The desert is a harsh environment, especially when drought strikes. During a drought, water becomes scarce and the air is dry and arid. Plant life is sparse and animals struggle to find food and water. Without regular rainfall, the landscape becomes a parched wasteland, leaving the inhabitants with little hope for survival. The lack of water leads to dust storms and other extreme weather events, making life in the desert even more difficult.

What best describes the ideas in the passage?

(1 point)

The harshness of the desert environment during a drought and the effects it has on water availability, plant and animal life, and overall survival in the area.

Money management issues are an all too common thing for many people. From spending too much, to not budgeting and saving for the future, to getting into debt, the list of potential issues goes on and on. If you’re struggling with money management, it’s important to take stock of the situation and create a plan to get yourself back on track.

What best describes the ideas in the passage?

(1 point)
Responses

Contrast

Description

Problem and Solution

Comparison

Problem and Solution

When it comes to making decisions, judges must always be cautious and thoughtful. They must consider all of the evidence presented and make an impartial decision based on the facts. However, there are times when a judge may make a ruling and then reiterate certain points. This often occurs when a judge is trying to emphasize a point or make a particular point clear to the parties involved.

Which word means the same as reiterate as it is used in the passage?

(1 point)
Responses

random

repeat

Compare

struggle

repeat

Limestone is a type of sedimentary rock formed by the accumulation of shells of marine organisms, such as coral and mollusks, or by the precipitation of calcium carbonate from ocean water. This sediment is often referred to as a 'blanket' of sediment because it covers the surface of the earth in a thin layer, similar to a blanket draped over a bed. It is an incredibly versatile material, used in everything from construction to jewelry. It is also the main ingredient in a variety of products, including cement, paint, paper, and glass.

Identify the analogy from the paragraph.

(1 point)

blanket drapes over a bed

Which of the following does NOT describe an allusion?(1 point)

Responses

An indirect reference.

When a writer or speaker mentions a well-known person, character, place, or event that a writer makes to deepen the reader’s understanding of their work.

A literary device used to communicate a lot of meaning without explicitly saying what you mean.

A statement that is falsely believed.

A statement that is falsely believed.

Identify which of the following sentences is NOT an allusion.(1 point)

Responses

I really fell down the rabbit hole while researching my essay.
I really fell down the rabbit hole while researching my essay.

Pizza is my kryptonite.
Pizza is my kryptonite.

He was as hungry as a horse.
He was as hungry as a horse.

Sadie’s backyard was a real Eden.