TExES English Language Arts And Reading 8-12
TExES practice test ELA 8-12
- 1.
An English teacher wants to promote students' ability to analyze the traits and motivation of characters in a novel the students are reading. Which of the following activities would most effectively integrate writing with reading to address this goal?
- A.
Students write a letter from one character to another in which they describe their character's feelings at an important point in the novel.
- B.
Students choose a major event in the novel and rewrite it as a short play, with stage directions and dialogue for the characters.
- C.
Students work in small groups to brainstorm lists of adjectives describing each of the major characters in the novel.
- D.
Students create a timeline for the story and use it to summarize the actions of two major characters at appropriate points in the plot.
Correct Answer
A. Students write a letter from one character to another in which they describe their character's feelings at an important point in the novel.Explanation
Writing a letter from one character to another in which they describe their character's feelings at an important point in the novel would most effectively integrate writing with reading to address the goal of analyzing character traits and motivations. This activity requires students to closely analyze the character's emotions and motivations, as well as understand the events and context of the novel. By writing a letter, students are able to demonstrate their understanding of the character's perspective and delve deeper into their thoughts and feelings, enhancing their ability to analyze characters in the novel.Rate this question:
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- 2.
A high school English teacher is collaborating with a biology teacher to address the reading needs of an English Language Learner. The biology teacher has observed that the student's knowledge of scientific vocabulary is very limited. The English teacher advises the biologyteacher to provide explicit instruction on key vocabulary words before and after the student reads assigned texts. Which of the following additional activities would be most effective in improving the student's knowledge of scientific vocabulary?
- A.
Partner activities in which students quiz each other about the definitions of scientific terminology in assigned texts
- B.
Heterogeneous small-group activities in which students look up scientific terms in the dictionary and then report their findings to the class
- C.
Writing activities in which students consult the textbook glossary to write answers to questions about assigned readings
- D.
Small-group activities that involve discussion and hands-on experience relating to scientific concepts students are studying
Correct Answer
D. Small-group activities that involve discussion and hands-on experience relating to scientific concepts students are studying -
- 3.
A high school student with writing difficulties is usually able to identify an appropriate writing topic and participates well in prewriting activities such as group brainstorming and semantic mapping. The student becomes anxious, however, during the initial stages of writing and oftencomplains of "writer's block." Which of the following approaches would be most helpful in addressing this student's writing needs?
- A.
Engaging the student in a discussion about common reasons for "writer's block" and reassuring him that this is not unusual
- B.
Having the student prepare a detailed outline of main ideas and supporting details before he begins to write
- C.
Allowing the student to tape record his compositions until he becomes more comfortable with the writing process
- D.
Having the student journal, freewrite, and quickwrite in preparation for more formal writing
Correct Answer
D. Having the student journal, freewrite, and quickwrite in preparation for more formal writingExplanation
Engaging the student in journaling, freewriting, and quickwriting activities would be most helpful in addressing this student's writing needs. These activities allow the student to practice and explore their thoughts and ideas without the pressure of producing a formal piece of writing. By engaging in these activities, the student can become more comfortable with the writing process and overcome their anxiety and writer's block. This approach also provides the student with opportunities for self-expression and creativity, which can enhance their writing skills.Rate this question:
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- 4.
Which of the following sentences contains an error in agreement?
- A.
Neither of the locations is appealing.
- B.
The criteria for this assessment are currently under review.
- C.
Each of the prototypes were flawed.
- D.
The impetus for these reforms has arisen at the local level.
Correct Answer
C. Each of the prototypes were flawed.Explanation
The sentence "Each of the prototypes were flawed" contains an error in agreement. The subject "each" is singular, so it should be followed by a singular verb form, "was" instead of "were."Rate this question:
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- 5.
Which of the following major changes in the English language occurred during the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries?
- A.
Extensive borrowing of Latin and Greek words into English
- B.
Infusion of French vocabulary into English
- C.
Extensive compounding of native English words
- D.
Infusion of Old Norse vocabulary into English
Correct Answer
A. Extensive borrowing of Latin and Greek words into EnglishExplanation
During the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries, one major change in the English language was the extensive borrowing of Latin and Greek words into English. This borrowing was influenced by the Renaissance and the growing interest in classical languages and literature. As a result, English expanded its vocabulary and incorporated many new words from Latin and Greek, enriching the language and allowing for more precise and specific expressions. This borrowing also contributed to the development of scientific and technical terminology in English.Rate this question:
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- 6.
An English teacher frequently has students perform semantic mapping activities before and after assigned readings. Which of the following statements best explains the primary rationale for this instructional strategy?
- A.
Presenting textual information in several visual formats makes the information more accessible to students by accommodating diverse learning styles.
- B.
Diagramming textual information improves students' writing skills by promoting their use of effective text structures and accurate writing conventions.
- C.
Organizing reading material in new ways highlights connections among ideas and enhances students' shortterm and long-term recall of the material.
- D.
Arranging textual information in graphic formats encourages students to use context cues to clarify the meaning of content-specific vocabulary in the text.
Correct Answer
C. Organizing reading material in new ways highlights connections among ideas and enhances students' shortterm and long-term recall of the material.Explanation
Semantic mapping activities involve organizing information in new ways, which helps students identify connections between ideas. This process enhances their understanding of the material and improves their ability to recall it in the short-term and long-term. By visually representing the relationships between concepts, students are able to make meaningful connections and retain the information more effectively. This instructional strategy focuses on promoting comprehension and retention of the reading material by emphasizing the organization and interconnectedness of ideas.Rate this question:
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- 7.
As a word identification strategy, structural analysis would be most effective in helping students determine the meaning of which of the following words?
- A.
Sartorial
- B.
Wisteria
- C.
Haberdasher
- D.
Bibliophile
Correct Answer
D. BibliopHileExplanation
Structural analysis involves breaking down words into their meaningful parts, such as prefixes, suffixes, and root words. In the case of "bibliophile," the word can be broken down into "biblio" meaning book and "phile" meaning lover. By analyzing the structure of the word, students can infer that a "bibliophile" is someone who loves books. Therefore, structural analysis would be most effective in determining the meaning of the word "bibliophile."Rate this question:
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- 8.
A tenth-grade English teacher plans instruction to improve students' comprehension of nonfiction texts by helping the students recognize common text structures (e.g., comparison and contrast, cause and effect, chronological order). Which of the following instructionalstrategies would be most effective for this purpose?
- A.
Helping students identify the topic sentence of each paragraph in a variety of nonfiction texts
- B.
Teaching students to look for words that identify the introduction, body, and conclusion
- C.
Helping students understand how the key content vocabulary in a selection defines the text structure
- D.
Teaching students to look for signal words often associated with different text structures
Correct Answer
D. Teaching students to look for signal words often associated with different text structuresExplanation
Teaching students to look for signal words often associated with different text structures would be the most effective instructional strategy for improving students' comprehension of nonfiction texts. Signal words provide clues about the organization and structure of a text, helping students understand how ideas are connected and how the information is presented. By teaching students to recognize these signal words, they can more easily identify and understand the common text structures such as comparison and contrast, cause and effect, and chronological order. This strategy empowers students to actively engage with the text and make connections between different parts of the text, enhancing their comprehension skills.Rate this question:
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- 9.
An eighth-grade student with reading difficulties is having trouble distinguishing between main ideas and supporting details in nonfiction texts. Which of the following instructional strategies would be most effective in addressing this need?
- A.
Giving the student a copy of the text and modeling how to underline the topic sentence of each paragraph
- B.
Modeling for the student how to take detailed notes when reading nonfiction texts
- C.
Providing the student with graphic organizers to guide note taking and discussion of nonfiction texts
- D.
Prompting the student to give an oral summary of information in the text immediately after reading
Correct Answer
C. Providing the student with grapHic organizers to guide note taking and discussion of nonfiction textsExplanation
Providing the student with graphic organizers to guide note taking and discussion of nonfiction texts would be the most effective instructional strategy to address the student's difficulty in distinguishing between main ideas and supporting details. Graphic organizers can visually represent the structure of the text and help the student identify the main ideas and supporting details. By using graphic organizers, the student can organize their thoughts and better understand the relationships between different pieces of information in the text. Additionally, discussing the text with the help of the graphic organizers can further reinforce the student's understanding of main ideas and supporting details.Rate this question:
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- 10.
Ms. Lennox, a social studies teacher, and Mr. Vale, an English teacher, work with a group of students. Early in the school year, Ms. Lennox mentions that the students are having difficulty retaining information from their geography textbook.Which of the following would be the most appropriate advice for Mr. Vale to give Ms. Lennox?
- A.
Have the students concentrate on transitional words to keep track of the relationship among ideas.
- B.
Encourage the students to focus on the last sentence of each paragraph to extract summary information.
- C.
Have the students read each assignment slowly, looking up definitions of unfamiliar terms.
- D.
Encourage the students to preview the text to anticipate its content and recall related knowledge.
Correct Answer
D. Encourage the students to preview the text to anticipate its content and recall related knowledge.Explanation
Encouraging the students to preview the text to anticipate its content and recall related knowledge would be the most appropriate advice for Mr. Vale to give Ms. Lennox. This strategy can help improve the students' retention of information from their geography textbook. By previewing the text, the students can get an overview of what they will be reading, activate their prior knowledge, and make connections to the content. This can enhance their comprehension and retention of the information.Rate this question:
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- 11.
A high school English language arts teacher distributes photocopies of a challenging nonfiction passage. Reading the passage silently, students annotate the text by jotting down comments and questions in the margin of the passage. Students then share and discuss their annotations in small groups. This activity is likely to promote students' reading proficiency primarily by:
- A.
Improving students' awareness of the organizational patterns that structure nonfiction texts.
- B.
Helping students identify and analyze elements of style in nonfiction texts.
- C.
Improving students' ability to write formal summaries of informational texts.
- D.
Helping students apply metacognitive skills to monitor comprehension.
Correct Answer
D. Helping students apply metacognitive skills to monitor comprehension.Explanation
This activity is likely to promote students' reading proficiency primarily by helping students apply metacognitive skills to monitor comprehension. By annotating the text and jotting down comments and questions, students are actively engaging with the material and monitoring their own understanding. This metacognitive practice allows students to reflect on their comprehension and make adjustments as needed, leading to improved reading proficiency.Rate this question:
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- 12.
Read the poem below by Langston Hughes; then answer the question that follows.The Negro Speaks of RiversI've known rivers:I've known rivers ancient as the world and older than theflow of human blood in human veins.My soul has grown deep like the rivers.I bathed in the Euphrates when dawns were young.I built my hut near the Congo and it lulled me to sleep.I looked upon the Nile and raised the pyramids above it.I heard the singing of the Mississippi when Abe Lincolnwent down to New Orleans, and I've seen its muddybosom turn all golden in the sunset.I've known rivers:Ancient, dusky rivers.My soul has grown deep like the rivers.How does Hughes use voice to construct meaning in this poem?
- A.
By using the first person singular, Hughes conveys the distinctiveness of his personal experience.
- B.
By using the first person singular, Hughes makes the poem sound more like informal speech.
- C.
By repeating the words "I" and "I've" at the beginning of most lines, Hughes uses voice to establish the rhythm of the poem.
- D.
By using the first person singular to represent a whole race, Hughes conveys the sense of his people speaking as one.
Correct Answer
D. By using the first person singular to represent a whole race, Hughes conveys the sense of his people speaking as one.Explanation
The correct answer is "By using the first person singular to represent a whole race, Hughes conveys the sense of his people speaking as one." In the poem, Hughes uses the personal pronoun "I" to describe his own experiences with rivers, but through this singular voice, he is also speaking on behalf of the entire African American community. By using the first person singular to represent a collective experience, Hughes creates a sense of unity and solidarity among his people, emphasizing their shared history and struggles.Rate this question:
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- 13.
Read the sonnet below by Francesco Petrarca (Petrarch) (1304–1374); then answer thequestion that follows.Great Is My Envy of YouGreat is my envy of you, earth, in your greedHolding her in invisible embrace,Denying me the look of the sweet faceWhere I found peace from all my strife at need!Great is my envy of heaven which can leadAnd lock within itself in avariceThat spirit from its lovely biding-placeAnd leave so many others here to bleed!Great is my envy of those souls whose rewardIs the gentle heaven of her company,Which I so fiercely sought beneath these skies!Great is my envy of death whose curt hard swordCarried her whom I called my life away;Me he disdains, and mocks me from her eyes!Petrarch has been called the first writer to represent a Renaissance view of the world, rather than a medieval one. Which element of this poem provides the clearest support for that claim?
- A.
The association of death with avarice
- B.
The presumption that souls live on after death
- C.
The emphasis on the earthy and sensuous
- D.
The personification of abstract concepts
Correct Answer
C. The empHasis on the earthy and sensuousExplanation
The emphasis on the earthy and sensuous in the poem supports the claim that Petrarch represents a Renaissance view of the world. This is because the Renaissance was characterized by a renewed interest in the natural world and the human experience. Petrarch's focus on earthly desires, such as envy and the longing for companionship, aligns with the humanistic values of the Renaissance period. Additionally, his sensual descriptions of the "sweet face" and the "lovely biding-place" reflect a fascination with the physical world and the senses, which was a prominent theme in Renaissance literature.Rate this question:
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- 14.
Read the passage below from Northanger Abbey (1798) by Jane Austen; then answer thequestion that follows.No one who had ever seen Catherine Morland in her infancy would have supposed her born tobe a heroine. Her situation in life, the character of her father and mother, her own person anddisposition, were all equally against her. Her father was a clergyman, without being neglected,or poor, and a very respectable man, though his name was Richard—and he had never beenhandsome. He had a considerable independence besides two good livings—and he was not in theleast addicted to locking up his daughters. Her mother was a woman of useful plain sense, with agood temper, and, what is more remarkable, with a good constitution. She had three sons beforeCatherine was born; and instead of dying in bringing the latter into the world, as anybody mightexpect, she still lived on—lived to have six children more—to see them growing up around her,and enjoy excellent health herself.This passage satirizes elements of which genre?
- A.
Chivalric romance
- B.
Gothic novel
- C.
Sentimental comedy
- D.
Picaresque novel
Correct Answer
B. Gothic novelExplanation
The passage satirizes elements of the gothic novel genre. It presents Catherine Morland, the protagonist, in a way that goes against the typical expectations of a heroine. The description of her ordinary family background and lack of exceptional qualities mocks the exaggerated and melodramatic nature of characters in gothic novels. By highlighting Catherine's unremarkable upbringing and her mother's longevity and good health, the passage subverts the conventions of the gothic genre, which often includes tragic and mysterious events.Rate this question:
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- 15.
Read the excerpt below, from "A Vision Beyond Time and Place" by N. Scott Momaday;then answer the question that follows.When my father was a boy, an old man used to come to [my grandfather] Mammedaty'shouse and pay his respects. He was a lean old man in braids and was impressive in his ageand bearing. His name was Cheney, and he was an arrowmaker. Every morning, my fathertells me, Cheney would paint his wrinkled face, go out, and pray aloud to the rising sun.I often think of old man Cheney, and of his daily devotion to the sun. He was a man whosaw very deeply into the distance, I believe, one whose vision extended far beyond thephysical boundaries of his time and place. In his mind's eye he could integrate all therealities and illusions of the earth and sky; they became for him profoundly intelligibleand whole.Most Indian people are able to see in these terms. It is indeed the basis upon which theyidentify themselves as individuals and as a race. When old man Cheney looked into thesunrise, he saw as far into himself, I suspect, as he saw into the distance. He knewcertainly of his existence and of his place in the scheme of things.In contrast, most of us in this society are afflicted with a kind of cultural nearsightedness.. . . [W]e do not see beyond the buildings and billboards that seem at times to be themonuments of our civilization, and consequently we fail to see into the nature and meaningof our own humanity. Now, more than ever, we might do well to enter upon a vision questof our own, that is, a quest after vision itself.Which of the following best describes the author's meaning of the Native American "vision" he discusses in this essay?
- A.
A firm conviction of the uniqueness of Native American culture
- B.
A psychological insight into the common needs of all human beings
- C.
A unifying perception of the interconnectedness of all things
- D.
A philosophical awareness of the illusion of the material world
Correct Answer
C. A unifying perception of the interconnectedness of all thingsExplanation
The author's meaning of the Native American "vision" he discusses in this essay is a unifying perception of the interconnectedness of all things. This can be inferred from the passage where the author states that most Indian people are able to see in terms of integrating all the realities and illusions of the earth and sky, and that they identify themselves as individuals and as a race based on this perception. The author contrasts this with the cultural nearsightedness of society, indicating that the Native American vision encompasses a broader understanding of the interconnected nature of the world.Rate this question:
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- 16.
Before his twelfth-grade students begin reading the Anglo-Saxon epic Beowulf, the adventures of a mythic Norse warriorhero, the teacher has students write about their personal definitions of heroism. This activity is likely to benefit students primarily by:
- A.
Stimulating student engagement with an important theme in a work they are about to read.
- B.
Helping the teacher assess the students' knowledge of British literary history.
- C.
Encouraging students to use the informal essay as a vehicle for personal expression.
- D.
Providing the teacher with material to use in helping students understand the values of a different society.
Correct Answer
A. Stimulating student engagement with an important theme in a work they are about to read.Explanation
The activity of having students write about their personal definitions of heroism before reading Beowulf would likely benefit students by stimulating their engagement with an important theme in the work they are about to read. By reflecting on their own understanding of heroism, students are more likely to be actively involved in the reading and discussion of Beowulf, as they will already have personal thoughts and ideas to contribute. This activity helps to create a connection between the students' own experiences and the themes explored in the epic, enhancing their overall understanding and appreciation of the text.Rate this question:
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- 17.
A high school English teacher plans instruction to address the writing needs of a student who has difficulty constructing unified paragraphs. Which of the following skills would be most helpful for the teacher to focus on first?
- A.
Varying sentence structure
- B.
Using transitional words
- C.
Developing a topic sentence
- D.
Identifying relevant details
Correct Answer
C. Developing a topic sentenceExplanation
Developing a topic sentence would be most helpful for the teacher to focus on first because a topic sentence is the main idea of a paragraph and helps to establish the focus and unity of the paragraph. By helping the student develop a clear and concise topic sentence, the teacher can provide a solid foundation for constructing unified paragraphs. This skill will enable the student to better organize their thoughts and ensure that each paragraph has a central point, which is essential for effective writing.Rate this question:
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- 18.
Which of the following students would benefit most from the use of word processing equipment for writing?
- A.
Alice, who often needs the teacher's help in choosing a writing topic
- B.
Bernardo, who repeatedly confuses words that have the same pronunciation but are spelled differently
- C.
Delia, who has difficulty making logical transitions between paragraphs
- D.
Neil, who is often discouraged by the time-consuming process of revision
Correct Answer
D. Neil, who is often discouraged by the time-consuming process of revisionExplanation
Neil would benefit most from the use of word processing equipment for writing because it can make the process of revision quicker and easier. Word processing software allows for easy editing, revising, and rearranging of text, which can help Neil feel less discouraged by the time-consuming nature of revision. With word processing equipment, Neil can make changes to his writing more efficiently, saving time and reducing frustration.Rate this question:
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- 19.
Which of the following computer applications would best help students improve their skill in revising written work?
- A.
The editing tools of a word processing program
- B.
The reference materials in a CD-ROM encyclopedia
- C.
The drills created by a spelling software program
- D.
The browser program used to search the Internet
Correct Answer
A. The editing tools of a word processing programExplanation
The editing tools of a word processing program would best help students improve their skill in revising written work. These tools provide features such as spell check, grammar check, and formatting options, which can help students identify and correct errors in their writing. Additionally, word processing programs often have features like track changes and comments, which allow students to receive feedback from teachers or peers and make revisions accordingly. Using these tools can enhance the overall quality and clarity of students' written work.Rate this question:
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- 20.
Which of the following comments by an English teacher would best facilitate student writing during the drafting and revising stages?
- A.
If you think your writing is ready to be published, there can be no spelling, grammar, or punctuation errors in the final version.
- B.
When you state a position in your writing, you should include three details to support your thesis.
- C.
If you need to find a better way to express your ideas, there is nothing wrong with making changes or starting over.
- D.
When people read and evaluate your writing, you should make some of the changes they suggest.
Correct Answer
C. If you need to find a better way to express your ideas, there is nothing wrong with making changes or starting over.Explanation
This comment by an English teacher would best facilitate student writing during the drafting and revising stages because it encourages students to be open to making changes and improvements to their work. It promotes the idea that writing is a process and that it is okay to revise and start over if necessary. This comment also emphasizes the importance of expressing ideas effectively, suggesting that students should strive for clarity and coherence in their writing.Rate this question:
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- 21.
Read the paragraph below from a twelfth-grade student's paper; then answer the questionthat follows.1Many people in our community want to see a new youth center built on Henry Street.2When it comes to activities and entertainment, the teens in this town have too few options.3It is good that the mayor and chief of police support the center, but actions speak louderthan words. 4They are the people who are in a position to move the project forward.Which of the following sentences in the paragraph shown above should the student revise to eliminate the use of a cliché?
- A.
Sentence 1
- B.
Sentence 2
- C.
Sentence 3
- D.
Sentence 4
Correct Answer
C. Sentence 3Explanation
The student should revise sentence 3 to eliminate the use of a cliché.Rate this question:
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- 22.
Mr. Robinson is planning a writing workshop to improve students' writing skills. During a typical class period, which of the following classroom activities should receive the greatest emphasis?
- A.
Whole-class instruction, because this is the most efficient means of introducing students to conventions of writing
- B.
Student writing, because devoting substantial amounts of time to writing practice helps develop writing skills
- C.
Group discussion of student work, because students need to learn how to write with a real purpose for a real audience
- D.
Student-teacher conferences and peer feedback, because beginning writers need critical review of their work
Correct Answer
B. Student writing, because devoting substantial amounts of time to writing practice helps develop writing skillsExplanation
The correct answer is student writing, because devoting substantial amounts of time to writing practice helps develop writing skills. This emphasizes the importance of giving students ample opportunities to practice writing, as practice is crucial for improving their writing abilities. By dedicating significant class time to actual writing, students can actively engage in the writing process, experiment with different techniques, and receive feedback to enhance their skills. This approach allows students to apply what they have learned and develop their own unique writing style.Rate this question:
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- 23.
Read the passage below; then answer the question that follows.The words "for purple mountain majesties" might well have been written with New YorkState's Catskill Mountains in mind. Well-wooded and replete with clear lakes, rushing streams,and roaring waterfalls dropping into deep gorges, the Catskills have long inspired artisticimaginations. During the nineteenth century, the artists of the Hudson River School struggledto depict the distinctive beauty of these spectacular mountains with their combination of mistylight, brilliant color, and awesome topography.Which of the following additional details would best support development of the main point of the passage?
- A.
The Catskills are beautiful but not particularly tall; Slide Mountain, their tallest peak, rises only 4,024 feet above sea level.
- B.
Asher B. Durand, in particular, experimented with the misty light and craggy views of the Catskills in his romantic representations of them.
- C.
During the early twentieth century, developers capitalized on the beauty of the Catskills by building posh resorts there.
- D.
Later artists such as Albert Bierstadt followed the example of the Hudson River School in painting landscapes of the American West.
Correct Answer
B. Asher B. Durand, in particular, experimented with the misty light and craggy views of the Catskills in his romantic representations of them.Explanation
This detail supports the main point of the passage by providing evidence of how the Catskills inspired artistic imaginations, specifically through Asher B. Durand's romantic representations of the misty light and craggy views of the mountains. It shows that artists were captivated by the unique beauty of the Catskills and sought to capture it in their artwork.Rate this question:
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- 24.
Students in a high school English class are learning about similarities and differences between oral and written communication. Which of the following guidelines would be important for students to follow when adapting a written essay for oral presentation?
- A.
Use shorter, less complex sentences, and reinforce the main ideas through repetition.
- B.
Create a varied tone for the presentation by alternating sentences in the active and passive voice.
- C.
Maintain an appropriate level of formality by avoiding any use of first-person pronouns.
- D.
Include as many details and illustrations as possible in the presentation.
Correct Answer
A. Use shorter, less complex sentences, and reinforce the main ideas through repetition.Explanation
When adapting a written essay for oral presentation, it is important for students to use shorter, less complex sentences and reinforce the main ideas through repetition. This is because oral communication is typically more concise and straightforward compared to written communication. By using shorter sentences, the speaker can ensure that the audience can easily understand and follow along. Additionally, reinforcing the main ideas through repetition helps to emphasize key points and ensure that they are effectively communicated and remembered by the audience.Rate this question:
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- 25.
An English language arts teacher designs an activity in which students watch a twenty-minute film with the sound turned off. Periodically, the teacher stops the film, and students discuss what they have seen. This instructional activity is most likely to promote students' critical-viewing skills in which of the following ways?
- A.
Focusing students' attention on differences between visual messages and oral communication
- B.
Helping students identify common film cliches by focusing attention on key images in short film segments
- C.
Focusing students' attention on the relationship between visual imagery and narration in film
- D.
Helping students interpret and evaluate visual images in film by focusing attention on visual effects
Correct Answer
D. Helping students interpret and evaluate visual images in film by focusing attention on visual effectsExplanation
This instructional activity is most likely to promote students' critical-viewing skills by helping them interpret and evaluate visual images in film. By watching the film with the sound turned off and periodically discussing what they have seen, students are encouraged to pay close attention to the visual effects and analyze the meaning behind them. This activity allows students to develop their ability to interpret and evaluate visual images in film, which is a crucial skill for critical viewing.Rate this question:
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- 26.
Students in an English language arts class are working in small groups to produce and videotape mock newscasts. To help students prepare for this activity, the teacher leads a class discussion about videotaped excerpts from nationally televised news programs. During the discussion, the teacher asks, "Why do you think newscasters are often shown in front of recognizable buildings, such as the Capitol or White House?" This question is likely to promote students' understanding of visual media primarily by prompting the students to:
- A.
Analyze the relationship between news and politics in television newscasts.
- B.
Consider how visual images can be used to highlight ideas and influence viewers' perceptions.
- C.
Identify design elements and analyze their function in television newscasts.
- D.
Understand the importance of ensuring that background images are visually appealing.
Correct Answer
B. Consider how visual images can be used to highlight ideas and influence viewers' perceptions.Explanation
The question asks why newscasters are often shown in front of recognizable buildings, such as the Capitol or White House. By asking this question, the teacher is prompting the students to consider how visual images can be used to highlight ideas and influence viewers' perceptions. This suggests that the teacher wants the students to think about the purpose behind using recognizable buildings as a backdrop for newscasts and how this choice of visual image can shape the way viewers perceive the news being presented.Rate this question:
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- 27.
A high school English teacher wants to assess students' ability to make connections between visual images and verbal texts. Which of the following activities would be most appropriate and effective for this purpose?
- A.
Each student writes a brief essay citing several ways in which visual images can be used to enhance verbal texts.
- B.
Students collaborate in small groups to write a movie review that analyzes the movie's cinematic techniques.
- C.
Each student pairs a favorite poem with a photograph or other visual image and then writes a brief rationale for the pairing.
- D.
Students work in small groups to write and perform a skit that focuses on the life and works of a famous artist.
Correct Answer
C. Each student pairs a favorite poem with a pHotograpH or other visual image and then writes a brief rationale for the pairing.Explanation
This activity would be most appropriate and effective for assessing students' ability to make connections between visual images and verbal texts because it requires them to analyze and justify their choices. By pairing a favorite poem with a visual image, students have to consider the themes, tone, and imagery in both the poem and the image, and explain why they believe they complement each other. This activity encourages critical thinking and the ability to make meaningful connections between different forms of media.Rate this question:
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- 28.
Read the paragraph below from a student essay entitled "How to Read a Poem;" thenanswer the two questions that follow.The word meter comes from a word meaning "measure." You measure the meter of a poem byusing three units. The three units are feet, lines, and stanzas. The smallest unit of measurement is the foot. The foot consists of one accented syllable and one or more unaccented syllables. An iamb, for example, is one unaccented syllable followed by one accented syllable. The next unit of measurement is the line. Lines are measured by counting the number of feet they contain. The largest unit of measurement is the stanza. The stanza is composed of a group of lines. The pattern of feet in a stanza can be repeated throughout the poem. You measure the meter of a poem by identifying the types of feet, lines, and stanzas. This is also called scanning.Which of the following revisions should the writer make to improve the style and flow of the paragraph?
- A.
Combining sentences to vary their length and complexity
- B.
Clarifying the logical organization
- C.
Replacing technical terms with simpler vocabulary
- D.
Eliminating unnecessary details
Correct Answer
A. Combining sentences to vary their length and complexityExplanation
The writer should combine sentences to vary their length and complexity in order to improve the style and flow of the paragraph. This will help to create a more engaging and dynamic writing style. By varying sentence length and complexity, the writer can avoid monotony and make the paragraph more interesting to read. Additionally, combining sentences can help to clarify the logical organization of the ideas and make the paragraph more cohesive.Rate this question:
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- 29.
When editing the paragraph, the writer should improve consistency of style by:
- A.
Avoiding shifts in tone.
- B.
Using past-tense verbs to describe the historical evolution of metrical patterns in poetry.
- C.
Maintaining formality of diction.
- D.
Eliminating shifts between third person and second-person point of view.
Correct Answer
D. Eliminating shifts between third person and second-person point of view.Explanation
The correct answer is eliminating shifts between third person and second-person point of view. This is because consistency in point of view is important for maintaining a clear and coherent writing style. Shifting between third person (he, she, they) and second person (you) can confuse the reader and disrupt the flow of the paragraph. By eliminating these shifts, the writer can ensure that the paragraph maintains a consistent and unified perspective.Rate this question:
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- 30.
Read the information below; then answer the two questions that follow.Carmen and Derrick ask their English language arts teacher for help in understanding thefollowing passage from the biology textbook they use in their science class. The teacher suggests that they begin by discussing the text with each other—sharing their thoughts and questions about the passage.Certain conditions, including appropriate temperatures and proper amounts of water andoxygen, must be present for a seed to sprout and grow. For many seeds, a period of rest isnecessary before they can germinate. A seed may lie dormant for a single year or manyyears, but when conditions are right, the seed will sprout. For some species of plants, theseed's own chemical inhibitors temporarily prevent it from germinating. These inhibitors maybe washed away by rainwater or eliminated by prolonged exposure to cold.Derrick: Most of this stuff is easy. Everyone knows that seeds need the right weather to grow.But I don't exactly get this word "germinate." You know what it means?Carmen: I've heard it before . . . Doesn't it just mean sprout?Derrick: How do you figure that?Carmen: Look [points to text], some of the sentences say sprout and other sentences saygerminate, and it seems like they're talking about the same thing. Then there's thisother part about things that keep seeds from sprouting, like cold weather or pollution.Derrick: I don't remember anything about pollution. Where did you read that?Carmen: This part about chemicals.Derrick: But look, it says the seed's own chemical inhibitors. I'm not sure what inhibitors are,but I think the chemicals come from the seed, not pollution.Carmen: Oh, I get it. That's what keeps the seed dormant.Derrick: And dormant is . . . ?Carmen: Resting. You know, like when a bear hibernates.In her comment about bears, Carmen most clearly demonstrates the ability to:
- A.
Create meaning based on personal interests.
- B.
Use context clues to determine meaning.
- C.
Monitor her own comprehension as she reads.
- D.
Construct meaning by linking prior knowledge to new information.
Correct Answer
D. Construct meaning by linking prior knowledge to new information.Explanation
In her comment about bears hibernating, Carmen is connecting her prior knowledge of bears and their behavior to the concept of seeds being dormant. This shows that she is able to construct meaning by linking her prior knowledge to the new information she is reading.Rate this question:
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- 31.
For Carmen and Derrick, which of the following activities would most effectively promote learning through interactions among reading, writing, speaking, listening, and viewing?
- A.
Watching a film that demonstrates the germination process and then working together on a brief essay describing that process
- B.
Rereading the passage aloud and then working together to create a summary outline of the text
- C.
Working together to design a poster consisting of visual displays related to the passage
- D.
Conducting additional research using print and computer resources and then working together on an oral and visual presentation
Correct Answer
D. Conducting additional research using print and computer resources and then working together on an oral and visual presentationExplanation
Conducting additional research using print and computer resources and then working together on an oral and visual presentation would most effectively promote learning through interactions among reading, writing, speaking, listening, and viewing. This activity involves reading and analyzing various sources, writing and organizing information for the presentation, speaking and listening during the collaborative process, and viewing visual aids during the presentation. It integrates multiple language skills and encourages active engagement and collaboration among Carmen and Derrick.Rate this question:
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- 32.
Read the information below; then answer the two questions that follow.Students in an eighth-grade class are preparing brief oral presentations as the culminatingactivity in an English language arts project. Students' parents/guardians, as well as classmates and teachers, will form the audience for the oral presentations. The teacher helps students analyze the purpose of their presentations, the expectations of the audience, the structure and wording of their presentations, the use of visual aids, elements of effective speech delivery, and response strategies for follow-up questions.As students begin drafting scripts for theiroral presentations, the teacher hands outand discusses the guidelines listed below.• Begin by providing an overviewof the main points thatwill be covered in your oralpresentation.• End with a summary of the mainpoints that were presented.• Use transitions to indicate whereone idea ends and the nextbegins.Which of the following additional guidelines for scripting oral presentations would be most important for the teacher to include in this list?
- A.
Document your main ideas by pausing periodically to describe the sources you consulted when preparing your oral presentation.
- B.
Summarize information from literary texts rather than using direct quotations in your oral presentation.
- C.
Engage the audience during your oral presentation by varying your sentence structure to include a number of complex sentences.
- D.
Provide strong supporting examples to clarify and illustrate the main ideas of your oral presentation.
Correct Answer
D. Provide strong supporting examples to clarify and illustrate the main ideas of your oral presentation.Explanation
The most important guideline for scripting oral presentations would be to provide strong supporting examples to clarify and illustrate the main ideas. This is important because it helps the audience understand and visualize the concepts being presented. Strong supporting examples can make the presentation more engaging and memorable for the audience. It also demonstrates the speaker's knowledge and understanding of the topic.Rate this question:
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- 33.
Which of the following recommendations would be most appropriate for the teacher to make when advising students about visual aids for their oral presentations?
- A.
Limit the use of visual aids to the opening and closing sections of your oral presentation.
- B.
Use visual aids to help highlight and clarify important ideas in your oral presentation.
- C.
Maintain visual continuity by using no more than two different colors in the visual aids.
- D.
Highlight meaning by introducing a different type of visual aid for each new idea in your oral presentation.
Correct Answer
B. Use visual aids to help highlight and clarify important ideas in your oral presentation.Explanation
The most appropriate recommendation for the teacher to make when advising students about visual aids for their oral presentations is to use visual aids to help highlight and clarify important ideas. This suggestion aligns with the purpose of visual aids, which is to enhance understanding and retention of information. By using visual aids strategically, students can effectively communicate key points and engage their audience.Rate this question:
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- 34.
Read the information below; then answer the two questions that follow.Students in a high school language arts class are reading "The Seafarer" by an unknown Anglo-Saxon poet and "Ulysses" (1842) by Alfred Lord Tennyson. Printed below are excerpts from each work.from The SeafarerBut there isn't a man on earth so proud,So born to greatness, so bold with his youth,Grown so brave, or so graced by God,That he feels no fear as the sails unfurl,Wondering what Fate has willed and will do.No harps ring in his heart, no rewards,No passion for women, no worldlypleasures,Nothing, only the ocean's heave;But longing wraps itself around him.Orchards blossom, the towns bloom,Fields grow lovely as the world springsfresh,And all these admonish that willing mindLeaping to journeys, always setIn thoughts traveling on a quickeningtide. . . .Who could understand,In ignorant ease, what others sufferAs the paths of exile stretch endlessly on?And yet my heart wanders away,My soul roams with the sea, the whales'Home, wandering to the widest cornersOf the world, returning ravenous withdesire,Flying solitary, screaming, exciting meTo the open ocean, breaking oathsOn the curve of a wave.from UlyssesDeath closes all; but something ere theend,Some work of noble note, may yet be done,Not unbecoming men that strove with Gods.The lights begin to twinkle from the rocks;The long day wanes; the slow moon climbs;the deepMoans round with many voices. Come, myfriends,'Tis not too late to seek a newer world.Push off, and sitting well in order smiteThe sounding furrows; for my purpose holdsTo sail beyond the sunset, and the bathsOf all the western stars, until I die.It may be that the gulfs will wash us down;It may be we shall touch the Happy Isles,And see the great Achilles, whom we knew.Though much is taken, much abides; andthoughWe are not now that strength which in olddaysMoved earth and heaven, that which we are,we are—One equal temper of heroic hearts,Made weak by time and fate, but strong inwillTo strive, to seek, to find, and not to yield.Which of the following questions about "Ulysses" is most likely to stimulate students' analytical thinking?
- A.
What conclusions can you draw about the society from which the poem emerged?
- B.
What figures of speech can you find in the poem?
- C.
How do Ulysses' current circumstances contrast with his previous experiences?
- D.
What is the predominant mood of the poem?
Correct Answer
A. What conclusions can you draw about the society from which the poem emerged?Explanation
The question about drawing conclusions about the society from which the poem emerged is most likely to stimulate students' analytical thinking because it requires them to analyze the historical and cultural context of the poem. It prompts them to consider the values, beliefs, and social norms of the society in which the poem was written, and how these factors might have influenced the themes and ideas expressed in the poem. This question encourages critical thinking and the exploration of broader themes beyond the text itself.Rate this question:
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- 35.
The teacher gives students the followingwriting assignment:"The Seafarer" and "Ulysses" expressdifferent views of the attractions andchallenges of the sea. If you think ofyour life as a voyage through excitingbut often dangerous seas, whichcharacter seems to you more likeyourself? Write a short essay inwhich you respond to this question.This exercise would best address which of the following instructional goals?
- A.
Promoting students' ability to analyze thematic differences between literary works from different periods
- B.
Enabling students to use writing as a vehicle for personal exploration and self-expression
- C.
Encouraging students to adapt for their own expressive purposes literary techniques found in their reading
- D.
Providing students with an opportunity to practice techniques of persuasion in writing
Correct Answer
B. Enabling students to use writing as a vehicle for personal exploration and self-expressionExplanation
The question asks students to reflect on their own experiences and compare themselves to a character from a literary work. By writing a short essay in response to this question, students are able to use writing as a means of personal exploration and self-expression. They are encouraged to delve into their own thoughts and feelings, and express themselves through their writing. This exercise allows students to use writing as a tool to explore their own identity and connect it to the themes and characters in the literary works.Rate this question:
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- 36.
Use the information below to answer the two questions that follow.A teacher has developed a self-evaluation log for students to use to keep track of what and how they read. While students are reading a new book, they participate in a variety of individual and/or small-group reader response activities. They make entries in the log to evaluate their progress. Below is an entry completed by 14-year-old Rosa.Title/AuthorJulie of theWolves by JeanCraigherdGeorgeTeacher comments:GenrerealisticfictionGoalI wanted to reada book about a girlwho is brave andsurvives. I wantedto know what canhelp someonesurvive.Personal ChallengeLevel 1–10 / Explain8. The middle ofthe book wasconfusing. All of asudden it changesthe subject. Itwas hard to figureout because theyhad Eskimo names.Our group figuredout it was aflashback.Did I accomplishmy goal?Yes. Julie wasbrave, she wasdetermined.What her fatherhad taught herhelped her a lot. A new goal for me with my next reading project is: I want to read another book with a flashback so I can figure it out myself. Did this author write any other books with flashbacks?Which of the following strengths does Rosa demonstrate in this entry?
- A.
A growing awareness of literary technique
- B.
The ability to make predictions as she reads
- C.
A growing appreciation for diverse perspectives
- D.
The ability to summarize what she has read
Correct Answer
A. A growing awareness of literary techniqueExplanation
In this entry, Rosa demonstrates a growing awareness of literary technique. She mentions that the middle of the book was confusing because it suddenly changes the subject and introduces a flashback. However, Rosa and her group were able to figure out that it was a flashback. This shows that Rosa is becoming more aware of different literary techniques, such as flashbacks, and is able to identify and understand them in her reading.Rate this question:
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- 37.
The teacher would like to use the selfevaluation log to promote Rosa's comprehension by helping her connect the reading with personal experience. When conferencing with Rosa, the teacher could best address this goal by asking her to explain:
- A.
Why she wanted to read a book about a girl who is brave.
- B.
The specific scene in the book where her confusion began.
- C.
Her understanding of Julie's character.
- D.
How she would summarize the theme of the novel.
Correct Answer
A. Why she wanted to read a book about a girl who is brave.Explanation
The teacher would like to use the self-evaluation log to promote Rosa's comprehension by helping her connect the reading with personal experience. By asking Rosa why she wanted to read a book about a girl who is brave, the teacher is encouraging Rosa to make a personal connection to the text and reflect on her own motivations and interests. This will help Rosa deepen her understanding of the book and make it more meaningful to her.Rate this question:
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