Domain-specific Vocabulary - Grade 6 Assessment

When you're talking about a specific subject like science or video games, words that have a special meaning just for that topic are called what?

• slang words

• domain-specific vocabulary

• everyday words

• rhyming words

Answer explanation

Domain-specific vocabulary refers to words or phrases that are used in a particular field of study or activity, like 'photosynthesis' in science or 'level up' in gaming.

True or False: The word 'photosynthesis' is a domain-specific term used in science.

• True

• False

Answer explanation

This is true because 'photosynthesis' has a very specific meaning within the domain, or subject, of science.

Locate the domain-specific word from this sentence about government: The new law had to be approved by the legislature before it could become official.

(a)  

Answer explanation

'Legislature' is a specific term used in the domain of government and civics to describe a group of people who make laws.

Which of these words is domain-specific to the subject of music?

• loud

• listen

• rhythm

• sound

Answer explanation

While all the words relate to music, 'rhythm' is a specific technical term within music theory, making it domain-specific. The other words are more general.

In a Language Arts discussion about a story, the main character is often called the (a)   .

Answer explanation

'Protagonist' is the domain-specific term in literature for the main character of a story.

Maria found a great website for her history project and wants to save it for later. In her web browser, what is the best term for the action of saving the site for easy access?

• Citing

• Paraphrasing

• Bookmarking

• Blogging

Answer explanation

'Bookmarking' is the specific term used in the domain of digital literacy and internet use for saving a website's address.

True or False: In a math class, the word 'sum' has the exact same general meaning as 'the answer to a problem.'

• True

• False

Answer explanation

This is false. The word 'sum' is a domain-specific term in math that means the answer to an ADDITION problem specifically, not just any problem.

In his science report about volcanoes, Leo wrote, 'The hot, melted rock flowed down the mountain.' Which domain-specific word would be the most precise replacement for 'hot, melted rock'?

• Lava

• Water

• Ash

• Debris

Answer explanation

'Lava' is the correct scientific, domain-specific term for molten rock that has erupted from a volcano.

Your art teacher asks you to create a piece that feels rough in some spots and smooth in others. The word she would use to describe the way the surface of your art feels is its (a)   .

Answer explanation

In the domain of art, 'texture' is the specific term used to describe the perceived surface quality of a work of art.

When you are writing a persuasive essay, the main point or belief that you are trying to prove is called your (a)   .

Answer explanation

In the domain of argumentative writing, your 'claim' is the specific term for the central argument or thesis you are making.