Close Passages

She gasped in surprise. On her bureau, next to the photo of Tristan... were a dozen lavender roses. Ivy walked toward them. Tears rose quickly in her eyes, as if the salty drops had been there all along without her knowing.

What is EXPLICITLY stated?

• Ivy was moved by the roses being there.

• Ivy was sad that Tristan died.

• Ivy didn't know why she was crying.

• Ivy's tears happened after she saw the roses.

______ this period, she would have ______ more than half a million eggs.

• After, throw

• While, leave

• When, drop

• During, laid

Tammy and Sammy were both students in Mr. Morton's reading class. Mr. Morton wasn't too strict about deadlines, and Sammy took advantage of that. He did all of his homework in his other classes but never bothered to complete Mr. Morton's reading assignments, figuring that he could complete them later. Tammy, on the other hand, completed each assignment Mr. Morton assigned the night that he assigned it. She had to stay up a little later, but she didn't want to get a penalty for turning in her reading work late. Tammy knew reading was a core subject and that she had to keep "C" average for the entire year or she would have to go to summer school. When the end of the quarter came, Tammy and Sammy had both planned on going to the Enchanted Castle Amusement Park, but Mr. Morton called Sammy's mother, and she grounded Sammy until he turned in all of his work. That weekend was horrible for Sammy. He stayed up until 2:00 AM each night and still couldn't complete all of the assignments. The whole while, Tammy had a great time eating pizza at Enchanted Castle, watching movies late at night, and enjoying her weekend free of stress and pressure. At the end of the quarter, Sammy was lucky to squeak by with a "C" minus in reading while Tammy earned an "A." Sammy still hasn't learned his lesson and probably won't complete this activity either. What is the theme of this passage?

• Deadlines are for losers.

• Mr. Morton liked Tammy better than Sammy.

• Reading class is too hard.

• It is better to do things right the first time.

As young Americans mature into adults, they are tempted by the allure of easy credit. Credit card companies attempt to ensnare young people by giving away “free” headphones or sports towels in return for completing credit applications. Many of these young people go on to accumulate debt through undisciplined spending. They pay much more than the original loan because they are charged a high rate of interest and it takes them years to repay their debts. It is best to avoid this debt prison altogether.

• How young people should always sign up so they get free merch.

• How certain young people should stay away from "free" headphones.

• How certain young people can become burdened with debt.

• How all young people can not be trusted with credit cards.

Which of these is the best word or phrase to start a closing sentence?

• First

• In conclusion

• In addition

• Next

In the passage, the protagonist finds a mysterious letter on their doorstep. What is EXPLICITLY stated about the letter?

• A) It was written in red ink.

• B) It was addressed to someone else.

• C) It was sealed with a wax stamp.

• D) It was delivered by hand.

The passage describes a bustling marketplace. Which word best describes the atmosphere?

• A) Serene

• B) Chaotic

• C) Silent

• D) Lonely

In the passage, the character reflects on their childhood. What is EXPLICITLY stated about their favorite toy?

• A) It was a stuffed bear.

• B) It was a wooden train.

• C) It was a puzzle.

• D) It was a dollhouse.

The passage mentions a storm approaching. What is EXPLICITLY stated about the sky?

• A) It was clear and blue.

• B) It was filled with dark clouds.

• C) It was pink and orange.

• D) It was starry and bright.

In the passage, the protagonist is preparing for a journey. What is EXPLICITLY stated about their destination?

• A) It is a bustling city.

• B) It is a quiet village.

• C) It is a distant island.

• D) It is a snowy mountain.