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 author’s 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 author’s 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 author’s 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 author’s 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

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 Henry’s 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.”

A.
B.
One of the most famous quotes from Henry’s 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 cousin’s wedding last June. I’d heard her sing before, but our extended family never had. My sister always talked about being in the choir. However, I don’t 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 cousin’s wedding last June. I’d heard her sing before, but our extended family never had. My sister always talked about being in the choir. However, I don’t 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

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.
What is the tone of the poem?
A
B. dejected
C. ashamed
D. respectful

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 teams—including 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 teams—including 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

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 lips—an embodiment of strength.
But he had the eyes of a poet—searching 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 lips—an embodiment of strength.
But he had the eyes of a poet—searching 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.

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. Don’t 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. Don’t 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 parents—heavy 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 parents—heavy 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 allowed—to 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 allowed—to 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

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 spring’s 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 you’re gone, and nothing is the same, now that it’s 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 spring’s 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 you’re gone, and nothing is the same, now that it’s 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 spring’s 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 you’re gone, and nothing is the same, now that it’s 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 spring’s 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 you’re gone, and nothing is the same, now that it’s 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 spring’s 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 you’re gone, and nothing is the same, now that it’s 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 spring’s 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 you’re gone, and nothing is the same, now that it’s 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 spring’s 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 you’re gone, and nothing is the same, now that it’s 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 spring’s 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 you’re gone, and nothing is the same, now that it’s 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.

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