Determining the Meaning of Unknown Words

In the story, "Nature's Firefighters," it says: "Strong winds whip flames into firestorms that rip through the combustible plants, threatening lives and costing billions of dollars in damage."

What does the word firestorm mean?

• an intense, destructive fire

• fire that rains from burning clouds in the sky

• a tool for fighting fires

• a goat that battles fires

The movie star's large and beautiful home was palatial.

What does palatial mean?

• ugly

• tiny

• for dogs

• like a palace

What is the meaning of promptness in the sentence? Jess jumped up, pleased for an excuse to leave the track which he couldn't make work to his dad's satisfaction. His mother seemed not to notice the promptness of his response but went on in a complaining voice, "I don't know what I'd do without Ellie.

• late

• being on time

• neither

What is the meaning of the sentence with the bolded word. His fingers itched to try to draw it on paper. Maybe if he had some proper paints, he could do it. There ought to be a way of making the whale shimmering white against the dark water. P. 43

• There would be a way to make the drawing dull and ugly.

• There would be a way to make the drawing shiny and soft, and beautiful.

• There would be a way to make the drawing dull and shiny.

• none of the above

What is the meaning of the following phrase. But whenever possible, he stole a few minutes on Friday just to stand close to her and hear her voice, soft and smooth as suede, assuring him that he was a "neat kid." What is the meaning and tone of the sentence?

• She had a rough voice that scared him. This is a negative tone.

• She had a scary voice that he did not like. This is a negative tone.

• She had a smooth voice that he liked. This is a positive tone.

• none of the above

I was so parched, I drank an entire glass of water in one gulp.

• hungry
• thirsty
• sleepy
• busy

The delightful aroma of food cooking in the kitchen made my mouth water.

• smell
• color
• wealth
• sound

The thought of eating a rat is abhorrent to most people.

• fun
• horrible
• delicious
• exciting

Jeffery decided to sever his friendship with his rude neighbor.

• separate
• clean
• serve
• confirm

Teenagers tend to be belligerent when arguing with their parents.

• peaceful
• warlike
• simple
• calm