8th Grade ELA Unit 1 Pretest

A student is writing a personal narrative about learning to ride a bike.

I was frustrated every time I fell off the bike. My dad kept encouraging me to try again even when I wanted to quit. Years later, I still remember that afternoon whenever I face a challenge.

Which sentence BEST concludes the paragraph?

• My bike was blue with silver handlebars.
• In many ways, that experience taught me to never give up.
• My dad also liked teaching my brother how to ride a bike.
• Finally, we went inside and ate dinner.

Tags

GAS.8.T.T.1.e

A student wants to make the writing more descriptive.

The sunset spread across the sky like a _____ blanket.

Which word BEST completes the sentence?

• pretty
• colorful
• crimson
• nice

Tags

GAS.8.L.V.3.c

Choose the sentence that correctly combines the ideas and maintains consistent verb tense.

Marcus opened the book. He began reading immediately.

• Marcus opens the book and began reading immediately.
• Marcus opened the book, he began reading immediately.
• Marcus opened the book and began reading immediately.
• Marcus will open the book and began reading immediately.

Tags

GAS.8.L.GC.2.b

Which sentence uses correct dialogue punctuation?

• “I can’t believe we won”! shouted Leah.
• Leah shouted “I can’t believe we won!”
• Leah shouted, “I can’t believe we won!”
• “I can’t believe we won!” Leah shouted,

Tags

GAS.6.L.GC.1.47

Choose the line that uses BOTH figurative language and a sound device.

• The classroom was noisy in the morning.
• Whispering wind whirled through the trees like dancers.
• Students walked quietly into class.
• The bell rang loudly across the hallway.

Tags

GAS.8.T.T.4.b

Which detail BEST reveals Jordan’s attitude at the beginning of the paragraph?

• Rain tapped against the windows.
• Dust floated through the air.
• He wanted to be home playing video games.
• He discovered an old wooden chest.

Tags

GAS.8.T.T.1.a

How does the discovery of the chest affect the story?

• It creates humor in the story.
• It introduces a turning point in Jordan’s attitude.
• It explains why Jordan dislikes cleaning.
• It reveals that Jordan is afraid of the attic.

Tags

GAS.8.T.T.1.b

Which theme is MOST supported by the paragraph?

• Family history can help people appreciate the past.
• Video games are more entertaining than chores.
• Stormy weather always creates problems.
• Cleaning is the hardest responsibility for teenagers.

Tags

GAS.8.T.T.1.c

How does the author develop Mia’s character in “The Soccer Star”?

• By showing her fear of competition
• By describing her confidence and refusal to listen
• By explaining her family history
• By focusing only on her teammates

Tags

GAS.8.T.T.1.b

What theme is shared by BOTH passages?

• Success comes from avoiding challenges.
• Teamwork always guarantees victory.
• Overconfidence can lead to failure.
• People should never take risks.

Tags

GAS.8.T.T.1.c