CAASPP ELA Informational Text Review

Which detail from the text best supports the inference that scientists

value the coelacanth primarily as a link to earlier life forms?

• The coelacanth is an endangered species.

• The coelacanth was once studied only in its fossil form.

• The coelacanth has been difficult for scientists to classify.

• The coelacanth has unique features because it dates back to

  ancient times.

Tags

CCSS.RI.7.1

Although the coelacanth typically dwells in waters that are 500 to 800

feet deep, some may be found as deep as 2,500 feet. Consequently, it

has been difficult for researchers to observe the fish in its natural

habitat. Special modern-day deep sea diving equipment is making it

possible for researchers to enjoy occasional sightings of the

coelacanth. Based on these sightings, researchers have determined

that there may be only about 1,000 coelacanths left. As such, the

coelacanth is considered to be an endangered species. Sadly, it may

not be long before these living windows into the past really are

nothing more than fossils.

What is the central idea of the paragraph?

• Most coelacanths live in deep water.

• New technology helps scientists study the coelacanth.

• The coelacanth is a rare fish that may soon disappear.

• Scientists have had a hard time studying the coelacanth.

Tags

CCSS.RI.7.2

In 1938, scientists discovered the coelacanth, a deep sea fish that is a

link to ancient life forms. The coelacanth, which can grow over six feet

long and weigh close to 200 pounds, has unique features, since it

dates back hundreds of millions of years. These prehistoric features

include thick scales, a hinged joint in the skull, a rostral organ, and a

notochord. The fish also has fins that work like legs, although they are

used for swimming. Coelacanths have been found in many parts of the

world. Scientists have studied two coelacanths that were found with

their pups. Current deep sea diving equipment makes it easier for

scientists to observe the coelacanth deep in the ocean where they

dwell. The coelacanth is truly a fascinating living fossil.

A key detail is missing from the summary. Click on the pair of

sentences that include the missing detail.

• In 1938, scientists were shocked when this primitive deep sea fish was

  discovered alive off the coast of South London, Africa. In addition,

  scientists were surprised by the coelacanth's many unique features

  that are not found in other known living vertebrates.

• The third is its rostral organ. Located in the fish's snout, this electro-

  sensory organ is thought to help the coelacanth detect prey.

• In both cases, the pups were approximately 14 inches in length. This

  discovery helped scientists better understand how the coelacanth

  reproduces.

• Based on these sightings, researchers have determined that there may

  be only about 1,000 coelacanths left. As such, the coelacanth is

  considered to be an endangered species.

Tags

CCSS.RI.7.2

Select the statement that best describes how the author develops the

ideas over the course of the text.

• The ideas are presented in a main idea and details format, to

  provide an overview of the coelacanth followed by the specifics

  about it.

• The ideas are placed in a compare and contrast format, to

  compare the individual features of the coelacanth to the features

  of other fish.

• The ideas are placed in chronological order, starting from the

  coelacanth’s beginnings in the prehistoric era to its existence in

  the present.

• The ideas are placed in a problem and solution format, so that

  the problem that the coelacanth faces is presented along with

  possible solutions.

Tags

CCSS.RI.7.3

Although scientists once thought that the coelacanth died out with the

dinosaurs, it is now considered to be a living fossil. In 1938, scientists

were shocked when this primitive deep sea fish was discovered alive

off the coast of South London, Africa.

The word primitive has multiple meanings. What does the word

primitive most likely suggest about the coelacanth? Select two

options.

• The coelacanth is a naïve, or immature, fish.

• The coelacanth has a simple body structure.

• The coelacanth shows traits of ancient types of fish.

• The coelacanth exists in an area where cultures lack tools.

• The coelacanth belongs to an early stage in the development of

  fish.

Tags

CCSS.RI.7.4

What does the author accomplish by including details about the

coelacanth in the second paragraph? Select two options.

• The details help support the idea that the coelacanth did not die

  out with the dinosaurs.

• The details help support the idea that the coelacanth’s features

  can help scientists learn about prehistoric life forms.

• The details help support the idea that each living creature has

  unique features that make it unlike any other living creature.

• The details help support the idea that it is incredible that an

  animal such as the coelacanth could still be in existence today.

• The details help support the understanding that the unique

  prehistoric features tie the coelacanth to other ancient life forms.

Tags

CCSS.RI.7.5

Select on the statement that best provides a conclusion that can be

drawn about the evidence presented in the text.

• The author used details to show the popularity of Celtic culture.

• The author used details to show the importance of oral tradition.

• The author used details to show just how influential Celtic culture is

  today.

• The author used details to show that well-known stories originated

  from Celtic lore.

Tags

CCSS.RI.7.1

Which evidence from the text best supports the inference that Celts

were perceived as unpleasant people?

• The Celts were noted as fierce and fond of quarreling.

• Written accounts about the Celts were penned by biased

  narrators.

• The Celts have often been defined by what they were not:

  Romans or Greeks.

• The Celts traded with other tribes when they were not warring

  with one another.

Tags

CCSS.RI.7.1

Which sentence from the text best summarizes the central idea?

• "We now use the word 'Celt' to describe many distinct groups who

  never referred to themselves as Celt."

• "What they did share in common were similar languages, elegant

  artistic styles, and complex mythologies."

• "Many Celts were assimilated into the Roman Empire and much

  Celtic culture was lost."

• "We remain fascinated by the history, myths, languages, and

  artistic expressions of a culture once conquered by Rome but,

  remarkably, still thriving."

Tags

CCSS.RI.7.2

Summarize the author's message about the Celtic people's legacy. Use

evidence from the text to support your answer.

Tags

CCSS.RI.7.2