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Compare the motion of three sailboats. Which sailboat was moving at the highest speed?
[ "a sailboat that moved 15miles north in 5hours", "a sailboat that moved 40miles north in 5hours", "a sailboat that moved 45miles west in 5hours" ]
2
closed choice
grade3
natural science
physics
Force and motion
Compare the speeds of moving objects
An object's speed tells you how fast the object is moving. Speed depends on both distance and time. Distance tells you how far the object has moved. One unit used to measure distance is the mile. Time tells you how long the object has spent moving. One unit used to measure time is the hour. Think about objects moving for the same amount of time. The object that is moving the fastest will go the farthest distance in that time. It is moving at the highest speed.
Look at the distance each sailboat moved and the time it took to move that distance. The direction each sailboat moved does not affect its speed. Notice that each sailboat moved for 5 hours. The sailboat that moved 45 miles moved the farthest distance in that time. So, that sailboat must have moved at the highest speed.
Which of the following contains a vague pronoun reference?
[ "When Brian tried to explain the complicated equation to Steven, his head started spinning.", "Steven's head started spinning when Brian tried to explain the complicated equation to him." ]
0
closed choice
grade11
language science
writing-strategies
Pronouns
Identify vague pronoun references
When writing, make sure to avoid vague pronoun references. A vague pronoun reference occurs when a pronoun could refer to more than one possible antecedent. When Lisa and Kim finally landed, she breathed a sigh of relief. The pronoun she could refer to either Lisa or Kim, so the meaning of the sentence is unclear. Vague pronoun references can be corrected in one of two ways: 1. Replace the pronoun with its correct antecedent: When Lisa and Kim finally landed, Lisa breathed a sigh of relief. 2. Rewrite the sentence: Lisa breathed a sigh of relief when she and Kim finally landed. A vague pronoun reference also occurs when they, them, their, theirs, it, or its is used without its antecedent. They say that this nail polish dries in less than five minutes. The pronoun they is used without its antecedent, so the meaning of the sentence is unclear. This problem can be fixed by replacing the pronoun with its missing antecedent. The advertisements say that this nail polish dries in less than five minutes.
The first answer choice contains a vague pronoun reference. The pronoun him could refer to Brian or Steven. When Brian tried to explain the complicated equation to Steven, his head started spinning. The second answer choice shows a possible correction for the vague pronoun reference. The text has been rewritten so that the meaning is clear. Steven's head started spinning when Brian tried to explain the complicated equation to him.
Select the living thing.
[ "chair", "almond tree", "clay", "candy" ]
1
closed choice
grade4
natural science
biology
Classification
Identify living and nonliving things
All living things are made up of cells. Plants, animals, and some fungi have many cells. Other living things are made up of just one cell. All living things need food and water. Water helps living things break down food and remove waste. Food gives living things energy. They use energy from food to grow and change. All living things sense changes in their environment. Living things might sense changes by seeing, smelling, hearing, or feeling. Living things can respond to the changes they sense.
Clay is not a living thing. Clay does not have all of the traits of a living thing. It can be formed into different shapes, but it does not grow or respond to the world around it. It does not need food or water. An almond tree is a living thing. Almond trees grow and respond to their environment. They need food and water. Almond trees are made up of many cells. Almond trees are plants. They make their own food using water, carbon dioxide, and energy from sunlight. A chair is not a living thing. Chairs do not have all of the traits of living things. They do not grow or respond to their environment. They do not need food or water. Candy is not a living thing. Candy does not have all of the traits of a living thing. It is sweet and can be shaped like fruit. But it does not grow like real fruit. It does not need food or water.
Which of the following contains a vague pronoun reference?
[ "Mrs. Levin was overjoyed when she saw her granddaughter for the first time in two years.", "When Mrs. Levin saw her granddaughter for the first time in two years, she was overjoyed." ]
1
closed choice
grade10
language science
writing-strategies
Pronouns
Identify vague pronoun references
When writing, make sure to avoid vague pronoun references. A vague pronoun reference occurs when a pronoun could refer to more than one possible antecedent. When Lisa and Kim finally landed, she breathed a sigh of relief. The pronoun she could refer to either Lisa or Kim, so the meaning of the sentence is unclear. Vague pronoun references can be corrected in one of two ways: 1. Replace the pronoun with its correct antecedent: When Lisa and Kim finally landed, Lisa breathed a sigh of relief. 2. Rewrite the sentence: Lisa breathed a sigh of relief when she and Kim finally landed. A vague pronoun reference also occurs when they, them, their, theirs, it, or its is used without its antecedent. They say that this nail polish dries in less than five minutes. The pronoun they is used without its antecedent, so the meaning of the sentence is unclear. This problem can be fixed by replacing the pronoun with its missing antecedent. The advertisements say that this nail polish dries in less than five minutes.
The first answer choice contains a vague pronoun reference. The pronoun she could refer to Mrs. Levin or her granddaughter. When Mrs. Levin saw her granddaughter for the first time in two years, she was overjoyed. The second answer choice shows a possible correction for the vague pronoun reference. The text has been rewritten so that the meaning is clear. Mrs. Levin was overjoyed when she saw her granddaughter for the first time in two years.
Based on this information, what is Cupcake's phenotype for the eye color trait?
[ "brown eyes", "red eyes" ]
0
In a group of guinea pigs, some individuals have brown eyes and others have red eyes. In this group, the gene for the eye color trait has two alleles. The allele for brown eyes (E) is dominant over the allele for red eyes (e). Cupcake is a guinea pig from this group. Cupcake has the homozygous genotype EE for the eye color gene.
closed choice
grade7
natural science
biology
Genes to traits
Genetics vocabulary: dominant and recessive
All organisms have pieces of hereditary material called genes, which are passed from parents to offspring. Genes contain instructions for building the parts of an organism. An organism's genes affect its observable traits, including its appearance, its behavior, and which diseases it may have. Genes may have different alleles, or forms, that can cause different versions of a trait. For example, flower color is a trait in pea plants. The gene for this trait has two possible alleles. Each allele is represented by an uppercase or lowercase letter. The allele F is for purple flowers, and the allele f is for white flowers. Each pea plant has two alleles for the flower color gene—one allele inherited from each parent. An organism's genotype for a gene is its combination of alleles for that gene. So, a pea plant may have a genotype of FF, Ff, or ff for the flower color gene. An organism's phenotype for a trait is its observable version of that trait, which depends on the organism's combination of alleles. A pea plant may have a phenotype of purple flowers or white flowers for the flower color trait. Some traits, like flower color in pea plants, are controlled by a single gene. Most plants and animals have a genotype made up of two alleles for these traits. These two alleles determine whether an organism is homozygous or heterozygous for the gene. An organism with two identical alleles for a gene is homozygous for that gene. A pea plant with the genotype FF or ff is homozygous for the flower color gene. An organism with two different alleles for a gene is heterozygous for that gene. A pea plant with the genotype Ff is heterozygous for the flower color gene. The types of alleles in an organism's genotype determine the organism's phenotype. Some alleles have types called dominant and recessive. These two types can cause different versions of a trait to appear as the organism's phenotype. A dominant allele causes its version of the trait to appear even when the organism also has a recessive allele for the gene. In pea plants, the F allele, which causes purple flowers, is dominant over the f allele. A pea plant with at least one F allele will have the F allele's version of the flower color trait. So, a plant with the genotype FF or Ff will have purple flowers. A recessive allele causes its version of the trait to appear only when the organism does not have any dominant alleles for the gene. In pea plants, the f allele, which causes white flowers, is recessive to the F allele. A pea plant with only f alleles will have the f allele's version of the flower color trait. So, a plant with the genotype ff will have white flowers.
Cupcake's genotype for the eye color gene is EE. Cupcake's genotype of EE has only E allelles. The E allele is for brown eyes. So, Cupcake's phenotype for the eye color trait must be brown eyes. To check this answer, consider whether Cupcake's alleles are dominant or recessive. The allele for brown eyes (E) is dominant over the allele for red eyes (e). This means E is a dominant allele, and e is a recessive allele. Cupcake's genotype of EE has two dominant alleles. An organism with at least one dominant allele for a gene will have the dominant allele's version of the trait. So, Cupcake's phenotype for the eye color trait must be brown eyes.
What is the source of the allusion in the sentence below? Looking at his life, we couldn't help but see Sean as a Job-like figure.
[ "the Bible", "Roman history" ]
0
closed choice
grade11
language science
figurative-language
Literary devices
Recall the source of an allusion
An allusion is a brief mention of something or someone well known, often from mythology, history, or literature. An allusion lets you reference ideas from an entire story in just a few words. The protean nature of the disease makes it difficult to diagnose. The word protean is an allusion to the sea god Proteus in Greek mythology. Because the sea is constantly changing, to describe something as protean suggests that it is variable or in flux.
The source of the allusion Job is the Bible. In the Bible, Job remains faithful and loyal to God, even after the unjust loss of his possessions, family, and health. The allusion Job means someone who patiently endures adversity.
Which logical fallacy is used in the text? Ms. Novak has suggested that our schools let students take statistics instead of algebra to graduate. Frankly, it is puzzling to me that she thinks algebra is a useless subject.
[ "circular reasoning: an argument that supports a claim with the claim itself", "straw man: a misrepresentation of an opponent's position that makes it easier to argue against", "slippery slope fallacy: the false assumption that a small first step will lead to extreme consequences" ]
1
closed choice
grade11
language science
writing-strategies
Developing and supporting arguments
Classify logical fallacies
A strong argument uses valid reasoning and logic in support of a claim. When an argument or claim introduces irrelevant information or misrepresents the issues at hand, it may be committing a logical fallacy. Logical fallacies can hurt a writer's credibility and can lead readers to draw false conclusions. A logical fallacy may present irrelevant information: Fallacy | Description ad hominem | an attack against the person making the argument, rather than the argument itself appeal to nature | an argument that assumes the natural choice is always the best choice bandwagon fallacy | an argument that assumes the popular choice is always the best choice circular reasoning | an argument that supports a claim with the claim itself guilt by association | an unfair negative association with another person or group that is intended to discredit someone or something A logical fallacy may misrepresent the issues at hand: Fallacy | Description false causation | the assumption that because two things happened together, one caused the other false dichotomy | an argument that presents only two choices when more options exist hasty generalization | a broad claim based on too few observations slippery slope fallacy | the false assumption that a small first step will necessarily lead to extreme consequences straw man | a misrepresentation of an opponent's position that makes it easier to argue against
The text argues that Ms. Novak thinks algebra is useless because she would let students take statistics instead. However, Ms. Novak only claimed that students should be allowed to take statistics instead of algebra. She did not suggest that algebra is a useless subject. This illustrates a type of logical fallacy known as a straw man.
Which figure of speech is used in this text? "There's nothing I love more than skipping lunch," Mr. Massey told the flight attendant when he learned that no food would be available on his cross-country flight.
[ "personification", "verbal irony" ]
1
closed choice
grade8
language science
figurative-language
Literary devices
Classify figures of speech
Figures of speech are words or phrases that use language in a nonliteral or unusual way. They can make writing more expressive. Alliteration is the repetition of sounds at the beginning of nearby words. What a lucky little lady you are! An allusion is a brief reference to something or someone well known, often from history or literature. "I'd better get home before I turn into a pumpkin!" Lila remarked. An idiom is an expression that cannot be understood literally. Its meaning must be learned. The assignment was a piece of cake. A simile uses like or as to compare two things that are not actually alike. The cat's fur was as dark as the night. A metaphor compares two things that are not actually alike without using like or as. The snow formed a blanket over the town. Onomatopoeia involves using a word that expresses a sound. The scrambled eggs hit the floor with a splat. Personification is giving human characteristics to nonhuman things. The trees danced in the wind. A pun involves using a word or phrase in a humorous way that suggests more than one meaning. A great new broom is sweeping the nation. Verbal irony involves saying one thing but implying something very different. People often use verbal irony when they are being sarcastic. Olivia seems thrilled that her car keeps breaking down. Each breakdown is as enjoyable as a punch to the face.
The text uses verbal irony, which involves saying one thing but implying something very different. Nothing I love more shows verbal irony because Mr. Massey is probably upset that there isn't anything to eat.
What does the verbal irony in this text suggest? "Sleeping through the rooster's crowing was no problem," Jaylen joked with a yawn.
[ "Jaylen slept well.", "Jaylen slept poorly." ]
1
closed choice
grade6
language science
figurative-language
Literary devices
Interpret figures of speech
Figures of speech are words or phrases that use language in a nonliteral or unusual way. They can make writing more expressive. Verbal irony involves saying one thing but implying something very different. People often use verbal irony when they are being sarcastic. Olivia seems thrilled that her car keeps breaking down. Each breakdown is as enjoyable as a punch to the face.
The text uses verbal irony, which involves saying one thing but implying something very different. Sleeping through the rooster's crowing was no problem ironically suggests that Jaylen slept poorly. Jaylen was tired, so the rooster's crowing was clearly a problem.
Which logical fallacy is used in the text? Ben's definitely voting for the Conservative Party in the next election because he said there was no way he was voting for the Labour Party.
[ "false dichotomy: an argument that presents only two choices when more options exist", "false causation: the assumption that because two things happened together, one caused the other", "appeal to nature: the assumption that natural things are always good" ]
0
closed choice
grade12
language science
writing-strategies
Developing and supporting arguments
Classify logical fallacies
A strong argument uses valid reasoning and logic in support of a claim. When an argument or claim introduces irrelevant information or misrepresents the issues at hand, it may be committing a logical fallacy. Logical fallacies can hurt a writer's credibility and can lead readers to draw false conclusions. A logical fallacy may present irrelevant information: Fallacy | Description ad hominem | an attack against the person making the argument, rather than the argument itself appeal to nature | an argument that assumes the natural choice is always the best choice bandwagon fallacy | an argument that assumes the popular choice is always the best choice circular reasoning | an argument that supports a claim with the claim itself guilt by association | an unfair negative association with another person or group that is intended to discredit someone or something A logical fallacy may misrepresent the issues at hand: Fallacy | Description false causation | the assumption that because two things happened together, one caused the other false dichotomy | an argument that presents only two choices when more options exist hasty generalization | a broad claim based on too few observations slippery slope fallacy | the false assumption that a small first step will necessarily lead to extreme consequences straw man | a misrepresentation of an opponent's position that makes it easier to argue against
The text argues that Ben is voting either for the candidate from the Conservative Party or the Labour Party. However, Ben might be voting for a third party—or he might not be voting at all. This illustrates a type of logical fallacy known as a false dichotomy.
Would you find the word notion on a dictionary page with the following guide words? napkin - news
[ "yes", "no" ]
1
yes or no
grade5
language science
reference-skills
Reference skills
Use guide words
Guide words appear on each page of a dictionary. They tell you the first word and last word on the page. The other words on the page come between the guide words in alphabetical order. To put words in alphabetical order, put them in order by their first letters. If the first letters are the same, look at the second letters. If the second letters are the same, look at the third letters, and so on. If one word is shorter, and there are no more letters to compare, then the shorter word comes first in alphabetical order. For example, be comes before bed.
Put the words in alphabetical order. Since notion is not between the guide words napkin - news, it would not be found on that page.
Which word would you find on a dictionary page with the following guide words? ill - its
[ "insect", "icicle" ]
0
closed choice
grade4
language science
reference-skills
Reference skills
Use guide words
Guide words appear on each page of a dictionary. They tell you the first word and last word on the page. The other words on the page come between the guide words in alphabetical order. To put words in alphabetical order, put them in order by their first letters. If the first letters are the same, look at the second letters. If the second letters are the same, look at the third letters, and so on. If one word is shorter, and there are no more letters to compare, then the shorter word comes first in alphabetical order. For example, be comes before bed.
Put the words in alphabetical order. Since insect is between the guide words ill - its, it would be found on that page.
Which text uses the word can in its traditional sense?
[ "As they observed the cheetahs on the open grassland, the wildlife photographer said to Brian, \"You can borrow my camera if you want.\"", "As they observed the animals on the open grassland, the wildlife photographer said to Brian, \"Did you know that cheetahs can run as fast as seventy-five miles per hour?\"" ]
1
closed choice
grade12
language science
writing-strategies
Word usage and nuance
Explore words with new or contested usages
Words change in meaning when speakers begin using them in new ways. For example, the word peruse once only meant to examine in detail, but it's now also commonly used to mean to look through in a casual manner. When a word changes in meaning, its correct usage is often debated. Although a newer sense of the word may be more commonly used, many people consider a word's traditional definition to be the correct usage. Being able to distinguish the different uses of a word can help you use it appropriately for different audiences. Britney perused her notes, carefully preparing for her exam. The traditional usage above is considered more standard. David perused the magazine, absentmindedly flipping through the pages. The nontraditional usage above is now commonly used, but traditional style guides generally advise against it.
The second text uses can in its traditional sense: to have the ability to. As they observed the animals on the open grassland, the wildlife photographer said to Brian, "Did you know that cheetahs can run as fast as seventy-five miles per hour?" The first text uses can in its nontraditional sense: to have permission to. As they observed the cheetahs on the open grassland, the wildlife photographer said to Brian, "You can borrow my camera if you want." Most style guides recommend to use the traditional sense of the word can because it is considered more standard.
Complete the statement. Assume that Logan's mass did not change. The gravitational potential energy stored between Logan and Earth () as he hiked toward the summit.
[ "increased", "decreased", "stayed the same" ]
0
Read the text about a person in motion. Logan hiked up a tall mountain. He followed a trail all the way to the summit.
closed choice
grade8
natural science
physics
Kinetic and potential energy
Identify changes in gravitational potential energy
Gravitational potential energy is stored between any two objects. So, for every object on or near Earth, there is gravitational potential energy stored between the object and Earth. The amount of gravitational potential energy stored between an object and Earth depends on the mass of the object. The amount of gravitational potential energy also depends on the distance between the object and the center of Earth. This distance increases when the object moves higher and decreases when the object moves lower. If the distance between an object and the center of Earth changes, the gravitational potential energy stored between the object and Earth will change. The table below shows how this change can happen. When an object's mass stays the same and its distance from the center of Earth... | Gravitational potential energy stored between the object and Earth... increases | increases decreases | decreases stays the same | stays the same
Think about how the distance between Logan and the center of Earth changed. The summit of the mountain was higher than the point where Logan started hiking. As he hiked toward the summit, the distance between Logan and the center of Earth increased. So, the gravitational potential energy stored between Logan and Earth increased as he hiked toward the summit.
Complete the sentence so that it uses personification. I decided to take advantage of the opportunity that ().
[ "was knocking at my door", "I had learned about" ]
0
closed choice
grade10
language science
writing-strategies
Creative techniques
Use personification
Personification is giving human characteristics to nonhuman things. It is a figure of speech that can be used to make writing more interesting or to emphasize a point. The trees danced in the wind. The word danced describes the trees as if they were people. Unlike people, however, trees can't actually dance. Instead, the personification suggests that the trees are moving.
Complete the sentence with the phrase was knocking at my door. It describes the opportunity as if it were a person presenting himself.
Which is a compound sentence?
[ "Last night we heard an owl outside in the oak tree.", "Mrs. Kim plants flower seeds, and they blossom in the spring." ]
1
closed choice
grade3
language science
grammar
Sentences, fragments, and run-ons
Is the sentence simple or compound?
A simple sentence is a sentence with only one subject and predicate. The pitcher threw the ball to first base. A compound sentence is two simple sentences joined by a comma and a conjunction such as and, but, or, or so. The pitcher threw the ball, and the batter hit it. Some simple sentences have a compound subject or a compound predicate, but they are not compound sentences. Anna and James will watch the fireworks tonight. This simple sentence has a compound subject, Anna and James. The singers bowed and walked off the stage. This simple sentence has a compound predicate, bowed and walked off the stage. Some simple sentences have introductory phrases, but they are not compound sentences. The introductory phrase is part of the predicate. In the winter, Farmer Ben wears his heavy coat. This is a simple sentence. There is one subject, Farmer Ben, and one predicate, wears his heavy coat in the winter.
The second sentence is the compound sentence. It is made up of two simple sentences joined by a comma and the conjunction and. Mrs. Kim plants flower seeds, and they blossom in the spring.
Which of the following contains a vague pronoun reference?
[ "When Lucy parked her scooter next to Mr. Wiley's car, she noticed that it had a flat tire.", "When Lucy parked her scooter next to Mr. Wiley's car, she noticed that the scooter had a flat tire." ]
0
closed choice
grade10
language science
writing-strategies
Pronouns
Identify vague pronoun references
When writing, make sure to avoid vague pronoun references. A vague pronoun reference occurs when a pronoun could refer to more than one possible antecedent. When Lisa and Kim finally landed, she breathed a sigh of relief. The pronoun she could refer to either Lisa or Kim, so the meaning of the sentence is unclear. Vague pronoun references can be corrected in one of two ways: 1. Replace the pronoun with its correct antecedent: When Lisa and Kim finally landed, Lisa breathed a sigh of relief. 2. Rewrite the sentence: Lisa breathed a sigh of relief when she and Kim finally landed. A vague pronoun reference also occurs when they, them, their, theirs, it, or its is used without its antecedent. They say that this nail polish dries in less than five minutes. The pronoun they is used without its antecedent, so the meaning of the sentence is unclear. This problem can be fixed by replacing the pronoun with its missing antecedent. The advertisements say that this nail polish dries in less than five minutes.
The second answer choice contains a vague pronoun reference. The pronoun it could refer to her scooter or Mr. Wiley's car. The first answer choice shows a possible correction for the vague pronoun reference. It has been replaced with the scooter. When Lucy parked her scooter next to Mr. Wiley's car, she noticed that the scooter had a flat tire.
Which closing is correct for a letter?
[ "love,\nBella", "Love,\nBella" ]
1
closed choice
grade2
language science
capitalization
Capitalization
Greetings and closings of letters
A letter starts with a greeting and ends with a closing. For each one, capitalize the first word and end with a comma. You should also capitalize proper nouns, such as Aunt Sue. Dear Aunt Sue, I'm glad you could come to my party, and thank you for the birthday gift. I could not have asked for a better one! Every time I see it, I think of you. With love, Rory
The second closing is correct: Its first word is capitalized, and it ends with a comma.
Which is the hardest?
[ "silk kimono", "rubber balloons", "wood bat" ]
2
closed choice
grade4
natural science
physics
Materials
Compare properties of materials
Every object is made of one or more materials. A material is a type of matter. Wood, glass, metal, and plastic are common materials. A material has different properties. A material's properties tell you how it looks, feels, tastes, or smells. Some examples of properties are shiny, hard, fragile, and stretchy. For example, a shiny material reflects a lot of light. A fragile material breaks when you drop it.
Hard is a property. A hard material keeps its shape when you press on it with your finger. Look at each picture, one at a time. Imagine pushing on the material shown in each picture. Of the choices, the wood bat is the hardest. If you squeeze a piece of wood, it will not change shape.
Select the plant.
[ "Basil has green leaves.", "Bison eat mostly grass." ]
0
closed choice
grade2
natural science
biology
Classification
Identify plants and animals
Plants and animals are living things. Living things are called organisms. Plants come in many shapes and sizes. Most plants grow in the ground. They might grow leaves, flowers, and fruit. Plants cannot move around on their own like animals can. Animals also come in many shapes and sizes. Most animals can move around. Animals might run, swim, jump, or fly. Animals eat plants or other organisms for food.
Basil is a plant. It has green leaves. Basil leaves are used in cooking. A bison is an animal. It eats mostly grass. Bison can use their horns to defend themselves.
Based on this information, what is Malia's phenotype for the Thomsen disease trait?
[ "not having Thomsen disease", "having Thomsen disease" ]
1
This passage describes the Thomsen disease trait in humans: In a group of humans, some individuals have Thomsen disease and others do not. In this group, the gene for the Thomsen disease trait has two alleles. The allele for having Thomsen disease (M) is dominant over the allele for not having Thomsen disease (m). Malia is a human from this group. Malia has the heterozygous genotype Mm for the Thomsen disease gene.
closed choice
grade8
natural science
biology
Genes to traits
Genetics vocabulary: dominant and recessive
All organisms have pieces of hereditary material called genes, which are passed from parents to offspring. Genes contain instructions for building the parts of an organism. An organism's genes affect its observable traits, including its appearance, its behavior, and which diseases it may have. Genes may have different alleles, or forms, that can cause different versions of a trait. For example, flower color is a trait in pea plants. The gene for this trait has two possible alleles. Each allele is represented by an uppercase or lowercase letter. The allele F is for purple flowers, and the allele f is for white flowers. Each pea plant has two alleles for the flower color gene—one allele inherited from each parent. An organism's genotype for a gene is its combination of alleles for that gene. So, a pea plant may have a genotype of FF, Ff, or ff for the flower color gene. An organism's phenotype for a trait is its observable version of that trait, which depends on the organism's combination of alleles. A pea plant may have a phenotype of purple flowers or white flowers for the flower color trait. Some traits, like flower color in pea plants, are controlled by a single gene. Most plants and animals have a genotype made up of two alleles for these traits. These two alleles determine whether an organism is homozygous or heterozygous for the gene. An organism with two identical alleles for a gene is homozygous for that gene. A pea plant with the genotype FF or ff is homozygous for the flower color gene. An organism with two different alleles for a gene is heterozygous for that gene. A pea plant with the genotype Ff is heterozygous for the flower color gene. The types of alleles in an organism's genotype determine the organism's phenotype. Some alleles have types called dominant and recessive. These two types can cause different versions of a trait to appear as the organism's phenotype. A dominant allele causes its version of the trait to appear even when the organism also has a recessive allele for the gene. In pea plants, the F allele, which causes purple flowers, is dominant over the f allele. A pea plant with at least one F allele will have the F allele's version of the flower color trait. So, a plant with the genotype FF or Ff will have purple flowers. A recessive allele causes its version of the trait to appear only when the organism does not have any dominant alleles for the gene. In pea plants, the f allele, which causes white flowers, is recessive to the F allele. A pea plant with only f alleles will have the f allele's version of the flower color trait. So, a plant with the genotype ff will have white flowers.
You need to determine Malia's phenotype for the Thomsen disease trait. First, consider the alleles in Malia's genotype for the Thomsen disease gene. Then, decide whether these alleles are dominant or recessive. The allele for having Thomsen disease (M) is dominant over the allele for not having Thomsen disease (m). This means M is a dominant allele, and m is a recessive allele. Malia's genotype of Mm has one dominant allele and one recessive allele. An organism with at least one dominant allele for a gene will have the dominant allele's version of the trait. So, Malia's phenotype for the Thomsen disease trait must be having Thomsen disease.
Which greeting is correct for a letter?
[ "Dear Ms. Montoya,", "dear Ms. Montoya," ]
0
closed choice
grade3
language science
punctuation
Formatting
Greetings and closings of letters
A letter starts with a greeting and ends with a closing. For each one, capitalize the first word and end with a comma. You should also capitalize proper nouns, such as Aunt Sue. Dear Aunt Sue, I'm glad you could come to my party, and thank you for the birthday gift. I could not have asked for a better one! Every time I see it, I think of you. With love, Rory
The second greeting is correct: Its first word is capitalized, and it ends with a comma. Ms. Montoya is capitalized because it is a proper noun.
Select the one animal that has all of the reptile traits listed above.
[ "Dwarf crocodiles are the smallest crocodiles alive today. They grow to be about five feet long and have scaly, waterproof skin. Dwarf crocodiles live in Central Africa and hatch from eggs with shells.", "Western gorillas have black, gray, or brown fur. Adult males are sometimes called silverbacks because they have often have gray fur on their backs. Female western gorillas feed their offspring milk." ]
0
Reptiles are a group of animals with similar traits. The following traits can be used to identify reptiles: They have scaly, waterproof skin. They make eggs with shells. Observe the animals and read the descriptions.
closed choice
grade5
natural science
biology
Classification
Use evidence to classify mammals, birds, fish, reptiles, and amphibians
Scientists sort animals with similar traits into groups. This is called classification. Classification helps scientists learn about how animals live. How do scientists classify animals? First, they make observations about an animal. Scientists observe the animal's traits, including its body parts and behavior. Then, scientists compare the animal's traits to other animals' traits. Scientists classify animals with similar traits into a group.
To decide if an animal is part of a group, look at the traits of the group. Reptiles have the following traits: They have scaly, waterproof skin. They make eggs with shells. Compare each animal's traits to the group's traits. Select the animal with traits similar to the group's traits. A dwarf crocodile has the following traits: It has scaly, waterproof skin. It makes eggs with shells. A dwarf crocodile has the traits of a reptile. A dwarf crocodile is a reptile. A western gorilla has the following traits: It feeds its offspring milk. It has fur. A western gorilla does not have all of the traits of a reptile. A western gorilla is a mammal.
In which place would you be more likely to drive to see your neighbors?
[ "a rural area", "an urban area" ]
0
closed choice
grade2
social science
geography
Geography
Compare urban, suburban, and rural areas
People around the world live in three main kinds of places: urban areas, suburban areas, and rural areas. An urban area is a city. It has many people and businesses. The buildings are close to each other. The buildings are often tall and have many floors. Since there are so many people, traffic is usually bad. People will walk or take the bus, train, or subway to avoid traffic. A suburban area, or suburb, is near a city. It is quieter and less crowded than an urban area. People usually live in houses with yards. Most people drive to get places. A rural area is less crowded than both urban and suburban areas. Houses are much more spread out. People usually have to drive to get places. People in rural areas often live on farms or ranches. Some places, like small towns, don't really fit into any of the types. A small town does not have as many people as an urban area, but it has more people than a rural area. It is not near a city, so it is not called a suburb.
You would be more likely to drive to see your neighbors in a rural area. In urban areas, your neighbors live right next to you. In rural areas, houses are farther apart.
Based on this information, what is Jasmine's phenotype for the fur color trait?
[ "white fur", "orange fur" ]
0
In a group of Bengal tigers, some individuals have orange fur and others have white fur. In this group, the gene for the fur color trait has two alleles. The allele for white fur (f) is recessive to the allele for orange fur (F). Jasmine is a Bengal tiger from this group. Jasmine has the homozygous genotype ff for the fur color gene.
closed choice
grade7
natural science
biology
Genes to traits
Genetics vocabulary: dominant and recessive
All organisms have pieces of hereditary material called genes, which are passed from parents to offspring. Genes contain instructions for building the parts of an organism. An organism's genes affect its observable traits, including its appearance, its behavior, and which diseases it may have. Genes may have different alleles, or forms, that can cause different versions of a trait. For example, flower color is a trait in pea plants. The gene for this trait has two possible alleles. Each allele is represented by an uppercase or lowercase letter. The allele F is for purple flowers, and the allele f is for white flowers. Each pea plant has two alleles for the flower color gene—one allele inherited from each parent. An organism's genotype for a gene is its combination of alleles for that gene. So, a pea plant may have a genotype of FF, Ff, or ff for the flower color gene. An organism's phenotype for a trait is its observable version of that trait, which depends on the organism's combination of alleles. A pea plant may have a phenotype of purple flowers or white flowers for the flower color trait. Some traits, like flower color in pea plants, are controlled by a single gene. Most plants and animals have a genotype made up of two alleles for these traits. These two alleles determine whether an organism is homozygous or heterozygous for the gene. An organism with two identical alleles for a gene is homozygous for that gene. A pea plant with the genotype FF or ff is homozygous for the flower color gene. An organism with two different alleles for a gene is heterozygous for that gene. A pea plant with the genotype Ff is heterozygous for the flower color gene. The types of alleles in an organism's genotype determine the organism's phenotype. Some alleles have types called dominant and recessive. These two types can cause different versions of a trait to appear as the organism's phenotype. A dominant allele causes its version of the trait to appear even when the organism also has a recessive allele for the gene. In pea plants, the F allele, which causes purple flowers, is dominant over the f allele. A pea plant with at least one F allele will have the F allele's version of the flower color trait. So, a plant with the genotype FF or Ff will have purple flowers. A recessive allele causes its version of the trait to appear only when the organism does not have any dominant alleles for the gene. In pea plants, the f allele, which causes white flowers, is recessive to the F allele. A pea plant with only f alleles will have the f allele's version of the flower color trait. So, a plant with the genotype ff will have white flowers.
Jasmine's genotype for the fur color gene is ff. Jasmine's genotype of ff has only f alleles. The f allele is for white fur. So, Jasmine's phenotype for the fur color trait must be white fur. To check this answer, consider whether Jasmine's alleles are dominant or recessive. The allele for white fur (f) is recessive to the allele for orange fur (F). This means F is a dominant allele, and f is a recessive allele. Jasmine's genotype of ff has only recessive alleles. An organism with only recessive alleles for a gene will have the recessive allele's version of the trait. So, Jasmine's phenotype for the fur color trait must be white fur.
Would you find the word tack on a dictionary page with the following guide words? throat - toy
[ "yes", "no" ]
1
yes or no
grade3
language science
reference-skills
Reference skills
Use guide words
Guide words appear on each page of a dictionary. They tell you the first word and last word on the page. The other words on the page come between the guide words in alphabetical order. To put words in alphabetical order, put them in order by their first letters. If the first letters are the same, look at the second letters. If the second letters are the same, look at the third letters, and so on. If one word is shorter, and there are no more letters to compare, then the shorter word comes first in alphabetical order. For example, be comes before bed.
Put the words in alphabetical order. Since tack is not between the guide words throat - toy, it would not be found on that page.
Which logical fallacy is used in the text? How could Lexi have anything insightful to say about foreign affairs? She grew up on a farm.
[ "hasty generalization: a broad claim based on too few observations", "straw man: a misrepresentation of an opponent's position that makes it easier to argue against", "ad hominem: an attack against the person making the argument, rather than the argument itself" ]
2
closed choice
grade10
language science
writing-strategies
Developing and supporting arguments
Classify logical fallacies
A strong argument uses valid reasoning and logic in support of a claim. When an argument or claim introduces irrelevant information or misrepresents the issues at hand, it may be committing a logical fallacy. Logical fallacies can hurt a writer's credibility and can lead readers to draw false conclusions. A logical fallacy may present irrelevant information: Fallacy | Description ad hominem | an attack against the person making the argument, rather than the argument itself appeal to nature | an argument that assumes the natural choice is always the best choice bandwagon fallacy | an argument that assumes the popular choice is always the best choice circular reasoning | an argument that supports a claim with the claim itself guilt by association | an unfair negative association with another person or group that is intended to discredit someone or something A logical fallacy may misrepresent the issues at hand: Fallacy | Description false causation | the assumption that because two things happened together, one caused the other false dichotomy | an argument that presents only two choices when more options exist hasty generalization | a broad claim based on too few observations slippery slope fallacy | the false assumption that a small first step will necessarily lead to extreme consequences straw man | a misrepresentation of an opponent's position that makes it easier to argue against
The text argues that Lexi cannot be insightful about foreign affairs because she grew up on a farm. This is a personal attack that isn't relevant to whether she knows about foreign affairs. This illustrates a type of logical fallacy known as ad hominem.
What information supports the conclusion that Tammy inherited this trait?
[ "Tammy's parents have dark skin. They passed down this trait to Tammy.", "Tammy and her father both have dark hair." ]
0
Read the description of a trait. Tammy has dark skin.
closed choice
grade3
natural science
biology
Heredity
Inherited and acquired traits: use evidence to support a statement
Organisms, including people, have both inherited and acquired traits. Inherited and acquired traits are gained in different ways. Inherited traits are passed down through families. Children gain these traits from their parents. Inherited traits do not need to be learned. Acquired traits are gained during a person's life. Some acquired traits, such as riding a bicycle, are gained by learning. Other acquired traits, such as scars, are caused by the environment.
What do these two changes have in common? water evaporating from a lake mixing sand and gravel
[ "Both are caused by cooling.", "Both are chemical changes.", "Both are caused by heating.", "Both are only physical changes." ]
3
closed choice
grade4
natural science
chemistry
Physical and chemical change
Compare physical and chemical changes
Chemical changes and physical changes are two common ways matter can change. In a chemical change, the type of matter changes. The types of matter before and after a chemical change are always different. Some chemical changes are caused by heating or cooling. For example, burning a piece of paper is a chemical change caused by heating. When paper gets hot enough, it re­acts with oxygen in the air and burns. The paper and oxygen change into ash and smoke. In a physical change, the type of matter stays the same. The types of matter before and after a physical change are always the same. A change of state is a type of physical change. Changes of state can be caused by heating or cooling. For example, ice melting is a physical change that can be caused by heating. Ice and liquid water are made of the same type of matter: water. The law of conservation of mass says that all physical and chemical changes conserve mass. Conserve means to keep the same. So, the total mass before a physical or chemical change is equal to the total mass after the change.
Step 1: Think about each change. Water evaporating from a lake is a change of state. So, it is a physical change. The liquid changes into a gas, but a different type of matter is not formed. Mixing sand and gravel is a physical change. Together, the sand and gravel make a mixture. But making this mixture does not form a different type of matter. Step 2: Look at each answer choice. Both are only physical changes. Both changes are physical changes. No new matter is created. Both are chemical changes. Both changes are physical changes. They are not chemical changes. Both are caused by heating. Water evaporating is caused by heating. But mixing sand and gravel is not. Both are caused by cooling. Neither change is caused by cooling.
Which word would you find on a dictionary page with the following guide words? jingle - judge
[ "jog", "jaw" ]
0
closed choice
grade8
language science
reference-skills
Reference skills
Use guide words
Guide words appear on each page of a dictionary. They tell you the first word and last word on the page. The other words on the page come between the guide words in alphabetical order. To put words in alphabetical order, put them in order by their first letters. If the first letters are the same, look at the second letters. If the second letters are the same, look at the third letters, and so on. If one word is shorter, and there are no more letters to compare, then the shorter word comes first in alphabetical order. For example, be comes before bed.
Put the words in alphabetical order. Since jog is between the guide words jingle - judge, it would be found on that page.
How long is the Great Wall of China?
[ "13,000 feet", "13,000 inches", "13,000 yards", "13,000 miles" ]
3
Select the best estimate.
closed choice
grade7
natural science
units-and-measurement
Units and measurement
Choose customary units of distance, mass, and volume
Measurements are written with both a number and a unit. The unit comes after the number. The unit shows what the number means. When you are using customary units, length may be written with units of inches, feet, yards, or miles. There are 12 inches in 1 foot, and 3 feet in 1 yard. There are 5,280 feet in 1 mile. A football is about 1 foot long. A football field is 100 yards long.
The best estimate for the length of the Great Wall of China is 13,000 miles. 13,000 inches, 13,000 feet, and 13,000 yards are all too short.
All organisms need food for energy. But how does an organism's body actually get energy out of food? Select the true statement.
[ "Breaking down molecules can release energy.", "Cells usually take in large food molecules." ]
0
Food supplies an organism with many small, energy-rich molecules. These molecules are taken in by the organism's cells. Inside cells, the molecules from food are broken down to release energy that cells can use. This energy powers cell processes that allow the entire organism to grow and live.
closed choice
grade8
natural science
chemistry
Biochemistry
Understanding the chemistry of cellular respiration
Which of the things shown below is a need?
[ "A costume", "Food" ]
1
In the following questions, you will learn about economics (eh-kuh-NAH-miks). Economics looks at decisions people make to meet needs and wants. Needs are things that you must have to live or stay healthy and safe. Wants are things that you would only like to have.
closed choice
grade3
social science
economics
Basic economic principles
What is economics?
Food is a need. Without it, you cannot live. A costume is a want. It is something you might like to have. But you can live and stay healthy and safe without it.
What is the mass of an eraser?
[ "39 grams", "39 kilograms" ]
0
Select the better estimate.
closed choice
grade5
natural science
units-and-measurement
Units and measurement
Choose metric units of mass
Measurements are written with both a number and a unit. The unit comes after the number. The unit shows what the number means. Mass is a measurement of how much matter something contains. There are many different units of mass. When you are using metric units, mass may be written with units of grams or kilograms. There are 1,000 grams in 1 kilogram. So, 1 gram is much less than 1 kilogram. A paper clip has a mass of about 1 gram, while a textbook has a mass of about 1 kilogram.
The better estimate for the mass of an eraser is 39 grams. 39 kilograms is too heavy.
What do these two changes have in common? pouring milk on oatmeal cracking open a peanut
[ "Both are only physical changes.", "Both are caused by cooling.", "Both are caused by heating.", "Both are chemical changes." ]
0
closed choice
grade3
natural science
chemistry
Physical and chemical change
Compare physical and chemical changes
Chemical changes and physical changes are two common ways matter can change. In a chemical change, the type of matter changes. The types of matter before and after a chemical change are always different. Some chemical changes are caused by heating or cooling. For example, burning a piece of paper is a chemical change caused by heating. When paper gets hot enough, it re­acts with oxygen in the air and burns. The paper and oxygen change into ash and smoke. In a physical change, the type of matter stays the same. The types of matter before and after a physical change are always the same. A change of state is a type of physical change. Changes of state can be caused by heating or cooling. For example, ice melting is a physical change that can be caused by heating. Ice and liquid water are made of the same type of matter: water. The law of conservation of mass says that all physical and chemical changes conserve mass. Conserve means to keep the same. So, the total mass before a physical or chemical change is equal to the total mass after the change.
Step 1: Think about each change. Pouring milk on oatmeal is a physical change. The oatmeal and milk form a creamy mixture. But making this mixture does not form a different type of matter. Cracking open a peanut is a physical change. The peanut shell breaks and the peanut falls out. Both are still made of the same type of matter. Step 2: Look at each answer choice. Both are only physical changes. Both changes are physical changes. No new matter is created. Both are chemical changes. Both changes are physical changes. They are not chemical changes. Both are caused by heating. Neither change is caused by heating. Both are caused by cooling. Neither change is caused by cooling.
Suppose Steven decides to join the Theater Club. Which result would be a cost?
[ "Steven will spend more time in the Theater Club than he would have spent in the Photography Club.", "Steven will have more fun in the Theater Club than he would have had in the Photography Club." ]
0
Steven is deciding whether to join the Theater Club or the Photography Club at school. He wants the club he joins to be fun. But he doesn't want it to take up too much time.
closed choice
grade4
social science
economics
Basic economic principles
Costs and benefits
Before you decide to do something, it is often helpful to list costs and benefits. Costs are what you give up or spend when you decide to do something. Costs involve giving up things that you want or need. Benefits are what you gain or save when you decide to do something. Benefits involve gaining something that you want or need.
This result is a cost. It involves giving up or spending something that Steven wants or needs: Steven will spend more time in the Theater Club than he would have spent in the Photography Club.
Would you find the word rubber on a dictionary page with the following guide words? remain - ridge
[ "no", "yes" ]
0
yes or no
grade2
language science
reference-skills
Reference skills
Use guide words
Guide words appear on each page of a dictionary. They tell you the first word and last word on the page. The other words on the page come between the guide words in alphabetical order. To put words in alphabetical order, put them in order by their first letters. If the first letters are the same, look at the second letters. If the second letters are the same, look at the third letters, and so on.
Put the words in alphabetical order. Since rubber is not between the guide words remain - ridge, it would not be found on that page.
Which sentence states a fact?
[ "The Great Sphinx is the most interesting Egyptian landmark.", "The Great Sphinx was built more than 4,500 years ago and is located in Egypt." ]
1
closed choice
grade8
social science
civics
Social studies skills
Identify facts and opinions
A fact is something that can be proved true by research or observation. George Washington became president of the United States in 1789. This statement is a fact. It can be proved by researching what year George Washington was inaugurated president. An opinion is something that a person believes, thinks, or feels. An opinion can be supported by evidence, but it cannot be proved true. George Washington was a better president than Thomas Jefferson. This statement is an opinion. People can have different ideas about what makes someone a "better" president, so the statement cannot be proved.
The second sentence states a fact. The Great Sphinx was built more than 4,500 years ago and is located in Egypt. It can be proved by reading a history book about the Great Sphinx. The first sentence states an opinion. The Great Sphinx is the most interesting Egyptian landmark. Most interesting shows what a person believes, thinks, or feels. Another person might have a different opinion about what makes one landmark more interesting than others.
Which object has the most thermal energy?
[ "a pencil at a temperature of 20°C", "a pencil at a temperature of 27°C", "a pencil at a temperature of 0°C" ]
1
The objects are identical except for their temperatures.
closed choice
grade4
natural science
physics
Heat and thermal energy
How is temperature related to thermal energy?
All solids, liquids, and gases are made of matter. Matter is made up of tiny particles that are always moving. The energy from the motion of these particles is called thermal energy. Temperature measures how hot or cold matter is. If the particles in matter move faster, the temperature goes up. The matter now has both more thermal energy and a higher temperature.
All three pencils have the same mass but different temperatures. Since the 27°C pencil is the hottest, it has the most thermal energy.
Is the following trait inherited or acquired? Danielle is good at knitting hats.
[ "acquired", "inherited" ]
0
Hint: People who can knit had to learn how to do it.
closed choice
grade3
natural science
biology
Heredity
Identify inherited and acquired traits
Organisms, including people, have both inherited and acquired traits. Inherited and acquired traits are gained in different ways. Inherited traits are passed down through families. Children gain these traits from their parents. Inherited traits do not need to be learned. Acquired traits are gained during a person's life. Some acquired traits, such as riding a bicycle, are gained by learning. Other acquired traits, such as scars, are caused by the environment. Children do not inherit their parents' acquired traits.
People are not born knowing how to knit. Instead, many people learn how to knit. Knitting well takes practice. So, knitting well is an acquired trait.
Suppose Kevin decides to eat the peach cobbler. Which result would be a cost?
[ "Kevin will give up the chance to eat the chips. The chips would have been healthier than the peach cobbler.", "Kevin will get to eat the peach cobbler. Kevin thinks peach cobbler will taste better than chips would have." ]
0
Kevin is deciding whether to eat chips or peach cobbler for an afternoon snack. He would like to eat something tasty, but he is also trying to be healthier.
closed choice
grade4
social science
economics
Basic economic principles
Costs and benefits
Before you decide to do something, it is often helpful to list costs and benefits. Costs are what you give up or spend when you decide to do something. Costs involve giving up things that you want or need. Benefits are what you gain or save when you decide to do something. Benefits involve gaining something that you want or need.
This result is a cost. It involves giving up or spending something that Kevin wants or needs: Kevin will give up the chance to eat the chips. The chips would have been healthier than the peach cobbler.
Which is a compound sentence?
[ "The thermometer and the cough syrup are in the medicine cabinet next to the cotton balls.", "Ariana might go to the science museum with Shane, or she might go alone." ]
1
closed choice
grade5
language science
grammar
Sentences, fragments, and run-ons
Is the sentence simple, compound, or complex?
A clause is a group of words that contains both a subject and a predicate. An independent clause is a complete thought. It can stand alone as a sentence. A dependent clause is not a complete thought. It cannot stand alone as a sentence. the oranges on our tree are ripe The clause can stand alone. It is independent. after we pick up Kevin from work The clause cannot stand alone. It is dependent. A simple sentence is made up of a single independent clause. Ben and I spent all day relaxing by the pool. Some simple sentences have introductory phrases, but the introductory phrase is part of the predicate. In the winter, Ben usually wears his heavy coat. Ben usually wears his heavy coat in the winter. A compound sentence is made up of two independent clauses joined by a coordinating conjunction such as and, but, or, or so. We saw a flash of lightning, and seconds later we heard the rumble of thunder. A complex sentence is made up of an independent clause and a dependent clause. The dependent clause usually begins with a subordinating conjunction such as after, although, as, because, before, if, since, unless, until, when, or while. If she ever gets the chance, Terri would love to visit the Egyptian pyramids.
The first sentence is the compound sentence. It is made up of two independent clauses joined by the coordinating conjunction or. Ariana might go to the science museum with Shane, or she might go alone.
What is the mass of a news magazine?
[ "12 pounds", "12 tons", "12 ounces" ]
2
Select the best estimate.
closed choice
grade4
natural science
units-and-measurement
Units and measurement
Choose customary units of mass
Measurements are written with both a number and a unit. The unit comes after the number. The unit shows what the number means. Mass is a measurement of how much matter something contains. There are many different units of mass. When you are using customary units, mass may be written with units of ounces, pounds, or tons. There are 16 ounces in 1 pound and 2,000 pounds in 1 ton. So, 1 ounce is less than 1 pound and much less than 1 ton. A slice of bread has a mass of about 1 ounce, while a can of beans has a mass of about 1 pound. A small car has a mass of about 1 ton.
The best estimate for the mass of a news magazine is 12 ounces. 12 pounds and 12 tons are both too heavy.
According to Newton's third law, what other force must be happening?
[ "The door is pushing on Britney's hand.", "The door is pulling on Britney's hand." ]
0
Isaac Newton was born in the 1600s and studied how objects move. He discovered three fundamental laws about forces and motion. According to Newton's third law, for every force, there is an equal and opposite force. Consider the following force: Britney's hand is pushing on a door.
closed choice
grade6
natural science
physics
Velocity, acceleration, and forces
Predict forces using Newton's third law
According to Newton's third law, for every force, there is an equal and opposite force. This means that if one object is applying a force on a second object, the second object must also be applying a force on the first object, but in the opposite direction. For example, if your hand is pushing down on a table, the table is also pushing up on your hand. Or, if you are pulling forward on a rope, the rope is also pulling back on you.
Britney's hand is pushing on the door. So, Newton's third law tells you that the door is pushing on Britney's hand.
Which sentence states a fact?
[ "The Canadian national anthem is difficult to sing.", "\"O Canada,\" the Canadian national anthem, was written in 1880." ]
1
closed choice
grade8
social science
civics
Social studies skills
Identify facts and opinions
A fact is something that can be proved true by research or observation. George Washington became president of the United States in 1789. This statement is a fact. It can be proved by researching what year George Washington was inaugurated president. An opinion is something that a person believes, thinks, or feels. An opinion can be supported by evidence, but it cannot be proved true. George Washington was a better president than Thomas Jefferson. This statement is an opinion. People can have different ideas about what makes someone a "better" president, so the statement cannot be proved.
The first sentence states a fact. "O Canada," the Canadian national anthem, was written in 1880. It can be proved by looking up when "O Canada" was written. The second sentence states an opinion. The Canadian national anthem is difficult to sing. Difficult shows what a person believes, thinks, or feels. Another person might have a different opinion about what makes a song difficult to sing.
Which sentence states a fact?
[ "Lions deserve to live in the wild and not in zoos.", "In the wild, lions hunt zebra and other large prey." ]
1
closed choice
grade4
language science
writing-strategies
Developing and supporting arguments
Distinguish facts from opinions
A fact is something that can be proved to be true. The month of July has more days than the month of June. This is a fact. It can be proved by looking at a calendar and counting the number of days in each month. An opinion is something that a person believes, thinks, or feels. An opinion cannot be proved true. July is a better month than June for camping. This is an opinion. People may have different opinions about which month is "better" for camping.
The first sentence states a fact. In the wild, lions hunt zebra and other large prey. It can be proved by reading a book about lions. The second sentence states an opinion. Lions deserve to live in the wild and not in zoos. Deserve shows what a person believes, thinks, or feels. Another person might have a different opinion about what lions deserve.
What does the idiom in this text suggest? Leah has a lot on her plate: she is attending college, has a full-time job as a waitress, and volunteers at the animal shelter.
[ "Leah has no time to eat well.", "Leah has many responsibilities." ]
1
closed choice
grade7
language science
figurative-language
Literary devices
Interpret figures of speech
Figures of speech are words or phrases that use language in a nonliteral or unusual way. They can make writing more expressive. An idiom is an expression that cannot be understood literally. Its meaning must be learned. The assignment was a piece of cake.
The text uses an idiom, an expression that cannot be understood literally. The idiom a lot on her plate suggests that Leah has many responsibilities. If you have a lot on your plate, you are busy with many different obligations.
Which object has more thermal energy?
[ "a cherry pie at a temperature of 100°F", "a cherry pie at a temperature of 130°F" ]
1
The objects are identical except for their temperatures.
closed choice
grade3
natural science
physics
Heat and thermal energy
How is temperature related to thermal energy?
All solids, liquids, and gases are made of matter. Matter is made up of tiny particles that are always moving. The energy from the motion of these particles is called thermal energy. Temperature measures how hot or cold matter is. If the particles in matter move faster, the temperature goes up. The matter now has both more thermal energy and a higher temperature.
The two cherry pies have the same mass but different temperatures. Since the 130°F pie is hotter than the 100°F pie, it has more thermal energy.
Which correctly shows the title of an article?
[ "\"How Do Planets Get Their Names?\"", "\"How Do Planets Get their Names?\"" ]
0
closed choice
grade4
language science
capitalization
Formatting
Capitalizing titles
In a title, capitalize the first word, the last word, and every important word in between. The Wind in the Willows James and the Giant Peach These words are not important in titles: Articles, a, an, the Short prepositions, such as at, by, for, in, of, on, to, up Coordinating conjunctions, such as and, but, or
Capitalize the first word, the last word, and every important word in between. The correct title is "How Do Planets Get Their Names?"
Complete the sentence. In this chemical reaction, copper is a ().
[ "reactant", "product" ]
0
This passage describes a chemical reaction. Read the passage. Then, follow the instructions below. When the Statue of Liberty in New York City was built in the late 1800s, it was reddish-brown. Today, a green layer, called a patina, covers the statue's surface. This layer formed over time as copper in the statue combined with oxygen and other gases in the air to form the patina.
closed choice
grade7
natural science
chemistry
Chemical reactions
Identify reactants and products
A chemical change occurs when new substances are formed from existing substances. This process is called a chemical reaction. In a chemical reaction, one or more substances change into one or more different substances. During the reaction, the atoms of the original substances are rearranged to form other substances. The original substances in a chemical reaction are called reactants. These substances react, or go through a chemical change. The substances that are formed in a chemical reaction are called products. These substances are produced by the chemical reaction. So, in a chemical reaction, reactants go through a chemical change to form products.
Read the underlined text carefully. Look for information about what happens to copper in this chemical reaction. When the Statue of Liberty in New York City was built in the late 1800 s, it was reddish-brown. Today, a green layer, called a patina, covers the statue's surface. This layer formed over time as copper in the statue combined with oxygen and other gases in the air to form the patina. The underlined text tells you that when copper in the statue and oxygen combine, a patina is formed. When copper and oxygen react, or go through a chemical change, their atoms are rearranged to form the patina. Because copper reacts in this chemical reaction, copper is a reactant.
Complete the statement. Palladium is ().
[ "a compound", "an elementary substance" ]
1
Palladium is a metal that reacts with the gases produced by car engines to make the gases less harmful. The chemical formula for palladium is Pd.
closed choice
grade5
natural science
chemistry
Atoms and molecules
Classify elementary substances and compounds using chemical formulas
Every substance around you is made of one or more chemical elements, or types of atoms. Substances that are made of only one chemical element are elementary substances. Substances that are made of two or more chemical elements bonded together are compounds. Every chemical element is represented by its own symbol. For some elements, the symbol is one capital letter. For other elements, the symbol is one capital letter and one lowercase letter. For example, the symbol for the element fluorine is F, and the symbol for the element beryllium is Be. The symbol for each element in a substance is shown in the substance's chemical formula. An elementary substance is represented by a chemical formula that contains only one symbol. The symbol may be followed by a subscript. A subscript is text that is smaller and placed lower than the normal line of text. A subscript is included when the atoms in the elementary substance are bonded to form molecules. The subscript tells you the number of atoms in each molecule. For example, the chemical formula for the elementary substance oxygen is O2. The formula has a subscript of 2. This subscript tells you that there are two atoms in the molecule represented by this chemical formula. The chemical element represented by the symbol O is also called oxygen. So, the formula O2 tells you that each molecule of O2 contains two oxygen atoms. A compound is represented by a chemical formula that contains multiple symbols. For example, in the compound beryllium fluoride, there is one beryllium atom for every two fluorine atoms. This combination is shown in the compound's chemical formula, BeF2. In the formula, the symbol Be represents one beryllium atom. The symbol F followed by the subscript 2 represents two fluorine atoms.
You can tell whether palladium is an elementary substance or a compound by counting the number of symbols in its chemical formula. A symbol contains either one capital letter or a capital letter followed by one or two lowercase letters. The chemical formula for palladium is Pd. This formula contains one symbol: Pd. So, the formula tells you that palladium is made of one chemical element. Substances made of only one chemical element are elementary substances. So, palladium is an elementary substance.
Which word would you find on a dictionary page with the following guide words? advance - and
[ "amazed", "arm" ]
0
closed choice
grade5
language science
reference-skills
Reference skills
Use guide words
Guide words appear on each page of a dictionary. They tell you the first word and last word on the page. The other words on the page come between the guide words in alphabetical order. To put words in alphabetical order, put them in order by their first letters. If the first letters are the same, look at the second letters. If the second letters are the same, look at the third letters, and so on. If one word is shorter, and there are no more letters to compare, then the shorter word comes first in alphabetical order. For example, be comes before bed.
Put the words in alphabetical order. Since amazed is between the guide words advance - and, it would be found on that page.
Is the following trait inherited or acquired? Franco has a scar on his left elbow.
[ "inherited", "acquired" ]
1
Hint: Most scars are caused by accidents during a person's life.
closed choice
grade4
natural science
biology
Traits and heredity
Identify inherited and acquired traits
Organisms, including people, have both inherited and acquired traits. Inherited and acquired traits are gained in different ways. Inherited traits are passed down through families. Children gain these traits from their parents. Inherited traits do not need to be learned. Acquired traits are gained during a person's life. Some acquired traits, such as riding a bicycle, are gained by learning. Other acquired traits, such as scars, are caused by the environment. Children do not inherit their parents' acquired traits.
Children do not inherit their parent's scars. Instead, scars are caused by the environment. People can get scars after they get hurt. So, having a scar is an acquired trait.
Which text uses the word factoid in its traditional sense?
[ "As a geneticist, Denise dislikes many popular sci-fi movies because they often present audiences with factoids that misrepresent her field.", "As a geneticist, Denise enjoys watching science documentaries and sharing various factoids she's learned with her colleagues." ]
0
closed choice
grade12
language science
writing-strategies
Word usage and nuance
Explore words with new or contested usages
Words change in meaning when speakers begin using them in new ways. For example, the word peruse once only meant to examine in detail, but it's now also commonly used to mean to look through in a casual manner. When a word changes in meaning, its correct usage is often debated. Although a newer sense of the word may be more commonly used, many people consider a word's traditional definition to be the correct usage. Being able to distinguish the different uses of a word can help you use it appropriately for different audiences. Britney perused her notes, carefully preparing for her exam. The traditional usage above is considered more standard. David perused the magazine, absentmindedly flipping through the pages. The nontraditional usage above is now commonly used, but traditional style guides generally advise against it.
The first text uses factoid in its traditional sense: something made up presented as a true fact. As a geneticist, Denise dislikes many popular sci-fi movies because they often present audiences with factoids that misrepresent her field. The second text uses factoid in its nontraditional sense: a trivial but true fact. As a geneticist, Denise enjoys watching science documentaries and sharing various factoids she's learned with her colleagues. Most style guides recommend to use the traditional sense of the word factoid because it is considered more standard.
Compare the motion of two speedboats. Which speedboat was moving at a lower speed?
[ "a speedboat that moved 460miles in 10hours", "a speedboat that moved 555miles in 10hours" ]
0
closed choice
grade2
natural science
physics
Force and motion
Compare the speeds of moving objects
An object's speed tells you how fast the object is moving. Speed depends on both distance and time. Distance tells you how far the object has moved. One unit used to measure distance is the mile. Time tells you how long the object has spent moving. One unit used to measure time is the hour. Think about two objects moving for the same amount of time. The object that is moving slower will go a shorter distance in that time. It is moving at a lower speed.
Look at the distance each speedboat moved and the time it took to move that distance. One speedboat moved 460 miles in 10 hours. The other speedboat moved 555 miles in 10 hours. Notice that each speedboat spent the same amount of time moving. The speedboat that moved 460 miles moved a shorter distance in that time. So, that speedboat must have moved at a lower speed.
Is the following trait inherited or acquired? Pamela has a scar on her right hand.
[ "inherited", "acquired" ]
1
Hint: Most scars are caused by accidents during a person's life.
closed choice
grade4
natural science
biology
Traits and heredity
Identify inherited and acquired traits
Organisms, including people, have both inherited and acquired traits. Inherited and acquired traits are gained in different ways. Inherited traits are passed down through families. Children gain these traits from their parents. Inherited traits do not need to be learned. Acquired traits are gained during a person's life. Some acquired traits, such as riding a bicycle, are gained by learning. Other acquired traits, such as scars, are caused by the environment. Children do not inherit their parents' acquired traits.
Children do not inherit their parent's scars. Instead, scars are caused by the environment. People can get scars after they get hurt. So, having a scar is an acquired trait.
What information supports the conclusion that Manny acquired this trait?
[ "Manny likes to fly a kite with his younger brother.", "Manny's friend taught him how to fly a kite.", "Manny's neighbor taught him how to repair a kite." ]
1
Read the description of a trait. Manny knows how to fly a kite.
closed choice
grade8
natural science
biology
Genes to traits
Inherited and acquired traits: use evidence to support a statement
Organisms, including people, have both inherited and acquired traits. Inherited and acquired traits are gained in different ways. Inherited traits are passed down from biological parents to their offspring through genes. Genes are pieces of hereditary material that contain the instructions that affect inherited traits. Offspring receive their genes, and therefore gain their inherited traits, from their biological parents. Inherited traits do not need to be learned. Acquired traits are gained during a person's life. Some acquired traits, such as riding a bicycle, are gained by learning. Other acquired traits, such as scars, are caused by the environment. Parents do not pass acquired traits down to their offspring.
What do these two changes have in common? burning a candle a banana getting ripe on the counter
[ "Both are chemical changes.", "Both are caused by cooling.", "Both are only physical changes.", "Both are caused by heating." ]
0
closed choice
grade4
natural science
chemistry
Physical and chemical change
Compare physical and chemical changes
Chemical changes and physical changes are two common ways matter can change. In a chemical change, the type of matter changes. The types of matter before and after a chemical change are always different. Some chemical changes are caused by heating or cooling. For example, burning a piece of paper is a chemical change caused by heating. When paper gets hot enough, it re­acts with oxygen in the air and burns. The paper and oxygen change into ash and smoke. In a physical change, the type of matter stays the same. The types of matter before and after a physical change are always the same. A change of state is a type of physical change. Changes of state can be caused by heating or cooling. For example, ice melting is a physical change that can be caused by heating. Ice and liquid water are made of the same type of matter: water. The law of conservation of mass says that all physical and chemical changes conserve mass. Conserve means to keep the same. So, the total mass before a physical or chemical change is equal to the total mass after the change.
Step 1: Think about each change. Burning a candle is a chemical change. Both the wick and the melted wax burn. They react with oxygen in the air and turn into soot, carbon dioxide, and water. A banana getting ripe on the counter is a chemical change. As a banana ripens, the type of matter in it changes. The peel changes color and the inside becomes softer and sweeter. Step 2: Look at each answer choice. Both are only physical changes. Both changes are chemical changes. They are not physical changes. Both are chemical changes. Both changes are chemical changes. The type of matter before and after each change is different. Both are caused by heating. Burning is caused by heating. But a banana getting ripe is not. Both are caused by cooling. Neither change is caused by cooling.
Which figure of speech is used in this text? His guardians were extremely old-fashioned people and did not realize that we live in an age when unnecessary things are our only necessities. —Oscar Wilde, The Picture of Dorian Gray
[ "euphemism", "paradox" ]
1
closed choice
grade11
language science
figurative-language
Literary devices
Classify the figure of speech: review
Figures of speech are words or phrases that use language in a nonliteral or unusual way. They can make writing more expressive. Anaphora is the repetition of the same word or words at the beginning of several phrases or clauses. We are united. We are powerful. We are winners. Antithesis involves contrasting opposing ideas within a parallel grammatical structure. I want to help, not to hurt. Apostrophe is a direct address to an absent person or a nonhuman entity. Oh, little bird, what makes you sing so beautifully? Assonance is the repetition of a vowel sound in a series of nearby words. Try to light the fire. Chiasmus is an expression in which the second half parallels the first but reverses the order of words. Never let a fool kiss you or a kiss fool you. A euphemism is a polite or indirect expression that is used to de-emphasize an unpleasant topic. The head of Human Resources would never refer to firing people, only to laying them off. Hyperbole is an obvious exaggeration that is not meant to be taken literally. I ate so much that I think I might explode! An oxymoron is a joining of two seemingly contradictory terms. Some reviewers are calling this book a new classic. A paradox is a statement that might at first appear to be contradictory, but that may in fact contain some truth. Always expect the unexpected. Understatement involves deliberately representing something as less serious or important than it really is. As you know, it can get a little cold in the Antarctic.
The text uses a paradox, a statement that might at first appear to be contradictory, but that may in fact contain some truth. We live in an age when unnecessary things are our only necessities at first appears to be contradictory, as a necessity is something that is necessary. However, it contains some truth: when we have everything necessary for survival, we begin to feel we "need" frivolous or superfluous material goods.
What does the verbal irony in this text suggest? While waiting for her search results, Allie exclaimed, "My Internet connection is as speedy as a snail!"
[ "Allie was patiently waiting for an Internet connection.", "The Internet connection was very slow." ]
1
closed choice
grade10
language science
figurative-language
Literary devices
Interpret figures of speech
Figures of speech are words or phrases that use language in a nonliteral or unusual way. They can make writing more expressive. Verbal irony involves saying one thing but implying something very different. People often use verbal irony when they are being sarcastic. Olivia seems thrilled that her car keeps breaking down. Each breakdown is as enjoyable as a punch to the face.
The text uses verbal irony, which involves saying one thing but implying something very different. As speedy as a snail suggests that the Internet connection was very slow. A snail is not speedy, and neither was Allie's Internet connection.
Which greeting is correct for a letter?
[ "Dear ron,", "Dear Ron," ]
1
closed choice
grade4
language science
punctuation
Formatting
Greetings and closings of letters
A letter starts with a greeting and ends with a closing. For each one, capitalize the first word and end with a comma. You should also capitalize proper nouns, such as Aunt Sue. Dear Aunt Sue, I'm glad you could come to my party, and thank you for the birthday gift. I could not have asked for a better one! Every time I see it, I think of you. With love, Rory
The second greeting is correct: Its first word is capitalized, and it ends with a comma. Ron is capitalized because it is a proper noun.
Is the following trait inherited or acquired? Andrew plays baseball.
[ "acquired", "inherited" ]
0
closed choice
grade5
natural science
biology
Traits and heredity
Identify inherited and acquired traits
Organisms, including people, have both inherited and acquired traits. Inherited and acquired traits are gained in different ways. Inherited traits are passed down through families. Children gain these traits from their parents. Inherited traits do not need to be learned. Acquired traits are gained during a person's life. Some acquired traits, such as riding a bicycle, are gained by learning. Other acquired traits, such as scars, are caused by the environment. Children do not inherit their parents' acquired traits.
People are not born knowing how to play baseball. Instead, some people learn how to play baseball. Playing the sport takes practice. So, playing baseball is an acquired trait.
Which job does the circulatory system do?
[ "It brings oxygen to cells.", "It breaks down food into small pieces." ]
0
closed choice
grade4
natural science
biology
Animals
Body systems: circulation and respiration
To stay alive, animal cells must get water and oxygen. Animal cells also produce carbon dioxide, a waste that must be removed. An animal's respiratory and circulatory systems work together to do these jobs. An animal's respiratory system is made up of organs that work together to bring in oxygen gas from the environment. The respiratory system also removes carbon dioxide gas from the animal's body. Some animals have lungs to exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide with the air. Other animals have gills to exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide with water. An animal's circulatory system is made up of organs that work together to move blood through its body. The heart pumps blood through blood vessels throughout the body. As blood moves through blood vessels, it delivers oxygen, nutrients from food, and water to cells. Blood also absorbs waste, including carbon dioxide. When the blood is pumped into the lungs or gills, it releases carbon dioxide and absorbs oxygen.
The circulatory system brings oxygen, nutrients, and water to cells. It also helps remove carbon dioxide waste. The circulatory system does not break down food into small pieces. This job is done by the digestive system. After the digestive system breaks down food, blood vessels in the intestines absorb the nutrients from the food. The blood then carries the nutrients to cells throughout the body.
Compare the motion of three ships. Which ship was moving at the highest speed?
[ "a ship that moved 215miles north in 10hours", "a ship that moved 355miles east in 10hours", "a ship that moved 365miles north in 10hours" ]
2
closed choice
grade3
natural science
physics
Force and motion
Compare the speeds of moving objects
An object's speed tells you how fast the object is moving. Speed depends on both distance and time. Distance tells you how far the object has moved. One unit used to measure distance is the mile. Time tells you how long the object has spent moving. One unit used to measure time is the hour. Think about objects moving for the same amount of time. The object that is moving the fastest will go the farthest distance in that time. It is moving at the highest speed.
Look at the distance each ship moved and the time it took to move that distance. The direction each ship moved does not affect its speed. Notice that each ship moved for 10 hours. The ship that moved 365 miles moved the farthest distance in that time. So, that ship must have moved at the highest speed.
Which change better matches the sentence? Small pieces of rock are carried away by water.
[ "drought", "erosion" ]
1
closed choice
grade2
natural science
earth-science
Earth events
Classify changes to Earth's surface
Which tense does the sentence use? Shannon practices the drums in her family's garage.
[ "future tense", "past tense", "present tense" ]
2
closed choice
grade3
language science
verbs
Verb tense
Is the sentence in the past, present, or future tense?
Present tense verbs tell you about something that is happening now. Most present-tense verbs are regular. They have no ending, or they end in -s or -es. Two verbs are irregular in the present tense, to be and to have. You must remember their forms. Past tense verbs tell you about something that has already happened. Most past-tense verbs are regular. They end in -ed. Some verbs are irregular in the past tense. You must remember their past-tense forms. Future tense verbs tell you about something that is going to happen. All future-tense verbs use the word will. Present | Past | Future walk, walks | walked | will walk go, goes | went | will go
The sentence is in present tense. You can tell because it uses a present-tense verb, practices. The verb ends in -s and tells you about something that is true or happening now.
What is the mass of a trumpet?
[ "2 grams", "2 kilograms" ]
1
Select the better estimate.
closed choice
grade5
natural science
units-and-measurement
Units and measurement
Choose metric units of mass
Measurements are written with both a number and a unit. The unit comes after the number. The unit shows what the number means. Mass is a measurement of how much matter something contains. There are many different units of mass. When you are using metric units, mass may be written with units of grams or kilograms. There are 1,000 grams in 1 kilogram. So, 1 gram is much less than 1 kilogram. A paper clip has a mass of about 1 gram, while a textbook has a mass of about 1 kilogram.
The better estimate for the mass of a trumpet is 2 kilograms. 2 grams is too light.
How long does it take to toast bread in the toaster?
[ "3 minutes", "3 seconds" ]
0
Select the better estimate.
closed choice
grade3
natural science
units-and-measurement
Units and measurement
Choose units of time
Measurements are written with both a number and a unit. The unit comes after the number. The unit shows what the number means. Imagine being told that the bus leaves in 7. You might be thinking, 7 what? Does the bus leave in 7 minutes? 7 seconds? The number 7 on its own does not give you much information about when the bus is leaving. That is because the units are missing. Time is usually measured in units of seconds, minutes, or hours. It takes about 1 second to sneeze and 1 minute to get dressed in the morning. It takes about 1 hour to bake a pie in the oven. There are 60 seconds in 1 minute. So, 1 second is much less than 1 minute. There are 60 minutes in 1 hour. So, 1 minute is much less than 1 hour.
The better estimate for how long it takes to toast bread in the toaster is 3 minutes. 3 seconds is too fast.
Which is smoother?
[ "rubber ballon", "concrete sidewalk" ]
0
closed choice
grade2
natural science
physics
Materials
Compare properties of materials
Every object is made of one or more materials. A material is a type of matter. Wood, glass, metal, and plastic are common materials. A material has different properties. A material's properties tell you how it looks, feels, tastes, or smells.
Smooth is a property. A smooth material is not rough or bumpy. Look at each picture, one at a time. Imagine touching the material shown in each picture. Of the choices, the rubber ballon is smoother. If you touch a rubber balloon, it will not feel rough or bumpy.
Complete the sentence so that it uses personification. "You might think you'll always be young," Mrs. Trevino counseled, "but time ()".
[ "affects everyone", "creeps up on you" ]
1
closed choice
grade9
language science
writing-strategies
Creative techniques
Use personification
Personification is giving human characteristics to nonhuman things. It is a figure of speech that can be used to make writing more interesting or to emphasize a point. The trees danced in the wind. The word danced describes the trees as if they were people. Unlike people, however, trees can't actually dance. Instead, the personification suggests that the trees are moving.
Complete the sentence with the phrase creeps up on you. It describes time as if it were a sneaky person.
Suppose Samantha decides to make lentil soup. Which result would be a cost?
[ "The lentil soup will be tastier than the split pea soup would have been.", "Samantha will spend more time making the lentil soup than she would have spent making the split pea soup." ]
1
Samantha is deciding whether to make lentil soup or split pea soup for dinner. She wants dinner to be as tasty as possible. But she is also hungry and wants to eat soon.
closed choice
grade5
social science
economics
Basic economic principles
Costs and benefits
Before you decide to do something, it is often helpful to list costs and benefits. Costs are what you give up or spend when you decide to do something. Costs involve giving up things that you want or need. Benefits are what you gain or save when you decide to do something. Benefits involve gaining something that you want or need.
This result is a cost. It involves giving up or spending something that Samantha wants or needs: Samantha will spend more time making the lentil soup than she would have spent making the split pea soup.
Which figure of speech is used in this text? The bumper sticker on the fisherman's truck said, "I don't fish to live; I live to fish!"
[ "paradox", "chiasmus" ]
1
closed choice
grade11
language science
figurative-language
Literary devices
Classify the figure of speech: review
Figures of speech are words or phrases that use language in a nonliteral or unusual way. They can make writing more expressive. Anaphora is the repetition of the same word or words at the beginning of several phrases or clauses. We are united. We are powerful. We are winners. Antithesis involves contrasting opposing ideas within a parallel grammatical structure. I want to help, not to hurt. Apostrophe is a direct address to an absent person or a nonhuman entity. Oh, little bird, what makes you sing so beautifully? Assonance is the repetition of a vowel sound in a series of nearby words. Try to light the fire. Chiasmus is an expression in which the second half parallels the first but reverses the order of words. Never let a fool kiss you or a kiss fool you. A euphemism is a polite or indirect expression that is used to de-emphasize an unpleasant topic. The head of Human Resources would never refer to firing people, only to laying them off. Hyperbole is an obvious exaggeration that is not meant to be taken literally. I ate so much that I think I might explode! An oxymoron is a joining of two seemingly contradictory terms. Some reviewers are calling this book a new classic. A paradox is a statement that might at first appear to be contradictory, but that may in fact contain some truth. Always expect the unexpected. Understatement involves deliberately representing something as less serious or important than it really is. As you know, it can get a little cold in the Antarctic.
The text uses chiasmus, an expression in which the second half parallels the first but reverses the order of words. The second half of the expression reverses the order of the words fish and live relative to the first half.
Which type of sentence is this? As Dirk sat down on the rickety old chair, it abruptly collapsed beneath him.
[ "simple", "compound", "complex", "compound-complex" ]
2
closed choice
grade7
language science
grammar
Phrases and clauses
Is the sentence simple, compound, complex, or compound-complex?
A clause is a group of words that contains both a subject and a predicate. An independent clause is a complete thought that can stand alone as a sentence. A dependent clause (or subordinate clause) is not a complete thought and cannot stand alone as a sentence. the oranges on our tree are ripe The clause can stand alone. It is independent. after we pick up Kevin from work The clause cannot stand alone. It is dependent. A simple sentence is made up of a single independent clause. Ben and I spent all day relaxing by the pool. Some simple sentences have introductory phrases, but the introductory phrase is part of the predicate. In the winter, Ben usually wears his heavy coat. Ben usually wears his heavy coat in the winter. A compound sentence is made up of two independent clauses joined by a coordinating conjunction such as and, but, or, or so. We saw the flash of lightning, and seconds later we heard a rumble of thunder. A complex sentence is made up of an independent clause and a dependent clause. The dependent clause in a complex sentence usually begins with a subordinating conjunction or relative pronoun. Subordinating conjunctions include after, although, as, because, before, if, since, unless, until, when, and while. Relative pronouns include that, which, who, whom, or whose. If she ever gets the chance, Terri would love to visit the Egyptian pyramids. During his trip to Italy, Tony visited the Trevi Fountain, which is in Rome. A compound-complex sentence is made up of two or more independent clauses and one or more dependent clauses. After Samantha left work, she stopped at the bank, and then she went to the gym. Sometimes a dependent clause in a complex or compound-complex sentence can interrupt an independent clause. Orcas that are kept in captivity often have bent dorsal fins.
The sentence is complex. It is made up of an independent clause and a dependent clause. The dependent clause begins with the subordinating conjunction as. As Dirk sat down on the rickety old chair, it abruptly collapsed beneath him.
Based on this information, what is Briar's genotype for the fur texture gene?
[ "wavy fur", "ff" ]
1
In a group of Syrian hamsters, some individuals have straight fur and others have wavy fur. In this group, the gene for the fur texture trait has two alleles. The allele F is for straight fur, and the allele f is for wavy fur. Briar, a Syrian hamster from this group, has wavy fur. Briar has two alleles for wavy fur.
closed choice
grade8
natural science
biology
Genes to traits
Genetics vocabulary: genotype and phenotype
All organisms have pieces of hereditary material called genes, which are passed from parents to offspring. Genes contain instructions for building the parts of an organism. An organism's genes affect its observable traits, including its appearance, its behavior, and which diseases it may have. Genes may have different alleles, or forms, that can cause different versions of a trait. For example, flower color is a trait in pea plants. The gene for this trait has two possible alleles. Each allele is represented by an uppercase or lowercase letter. The allele F is for purple flowers, and the allele f is for white flowers. Each pea plant has two alleles for the flower color gene—one allele inherited from each parent. An organism's genotype for a gene is its combination of alleles for that gene. So, a pea plant may have a genotype of FF, Ff, or ff for the flower color gene. An organism's phenotype for a trait is its observable version of that trait, which depends on the organism's combination of alleles. A pea plant may have a phenotype of purple flowers or white flowers for the flower color trait.
An organism's genotype for a gene is its combination of alleles for that gene. Briar has two alleles for wavy fur (f). So, Briar's genotype for the fur texture gene is ff.
Which word is not like the others?
[ "juice", "cup", "water", "milk" ]
1
closed choice
grade2
language science
vocabulary
Categories
Which word is not like the others?
Some words are alike. They go together in a group. Red, blue, and green go together. They are colors. Mom, dad, grandma, and grandpa go together. They are people in a family.
Milk, water, and juice go together. They are drinks. Cup is not a drink, so it is not like the other words.
Which is a compound sentence?
[ "The tailor measures the length of the pant leg.", "Desmond liked the sea otters, but the jellyfish were his favorite." ]
1
closed choice
grade5
language science
grammar
Sentences, fragments, and run-ons
Is the sentence simple or compound?
A simple sentence is a sentence with only one subject and predicate. The pitcher threw the ball to first base. A compound sentence is two simple sentences joined by a comma and a conjunction such as and, but, or, or so. The pitcher threw the ball, and the batter hit it. Some simple sentences have a compound subject or a compound predicate, but they are not compound sentences. Anna and James will watch the fireworks tonight. This simple sentence has a compound subject, Anna and James. The singers bowed and walked off the stage. This simple sentence has a compound predicate, bowed and walked off the stage. Some simple sentences have introductory phrases, but they are not compound sentences. The introductory phrase is part of the predicate. In the winter, Farmer Ben wears his heavy coat. This is a simple sentence. There is one subject, Farmer Ben, and one predicate, wears his heavy coat in the winter.
The second sentence is the compound sentence. It is made up of two simple sentences joined by a comma and the conjunction but. Desmond liked the sea otters, but the jellyfish were his favorite.
What does the hyperbole in this text suggest? Last August, you could fry an egg on the sidewalk in Austin.
[ "It is no longer possible to fry an egg on the sidewalk in Austin.", "Austin was extremely hot last August." ]
1
closed choice
grade10
language science
figurative-language
Literary devices
Interpret figures of speech
Figures of speech are words or phrases that use language in a nonliteral or unusual way. They can make writing more expressive. Hyperbole is an obvious exaggeration that is not meant to be taken literally. I ate so much that I think I might explode!
The text uses hyperbole, an obvious exaggeration that is not meant to be taken literally. The hyperbole you could fry an egg on the sidewalk suggests that Austin was extremely hot last August. You could not literally fry an egg on the sidewalk.
What does the euphemism in this text suggest? Mr. Simon is enjoying his golden years in a luxurious beachside community just down the street from his grandchildren.
[ "Mr. Simon lives near his family.", "Mr. Simon is old." ]
1
closed choice
grade10
language science
figurative-language
Literary devices
Interpret figures of speech
Figures of speech are words or phrases that use language in a nonliteral or unusual way. They can make writing more expressive. A euphemism is a polite or indirect expression that is used to de-emphasize an unpleasant topic. The head of Human Resources would never refer to firing people, only to laying them off.
The text uses a euphemism, a polite or indirect expression that is used to de-emphasize an unpleasant topic. The euphemism golden years indicates that Mr. Simon is old. Golden years is a nicer way of referring to old age.
Which closing is correct for a letter?
[ "With love,\nZach", "with love,\nZach" ]
0
closed choice
grade3
language science
punctuation
Formatting
Greetings and closings of letters
A letter starts with a greeting and ends with a closing. For each one, capitalize the first word and end with a comma. You should also capitalize proper nouns, such as Aunt Sue. Dear Aunt Sue, I'm glad you could come to my party, and thank you for the birthday gift. I could not have asked for a better one! Every time I see it, I think of you. With love, Rory
The second closing is correct: Its first word is capitalized, and it ends with a comma.
Which object has more thermal energy?
[ "a pot of spaghetti sauce at a temperature of 70°C", "a pot of spaghetti sauce at a temperature of 80°C" ]
1
The objects are identical except for their temperatures.
closed choice
grade3
natural science
physics
Heat and thermal energy
How is temperature related to thermal energy?
All solids, liquids, and gases are made of matter. Matter is made up of tiny particles that are always moving. The energy from the motion of these particles is called thermal energy. Temperature measures how hot or cold matter is. If the particles in matter move faster, the temperature goes up. The matter now has both more thermal energy and a higher temperature.
The two pots of spaghetti sauce have the same mass but different temperatures. Since the 80°C pot of spaghetti sauce is hotter than the 70°C pot of spaghetti sauce, it has more thermal energy.
What do these two changes have in common? shaking up salad dressing water boiling on a stove
[ "Both are caused by cooling.", "Both are only physical changes.", "Both are caused by heating.", "Both are chemical changes." ]
1
closed choice
grade8
natural science
chemistry
Chemical reactions
Compare physical and chemical changes
Matter is made of very small particles called atoms. Atoms can be linked together by chemical bonds. When two or more atoms link together, they form a molecule. In a chemical change, the chemical bonds in the molecules break. The atoms then link together to form different molecules. The types of molecules in matter before and after a chemical change are always different. Some chemical changes are caused by heating or cooling. For example, burning a piece of paper is a chemical change caused by heating. As paper burns, paper molecules react with oxygen molecules in the air. This reaction breaks the chemical bonds in the molecules. The atoms then link together in a different way to form different molecules. For example, carbon dioxide molecules are formed when paper burns. In a physical change, chemical bonds do not break. The types of molecules in matter before and after a physical change are always the same. A change of state is a type of physical change. Changes of state can be caused by heating or cooling. For example, water vaporizing is a physical change that can be caused by heating. Liquid water and water vapor are made of the same type of matter: water. The law of conservation of mass says that all physical and chemical changes conserve mass. Conserve means to keep the same. So, the total mass before a physical or chemical change is equal to the total mass after the change.
Step 1: Think about each change. Shaking up salad dressing is a physical change. The different parts mix together, but they are still made of the same type of matter. Water boiling on the stove is a change of state. So, it is a physical change. The liquid changes into a gas, but a different type of matter is not formed. Step 2: Look at each answer choice. Both are only physical changes. Both changes are physical changes. No new matter is created. Both are chemical changes. Both changes are physical changes. They are not chemical changes. Both are caused by heating. Water boiling is caused by heating. But shaking up salad dressing is not. Both are caused by cooling. Neither change is caused by cooling.
Which figure of speech is used in this text? It's an open secret that Cody is writing a book based on his experiences living in Singapore. He never talks about it, but almost all his friends know.
[ "oxymoron", "euphemism" ]
0
closed choice
grade10
language science
figurative-language
Literary devices
Classify figures of speech: euphemism, hyperbole, oxymoron, paradox
Figures of speech are words or phrases that use language in a nonliteral or unusual way. They can make writing more expressive. A euphemism is a polite or indirect expression that is used to de-emphasize an unpleasant topic. The head of Human Resources would never refer to firing people, only to laying them off. Hyperbole is an obvious exaggeration that is not meant to be taken literally. I ate so much that I think I might explode! An oxymoron is a joining of two seemingly contradictory terms. Some reviewers are calling this book a new classic. A paradox is a statement that might at first appear to be contradictory, but that may in fact contain some truth. Always expect the unexpected.
The text uses an oxymoron, a joining of two seemingly contradictory terms. Open secret is a contradiction, because open describes something that is freely or publicly known, and a secret is hidden.
Is the following statement true or false? A plant cell does not have a nucleus.
[ "false", "true" ]
0
true-or false
grade4
natural science
biology
Cells
Cell part functions: true or false
A plant cell does not have a nucleus. This statement is false. Not every cell has a nucleus, but most plant and animal cells have one.
Which correctly shows the title of a poem?
[ "\"My Life Has Been the Poem\"", "My Life Has Been the Poem" ]
0
closed choice
grade9
language science
punctuation
Formatting
Formatting titles
The title of a book, movie, play, TV show, magazine, or newspaper should be in italics. If you write it by hand, it can be underlined instead. A Midsummer Night's Dream The title of a poem, song, article, or short story should be in quotation marks. "You Are My Sunshine"
A poem should be in quotation marks. The correct title is "My Life Has Been the Poem."
Which figure of speech is used in this text? Kathleen's Boutique claims to have "something for everyone," but it is generally understood that their target market is women of a certain age.
[ "euphemism", "paradox" ]
0
closed choice
grade12
language science
figurative-language
Literary devices
Classify the figure of speech: euphemism, hyperbole, oxymoron, paradox
Figures of speech are words or phrases that use language in a nonliteral or unusual way. They can make writing more expressive. A euphemism is a polite or indirect expression that is used to de-emphasize an unpleasant topic. The head of Human Resources would never refer to firing people, only to laying them off. Hyperbole is an obvious exaggeration that is not meant to be taken literally. I ate so much that I think I might explode! An oxymoron is a joining of two seemingly contradictory terms. Some reviewers are calling this book a new classic. A paradox is a statement that might at first appear to be contradictory, but that may in fact contain some truth. Always expect the unexpected.
The text uses a euphemism, a polite or indirect expression that is used to de-emphasize an unpleasant topic. Of a certain age is an indirect and generally more polite way of referring to older people.
Which logical fallacy is used in the text? We can't let Governor McKnight impose regulations on gas-guzzling cars! Soon enough, he'll start trying to ban all cars!
[ "straw man: a misrepresentation of an opponent's position that makes it easier to argue against", "ad hominem: an attack against the person making the argument, rather than the argument itself", "slippery slope fallacy: the false assumption that a small first step will lead to extreme consequences" ]
2
closed choice
grade9
language science
writing-strategies
Developing and supporting arguments
Classify logical fallacies
A strong argument uses valid reasoning and logic in support of a claim. When an argument or claim introduces irrelevant information or misrepresents the issues at hand, it may be committing a logical fallacy. Logical fallacies can hurt a writer's credibility and can lead readers to draw false conclusions. A logical fallacy may present irrelevant information: Fallacy | Description ad hominem | an attack against the person making the argument, rather than the argument itself appeal to nature | an argument that assumes the natural choice is always the best choice bandwagon fallacy | an argument that assumes the popular choice is always the best choice circular reasoning | an argument that supports a claim with the claim itself guilt by association | an unfair negative association with another person or group that is intended to discredit someone or something A logical fallacy may misrepresent the issues at hand: Fallacy | Description false causation | the assumption that because two things happened together, one caused the other false dichotomy | an argument that presents only two choices when more options exist hasty generalization | a broad claim based on too few observations slippery slope fallacy | the false assumption that a small first step will necessarily lead to extreme consequences straw man | a misrepresentation of an opponent's position that makes it easier to argue against
The text argues that banning cars with low fuel efficiency would lead to a ban on all cars. However, this argument offers only an extreme outcome and ignores other possible outcomes. For instance, the law may be limited to cars with low fuel efficiency. This illustrates a type of logical fallacy known as the slippery slope fallacy.
Which change best matches the sentence? Lava comes out of the ground.
[ "volcanic eruption", "wildfire", "flood" ]
0
closed choice
grade3
natural science
earth-science
Earth events
Classify changes to Earth's surface I
Which press release is more formal?
[ "On Nov. 19, musicians from all over town will battle it out in the fourth annual Jam-a-thon, happening at the amphitheater.", "On November 19, the Centerville Amphitheater will host area musicians vying for top honors in the fourth annual Jam-a-thon." ]
1
closed choice
grade12
language science
writing-strategies
Audience, purpose, and tone
Which text is most formal?
Informal writing is typically used in casual situations or when communicating with someone you know well. Informal language often expresses familiarity and tends to sound more like speech. It uses more conversational language, such as slang, idioms, abbreviations, imprecise language, and contractions. Formal writing is typically used in academic and business writing or when writing directly to an authority figure. It tends to be more courteous and impersonal, avoiding overly familiar or conversational language. Compare the following sentences. Informal: Yeah, ostriches can't fly, but I think they're awesome. More formal: Ostriches may be flightless, but they're remarkable runners. Most formal: Though flightless, ostriches are remarkable runners.
The second press release is more formal. It uses more elevated language (area musicians, top honors). The other press release uses idioms (battle it out) and abbreviations (Nov.).
What is the source of the allusion in the sentence below? Marco dropped out of college to travel the world, but a year later, the prodigal son returned home and re-enrolled.
[ "Greek mythology", "the Bible" ]
1
closed choice
grade11
language science
figurative-language
Literary devices
Recall the source of an allusion
An allusion is a brief mention of something or someone well known, often from mythology, history, or literature. An allusion lets you reference ideas from an entire story in just a few words. The protean nature of the disease makes it difficult to diagnose. The word protean is an allusion to the sea god Proteus in Greek mythology. Because the sea is constantly changing, to describe something as protean suggests that it is variable or in flux.
The source of the allusion prodigal son is the Bible. In a Biblical parable, the prodigal son irresponsibly spends the inheritance given to him by his father. When he returns home, he expects to be shamed, but his father forgives him. The allusion prodigal son means a person who behaves recklessly but later makes a repentant return.
What information supports the conclusion that Liz acquired this trait?
[ "Liz learned to speak two languages in school.", "Liz's mother speaks one language." ]
0
Read the description of a trait. Liz speaks two languages.
closed choice
grade4
natural science
biology
Traits and heredity
Inherited and acquired traits: use evidence to support a statement
Organisms, including people, have both inherited and acquired traits. Inherited and acquired traits are gained in different ways. Inherited traits are passed down through families. Children gain these traits from their parents. Inherited traits do not need to be learned. Acquired traits are gained during a person's life. Some acquired traits, such as riding a bicycle, are gained by learning. Other acquired traits, such as scars, are caused by the environment.
Which text uses the word factoid in its traditional sense?
[ "A reporter for the Lakeside Daily Mail dug up an amusing factoid about Lakeside's founder while researching for an article about the town's early years.", "The Lakeside Daily Mail was forced to issue a retraction after printing a factoid about Lakeside's founder. It turned out that the reporter had written the article based on local legend rather than researching the actual history." ]
1
closed choice
grade11
language science
writing-strategies
Word usage and nuance
Explore words with new or contested usages
Words change in meaning when speakers begin using them in new ways. For example, the word peruse once only meant to examine in detail, but it's now also commonly used to mean to look through in a casual manner. When a word changes in meaning, its correct usage is often debated. Although a newer sense of the word may be more commonly used, many people consider a word's traditional definition to be the correct usage. Being able to distinguish the different uses of a word can help you use it appropriately for different audiences. Britney perused her notes, carefully preparing for her exam. The traditional usage above is considered more standard. David perused the magazine, absentmindedly flipping through the pages. The nontraditional usage above is now commonly used, but traditional style guides generally advise against it.
The second text uses factoid in its traditional sense: something made up presented as a true fact. The Lakeside Daily Mail was forced to issue a retraction after printing a factoid about Lakeside's founder. It turned out that the reporter had written the article based on local legend rather than researching the actual history. The first text uses factoid in its nontraditional sense: a trivial but true fact. A reporter for the Lakeside Daily Mail dug up an amusing factoid about Lakeside's founder while researching for an article about the town's early years. Most style guides recommend to use the traditional sense of the word factoid because it is considered more standard.
Using only these supplies, which question can Britney investigate with an experiment?
[ "Does a cell phone charge faster when plugged into a wall outlet or into a computer?", "Does a cell phone charge more quickly when it is turned on or when it is turned off?", "Does a tablet charge faster with a two-foot-long charging cable or a five-foot-long charging cable?" ]
1
Britney notices that her cell phone charges more quickly sometimes and more slowly other times. She wonders what factors affect how quickly a phone charges. So, she decides to design an experiment. She has the following supplies available: one cell phone a two-foot-long charging cable a five-foot-long charging cable a stopwatch a wall outlet
closed choice
grade8
natural science
science-and-engineering-practices
Designing experiments
Identify questions that can be investigated with a set of materials
Experiments can be designed to answer specific questions. When designing an experiment, you must identify the supplies that are necessary to answer your question. In order to do this, you need to figure out what will be tested and what will be measured during the experiment. Imagine that you are wondering if plants grow to different heights when planted in different types of soil. How might you decide what supplies are necessary to conduct this experiment? First, you need to identify the part of the experiment that will be tested, which is the independent variable. This is usually the part of the experiment that is different or changed. In this case, you would like to know how plants grow in different types of soil. So, you must have different types of soil available. Next, you need to identify the part of the experiment that will be measured or observed, which is the dependent variable. In this experiment, you would like to know if some plants grow taller than others. So, you must be able to compare the plants' heights. To do this, you can observe which plants are taller by looking at them, or you can measure their exact heights with a meterstick. So, if you have different types of soil and can observe or measure the heights of your plants, then you have the supplies you need to investigate your question with an experiment!
What is the volume of a bottle of hot sauce?
[ "5 cups", "5 fluid ounces", "5 gallons" ]
1
Select the best estimate.
closed choice
grade5
natural science
units-and-measurement
Units and measurement
Choose customary units of volume
Measurements are written with both a number and a unit. The unit comes after the number. The unit shows what the number means. Volume is a measurement of how much space something takes up. There are many different units of volume. When you are using customary units, volume may be written in units of fluid ounces, cups, or gallons. As the diagram shows, there are 8 fluid ounces in 1 cup and 16 cups in 1 gallon. So, 1 fluid ounce is less than 1 cup and much less than 1 gallon. A glass of milk has a volume of about 8 fluid ounces, or 1 cup. A jug of milk has a volume of 1 gallon.
The best estimate for the volume of a bottle of hot sauce is 5 fluid ounces. 5 cups and 5 gallons are both too much.
What do these two changes have in common? baking cookies burning a marshmallow over a campfire
[ "Both are caused by cooling.", "Both are caused by heating.", "Both are only physical changes." ]
1
closed choice
grade8
natural science
chemistry
Chemical reactions
Compare physical and chemical changes
Matter is made of very small particles called atoms. Atoms can be linked together by chemical bonds. When two or more atoms link together, they form a molecule. In a chemical change, the chemical bonds in the molecules break. The atoms then link together to form different molecules. The types of molecules in matter before and after a chemical change are always different. Some chemical changes are caused by heating or cooling. For example, burning a piece of paper is a chemical change caused by heating. As paper burns, paper molecules react with oxygen molecules in the air. This reaction breaks the chemical bonds in the molecules. The atoms then link together in a different way to form different molecules. For example, carbon dioxide molecules are formed when paper burns. In a physical change, chemical bonds do not break. The types of molecules in matter before and after a physical change are always the same. A change of state is a type of physical change. Changes of state can be caused by heating or cooling. For example, water vaporizing is a physical change that can be caused by heating. Liquid water and water vapor are made of the same type of matter: water. The law of conservation of mass says that all physical and chemical changes conserve mass. Conserve means to keep the same. So, the total mass before a physical or chemical change is equal to the total mass after the change.
Step 1: Think about each change. Baking cookies is a chemical change. The type of matter in the cookie dough changes when it is baked. The cookie dough turns into cookies! Burning a marshmallow is a chemical change. The heat from the fire causes the type of matter in the marshmallow to change. The marshmallow becomes black and crispy. Step 2: Look at each answer choice. Both are only physical changes. Both changes are chemical changes. They are not physical changes. Both are chemical changes. Both changes are chemical changes. The type of matter before and after each change is different. Both are caused by heating. Both changes are caused by heating. Both are caused by cooling. Neither change is caused by cooling.
What information supports the conclusion that Pete inherited this trait?
[ "Pete and his biological parents have brown hair.", "Pete's coworker also has curly hair.", "Pete's biological father has curly hair." ]
2
Read the description of a trait. Pete has curly hair.
closed choice
grade7
natural science
biology
Genes to traits
Inherited and acquired traits: use evidence to support a statement
Organisms, including people, have both inherited and acquired traits. Inherited and acquired traits are gained in different ways. Inherited traits are passed down from biological parents to their offspring through genes. Genes are pieces of hereditary material that contain the instructions that affect inherited traits. Offspring receive their genes, and therefore gain their inherited traits, from their biological parents. Inherited traits do not need to be learned. Acquired traits are gained during a person's life. Some acquired traits, such as riding a bicycle, are gained by learning. Other acquired traits, such as scars, are caused by the environment. Parents do not pass acquired traits down to their offspring.
Which text uses the word can in its traditional sense?
[ "The director of the community garden says that if we want, we can try to introduce dragonflies into the garden. However, there is no guarantee that the dragonflies won't migrate elsewhere.", "Adult dragonflies prey on insects such as flies, moths, midges, and mosquitoes. They can eat hundreds of insects a day, making them attractive to gardeners who want to reduce insect pest populations." ]
1
closed choice
grade10
language science
writing-strategies
Word usage and nuance
Explore words with new or contested usages
Words change in meaning when speakers begin using them in new ways. For example, the word peruse once only meant to examine in detail, but it's now also commonly used to mean to look through in a casual manner. When a word changes in meaning, its correct usage is often debated. Although a newer sense of the word may be more commonly used, many people consider a word's traditional definition to be the correct usage. Being able to distinguish the different uses of a word can help you use it appropriately for different audiences. Britney perused her notes, carefully preparing for her exam. The traditional usage above is considered more standard. David perused the magazine, absentmindedly flipping through the pages. The nontraditional usage above is now commonly used, but traditional style guides generally advise against it.
The second text uses can in its traditional sense: to have the ability to. Adult dragonflies prey on insects such as flies, moths, midges, and mosquitoes. They can eat hundreds of insects a day, making them attractive to gardeners who want to reduce insect pest populations. The first text uses can in its nontraditional sense: to have permission to. The director of the community garden says that if we want, we can try to introduce dragonflies into the garden. However, there is no guarantee that the dragonflies won't migrate elsewhere. Most style guides recommend to use the traditional sense of the word can because it is considered more standard.
Which word would you find on a dictionary page with the following guide words? both - bus
[ "beneath", "broom" ]
1
closed choice
grade2
language science
reference-skills
Reference skills
Use guide words
Guide words appear on each page of a dictionary. They tell you the first word and last word on the page. The other words on the page come between the guide words in alphabetical order. To put words in alphabetical order, put them in order by their first letters. If the first letters are the same, look at the second letters. If the second letters are the same, look at the third letters, and so on.
Put the words in alphabetical order. Since broom is between the guide words both - bus, it would be found on that page.
Which change best matches the sentence? An area becomes drier than usual after a year without rain.
[ "landslide", "drought", "erosion" ]
1
closed choice
grade3
natural science
earth-science
Earth events
Classify changes to Earth's surface II
What is the mass of a cement truck?
[ "25 ounces", "25 pounds", "25 tons" ]
2
Select the best estimate.
closed choice
grade4
natural science
units-and-measurement
Units and measurement
Choose customary units of mass
Measurements are written with both a number and a unit. The unit comes after the number. The unit shows what the number means. Mass is a measurement of how much matter something contains. There are many different units of mass. When you are using customary units, mass may be written with units of ounces, pounds, or tons. There are 16 ounces in 1 pound and 2,000 pounds in 1 ton. So, 1 ounce is less than 1 pound and much less than 1 ton. A slice of bread has a mass of about 1 ounce, while a can of beans has a mass of about 1 pound. A small car has a mass of about 1 ton.
The best estimate for the mass of a cement truck is 25 tons. 25 ounces and 25 pounds are both too light.
Which text uses the word unique in its traditional sense?
[ "Judith made all of her daughter's baby clothes by hand, including a unique hand-knitted romper that she designed herself.", "Judith wanted her daughter to have a unique name, so she browsed baby name websites for months to find the perfect one." ]
0
closed choice
grade9
language science
writing-strategies
Word usage and nuance
Explore words with new or contested usages
Words change in meaning when speakers begin using them in new ways. For example, the word peruse once only meant to examine in detail, but it's now also commonly used to mean to look through in a casual manner. When a word changes in meaning, its correct usage is often debated. Although a newer sense of the word may be more commonly used, many people consider a word's traditional definition to be the correct usage. Being able to distinguish the different uses of a word can help you use it appropriately for different audiences. Britney perused her notes, carefully preparing for her exam. The traditional usage above is considered more standard. David perused the magazine, absentmindedly flipping through the pages. The nontraditional usage above is now commonly used, but traditional style guides generally advise against it.
The second text uses unique in its traditional sense: being the only one of its kind. Judith made all of her daughter's baby clothes by hand, including a unique hand-knitted romper that she designed herself. The first text uses unique in its nontraditional sense: interesting or unusual. Judith may have been looking for an unusual name, but if she found it on a baby name website, it is not actually one of a kind. Judith wanted her daughter to have a unique name, so she browsed baby name websites for months to find the perfect one. Most style guides recommend to use the traditional sense of the word unique because it is considered more standard.