The History of Playdough - Test Prep

What is meant by the term, “fortunate accident” in Paragraph 1?

• Noah McVicker was always afraid of an accident in the factory.
• Playdough was created by accident, but became very successful.
• Noah McVicker always wanted to create an accident like playdough.
• Playdough was a fortunate invention because people really needed it.

Why did people like the wallpaper cleaner? Put a check mark next to THREE reasons.

• It was safe to use.
• It could be used again and again.
• It never damaged the wall.
• It smelled really good.
• It made the whole house smell clean.

What use did teachers have for the wallpaper cleaner in the classroom?

• to clean the walls
• to clean the floors
• for arts and crafts products
• for joining desks together

Part A - What is the central idea of the text?

• Play-Doh
• A man invented a new product.
• Play-Doh is a successful product that was made by mistake.
• Play-Doh can be used in the classroom and at home.

Part B - Which sentence BEST supports the central idea from Part A?

• Play-Doh was the new name given to the product.
• He was thrilled that teachers were bringing the product into the classroom.
• Play-Doh was an immediate success.
• Noah McVicker created a putty substance using flour, water, salt, boric acid, and mineral oil.

It was reasonably priced, and considered a good value. If something is a good value, it is -

• on sale for half-price
• worth the money
• under-valued
• over-priced

Part A - What caused children to learn about Play-Doh?

• through commercials on children’s shows
• through word of mouth
• through professors in universities
• through window displays

Part B – Which sentence BEST supports the answer to Part A?

• It became a popular wallpaper cleaner.
• Wallpaper was very popular during that time period.
• Play-Doh offers a variety of bright and bold colors.
• Play-Doh was advertised on children’s shows, like Captain Kangaroo, and became very popular.

"It was his idea to sell it as a fun product for children. He thought it was worth the risk." What is another word for “risk”?

• money
• fortune
• fun
• chance

During which paragraph would you find information on an award or honor?

• Paragraph 1
• Paragraph 5
• Paragraph 6
• Paragraph 7