Practice 1: Vocabulary words using Context Clues

Answer Key

1. Phenomenon = an unusual event or occurrence (clue: "or unusual event").

2. Serene = calm and peaceful (clue: "calm, as if nothing could disturb her").

3. Scorching = very hot (clue: "but the nights were cold," showing contrast).

4. Omnivorous = eating both plants and animals (clue: examples include "berries, insects, and small mammals").

5. Apprehensive = nervous or anxious (clue: "he hadn’t studied much and was worried he might fail").

Practice 3: Use context clues in the sentence to figure out the meaning of each new word. 

1. Caveat
   (kăv-ē-ăt), n.
   A warning or condition that must be considered before proceeding.

2. Sycophant
   (sĭk-ə-fănt), n.
   A person who excessively flatters or praises someone in authority to gain favor.

3. Obfuscate
   (ŏb-fŭs-kāt), v.
   To deliberately make something unclear or difficult to understand.

4. Ebullient
   (ĭ-bŭl-yənt), adj.
   Overflowing with enthusiasm, energy, or excitement.

Paragraph #2: 

Topic: American Civil War

Main Idea: #6: Clearly, the American Civil War was a pivotal event in the nation's history. 

Major Details: 1, 4, 5

1Fought primarily over the issue of slavery, the American Civil War, which ran from 1861 to 1865, resulted in the deaths of hundreds of thousands of soldiers and civilians. 2Approximately 360,000 Union soldiers and 258 Confederate soldiers died during that time, as well as nearly 50,000 civilians. 3Most of these civilian deaths were in the South since that is where most of the battles occurred. 4The conflict also led to the destruction of property and infrastructure across the South. 5Ultimately, the Union victory and the subsequent passage of the 13th, 14th, and 15th Amendments brought an end to slavery and granted citizenship and voting rights to African Americans. 6Clearly, the American Civil War was a pivotal event in the nation’s history. 

Paragraph #3: 

Topic: Cornell Notes

Main Idea: #1: Cornell Notes have several benefits. 

Major Details: 2, 4, 7, 8

1Cornell Notes have several benefits. 2First, they help keep notes neat and systematically arranged. 3It is easier to find what we are looking for if we have a consistent system.  4Additionally, taking Cornell Notes promotes active learning because we have to think through things in order to organize ideas and sum up in our own words. 5It doesn't allow us to just read or listen passively. 6This active engagement makes us more likely to remember the material.  7Cornell Notes also provide us with a solid way to review material.  8Finally, the system is adaptable. 9It works for taking lecture notes or notes from reading material such as textbook chapters and research articles. 10We can make the system work for us by color-coding, using symbols and pictures, or taking notes digitally. 

Practice 2: Fact and Opinion Practice in Context

1. Find the value and judgement words which clue us in to any statements of opinion. 

2. Which 2 sentences are facts? Sentences #1 and #2 are facts. 

3. Overall, what is the main idea of the paragraph? The main idea is that we should use AI responsibly. 

4. Is this main idea of this paragraph a fact or opinion? It is an opinion. 

1Artificial intelligence (AI) has several exciting benefits we should all take advantage of. 2AI now is used in everything from healthcare to education. 3For example, AI-powered tools help doctors diagnose diseases and provide personalized learning experiences for students. 4 It really is not even necessary for anyone to go to school anymore, since every job can be done with AI. 5Those who do decide to attend school should have AI do their homework with the push of a button. 6"Original" essays and thoughtful personal opinions can be created in seconds on any topic under the sun. 7It is especially wise to have AI write longer essays since it is impossible to write hundreds of words with today's busy lifestyles. 8AI also brainstorms and generates better ideas than students can on their own, so there is no need to spend time thinking, reading, or researching! 9In our daily lives, AI is also there to create the most helpful time management plans, the tastiest meal plans, and financial budgets which will make us all wealthier. 10Since AI is more creative and smarter than each of us individually, we should use it whenever we can without worrying about the "best" way to use it. 

Practice 2: Choose Whether Each Paragraph Was Written to Inform, Persuade, or Entertain. Find the Clues for Each. 

Paragraph 1 was written to INFORM. Notice there are facts, but limited or no opinions and emotions from the writer. 

Energy drinks are caffeinated beverages designed to temporarily boost alertness and energy. Popular brands often feature ingredients like caffeine, taurine, B vitamins, and herbal extracts such as guarana or ginseng. On average, a single can contains about 80-300 milligrams of caffeine—equivalent to 1-3 cups of coffee—along with high levels of sugar or artificial sweeteners. While they can help increase focus and combat fatigue in the short term, energy drinks come with potential downsides. Overconsumption can cause symptoms like headaches, rapid heart rate, digestive issues, or sleep disturbances. The FDA warns against consuming more than 400 milligrams of caffeine per day, and excessive intake can be especially dangerous for young adults, athletes, or individuals with underlying heart conditions. Studies suggest that moderation is key, and pairing energy drinks with hydration and balanced meals can minimize risks. 

Paragraph 2 was written to ENTERTAIN. Notice there are exaggerations, humorous adjectives, and lighthearted examples. 

Energy drinks: the magical potions that transform sleep-deprived students into jittery overachievers. One sip, and suddenly, you’re ready to tackle a ten-page paper, clean your room for the first time all semester, and maybe even solve the mysteries of the universe—if your shaky hands don’t spill your drink first. But beware, these sugary supercharges come with a catch. That 3 a.m. energy high? It’s followed by a crash so epic you’ll feel like you just fought in a caffeine-powered boxing match. Your brain shuts down, your body protests, and you’re left wondering why something named “Tropical Lightning” has betrayed you. Still, when finals week comes calling, many of us are willing to risk it. After all, who needs sleep when you have neon-colored liquid courage? 

Paragraph 3 was written to PERSUADE. Notice the opinion words, rhetorical questions, and passion of the writer. 

Energy drinks promise to keep you awake through your midnight study session, but at what cost? Packed with caffeine, sugar, and artificial additives, energy drinks provide a fleeting buzz followed by a sharp crash that leaves you more exhausted than before. Worse, the long-term effects can be hazardous. Studies have linked overconsumption to increased risks of heart palpitations, anxiety, and even chronic conditions like high blood pressure. And let’s not forget your wallet—those cans aren’t cheap, often costing $3-$5 each! Instead of relying on these chemical cocktails, why not opt for healthier, sustainable solutions? Drinking water, eating protein-rich snacks, and maintaining a consistent sleep schedule are far better for your body and mind. Do yourself a favor: skip the flashy packaging and focus on fueling your energy the natural way. Your future self will thank you! 

Practice 4: Identify and Evaluate Each Argument. 

Paragraph 1

1Renewable energy is the key to a sustainable future due to its environmental benefits, economic potential, and technological advancements. 2Unlike fossil fuels, renewable energy sources such as solar and wind produce minimal greenhouse gas emissions, making them essential in combating climate change. 3According to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), transitioning to renewables could reduce global CO2 emissions by 70% by 2050. 4Economically, renewables are becoming more competitive; the cost of solar energy, for instance, has dropped by more than 80% in the past decade, making it affordable for more communities. 5Furthermore, advancements in energy storage technologies, like lithium-ion batteries, ensure consistent energy supply even during low production periods. 6With these benefits, investing in renewable energy is not only practical, but ethical as well. 

1. State the writer's claim (main idea). 

Renewable energy is the key to a sustainable future. Sentence #1 states this claim, and sentence #6 repeats this claim in a slightly different way at the end. 

2. Identify the statements of support (major details). 

#2, #4, #5

3. Is the evidence reliable, relevant, and logical? Explain. 

Yes, the data is relevant and logical, and directly supports the claim. More details would be helpful however, and reading about counterclaims may provide a more complete picture of a complicated issue. 

Paragraph 2

1Incorporating financial literacy into school curriculums equips students with essential skills for adulthood. 2Research by the National Endowment for Financial Education shows that individuals who receive financial education are more likely to make informed decisions about saving, investing, and budgeting. 3Early exposure to concepts such as compound interest and credit management helps students avoid common pitfalls such as excessive debt and poor savings habits. 4Additionally, teaching financial literacy reduces economic disparities by empowering students from diverse backgrounds with knowledge to build wealth and financial stability. 5By prioritizing this education, schools can prepare students for long-term success in an increasingly complex economic landscape. 

1. State the writer's claim (main idea). 

Sentence #1 states the author's claim: Incorporating financial literacy into school curriculums equips students with essential skills for adulthood. 

2. Identify the statements of support (major details).

#2, #3, #4

3. Is the evidence reliable, relevant. and logical? Explain. 

Yes, the data is relevant and logical, and directly supports the claim. 

Paragraph 3

1Shifting to a four-day work week enhances productivity, improves mental health, and benefits the environment. 2Studies from Iceland's large-scale trials in 2015-2019 revealed that employees maintained or increased productivity while working fewer hours. 3Moreover, having an additional day off allows workers to recharge, reducing burnout and improving overall job satisfaction. 4This change also encourages environmentally friendly practices; with fewer commutes, carbon emissions from vehicles are significantly reduced. 5For example, a 20% reduction in commuting days could lead to a measurable decline in air pollution in urban areas. 6The four-day work week is a progressive step toward healthier, more sustainable lifestyles. 

1. State the writer's claim (main idea).  

A 4-day work week is a good idea. Sentences #1 makes this claim, and sentence #6 restates it at the end. 

2. Identify the statements of support (major details). 

#2, #3, #4

3. Is the evidence reliable, relevant, and logical? Explain. 

Yes, the data is relevant and logical, and directly supports the claim. 

Here are reading comprehension and inference-based questions for the provided text:

Reading Comprehension Questions

1. What time of year does this story take place, and what clues from the text support your answer?
   (Answer: The story takes place on June 15, as mentioned in the opening sentence.)

2. What task is Lincoln Stewart performing when the story begins?
   (Answer: Lincoln is riding a sulky corn-plow, guiding the shovels with his feet.)

3. What plan does Milton Jennings propose to Lincoln, and who else is involved in the plan?
   (Answer: Milton proposes going to Clear Lake, involving Lincoln and Rance, and borrowing items like Bert Jenks’s boat and Captain Knapp’s tent.)

4. How does Lincoln feel about the idea of going to Clear Lake, and how is this shown in the text?
   (Answer: Lincoln is very excited, as shown by his glowing face, leaping off the fence, singing at work, and whooping with delight.)

Inference-Based Questions

1. Why might Lincoln have been hesitant about Milton asking his father for permission?
   (Possible inference: Lincoln knows his father values hard work and might be reluctant to let him take time off during the busy farming season.)

2. What does the author suggest about the boys’ lives through their excitement about visiting Clear Lake?
   (Possible inference: The boys likely live in a rural area with limited opportunities for recreation, making the prospect of visiting a large lake very thrilling.)

3. Why do you think Milton agrees to help Lincoln with his farming chores after getting permission for the trip?
   (Possible inference: Milton understands that Lincoln has responsibilities and wants to ensure the trip is possible by helping lighten his workload.)

4. What can you infer about the boys’ level of experience with camping or large bodies of water?
   (Possible inference: The boys are inexperienced with both, as shown by their careful planning and mention of never having seen a body of water larger than the mill-pond.)

5. Why does the author include the detail about Lincoln plowing up two rows of corn in excitement?
   (Possible inference: This detail emphasizes Lincoln’s youthful exuberance and how the promise of adventure overshadows his usual focus on work.)

These questions aim to engage students with the text, encouraging both surface-level understanding and deeper analysis through inference.

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