Enhancing English Skills Quiz

Which organizational pattern is used when a text explains the similarities and differences between two subjects?

• Cause and effect

• Compare and contrast

• Chronological order

• Problem and solution

Read the following passage: "Maria glanced at the clock and realized she was late for her piano lesson. She grabbed her music sheets and rushed out the door." What can you infer about Maria’s feelings?

• She is excited

• She is nervous

• She is bored

• She is angry

Which of the following is an example of a simile?

• The wind whispered through the trees.

• Her smile was as bright as the sun.

• The classroom was a zoo.

• He ran with lightning speed.

What is the purpose of a heading in a nonfiction text?

• To provide a summary of the entire book

• To introduce the topic of a section

• To list all the characters

• To show the author’s opinion

Which sentence best shows the use of context clues to determine the meaning of an unfamiliar word?

• I looked up the word in the dictionary.

• The sentence said, "The arid desert was dry and hot," so I think "arid" means dry.

• I asked my friend what the word meant.

• I ignored the word.

What is the primary function of a conclusion in an essay?

• To introduce new arguments

• To summarize the main points and restate the thesis

• To list all references used

• To provide detailed evidence

A story describes a character who always helps others, even when it is difficult. Which of the following is the best theme statement for this story?

• Helping others, even when it is hard, is important.

• People should always be honest, no matter what.

• Working together leads to success.

• Facing challenges can make you stronger.

You read two different news articles about the same event. How can you determine which article is more reliable?

• By checking which article is longer

• By seeing which article has more pictures

• By evaluating the sources and evidence each article uses

• By choosing the article you like more

What is the main function of a summary in reading comprehension?

• To retell every detail from the text

• To present the most important ideas in a concise way

• To list all the characters’ names

• To rewrite the text in your own words without shortening it

Read the following passage: "Tom’s hands trembled as he opened the envelope. He took a deep breath and slowly unfolded the letter." What can you infer about Tom’s situation, and what evidence supports your inference?

• He is bored, because he is moving slowly.

• He is nervous, because his hands are trembling and he takes a deep breath.

• He is angry, because he is opening an envelope.

• He is happy, because he is reading a letter.