EOC Review

ENGLISH II
Dear Editor,

Yesterday, the local Toll Road Committee decided to
raise the cost of the toll roads by 35 percent. A toll that
used to cost $1.50 will now cost $2.03. The Committee
claims to need the money because of budget troubles. I
just want to be clear that I don't believe them for a
minute. This is nothing but a greedy move by the
Committee. Their budget problems are their own fault. If
they eliminated wasteful spending, then they wouldn't
need to raise the tolls.


The tone of this passage can be best described as
A. disdainful.
B. sentimental.
C. affectionate.
D. apologetic.

Dear Editor,

Yesterday, the local Toll Road Committee decided to raise the cost
of the toll roads by 35 percent. A toll that used to cost $1.50 will now
cost $2.03. The Committee claims to need the money because of
budget troubles. I just want to be clear that I don't believe them for a
minute. This is nothing but a greedy move by the Committee. Their
budget problems are their own fault. If they eliminated wasteful
spending, then they wouldn't need to raise the tolls.


The tone of this passage can be best described as
A. disdainful.
B. sentimental.
C. affectionate.
D. apologetic.
Stop the presses! Jared Atkins has a rash! The world is
coming to an end. Actually, my sanity and patience are
coming to an end. Last week, Mr. Atkins appeared in
court trying to sue Kalanana Florist because a bouquet
of flowers he purchased gave him a rash on his hands
and wrists. Instead of buying some medicated itching
cream at the drugstore for $3, he hired a lawyer and went
to court, wasting the valuable time and efforts of our
justice system.


The tone of this passage can be best described as
A. envious.
B. disheartened.
C. yearning.
D. sarcastic.

Stop the presses! Jared Atkins has a rash! The world is
coming to an end. Actually, my sanity and patience are
coming to an end. Last week, Mr. Atkins appeared in
court trying to sue Kalanana Florist because a bouquet
of flowers he purchased gave him a rash on his hands
and wrists. Instead of buying some medicated itching
cream at the drugstore for $3, he hired a lawyer and went
to court, wasting the valuable time and efforts of our
justice system.


The tone of this passage can be best described as
A. envious.
B. disheartened.
C. yearning.
D. sarcastic.

In my opinion, we might all draw more good from
it than we do bad, and suffer less evil, if we
would take care not to give too much for
whistles. For me it seems that most of the
unhappy people we meet with are become so by
neglect of caution.
How do these sentences reveal the authors purpose?

A. The sentence presents the metaphor that the author will be using to
prove that he knows the best methods to follow in order to have a happy
life
B. The sentence presents the authors advice on how to be happy that is
meant to persuade people to listen to him.
C. The sentences introduce the fact the author feels that people ignore a
basic principle in life which causes their discontent.
D. The sentences introduce the idea of the whistle, which allows the author
to narrate the story from his childhood.
In my opinion, we might all draw more good
from it than we do bad, and suffer less evil,
if we would take care not to give too much
for whistles. For me it seems that most of
the unhappy people we meet with are
become so by neglect of caution.
How do these sentences reveal the authors purpose?

A. The sentence presents the metaphor that the author will be using to
prove that he knows the best methods to follow in order to have a happy
life
B. The sentence presents the authors advice on how to be happy that is
meant to persuade people to listen to him.
C. The sentences introduce the fact the author feels that people ignore a
basic principle in life which causes their discontent.
D. The sentences introduce the idea of the whistle, which allows the author
to narrate the story from his childhood.
As principal of Westbank Senior High School, I
certify that these seniors have met all of the
requirements set forth by the Oceanview County
Public Schools and the State of Florida. By the
power vested in me, I hereby declare the Class of
2011 to be graduates of Westbank Senior High
School.



Which phrase most strongly illustrates the formal
tone of the statement?
A. the State of Florida
B. I hereby declare
C. As principal of Westbank Senior High School
D. have met all of the requirements
As principal of Westbank Senior High School, I
certify that these seniors have met all of the
requirements set forth by the Oceanview County
Public Schools and the State of Florida. By the
power vested in me, I hereby declare the Class of
2011 to be graduates of Westbank Senior High
School.



Which phrase most strongly illustrates the formal
tone of the statement?
A. the State of Florida
B. I hereby declare
C. As principal of Westbank Senior High School
D. have met all of the requirements
Which sentence correctly uses a colon
to introduce a quotation?
A. The doctor emphasized the negative effects of
calcium deficiency: When we do not get enough
calcium in our diets or from supplements, the long
term effects can include high blood pressure.
B. One of the most famous quotes from Henrys
speech is: Give me liberty, or give me death!
C. Our new class president said: I promise I have not
mislead you in my goals to improve the school.
D. Aunt Polly reveals her thoughts on discipline when
she says: Spare the rod and spoil the child.
Which sentence correctly uses a colon
to introduce a quotation?
A. The doctor emphasized the negative effects of
calcium deficiency: When we do not get enough
calcium in our diets or from supplements, the long
term effects can include high blood pressure.
B. One of the most famous quotes from Henrys
speech is: Give me liberty, or give me death!
C. Our new class president said: I promise I have not
mislead you in my goals to improve the school.
D. Aunt Polly reveals her thoughts on discipline when
she says: Spare the rod and spoil the child.
My sister sang at our cousins wedding last June. Id heard her
sing before, but our extended family never had. My sister always
talked about being in the choir. However, I dont think everyone
realized the magnificence of her voice. The audience at the
wedding was mesmerized by her performance. I only wish that I
could sing as well as her. When I sing, the audience suddenly
looks like they all got indigestion. I guess I should just leave the
singing up to my sister. I only sing in the shower and in my car.
The line "When I sing, the audience suddenly looks
like they all got indigestion" is meant to be
A. harsh.
B. regretful.
C. humorous.
D. appreciative.

My sister sang at our cousins wedding last June. Id heard her
sing before, but our extended family never had. My sister
always talked about being in the choir. However, I dont think
everyone realized the magnificence of her voice. When she hits
the high notes, a ringing sweetness courses through the room.
She belts out ballads with passion and emotion. The audience
at the wedding was mesmerized by her performance. I only
wish that I could sing as well as her. When I sing, the audience
suddenly looks like they all got indigestion. I guess I should just
leave the singing up to my sister. I only sing in the shower and
in my car.
The line "When I sing, the audience suddenly looks
like they all got indigestion" is meant to be
A. harsh.
B. regretful.
C. humorous.
D. appreciative.

A student has used quotations from this letter in a
research paper about Benjamin Franklin. Which is
the correct way to punctuate the title on the works
cited page according to MLA Format.
A. The Whistle
B. The Whistle
C. The Whistle
D. The Whistle
A student has used quotations from this letter in a
research paper about Benjamin Franklin. Which is
the correct way to punctuate the title on the works
cited page according to MLA Format.
A. The Whistle
B. The Whistle
C. The Whistle
D. The Whistle
The tires on the car were threadbare;
______________, she drove through the snow
anyway.
Which adverbial conjunction can be used correctly
to complete the context of this sentence?
A. Consequently
B. Moreover
C. Nevertheless
D. Therefore
The tires on the car were threadbare;
______________, she drove through the snow
anyway.
Which adverbial conjunction can be used correctly
to complete the context of this sentence?
A. Consequently
B. Moreover
C. Nevertheless
D. Therefore
Dear Ms. Langston,

Ever since I hit your car in the parking lot last week,
I've felt really bad. I know that my accident
inconvenienced you and ruined your plans for a vacation.
I hope that you can forgive me. From now on, I promise to
be more careful when driving through a busy parking lot.
Please let me know if there is anything I can do to help
you or your family.


What is the tone of the letter?
A. affectionate
B. irreverent
C. scornful
D. apologetic

Dear Ms. Langston,
Ever since I hit your car in the parking lot
last week, I've felt really bad. I know that my
accident inconvenienced you and ruined your
plans for a vacation. I hope that you can forgive
me. From now on, I promise to be more careful
when driving through a busy parking lot. Please
let me know if there is anything I can do to help
you or your family.


What is the tone of the letter?
A. affectionate
B. irreverent
C. scornful
D. apologetic




What is the tone of
the poem?

A. arrogant
B. dejected
C. ashamed
D. respectful

Me

I'm captain of the soccer team
And scored the winning goal.
I'm strong and smart and good at math
And I'm on the honor roll.

I have perfect, chiseled cheekbones,
And I dress the latest fads.
You can see my flawless, handsome face
On several TV ads.

This year, I won the talent show
And was homecoming king
And got the lead in the school play
And won lots of other things.

The girls think I'm the coolest guy.
My rank is understood.
Do you wonder why I always win?
It's cuz I'm just that good.



What is the tone of
the poem?

A. arrogant
B. dejected
C. ashamed
D. respectful

Me

I'm captain of the soccer team
And scored the winning goal.
I'm strong and smart and good at math
And I'm on the honor roll.

I have perfect, chiseled cheekbones,
And I dress the latest fads.
You can see my flawless, handsome face
On several TV ads.

This year, I won the talent show
And was homecoming king
And got the lead in the school play
And won lots of other things.

The girls think I'm the coolest guy.
My rank is understood.
Do you wonder why I always win?
It's cuz I'm just that good.
Parallel structure means using the same pattern of
words to show that two or more ideas have the same
level of importance.
Ex. Incorrect: I like swimming better than to dive.
Correct: I like swimming better than diving.
Rewrite the following sentence so that it utilizes
parallel structure.

The thrill-seeker wanted to do many things in his life,
including go scuba diving in the Great Barrier Reef,
hiking up Mount Everest, and jump out of an
airplane.
The Chicago Cubs are a baseball team based in Chicago, Illinois.
The team has a longer history than most other professional
teamsincluding basketball, football, and hockey. What most
sets them apart from other professional sports franchises,
however, is that the Chicago Cubs have had the longest
championship drought of any franchise in all professional sports.
In fact, the last time the Chicago Cubs won a World Series was in
1908. They are often referred to as The Cubbies or as The
Lovable Losers by their significant national fan following.

What is the purpose of the encyclopedia article above?
A. to persuade the reader that the Cubs are due for a
championship
B. to entertain the reader with a story about a winless baseball
team
C. to instruct the reader on how not to have a winless baseball
season
D. to inform the reader about a historic, yet luckless, baseball
team

The Chicago Cubs are a baseball team based in Chicago, Illinois.
The team has a longer history than most other professional
teamsincluding basketball, football, and hockey. What most
sets them apart from other professional sports franchises,
however, is that the Chicago Cubs have had the longest
championship drought of any franchise in all professional sports.
In fact, the last time the Chicago Cubs won a World Series was in
1908. They are often referred to as The Cubbies or as The
Lovable Losers by their significant national fan following.

What is the purpose of the encyclopedia article above?
A. to persuade the reader that the Cubs are due for a
championship
B. to entertain the reader with a story about a winless baseball
team
C. to instruct the reader on how not to have a winless baseball
season
D. to inform the reader about a historic, yet luckless, baseball
team

Which statement best
describes the purpose of this
passage?

A. It's a persuasive selection on
how to sleep and dream.

B. It's an entertaining piece
about a young boy's dreams.

C. It's an instructive work on
how to live and dream big.

D. It's an informative article
about a confused dreamer.
A Boy with Dreams
by A. Gautam

Willy waited every night to wake up and
turn into Batman.
He had the jaw that looked intimidating in a
cowl,
and the perfect chin with a hint of
toughness
full lipsan embodiment of strength.
But he had the eyes of a poetsearching
meaning,
and looking beyond what is seen.
When he looked at the city from his
balcony,
he was learning to swim in the world
growing up to be a man was tougher than it
seemed.
He was a boy with dreams.
He wanted wings.

Which statement best
describes the purpose of this
passage?

A. It's a persuasive selection on
how to sleep and dream.

B. It's an entertaining piece
about a young boy's dreams.

C. It's an instructive work on
how to live and dream big.

D. It's an informative article
about a confused dreamer.
A Boy with Dreams
by A. Gautam

Willy waited every night to wake up and
turn into Batman.
He had the jaw that looked intimidating in a
cowl,
and the perfect chin with a hint of
toughness
full lipsan embodiment of strength.
But he had the eyes of a poetsearching
meaning,
and looking beyond what is seen.
When he looked at the city from his
balcony,
he was learning to swim in the world
growing up to be a man was tougher than it
seemed.
He was a boy with dreams.
He wanted wings.

Some networks allow you to download, or share, copyrighted music free
of charge. For some, this seems like a great idea. Why go all the way
down to the local CD store when you can get the same music online with
just a few clicks around the Web? One would be wise, however, not to fall
into this trap. Stealing is stealing, whether you are shoplifting a CD from
a store, or stealing music from an online site. Dont you become one of
the unfortunate. Breaking piracy laws can get you into serious trouble.
Just as important, if you respect these artists enough to listen to their
music, you should respect them enough not to steal from them.

Which statement best shows that the author is trying to persuade the reader?
A."For some, this seems like a great idea."
B. "Most sites where this activity takes place do so without the permission of the
musicians and record labels who have worked hard to create the songs."
C. "Some networks allow you to download, or share, copyrighted music free of charge.
D. "Breaking piracy laws can get you into serious trouble."
Some networks allow you to download, or share, copyrighted music free
of charge. For some, this seems like a great idea. Why go all the way
down to the local CD store when you can get the same music online with
just a few clicks around the Web? One would be wise, however, not to fall
into this trap. Stealing is stealing, whether you are shoplifting a CD from
a store, or stealing music from an online site. Dont you become one of
the unfortunate. Breaking piracy laws can get you into serious trouble.
Just as important, if you respect these artists enough to listen to their
music, you should respect them enough not to steal from them.

Which statement best shows that the author is trying to persuade the reader?
A."For some, this seems like a great idea."
B. "Most sites where this activity takes place do so without the permission of the
musicians and record labels who have worked hard to create the songs."
C. "Some networks allow you to download, or share, copyrighted music free of charge.
D. "Breaking piracy laws can get you into serious trouble."
Want to stay healthy and help the Earth at the same time? On August 1, Trekkers
will release the Ergo-Pack, an ergonomically designed backpack made from 100%
recycled material. According to Trekkers' president Tamara Osteen, "At Trekkers,
we are all about keeping kids healthy. That is why we are excited to release this
one-of-a-kind product that kids will love. The Ergo-Pack will protect them while
protecting the Earth. Osteen says that the Ergo-Pack was designed to answer an
ongoing complaint of many parentsheavy backpacks causing severe back pain in
children of all ages. The Ergo-Pack is specially designed to pull the weight off of
the child's back by evenly distributing it so excess pressure is not put on the lower
back and spine, which can cause pain and injury.

Which of the following statements best describes the purpose of
this passage?
A. It entertains readers with a story about helping the
environment.
B. It informs readers about the process of making the Ergo-Pack.
C. It persuades readers to learn how to protect their backs.
D. It advertises a product made by a luggage company to readers.

Want to stay healthy and help the Earth at the same time? On August 1, Trekkers
will release the Ergo-Pack, an ergonomically designed backpack made from 100%
recycled material. According to Trekkers' president Tamara Osteen, "At Trekkers,
we are all about keeping kids healthy. That is why we are excited to release this
one-of-a-kind product that kids will love. The Ergo-Pack will protect them while
protecting the Earth. Osteen says that the Ergo-Pack was designed to answer an
ongoing complaint of many parentsheavy backpacks causing severe back pain in
children of all ages. The Ergo-Pack is specially designed to pull the weight off of
the child's back by evenly distributing it so excess pressure is not put on the lower
back and spine, which can cause pain and injury.

Which of the following statements best describes the purpose of
this passage?
A. It entertains readers with a story about helping the
environment.
B. It informs readers about the process of making the Ergo-Pack.
C. It persuades readers to learn how to protect their backs.
D. It advertises a product made by a luggage company to readers.

The fact is, teenagers who are still growing need 9 or 10 hours of
uninterrupted sleep a night. Do most children get that much? It's
highly unlikely. In the United States alone, an estimated 30% to
40% don't get adequate sleep. Most teenagers try to stay up later
than they're allowedto watch a favorite TV show or chat
online. Parents often give in to the teenager's plea, and the
cycle begins. The teen goes to sleep progressively later every
night, and pretty soon, he or she is sleep deprived.

How does this sentence help to advance the author's point of view?
A. The statistic makes it clear that most kids in the United States get
plenty of sleep.
B. The statistic gives weight to the author's claim that kids don't get
enough sleep.
C. The statistic is meant to show that sleep deprivation only affects a
few people.
D. The statistic compares kids in the United States to those in other
countries.

The fact is, teenagers who are still growing need 9 or 10 hours of
uninterrupted sleep a night. Do most children get that much? It's
highly unlikely. In the United States alone, an estimated 30% to
40% don't get adequate sleep. Most teenagers try to stay up later
than they're allowedto watch a favorite TV show or chat
online. Parents often give in to the teenager's plea, and the
cycle begins. The teen goes to sleep progressively later every
night, and pretty soon, he or she is sleep deprived.

How does this sentence help to advance the author's point of view?
A. The statistic makes it clear that most kids in the United States get
plenty of sleep.
B. The statistic gives weight to the author's claim that kids don't get
enough sleep.
C. The statistic is meant to show that sleep deprivation only affects a
few people.
D. The statistic compares kids in the United States to those in other
countries.

No travel destination can beat China for its fascinating
history, from the mysterious dynasties of ancient times to
the economic powerhouse it is today. Take a tour with
Paradise Travel, and you'll be treated to a feast for the
senses in the spectacular cities of Beijing, Shanghai, and
others as you cruise the Yangtze River! Come experience for
yourself China's fast-paced cities, eye-popping scenery, and
polite and friendly people. Book now for supersaver tours
that will fit any budget.
What is the author's purpose in writing this passage?
A. to convince readers to book a tour with Paradise Travel
B. to inform the audience about the history of China
C. to entertain readers with travel stories from far-off lands
D. to instruct readers in what sights they should see in China

No travel destination can beat China for its fascinating
history, from the mysterious dynasties of ancient times to
the economic powerhouse it is today. Take a tour with
Paradise Travel, and you'll be treated to a feast for the
senses in the spectacular cities of Beijing, Shanghai, and
others as you cruise the Yangtze River! Come experience for
yourself China's fast-paced cities, eye-popping scenery, and
polite and friendly people. Book now for supersaver tours
that will fit any budget.
What is the author's purpose in writing this passage?
A. to convince readers to book a tour with Paradise Travel
B. to inform the audience about the history of China
C. to entertain readers with travel stories from far-off lands
D. to instruct readers in what sights they should see in China

A simile is used to
compare flowers
to

A. even rows.
B. spring's arrival.
C. saffron bells.
D. gentle soldiers.


Solo Spring by Patricia Clements

Staring out my kitchen window
I view the ageless, golden sun,
sky spotted with heavenly clouds,
trees reaching tall and proud with
tender, emerald shoots of spring
leaves.
Daffodils poke through the ground
announcing springs arrival;
they look like gentle soldiers
evenly rowed up
their saffron bells calling to me.
Fat-gutted robins parade around
the dripping, dew-dampened lawn,
tearing pink-gray worms
from safe shelter,
chirping salutations to friends
who wintered elsewhere.
Spring beckons me,
entices me into its intimate
embrace.
Though my eyes rest on this eternal
wonder,
I know youre gone,
and nothing is the same,
now that its different.
A simile is used to
compare flowers
to

A. even rows.
B. spring's arrival.
C. saffron bells.
D. gentle soldiers.


Solo Spring by Patricia Clements

Staring out my kitchen window
I view the ageless, golden sun,
sky spotted with heavenly clouds,
trees reaching tall and proud with
tender, emerald shoots of spring
leaves.
Daffodils poke through the ground
announcing springs arrival;
they look like gentle soldiers
evenly rowed up
their saffron bells calling to me.
Fat-gutted robins parade around
the dripping, dew-dampened lawn,
tearing pink-gray worms
from safe shelter,
chirping salutations to friends
who wintered elsewhere.
Spring beckons me,
entices me into its intimate
embrace.
Though my eyes rest on this eternal
wonder,
I know youre gone,
and nothing is the same,
now that its different.
What is the central
irony of the poem?
A. Springtime cannot
beckon" or "entice" a
person.
B.The narrator's ending
comes at springtime's
beginning.
C.Robins are not people
and cannot speak to
friends.
D.Daffodils grow in the
spring, but they cannot
announce it.


Solo Spring by Patricia Clements

Staring out my kitchen window
I view the ageless, golden sun,
sky spotted with heavenly clouds,
trees reaching tall and proud with
tender, emerald shoots of spring
leaves.
Daffodils poke through the ground
announcing springs arrival;
they look like gentle soldiers
evenly rowed up
their saffron bells calling to me.
Fat-gutted robins parade around
the dripping, dew-dampened lawn,
tearing pink-gray worms
from safe shelter,
chirping salutations to friends
who wintered elsewhere.
Spring beckons me,
entices me into its intimate
embrace.
Though my eyes rest on this eternal
wonder,
I know youre gone,
and nothing is the same,
now that its different.
What is the central
irony of the poem?
A. Springtime cannot
beckon" or "entice" a
person.
B. The narrator's ending
comes at springtime's
beginning.
C.Robins are not people
and cannot speak to
friends.
D.Daffodils grow in the
spring, but they cannot
announce it.


Solo Spring by Patricia Clements

Staring out my kitchen window
I view the ageless, golden sun,
sky spotted with heavenly clouds,
trees reaching tall and proud with
tender, emerald shoots of spring
leaves.
Daffodils poke through the ground
announcing springs arrival;
they look like gentle soldiers
evenly rowed up
their saffron bells calling to me.
Fat-gutted robins parade around
the dripping, dew-dampened lawn,
tearing pink-gray worms
from safe shelter,
chirping salutations to friends
who wintered elsewhere.
Spring beckons me,
entices me into its intimate
embrace.
Though my eyes rest on this eternal
wonder,
I know youre gone,
and nothing is the same,
now that its different.
Which of the following
statements best
describes the theme of
the poem?
A. All people feel pain
during the springtime.
B. The world is a better
place during the spring.
C. Springtime's arrival
makes lost love less
painful.
D. Lost love changes a
person's view of the
world.

Solo Spring by Patricia Clements

Staring out my kitchen window
I view the ageless, golden sun,
sky spotted with heavenly clouds,
trees reaching tall and proud with
tender, emerald shoots of spring
leaves.
Daffodils poke through the ground
announcing springs arrival;
they look like gentle soldiers
evenly rowed up
their saffron bells calling to me.
Fat-gutted robins parade around
the dripping, dew-dampened lawn,
tearing pink-gray worms
from safe shelter,
chirping salutations to friends
who wintered elsewhere.
Spring beckons me,
entices me into its intimate embrace.
Though my eyes rest on this eternal
wonder,
I know youre gone,
and nothing is the same,
now that its different.
Which of the following
statements best
describes the theme of
the poem?
A. All people feel pain
during the springtime.
B. The world is a better
place during the spring.
C. Springtime's arrival
makes lost love less
painful.
D. Lost love changes a
person's view of the
world.

Solo Spring by Patricia Clements

Staring out my kitchen window
I view the ageless, golden sun,
sky spotted with heavenly clouds,
trees reaching tall and proud with
tender, emerald shoots of spring
leaves.
Daffodils poke through the ground
announcing springs arrival;
they look like gentle soldiers
evenly rowed up
their saffron bells calling to me.
Fat-gutted robins parade around
the dripping, dew-dampened lawn,
tearing pink-gray worms
from safe shelter,
chirping salutations to friends
who wintered elsewhere.
Spring beckons me,
entices me into its intimate embrace.
Though my eyes rest on this eternal
wonder,
I know youre gone,
and nothing is the same,
now that its different.
The reader can
conclude that the
speaker
A. picks bouquets of
flowers.
B. plans to walk
outside.
C. has lost a loved one.
D. talks to the birds.

Solo Spring by Patricia Clements

Staring out my kitchen window
I view the ageless, golden sun,
sky spotted with heavenly clouds,
trees reaching tall and proud with
tender, emerald shoots of spring
leaves.
Daffodils poke through the ground
announcing springs arrival;
they look like gentle soldiers
evenly rowed up
their saffron bells calling to me.
Fat-gutted robins parade around
the dripping, dew-dampened lawn,
tearing pink-gray worms
from safe shelter,
chirping salutations to friends
who wintered elsewhere.
Spring beckons me,
entices me into its intimate embrace.
Though my eyes rest on this eternal
wonder,
I know youre gone,
and nothing is the same,
now that its different.
The reader can
conclude that the
speaker
A. picks bouquets of
flowers.
B. plans to walk
outside.
C. has lost a loved one.
D. talks to the birds.

Solo Spring by Patricia Clements

Staring out my kitchen window
I view the ageless, golden sun,
sky spotted with heavenly clouds,
trees reaching tall and proud with
tender, emerald shoots of spring
leaves.
Daffodils poke through the ground
announcing springs arrival;
they look like gentle soldiers
evenly rowed up
their saffron bells calling to me.
Fat-gutted robins parade around
the dripping, dew-dampened lawn,
tearing pink-gray worms
from safe shelter,
chirping salutations to friends
who wintered elsewhere.
Spring beckons me,
entices me into its intimate embrace.
Though my eyes rest on this eternal
wonder,
I know youre gone,
and nothing is the same,
now that its different.
Because the football team has won three state championships
over the past five years, attendance at the games has gone up
more than 200 percent. (14) Our current stadium was built in
1984. (15) It does not have the capacity to hold that many
attendees. (16) Tearing down the current stadium to build a
new expensive one is not the right solution to the problem.
What is the best way to combine sentences 14 and 15?
A. Our current stadium was built in 1984, and our current
stadium does not have the capacity to hold that many
attendees.
B. Our current stadium was built in 1984; but it does not
have the capacity to hold that many attendees.
C. Our current stadium was built in 1984, it does not have
the capacity to hold that many attendees.
D. Our current stadium, built in 1984, does not have the
capacity to hold that many attendees.

Because the football team has won three state championships
over the past five years, attendance at the games has gone up
more than 200 percent. (14) Our current stadium was built in
1984. (15) It does not have the capacity to hold that many
attendees. (16) Tearing down the current stadium to build a
new expensive one is not the right solution to the problem.
What is the best way to combine sentences 14 and 15?
A. Our current stadium was built in 1984, and our current
stadium does not have the capacity to hold that many
attendees.
B. Our current stadium was built in 1984; but it does not
have the capacity to hold that many attendees.
C. Our current stadium was built in 1984, it does not have
the capacity to hold that many attendees.
D. Our current stadium, built in 1984, does not have the
capacity to hold that many attendees.

Penelope could hardly eat any food in the
morning because she was nervous about having to
give a speech for her geography class.

Which of these is a prepositional phrase from the
sentence?
A. "could hardly eat"
B. "to give a speech"
C. "in the morning":"for her geography class"
D. "because she was nervous"

Penelope could hardly eat any food in the
morning because she was nervous about having to
give a speech for her geography class.

Which of these is a prepositional phrase from the
sentence?
A. "could hardly eat"
B. "to give a speech"
C. "in the morning":"for her geography class"
D. "because she was nervous"



Cripple
by Carl Sandburg

Once when I saw a cripple
Gasping slowly his last days with
the white plague,
Looking from hollow eyes, calling
for air,
Desperately gesturing with
wasted hands
In the dark and dust of a house
down in a slum,
I said to myself
I would rather have been a tall
sunflower
Living in a country garden
Lifting a golden-brown face to the
summer,
Rain-washed and dew-misted,
Mixed with the poppies and
ranking hollyhocks,
And wonderingly watching night
after night
The clear silent processionals of
stars.





Which statement best
describes the main theme
of the poem?

A. Escape in nature's
beauty.
B. Pity the unfortunate.
C. Take care of the
disabled.
D. Life is like a sunflower.



Cripple
by Carl Sandburg

Once when I saw a cripple
Gasping slowly his last days with
the white plague,
Looking from hollow eyes, calling
for air,
Desperately gesturing with
wasted hands
In the dark and dust of a house
down in a slum,
I said to myself
I would rather have been a tall
sunflower
Living in a country garden
Lifting a golden-brown face to the
summer,
Rain-washed and dew-misted,
Mixed with the poppies and
ranking hollyhocks,
And wonderingly watching night
after night
The clear silent processionals of
stars.





Which statement best
describes the main theme
of the poem?

A. Escape in nature's
beauty.
B. Pity the unfortunate.
C. Take care of the
disabled.
D. Life is like a sunflower.

ORME, Tennessee (Reuters) - A small town tucked away in the
mountains of southern Tennessee is getting by on just a few hours of
water a day. Its spring has run dry in the drought sweeping the
Southeast. Each evening, residents wait for Mayor Tony Reames to
make the short drive from his home up to a water tower on a wooded
hill above the town to open a valve. When the water is flowing
families can fill buckets and water jars, do laundry, take showers and
wash dishes before the faucets run dry and they wait for the next
evening. Resident Julie Hoover described Orme as a "hideaway" and a
"piece of heaven." It was safe and everyone knew each other, but she
said the water shortage had created serious problems.


Which best describes the main theme of this passage?
A. People need to remember the past.
B. People need to take shorter showers.
C. People need to try to resist change.
D. People need to adapt for survival.

ORME, Tennessee (Reuters) - A small town tucked away in the
mountains of southern Tennessee is getting by on just a few hours of
water a day. Its spring has run dry in the drought sweeping the
Southeast. Each evening, residents wait for Mayor Tony Reames to
make the short drive from his home up to a water tower on a wooded
hill above the town to open a valve. When the water is flowing
families can fill buckets and water jars, do laundry, take showers and
wash dishes before the faucets run dry and they wait for the next
evening. Resident Julie Hoover described Orme as a "hideaway" and a
"piece of heaven." It was safe and everyone knew each other, but she
said the water shortage had created serious problems.


Which best describes the main theme of this passage?
A. People need to remember the past.
B. People need to take shorter showers.
C. People need to try to resist change.
D. People need to adapt for survival.



Times I Did Not Stand Up for My Mother
by Mitch Albom

I am six years old. It is Halloween. The school is having its annual Halloween parade.
All the kids will march a few blocks through the neighborhood. my mother decides,
since this is my first parade, she will make me a costume: the mummy, my favorite
scary character. She cuts up white rags and old towels and wraps them around me,
holding them in place with safety pins. Then she layers the rags with toilet paper and
tape. It takes a long time, but when she is finished, I look in the mirror. I am a
mummy. She drives me to school. We start our parade. The more I walk, the looser the
rags get. Then, about two blocks out, it begins to rain. Next thing I know, the toilet
paper is dissolving. Look at Charley! the other kids squeal. They are laughing. I see
my mother first. As she spots me, she raises her hand to her mouth. I burst into tears.
You ruined my life! I yell.

What is the most important lesson that is taught in the passage?
A. Check the weather forecast before leaving home.
B. Try to see the good intentions behind one's actions.
C. Find friends who appreciate you for who you are.
D. Always buy your Halloween costume at the store.



Times I Did Not Stand Up for My Mother
by Mitch Albom

I am six years old. It is Halloween. The school is having its annual Halloween parade.
All the kids will march a few blocks through the neighborhood. my mother decides,
since this is my first parade, she will make me a costume: the mummy, my favorite
scary character. She cuts up white rags and old towels and wraps them around me,
holding them in place with safety pins. Then she layers the rags with toilet paper and
tape. It takes a long time, but when she is finished, I look in the mirror. I am a
mummy. She drives me to school. We start our parade. The more I walk, the looser the
rags get. Then, about two blocks out, it begins to rain. Next thing I know, the toilet
paper is dissolving. Look at Charley! the other kids squeal. They are laughing. I see
my mother first. As she spots me, she raises her hand to her mouth. I burst into tears.
You ruined my life! I yell.


What is the most important lesson that is taught in the passage?
A. Check the weather forecast before leaving home.
B. Try to see the good intentions behind one's actions.
C. Find friends who appreciate you for who you are.
D. Always buy your Halloween costume at the store.

Gettysburg Address
President Abraham Lincoln
Fourscore and seven years ago our fathers brought forth,
upon this continent, a new nation, conceived in liberty, and
dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal.
Now we are engaged in a great civil war, testing whether
that nation, or any nation so conceived, and so dedicated,
can long endure. We are met on a great battlefield of that
war. We have come to dedicate a portion of it, as a final
resting place for those who died here, that the nation might
live.
In context of the speech, why does Lincoln begin with a reference to the
nation's founding?
A. to honor the nation's founders
B. to condemn the South for seceding
C. to express doubt about preserving the nation
D. to emphasize the significance of the Civil War
Gettysburg Address
President Abraham Lincoln
Fourscore and seven years ago our fathers brought forth,
upon this continent, a new nation, conceived in liberty, and
dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal.
Now we are engaged in a great civil war, testing whether
that nation, or any nation so conceived, and so dedicated,
can long endure. We are met on a great battlefield of that
war. We have come to dedicate a portion of it, as a final
resting place for those who died here, that the nation might
live.
In context of the speech, why does Lincoln begin with a reference to the
nation's founding?
A. to honor the nation's founders
B. to condemn the South for seceding
C. to express doubt about preserving the nation
D. to emphasize the significance of the Civil War
Gettysburg Address
President Abraham Lincoln
Fourscore and seven years ago our fathers brought forth,
upon this continent, a new nation, conceived in liberty, and
dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal.
Now we are engaged in a great civil war, testing whether
that nation, or any nation so conceived, and so dedicated,
can long endure. We are met on a great battlefield of that
war. We have come to dedicate a portion of it, as a final
resting place for those who died here, that the nation might
live.
Which of the following best describes the purpose of the
speech?
A. to minimize the severity of the war
B. to applaud America's accomplishments
C. to express reverence for the lost soldiers
D. to argue for the reasons behind the war

Gettysburg Address
President Abraham Lincoln
Fourscore and seven years ago our fathers brought forth,
upon this continent, a new nation, conceived in liberty, and
dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal.
Now we are engaged in a great civil war, testing whether
that nation, or any nation so conceived, and so dedicated,
can long endure. We are met on a great battlefield of that
war. We have come to dedicate a portion of it, as a final
resting place for those who died here, that the nation might
live.
Which of the following best describes the purpose of the
speech?
A. to minimize the severity of the war
B. to applaud America's accomplishments
C. to express reverence for the lost soldiers
D. to argue for the reasons behind the war

Gettysburg Address
President Abraham Lincoln
Fourscore and seven years ago our fathers brought forth,
upon this continent, a new nation, conceived in liberty, and
dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal.
Now we are engaged in a great civil war, testing whether
that nation, or any nation so conceived, and so dedicated,
can long endure. We are met on a great battlefield of that
war. We have come to dedicate a portion of it, as a final
resting place for those who died here, that the nation might
live.
Which of the following best describes the mood of the
speech?
A. sacred
B. sensitive
C. forlorn
D. solemn

Gettysburg Address
President Abraham Lincoln
Fourscore and seven years ago our fathers brought forth,
upon this continent, a new nation, conceived in liberty, and
dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal.
Now we are engaged in a great civil war, testing whether
that nation, or any nation so conceived, and so dedicated,
can long endure. We are met on a great battlefield of that
war. We have come to dedicate a portion of it, as a final
resting place for those who died here, that the nation might
live.
Which of the following best describes the mood of the
speech?
A. sacred
B. sensitive
C. forlorn
D. solemn