necessary for life on Earth.

• The sun is the largest star in the universe.

• The sun is a source of darkness.

Compare and contrast the structure of the following two texts: Text 1 discusses the life cycle of a butterfly in chronological order, while Text 2 explains the differences between butterflies and moths.

• Both texts use a problem/solution structure.

• Text 1 uses a chronological structure, while Text 2 uses a comparison structure.

• Both texts use a cause/effect structure.

• Text 1 uses a comparison structure, while Text 2 uses a chronological structure.

What is the meaning of the word "photosynthesis" in the context of a text about plant biology?

• The process by which plants make their own food using sunlight.

• The process of plants absorbing water through their roots.

• The process of plants growing towards the light.

• The process of plants releasing oxygen into the air.

Explain how the author uses evidence to support the point that "exercise is beneficial for mental health" in the text.

• The author mentions a study that shows exercise improves mood.

• The author describes different types of exercises.

• The author lists the equipment needed for exercise.

• The author explains the history of exercise.

Quote accurately from the text to explain what it says explicitly about the importance of water for plants.

• "Water is not necessary for plant growth."

• "Plants need water to transport nutrients and maintain structure."

• "Plants can survive without water for long periods."

• "Water is only needed for flowering plants."

Determine two main ideas of a text about the benefits of reading and explain how they are supported by key details.

• Reading is boring; it is a waste of time.

• Reading improves vocabulary; it enhances imagination.

• Reading is only for entertainment; it is not educational.

• Reading is difficult; it requires too much effort.

Compare the cause/effect structure of two texts: one about the causes of pollution and the other about the effects of pollution on health.

• Both texts focus on the effects of pollution.

• The first text focuses on causes, while the second focuses on effects.

• Both texts focus on the causes of pollution.

• The first text focuses on effects, while the second focuses on causes.

Determine the meaning of the word "ecosystem" in a text about environmental science.

• A system of computers connected together.

• A community of living organisms interacting with their environment.

• A large body of water surrounded by land.

• A type of weather pattern.

Explain how the author uses reasons and evidence to support the point that "healthy eating leads to better academic performance."

• The author provides statistics linking diet and grades.

• The author describes different types of diets.

• The author lists foods that are unhealthy.

• The author explains the history of nutrition.

Quote accurately from the text to explain what it says explicitly about the role of bees in pollination.

• "Bees are not involved in pollination."

• "Bees play a crucial role in pollinating flowers."

• "Bees only collect honey."

• "Bees are harmful to plants."