HSPT Reading Comprehension 2

Question 1

What is 'context clues' in reading?

Accepted Answer

Words and phrases surrounding an unknown word that help determine its meaning

Answer

Context clues are hints found in the surrounding text — including synonyms, antonyms, examples, and definitions — that help readers figure out the meaning of unfamiliar words.

Question 2

An author's 'tone' in a passage refers to:

Accepted Answer

The author's attitude toward the subject expressed through word choice and style

Answer

Tone reflects the author's attitude or feelings about the subject matter, conveyed through word choice, sentence structure, and stylistic decisions.

Question 3

What is the primary difference between 'summarizing' and 'paraphrasing'?

Accepted Answer

Summarizing condenses the main ideas; paraphrasing restates specific text in your own words at similar length

Answer

Summarizing captures the essential points in condensed form, while paraphrasing restates a specific passage in your own words at approximately the same length.

Question 4

When a passage uses chronological order, events are organized by:

Accepted Answer

Time sequence — the order in which events occurred

Answer

Chronological order arranges events in the order they happened in time, from earliest to latest, which is especially common in narratives and historical texts.

Question 5

What is the author's purpose if a passage primarily tries to convince the reader of something?

Accepted Answer

To persuade

Answer

When an author's primary goal is to convince the reader to accept a particular viewpoint or take action, the purpose is to persuade.

HSPT Practice Test

HSPT Practice Test

HSPT Reading Comprehension 2