FREE NeSA Reading Questions and Answers

Question 1

What is the main idea of a paragraph?

Accepted Answer

The primary point or concept

Answer

The main idea of a paragraph is the central point, message, or concept that the author wants to convey. All other sentences and details within the paragraph typically serve to support, explain, or elaborate on this primary point, making it the overarching theme.

Question 2

Which of the following best describes the author's purpose in writing a persuasive text?

Accepted Answer

To convince the reader to accept a certain viewpoint

Answer

The primary purpose of an author writing a persuasive text is to convince the reader to accept a particular viewpoint, belief, or argument. This is achieved by presenting evidence, logical reasoning, and rhetorical appeals designed to sway the reader's opinion or encourage a specific action.

Question 3

In a story, what is the climax?

Accepted Answer

The highest point of tension or conflict

Answer

In a story, the climax is the pivotal moment of highest tension, conflict, or emotional intensity. It is the turning point where the main character confronts the central conflict, and the outcome of the story becomes clear or is decided, leading to the falling action and resolution.

Question 4

What is the meaning of the word "gregarious" as used in the sentence:
"She was a gregarious person, always enjoying the company of others"?

Accepted Answer

Sociable

Answer

The sentence provides a clear context clue: 'always enjoying the company of others.' This phrase directly describes someone who is outgoing and enjoys social interaction. Therefore, 'gregarious' means sociable, as it refers to a person who is fond of company.

Question 5

Which literary device is used in the following sentence: "The leaves danced in the wind"?

Accepted Answer

Personification

Answer

Personification is a literary device where human qualities or actions are attributed to inanimate objects or abstract ideas. In the sentence 'The leaves danced in the wind,' the action 'danced' is a human characteristic given to the inanimate 'leaves.' This makes 'Personification' the correct literary device.

NeSA - Nebraska State Accountability Practice Test

NeSA - Nebraska State Accountability Practice Test

FREE NeSA Reading Questions and Answers