Vocabulary and Genre

Front

What does volatile mean?

The spaceship's hull began to glow as it entered the alien planet's volatile atmosphere. Alarms blared, warning the crew of the danger as unpredictable storms raged outside, threatening to tear the ship apart.

Back

Unpredictable, likely to change for the worse.

Why? It describes the planet's atmosphere as volatile, then goes on to elaborate "as unpredictable storms raged outside..."

Front

What does cryptic mean?

Detective Hayes examined the cryptic message scrawled on the wall. The symbols were unlike anything she had seen before, their meanings hidden and difficult to decipher.

Back

Having a meaning that is mysterious or obscure.

Why? Because it describes the message as cryptic, and then elaborates that the message was "hidden and difficult to decipher."

Front

What does elixir mean?

The wizard carefully uncorked the bottle of elixir, knowing that the magical potion inside had the power to heal any wound but must be used sparingly.

Back

A magical or medicinal potion.

Why? Because it says that the "magical potion" could "heal any wound."

Front

What does tenacity mean?

Despite his early failures, the inventor’s tenacity drove him to continue experimenting. His persistence eventually led to the creation of a device that changed the world.

Back

Determination or persistence.

Why? Because it says "continue" "despite early failures," and "his persistence."

Front

What does meandered mean?

The river meandered through the valley, winding slowly and lazily, as if it had all the time in the world.

Back

To follow a winding course or proceed with little purpose.

Why? Because it says "winding slowly and lazily, as if it had all the time in the world."

Front

What are common characteristics of realistic fiction?

Back

Stories that could realistically happen in the real world.

• Everyday settings and situations.

• Relatable characters with realistic problems.

• Focus on emotions, relationships, and personal growth.

Front

What are common characteristics of fantasy?

Back

Stories that include magical or supernatural elements.

• Imaginary worlds or alternate realities.

• Magical creatures, powers, or objects.

• Epic quests or battles between good and evil.

Front

What are common characteristics of science fiction?

Back

Stories that explore futuristic technology or science-based concepts.

Advanced technology, space exploration, or time travel.

Imagined scientific advancements or consequences.

Alien life forms or dystopian societies.

Front

What are common characteristics of historical fiction?

Back

• Stories set in a specific historical period, blending real and fictional elements.

  • Authentic historical settings and events.

  • Fictional characters interacting with real historical figures.

  • Themes tied to the historical period.

Front

What are common characteristics of a biography?

Back

Nonfiction that tells the life story of a real person.

Chronological structure.

Focus on significant life events and achievements.

Insight into the person’s thoughts, struggles, and legacy.