STUDY GUIDE: MMS 8th Grade Literacy 2024-2025 Fall Semester Test

What does 'Imagery' mean?

• A math problem

• A kind of music

• Using words to create pictures in your mind

• An event from history

Answer explanation

Imagery refers to the use of vivid or figurative language that helps to create mental images of objects, actions, or ideas, enhancing the reader's experience and understanding.

What is 'Figurative Language'?

• A language used in legal papers.

• A type of language that uses words with meanings different from their usual ones.

• A language used to explain science.

• A language used only in formal places.

Answer explanation

Figurative language refers to words or expressions that convey meanings beyond their literal interpretation, such as metaphors and similes, making the correct choice the one that describes this concept accurately.

Symbolism is a writing tool where symbols stand for:

• Math problems

• Big ideas

• Exact meanings

• Old events

Answer explanation

Symbolism uses symbols to convey abstract ideas, allowing deeper meanings beyond literal interpretations. The other options do not accurately reflect the essence of symbolism in literature.

What does characterization mean?

• The main problem in a story.

• The way a character is made and developed in a story.

• Where and when a story happens.

• The order of events in a story.

Answer explanation

Characterization refers to the process of creating and developing a character in a story, making it essential for understanding characters' motivations and roles, unlike the other options which describe different story elements.

What does 'Narrative' mean?

• A science idea

• A math problem

• A kind of story or telling of events

• An old object from history

Answer explanation

'Narrative' refers to a type of story or account of events, distinguishing it from scientific theories, mathematical equations, or historical artifacts, which are different concepts.

What does 'Expository' mean?

• Writing that tells a story

• Writing that is fun to read

• Writing that explains or gives information

• Writing that tries to convince you

Answer explanation

'Expository' writing is designed to explain or inform the reader about a specific topic, making the correct choice 'A type of writing that explains or informs'. This distinguishes it from narrative, persuasive, or entertaining writing.

What is an 'Argument'?

• A math function

• A type of computer mistake

• A fight between people

• A reason or reasons to support an idea or action

Answer explanation

An 'Argument' refers to a reason or set of reasons given in support of an idea, action, or theory. This definition distinguishes it from other meanings, such as a heated exchange or a programming error.

What does the word 'Claim' mean?

• A money transaction

• A kind of insurance plan

• A legal paper

• A statement saying something is true

Answer explanation

The term 'Claim' refers to a statement asserting something is true, often used in legal and insurance contexts to indicate a demand for something believed to be owed.

What is a 'Counterclaim'?

• A claim made to cancel out another claim

• A statement to defend yourself in a legal case

• A legal paper that starts a lawsuit

• A request for a court to make an order

Answer explanation

A 'Counterclaim' is defined as a claim made to offset another claim, typically in legal contexts where a defendant responds to a plaintiff's claim with their own. This distinguishes it from other legal terms listed.

What is a 'Thesis Statement'?

• A question that helps you find out more about a topic.

• A list of books and articles you used for your essay.

• A sentence that tells the main idea or argument of your essay.

• A short summary of the main ideas in your essay.

Answer explanation

A thesis statement is crucial as it articulates the main argument or claim of an essay, guiding the reader on what to expect. The correct choice highlights this essential role in structuring the essay.