IREAD-3 Indiana Reading Evaluation and Determination Assessment — Questions and Answers

Question 1: A student reads a story about a dog that saves a child from a fire. Which sentence best describes the PLOT of this story?

A brave dog rescues a child who is in danger. (Correct answer)
The dog is the main character.
The story takes place in a house.
The story has a dog and a child as characters.

Correct answer: A brave dog rescues a child who is in danger.

The plot describes what happens in the story — the main events and actions, not just the characters or setting.

Question 2: Which pair of words are ANTONYMS?

quick / speedy
cold / freezing
brave / cowardly (Correct answer)
happy / joyful

Correct answer: brave / cowardly

Antonyms are words with opposite meanings, and 'brave' and 'cowardly' are opposites.

Question 3: Which signal words BEST indicate a cause and effect text structure?

However, on the other hand, but
First, second, then, finally
Because, as a result, therefore (Correct answer)
For example, such as, including

Correct answer: Because, as a result, therefore

Words like because, as a result, and therefore show that one event caused another, signaling cause and effect structure.

Question 4: A reader finishes a passage about recycling and wants to check the main idea. The BEST way is to —

reread the first and last sentences to find the central message. (Correct answer)
list every fact mentioned in the passage.
find the longest sentence in the passage.
count how many times the word 'recycling' appears.

Correct answer: reread the first and last sentences to find the central message.

The first and last sentences often contain the topic introduction and the concluding main idea statement.

Question 5: Which of the following questions would help a reader identify the theme of a story?

Where does the story take place?
What is the biggest event that happens?
What is the author's message or the lesson learned? (Correct answer)
Who is the main character?

Correct answer: What is the author's message or the lesson learned?

The theme of a story is the central idea, message, or moral that the author wants to convey. Asking 'What is the lesson?' helps the reader think about the deeper meaning of the story.

Question 6: The part of the story where the characters are introduced and the setting is described is called the...

Problem
Solution
Beginning (Correct answer)
Ending

Correct answer: Beginning

The beginning of a story, also known as the exposition, is where the author introduces the main characters and establishes the setting. This sets the stage for the events that will follow.

Question 7: A passage says, 'First, the caterpillar hatches from an egg. Next, it grows into a caterpillar. Then, it forms a chrysalis. Finally, it becomes a butterfly.' What text structure is this?

Sequence (Correct answer)
Description
Compare and contrast
Problem and solution

Correct answer: Sequence

The words first, next, then, and finally signal that events are listed in order, which is sequence structure.

Question 8: Which of the following best describes the 'cause and effect' text structure?

It provides a detailed description of a topic.
It explains why something happened and what the results were. (Correct answer)
It discusses the similarities and differences between two things.
It presents events in the order they happened.

Correct answer: It explains why something happened and what the results were.

The cause and effect text structure is used to explain an event (the cause) and the events that follow as a result (the effects).

Question 9: Read the sentence: 'The scientist was meticulous in her research, double-checking every measurement and recording every detail with great care and precision.' What does meticulous mean?

careless and rushed
fast and efficient
creative and imaginative
very careful and precise (Correct answer)

Correct answer: very careful and precise

Double-checking measurements and recording every detail with precision describes someone who is very careful, which is meticulous.

Question 10: In a story, the author writes that autumn leaves 'danced in the wind.' What does this phrase really mean?

The leaves were moving gracefully in the wind. (Correct answer)
The leaves were falling off the trees.
The leaves were doing a dance performance.
The wind was blowing very hard.

Correct answer: The leaves were moving gracefully in the wind.

Saying leaves 'danced' is figurative language that means the leaves were moving in a lively, graceful way in the wind.

Question 11: Read: 'Ancient Egyptians built massive pyramids. Thousands of workers moved giant stone blocks. Engineers planned every detail carefully. The pyramids still stand today, thousands of years later.' The detail that BEST supports the main idea that pyramid building required great effort is —

Egypt is located in Africa near the Nile River.
Ancient Egyptians lived thousands of years ago.
The pyramids still stand today.
Thousands of workers moved giant stone blocks. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Thousands of workers moved giant stone blocks.

Thousands of workers moving huge stones gives a concrete picture of the massive effort required.

Question 12: Which text structure would BEST help a reader understand the steps for planting a garden?

Cause and effect
Description
Compare and contrast
Sequence (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Sequence

Planting a garden involves following steps in a specific order, so sequence text structure works best.

Question 13: In the story of 'The Three Little Pigs,' the wolf is the:

Protagonist
Narrator
Antagonist (Correct answer)
Theme

Correct answer: Antagonist

The antagonist creates the conflict by working against the main characters.

Question 14: Read the sentence: The path was very narrow, so we had to walk in a single file line. Which word means the same as 'narrow'?

Thin (Correct answer)
Rocky
Wide
Long

Correct answer: Thin

The word 'thin' is a synonym for 'narrow'. Both words describe something that is not wide. The context of walking in a single file line helps show that the path was not wide.

Question 15: Read the sentence: 'After being stranded on the island for a week, the survivors were ecstatic when they finally spotted a rescue boat on the horizon.' What does ecstatic mean?

worried and unsure
deeply sad and hopeless
overjoyed and thrilled (Correct answer)
too tired to react

Correct answer: overjoyed and thrilled

Being rescued after a frightening experience would cause overwhelming happiness, so ecstatic means overjoyed.

Question 16: Read the story. Timmy the turtle was afraid to race against Rabbit. 'He is too fast,' Timmy said. 'I will never win.' But his friend, Squeaky the Squirrel, cheered for him. 'Just do your best and don't give up!' Timmy took a deep breath, and although he was slow, he kept moving steadily toward the finish line. Which word best describes Timmy's character at the end of the story?

Persistent (Correct answer)
Silly
Angry
Fast

Correct answer: Persistent

Persistent means to keep trying and not give up, even when something is difficult. Although Timmy was slow and scared, he kept moving steadily and didn't quit the race.

Question 17: Why is it helpful to identify the text structure of a nonfiction passage before reading?

It helps you predict how information will be organized (Correct answer)
It shows you what pictures to look for
It tells you who wrote the passage
It tells you whether the passage is fiction or nonfiction

Correct answer: It helps you predict how information will be organized

Knowing the text structure helps readers predict how ideas will be arranged, making the passage easier to understand.

Question 18: A student reads: 'The library has thousands of books. It also has computers and magazines. People can borrow movies and music too. The library is a great place to learn and explore.' The main idea is that the library —

offers many different resources for learning. (Correct answer)
lends movies and music to visitors.
has thousands of books for reading.
is a quiet place to study after school.

Correct answer: offers many different resources for learning.

The passage lists books, computers, magazines, movies, and music to show the library has many learning resources.

Question 19: A passage states: 'Dogs make great pets for active families. They need exercise and enjoy playing outdoors. They are also loyal companions.' What is the MAIN purpose of this text structure?

To describe the qualities of dogs (Correct answer)
To explain steps for owning a dog
To show why dogs cause problems
To compare dogs to other pets

Correct answer: To describe the qualities of dogs

The passage lists qualities and characteristics of dogs, which is the purpose of description text structure.

Question 20: A passage explains that Indiana's state bird is the cardinal and describes where cardinals live. What is the author's purpose?

To persuade readers to protect cardinals
To describe the author's pet cardinal
To inform readers about the cardinal and its habitat (Correct answer)
To entertain readers with a story about a cardinal

Correct answer: To inform readers about the cardinal and its habitat

Describing a real animal's characteristics and habitat is the purpose of informational writing.

Question 21: A story's narrator explains that the main character is always early, keeps lists, and double-checks her work. What do these details MOST LIKELY suggest about her?

She is organized and responsible. (Correct answer)
She is careless.
She is the story's villain.
She does not enjoy school.

Correct answer: She is organized and responsible.

Being early, making lists, and checking work are actions that show organization and responsibility.

Question 22: Which of the following best describes the intended societal impact of Indiana's third-grade reading law?

To build a stronger workforce and citizenry by ensuring broad foundational literacy (Correct answer)
To increase competition between schools for higher IREAD-3 rankings
To reduce state education spending by identifying students who will not succeed
To shift reading instruction responsibility from schools to families

Correct answer: To build a stronger workforce and citizenry by ensuring broad foundational literacy

The broader goal of Indiana's third-grade reading law is to ensure all students develop the literacy skills necessary for lifelong learning, civic participation, and workforce readiness.

Question 23: A school administrator is planning the IREAD-3 schedule. The spring administration window typically falls in which months?

September and October
May and June
Late February and March (Correct answer)
November and December

Correct answer: Late February and March

The IREAD-3 spring administration window is typically scheduled in late February and March each academic year.

Question 24: A passage ends with: 'By following these steps, you can stay safe during a thunderstorm.' What text structure was MOST likely used?

Compare and contrast
Sequence (Correct answer)
Description
Cause and effect

Correct answer: Sequence

The phrase 'following these steps' suggests the passage listed actions in order, which is sequence structure.

Question 25: A story's NARRATOR is best described as:

The person or voice that tells the story (Correct answer)
The main character who solves the problem
The character who causes the conflict
The author of the book

Correct answer: The person or voice that tells the story

The narrator is the voice that tells the story, which may or may not be a character in it.

Question 26: Which outcome is MOST likely for a student who passes IREAD-3 after receiving targeted reading intervention in second grade?

The student's RIMP is extended through high school
The student will need to retake IREAD-3 in fourth grade
The student is automatically placed in a gifted reading program
The student demonstrates that early intervention can successfully close reading gaps (Correct answer)

Correct answer: The student demonstrates that early intervention can successfully close reading gaps

Passing IREAD-3 after receiving early intervention is evidence that targeted support can effectively address reading deficiencies before the promotion gate.

Question 27: Which word is a synonym for 'furious'?

happy
calm
angry (Correct answer)
bored

Correct answer: angry

'Angry' and 'furious' both describe a strong feeling of displeasure.

Question 28: After reading a nonfiction passage, a student makes a chart with two columns: 'Cause' and 'Effect.' What text structure did the passage MOST likely use?

Cause and effect (Correct answer)
Compare and contrast
Description
Sequence

Correct answer: Cause and effect

A cause-and-effect chart is the matching graphic organizer for cause and effect text structure.

Question 29: Which of the following is an example of a character's motivation?

The story ends on a sunny afternoon.
The story takes place in a small town.
Sam wants to win the race so he can make his sick grandfather proud. (Correct answer)
There are three main characters in the story.

Correct answer: Sam wants to win the race so he can make his sick grandfather proud.

Motivation is the reason a character wants something or acts a certain way.

Question 30: A student writes a summary of a nonfiction passage and includes only details, leaving out the main idea. The summary will most likely —

confuse readers because they won't know what point the details prove. (Correct answer)
give readers the most important information about the topic.
be longer and more helpful than a summary with a main idea.
be easier to understand without the main idea stated.

Correct answer: confuse readers because they won't know what point the details prove.

Without the main idea, a list of details has no clear point, leaving readers unsure what the passage was trying to communicate.

Question 31: An author uses bold print for certain words in a science text. What is MOST LIKELY the reason for using bold print?

To mark sentences that should be skipped
To show that the sentence is a question
To highlight important or key vocabulary terms (Correct answer)
To indicate the author's favorite facts

Correct answer: To highlight important or key vocabulary terms

Bold print is used to signal important vocabulary or key terms that readers should pay attention to.

Question 32: In a story, the author describes a setting as 'a dark, creaky house at the end of a long, empty road.' What does this description help the reader do?

Picture the story's location in their mind (Correct answer)
Understand the story's problem
Find out how the story ends
Learn what the character looks like

Correct answer: Picture the story's location in their mind

Descriptive details about the setting help readers visualize where and when the story takes place.

Question 33: In a story, the SETTING includes which two things?

The characters and their feelings
The problem and the solution
The beginning and the ending
The time and place of the story (Correct answer)

Correct answer: The time and place of the story

The setting describes where and when a story takes place.

Question 34: A passage describes how to build a model airplane. It includes steps like gluing the wings, attaching the wheels, and painting the body. What would be the BEST title for this passage, representing its main idea?

Flying Your New Toy
How to Construct a Model Airplane (Correct answer)
Different Types of Glue
The History of Airplanes

Correct answer: How to Construct a Model Airplane

The title of a nonfiction text often states the main idea. Since the details provided are all steps in the process of building a model airplane, the title 'How to Construct a Model Airplane' best summarizes the main idea of the entire passage.

Question 35: Which story element describes the series of events that happen from beginning to end?

Mood
Theme
Setting
Plot (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Plot

The plot is the sequence of events that make up the story's action.

Question 36: Which of the following is the BEST definition of 'drawing a conclusion' in reading?

Copying a sentence from the text word for word
Choosing a favorite part of the story
Using text evidence and reasoning to decide something not directly stated (Correct answer)
Listing every event that happened in order

Correct answer: Using text evidence and reasoning to decide something not directly stated

Drawing a conclusion means using clues and reasoning to arrive at an idea the author did not explicitly write.

Question 37: In a story, Lily is described as always arriving early, keeping her desk tidy, and finishing her homework before playing. What character trait does Lily have?

She is creative.
She is shy.
She is responsible. (Correct answer)
She is funny.

Correct answer: She is responsible.

Being early, organized, and completing duties before playing are all signs of a responsible character.

Question 38: What is the primary outcome for students who pass the IREAD-3 test?

Exemption from all future reading tests
Eligibility for gifted programs
Reduced homework for the remainder of the year
Advancement to the fourth grade with demonstrated reading proficiency (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Advancement to the fourth grade with demonstrated reading proficiency

The primary outcome for students who pass the IREAD-3 test is that they have demonstrated the foundational reading skills required for academic success in higher grades. This proficiency allows them to advance to fourth grade, equipped with the literacy tools needed to engage with more complex curricula.

Question 39: When a character in a story learns an important lesson and changes their behavior, this is called:

Rising action
Character development (Correct answer)
Foreshadowing
Setting

Correct answer: Character development

Character development refers to the way a character grows or changes throughout a story.

Question 40: Which detail from a nonfiction passage about dolphins BEST supports the main idea that dolphins are intelligent animals?

Dolphins can learn tricks and solve puzzles. (Correct answer)
Dolphins live in the ocean.
Dolphins breathe air through a blowhole.
Dolphins swim in groups called pods.

Correct answer: Dolphins can learn tricks and solve puzzles.

Learning tricks and solving puzzles directly supports the idea that dolphins are intelligent.

Question 41: In a nonfiction text, a supporting detail usually —

introduces a completely new topic.
gives specific information that explains the main idea. (Correct answer)
summarizes the entire passage.
states the author's opinion about the topic.

Correct answer: gives specific information that explains the main idea.

Supporting details provide specific facts or examples that explain and back up the main idea.

Question 42: When an author writes to both entertain AND teach a lesson, the text is best described as —

a blend of entertain and inform purposes (Correct answer)
a report, because it has a title
purely persuasive, because it changes minds
purely informational, because it has facts

Correct answer: a blend of entertain and inform purposes

Many texts, especially fables and stories with morals, blend entertainment with an informational lesson.

Question 43: A student is reading a book about volcanoes. Below a large photograph of lava flowing from a mountain, there is a sentence that reads: 'This photo shows the 2018 eruption of the Kīlauea volcano in Hawaii.' What is the name for this type of text feature?

Heading
Glossary
Index
Caption (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Caption

A caption is a text feature that consists of a sentence or group of sentences describing a photograph, illustration, or diagram.

Question 44: When you make an inference while reading, you combine clues from the text with ___.

the table of contents
the title and cover illustration only
your own knowledge and experience (Correct answer)
the glossary definitions

Correct answer: your own knowledge and experience

Inferences are made by combining evidence from the text with the reader's own background knowledge and experience.

Question 45: An author describes a tornado: its shape, size, color, wind speed, and sound. What text structure is the author using?

Description (Correct answer)
Problem and solution
Cause and effect
Sequence

Correct answer: Description

Listing the features and characteristics of a tornado is description text structure.

Question 46: Which of the following is an example of a CAUSE and EFFECT relationship in a story?

The house was blue with a white fence.
Because it rained all day, the baseball game was canceled. (Correct answer)
The dog was brown and had long ears.
Sarah likes soccer and her brother likes basketball.

Correct answer: Because it rained all day, the baseball game was canceled.

A cause and effect relationship shows that one event (rain) directly leads to another event (game canceled).

Question 47: Which of the following is an example of an INTERNAL conflict?

A sailor fights through a terrible storm
A boy must decide whether to tell the truth or lie to protect his friend (Correct answer)
Two brothers compete for the same prize
A girl battles a dragon to save her village

Correct answer: A boy must decide whether to tell the truth or lie to protect his friend

Internal conflict happens inside a character's mind, such as struggling with a difficult decision.

Question 48: In a story, events that build up to the climax are called:

Rising action (Correct answer)
Falling action
Resolution
Exposition

Correct answer: Rising action

Rising action includes all the events that build tension and lead up to the climax.

Question 49: A passage describes the giant panda. It details its black and white fur, its diet of bamboo, and its habitat in the mountains of China. The author's main purpose is to give the reader facts and information about this animal. What is the text structure?

Problem and Solution
Sequence
Description (Correct answer)
Cause and Effect

Correct answer: Description

The text is organized by description. It provides various characteristics and facts about a specific topic, the giant panda, to help the reader create a mental picture.

Question 50: Read the sentence: 'The room was immaculate — not a speck of dust, not a misplaced item, and every surface polished to a shine.' What does immaculate mean?

completely messy and cluttered
perfectly clean and tidy (Correct answer)
dark and dusty
very small and cramped

Correct answer: perfectly clean and tidy

No dust and everything polished describes something perfectly clean, which is what immaculate means.

Question 51: In a story, a young girl wants to win a race but keeps tripping. By the end, she learns to slow down and pace herself. What is the THEME of this story?

Winning races is easy
Running is dangerous
Patience and pacing lead to success (Correct answer)
Girls are better athletes than boys

Correct answer: Patience and pacing lead to success

Theme is the big-picture life lesson or message that the story teaches the reader.

Question 52: What is the relationship between 'whisper' and 'shout'?

They are antonyms. (Correct answer)
One is a category of the other.
They are synonyms.
They have no relationship.

Correct answer: They are antonyms.

'Whisper' means to speak very quietly, while 'shout' means to speak very loudly — they are antonyms.

Question 53: Which decoding strategy helps a reader figure out an unfamiliar multi-syllable word?

Breaking the word into smaller parts or syllables (Correct answer)
Skipping the word and reading on
Memorizing every word before reading
Only reading the first letter

Correct answer: Breaking the word into smaller parts or syllables

Chunking a word into syllables helps readers decode unfamiliar multi-syllable words by making each part manageable.

Question 54: Which phrase would you MOST likely find in a problem and solution text?

Similarly, both
In contrast, unlike
Long ago, after that
One answer to this is (Correct answer)

Correct answer: One answer to this is

'One answer to this is' signals that the author is presenting a solution to a problem.

Question 55: A nonfiction passage uses the words 'similarly' and 'both' several times. What text structure is MOST likely being used?

Compare and contrast (Correct answer)
Sequence
Problem and solution
Cause and effect

Correct answer: Compare and contrast

'Similarly' and 'both' are signal words for compare and contrast, showing how two things are alike.

Question 56: Which detail does NOT belong in a paragraph with the main idea 'Exercise helps keep your body healthy'?

Some people prefer to exercise in the morning. (Correct answer)
Stretching keeps your muscles flexible.
Exercise can help you sleep better at night.
Running strengthens your heart and lungs.

Correct answer: Some people prefer to exercise in the morning.

When people prefer to exercise is a preference, not a detail about health benefits, so it does not support the main idea.

Question 57: An author uses numbered steps (1, 2, 3) to organize a nonfiction article. What text structure does this MOST strongly suggest?

Sequence (Correct answer)
Cause and effect
Compare and contrast
Description

Correct answer: Sequence

Numbered steps organize information in a specific order, which is the sequence text structure.

Question 58: A story begins with a boy finding a lost puppy, then shows him searching for the owner, and ends with a joyful reunion. What is this sequence called?

point of view
plot (Correct answer)
theme
setting

Correct answer: plot

The sequence of events from beginning to end makes up the story's plot.

Question 59: A nonfiction text includes a sidebar box titled 'Fun Facts About Sharks.' What is the purpose of this sidebar?

To provide extra interesting details related to the main topic (Correct answer)
To define difficult vocabulary words
To show the order of events
To give the main ideas of the entire article

Correct answer: To provide extra interesting details related to the main topic

Sidebars contain bonus information that adds interest or detail related to the main text.

Question 60: A health pamphlet explains the steps for brushing teeth correctly and includes pictures. What is the author's purpose?

To persuade readers to visit the dentist more
To tell a story about a child who lost a tooth
To inform readers how to brush teeth properly (Correct answer)
To entertain readers with dental jokes

Correct answer: To inform readers how to brush teeth properly

Step-by-step instructions with pictures in a pamphlet are used to teach readers how to do something correctly.

Question 61: Which passage structure makes supporting details HARDEST to identify?

A passage with bold headings for each section.
Paragraphs with clear topic sentences.
A bulleted list with each point labeled.
A passage where the main idea is implied but never stated. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: A passage where the main idea is implied but never stated.

When the main idea is implied rather than stated, readers must infer it, making it harder to know which details support it.

Question 62: A passage reads: 'Rain fills rivers and lakes. It soaks into the ground and feeds plant roots. Rain refills reservoirs that supply drinking water. Without rain, life on Earth could not survive.' Which sentence states the main idea?

Rain is essential to all living things on Earth. (Correct answer)
Reservoirs supply drinking water to people.
Rain soaks into the ground.
Rain fills rivers and lakes.

Correct answer: Rain is essential to all living things on Earth.

The final sentence sums up what all the details prove — that rain is essential to life.

Question 63: A passage about the ocean states: 'The ocean covers more than 70% of Earth. It is home to millions of species. Oceans help control Earth's temperature. Scientists have explored less than 20% of the ocean.' What is the main idea?

The ocean is mostly unexplored.
Oceans help keep temperatures stable.
The ocean is vast and plays a vital role on Earth. (Correct answer)
Millions of animals live in the ocean.

Correct answer: The ocean is vast and plays a vital role on Earth.

The details about size, species, temperature control, and exploration all point to the ocean being large and important.

Question 64: Why is the IREAD-3 test considered essential?

It determines a student's placement in advanced math programs.
It assesses a student's general knowledge in all subjects.
It identifies students who may need additional help in reading. (Correct answer)
It ensures students meet national math standards.

Correct answer: It identifies students who may need additional help in reading.

The IREAD-3 test is essential because it serves as an early warning system for reading difficulties. By assessing foundational reading skills in third grade, it helps identify students who are struggling and may require targeted interventions. This early identification is crucial for providing timely support and preventing long-term academic challenges.

Question 65: Paw is to dog as hoof is to ___.

fur
cow (Correct answer)
tail
barn

Correct answer: cow

A paw is the foot of a dog, just as a hoof is the foot of a cow.

Question 66: Read: 'George Washington Carver found hundreds of uses for peanuts, including soap, ink, and cooking oil. He also developed uses for sweet potatoes and soybeans.' A SUPPORTING DETAIL is —

Carver discovered that peanuts can be made into soap and ink. (Correct answer)
Carver changed the way farmers grew crops.
George Washington Carver was a creative scientist.
Many scientists study plants and their uses.

Correct answer: Carver discovered that peanuts can be made into soap and ink.

Naming specific products like soap and ink from peanuts is a concrete detail that supports the main idea about Carver's discoveries.

Question 67: Which sentence is an example of problem and solution text structure?

The bear has thick fur, strong claws, and a large body.
Bears are larger than wolves but smaller than bison.
Because of cold winters, bears hibernate to survive.
Bears were disappearing, so the government created protected forests. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Bears were disappearing, so the government created protected forests.

The sentence presents a problem (bears disappearing) and a solution (protected forests), which is problem and solution structure.

Question 68: The signal word 'consequently' tells the reader that the author is using which text structure?

Problem and solution
Description
Compare and contrast
Cause and effect (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Cause and effect

'Consequently' means as a result, which is a signal word for cause and effect structure.

Question 69: A student is reading different sentences about basketball. Which of the following sentences is a FACT?

The best basketball team has the coolest uniforms.
The game of basketball was invented in 1891. (Correct answer)
Playing basketball is more fun than playing soccer.
Everyone should learn how to play basketball.

Correct answer: The game of basketball was invented in 1891.

A fact is a statement that can be proven true. The invention date of basketball can be verified in historical records. The other options are opinions because they express feelings or beliefs ('more fun,' 'best,' 'coolest,' 'should') that cannot be proven.

Question 70: Which question would BEST be answered by a passage with compare and contrast text structure?

How does a volcano form?
What are the steps for making a volcano model?
How are volcanoes and geysers alike and different? (Correct answer)
What problems do volcanic eruptions cause?

Correct answer: How are volcanoes and geysers alike and different?

Asking how two things are alike and different is answered by compare and contrast structure.

Question 71: Read the story summary below. A squirrel named Squeaky decides he wants to be the first squirrel to fly to the moon because he believes it is a giant acorn. He builds a rocket out of a tin can and old toys. His launch is a disaster, and he ends up in his neighbor's birdbath, but all the other squirrels cheer for his bravery. What is the MOST LIKELY reason the author wrote this story?

To persuade readers to be more like Squeaky
To teach readers facts about squirrels
To inform readers about how rockets work
To entertain the reader with a funny story (Correct answer)

Correct answer: To entertain the reader with a funny story

The story is not based on facts and has a silly plot about a squirrel building a rocket. This indicates the author's primary purpose is to amuse and entertain the reader.

Question 72: A nonfiction text about the American Revolution includes a timeline showing key events from 1770 to 1783. What is the PURPOSE of the timeline?

To compare the American and French Revolutions
To replace the main text
To show the order in which events happened over time (Correct answer)
To list important people alphabetically

Correct answer: To show the order in which events happened over time

Timelines are text features that show the sequence of events in chronological order, helping readers understand when things happened.

Question 73: In a story, the narrator says, 'I couldn't believe what happened next.' This means the story is told from which point of view?

No point of view
First person (Correct answer)
Third person
Second person

Correct answer: First person

The word 'I' shows that the narrator is a character in the story, which is first-person point of view.

Question 74: An author writes: 'Recycling helps protect our environment.' Then gives three reasons why. What is the author's PURPOSE?

To describe what recycling looks like.
To tell a story about a recycling plant.
To persuade readers that recycling is important. (Correct answer)
To entertain readers with a funny story.

Correct answer: To persuade readers that recycling is important.

When an author states an opinion and supports it with reasons, the purpose is to persuade the reader.

Question 75: Read the passage below. Leo the lion cub blinked in the bright light. The sun was hot on his fur, and the tall, yellow grass of the savanna stretched for miles. In the distance, a tall acacia tree offered the only shade. Which of the following describes the setting of the story?

A lion cub named Leo
A hot, grassy savanna in Africa (Correct answer)
Leo is feeling tired
Leo needs to find some shade

Correct answer: A hot, grassy savanna in Africa

The setting of a story is where and when it takes place. The passage describes a 'hot' and 'grassy savanna' with an 'acacia tree,' which are all details about the location.

Question 76: What happens if a student is unable to take the IREAD-3 test during the initial testing period?

They must wait until the next school year to take it.
They are automatically considered proficient.
They are excused from the assessment altogether.
They can take a makeup test or the summer retest. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: They can take a makeup test or the summer retest.

If a student misses the initial IREAD-3 testing window due to illness or other valid reasons, provisions are made for them to take a makeup test. Additionally, students who do not pass the initial assessment are offered a summer retest opportunity. This ensures all students have a chance to demonstrate their reading proficiency.

Question 77: Which event is MOST LIKELY part of a story's exposition?

The lost dog finally finds its way home.
A young boy moves to a new town and meets his neighbors for the first time. (Correct answer)
The hero defeats the dragon.
The friends argue about who should lead the team.

Correct answer: A young boy moves to a new town and meets his neighbors for the first time.

The exposition introduces the characters, setting, and background at the beginning of the story.

Question 78: What is the ultimate goal of the IREAD-3 assessment for students?

To assess their creativity and writing style
To ensure they meet the foundational literacy requirements for academic success (Correct answer)
To determine eligibility for advanced placement programs
To prepare them for standardized math exams

Correct answer: To ensure they meet the foundational literacy requirements for academic success

The ultimate goal of the IREAD-3 assessment is to confirm that third-grade students have mastered the essential reading skills necessary for future academic success. Proficiency in reading by this critical juncture is a strong predictor of a student's ability to comprehend subject matter across all disciplines in subsequent grades.

Question 79: What type of conflict is happening when a character struggles against nature, like surviving a flood?

Character vs. Self
Character vs. Nature (Correct answer)
Character vs. Character
Character vs. Society

Correct answer: Character vs. Nature

Character vs. Nature conflict occurs when a character struggles against natural forces like weather or animals.

Question 80: What is the CLIMAX of a story?

The part where the problem is first shown
The very beginning of the story
The most exciting or important moment in the story (Correct answer)
The part where the characters are introduced

Correct answer: The most exciting or important moment in the story

The climax is the turning point or most intense moment in a story's plot.

Question 81: A story is written so that the reader knows what ALL the characters are thinking and feeling. What point of view is this?

First person
Second person
Third-person limited
Third-person omniscient (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Third-person omniscient

Third-person omniscient means the narrator knows the thoughts and feelings of all characters.

Question 82: Which outcome best describes the purpose of the IREAD-3 good cause exemption process?

To permanently excuse students from reading standards
To place students in remedial classes indefinitely
To waive state reading requirements for all ELL students
To allow qualifying students to advance despite not passing the assessment (Correct answer)

Correct answer: To allow qualifying students to advance despite not passing the assessment

Good cause exemptions allow specific qualifying students—such as those with certain disabilities or limited English proficiency—to be promoted even without passing scores.

Question 83: What grade level is the IREAD-3 assessment administered to students in Indiana?

Grade 3 (Correct answer)
Grade 2
Grade 1
Grade 5

Correct answer: Grade 3

IREAD-3 is administered to all third-grade students in Indiana public schools to evaluate whether they have acquired foundational reading skills needed for academic success in subsequent grades.

Question 84: An author writes a passage with the following sentences: 'First, gather your materials: a pot, soil, and a seed. Next, fill the pot with soil. Then, plant the seed about one inch deep. Finally, water the seed and place the pot in a sunny spot.' Which text structure is the author using?

Cause and Effect
Sequence (Correct answer)
Compare and Contrast
Problem and Solution

Correct answer: Sequence

The passage uses a sequence text structure, indicated by signal words like 'First,' 'Next,' 'Then,' and 'Finally,' which show the steps in a process in the order they should happen.

Question 85: A fairy tale ends with 'and they all lived happily ever after.' This ending is an example of what type of text?

Biography
News article
Literary or fiction text (Correct answer)
Informational text

Correct answer: Literary or fiction text

Fairy tales are a type of literary or fiction text that tells an imaginary story, often with a happy ending.

Question 86: Read this: 'Volcanoes erupt hot lava. The lava cools and forms new rock. Over time, this rock builds up to create new land.' Which detail is LEAST important to the main idea about how volcanoes create land?

Rock builds up to create new land.
Lava cools and forms new rock.
Volcanoes can be found near the ocean. (Correct answer)
Volcanoes erupt hot lava.

Correct answer: Volcanoes can be found near the ocean.

The location near the ocean is not mentioned in the passage and does not support how volcanoes create land.

Question 87: In a story, Ben's best friend moves away. Ben feels sad, but he decides to write letters and plan visits. What does Ben's response to the conflict reveal?

Ben does not care about his friend.
Ben is resourceful and does not let problems stop him. (Correct answer)
Ben gives up easily.
Ben causes most of the problems in the story.

Correct answer: Ben is resourceful and does not let problems stop him.

Finding positive ways to stay connected shows Ben is resourceful and resilient.

Question 88: Which sentence would make the BEST main idea for a paragraph with these details: 'Ice cream is sold in many flavors. It can be served in cones or cups. Toppings like sprinkles and syrup can be added.'

Ice cream can be customized in many ways. (Correct answer)
Cones are better than cups for ice cream.
Ice cream comes in chocolate and vanilla.
Sprinkles are a popular topping for desserts.

Correct answer: Ice cream can be customized in many ways.

All three details show different ways to customize ice cream, so the main idea is about its variety of options.

Question 89: After reading a passage titled 'Why Forests Matter,' a student writes: 'Forests give animals homes, clean our air, and prevent floods.' This statement is MOST LIKELY the —

an example that does not belong.
a supporting detail about animals.
the author's opinion about trees.
main idea of the passage. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: main idea of the passage.

The statement covers all the main points of the passage, making it the main idea, not a single detail.

Question 90: Which detail would MOST LIKELY appear in a description text structure passage about rainforests?

Scientists are working to save rainforests from destruction
Cutting down rainforests causes animals to lose their homes
Rainforests receive more than 80 inches of rain each year (Correct answer)
Rainforests appeared before grasslands on Earth

Correct answer: Rainforests receive more than 80 inches of rain each year

Stating that rainforests receive 80 inches of rain is a descriptive detail about what rainforests are like.

Question 91: A student is not sure if a passage is written to inform or to persuade. Which question should the student ask FIRST?

Is the passage longer than one page?
Does the passage have pictures or diagrams?
Does the passage mainly give facts or mainly try to convince me to think or do something? (Correct answer)
Does the passage have a title?

Correct answer: Does the passage mainly give facts or mainly try to convince me to think or do something?

Asking whether the text gives facts or tries to convince you is the best way to distinguish informational from persuasive writing.

Question 92: Which word describes a character who is fully developed with many different traits and feelings?

Round character (Correct answer)
Static character
Flat character
Minor character

Correct answer: Round character

A round character is complex and realistic, showing a range of emotions and traits.

Question 93: Read the passage. Maya's kitten, Patches, loved to climb. One day, Patches climbed up the tallest tree in the backyard and couldn't get down. Maya stood at the bottom of the tree and called for him, but he just meowed sadly. She tried to get him a bowl of his favorite food, but he was too scared to move. What is the main problem in this story?

Maya's kitten climbed a tall tree and is stuck. (Correct answer)
Maya does not know what to feed her kitten.
Patches does not like his food.
Maya wants to climb the tree with her kitten.

Correct answer: Maya's kitten climbed a tall tree and is stuck.

The main problem is that Patches is stuck in the tree. This is the central conflict that the character, Maya, must try to solve. The other options are incorrect details or are not mentioned in the story.

Question 94: In a story, the author describes a character who is always the first to help others and never asks for anything in return. What trait does this character show?

selflessness (Correct answer)
impatience
jealousy
selfishness

Correct answer: selflessness

Always helping others without expecting anything back is the trait of selflessness.

Question 95: What outcome is most consistent with Indiana's reading intervention goals if a student scores in the 'did not pass' range on IREAD-3?

The student receives an intensified reading intervention plan focused on identified skill gaps (Correct answer)
The student's teacher is immediately terminated
The student is labeled a failure and receives no additional reading instruction
The student is automatically enrolled in speech therapy

Correct answer: The student receives an intensified reading intervention plan focused on identified skill gaps

A non-passing score triggers a structured intervention response, not punishment; the goal is to build the skills the student is missing.

Question 96: According to the Indiana Academic Standards for grade 3, students should be able to identify how a nonfiction text is structured to show events in a specific order. What is this text structure called?

Chronological Order (Correct answer)
Cause and Effect
Problem and Solution
Compare and Contrast

Correct answer: Chronological Order

The Indiana Academic Standard 3.RN.3.2 specifies that students should be able to identify when a text puts events in chronological order, which is another term for sequence.

Question 97: A story begins with a problem, builds through several events, and ends with a solution. What is this story organization called?

Plot structure (Correct answer)
Compare and contrast
Question and answer
Cause and effect

Correct answer: Plot structure

Plot structure is the sequence of events including problem, rising action, climax, and resolution.

Question 98: A third-grade student writes a story about a rabbit who learns to share. What is the student's most likely purpose for writing this story?

To persuade readers to adopt rabbits as pets
To inform readers about rabbit behavior in the wild
To entertain readers while sharing a lesson about sharing (Correct answer)
To explain how rabbits find food

Correct answer: To entertain readers while sharing a lesson about sharing

A fiction story with a moral lesson is written to entertain while teaching a value.

Question 99: How do schools use the results of the IREAD-3 test?

To improve reading instruction and identify areas for support (Correct answer)
To rank students by academic ability
To evaluate teacher performance
To set state-wide benchmarks for science programs

Correct answer: To improve reading instruction and identify areas for support

Schools utilize IREAD-3 results as valuable diagnostic data. The scores help educators identify specific strengths and weaknesses in students' reading skills, informing adjustments to classroom instruction and guiding the implementation of targeted interventions. This data-driven approach aims to improve overall reading outcomes for all students.

Question 100: A story's problem is that a girl lost her science project the night before it is due. What part of the plot structure does this represent?

conclusion
resolution
conflict (Correct answer)
climax

Correct answer: conflict

The conflict is the main problem or struggle the character must face.

Question 101: A nonfiction article has a bold word 'photosynthesis' in the text. Where would a reader look to find a definition of that word?

Index
Table of contents
Glossary (Correct answer)
Title page

Correct answer: Glossary

A glossary provides definitions of important vocabulary words used in the text.

Question 102: A character in a story gives away her only sandwich to a hungry classmate even though she is also hungry. What does this action show about the character?

She is forgetful.
She is trying to get attention.
She does not like sandwiches.
She is kind and generous. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: She is kind and generous.

Giving away something you need yourself shows a character trait of kindness and generosity.

Question 103: Read the sentence: 'After the argument, the two friends decided to reconcile; they shook hands and promised to be friends again.' What does reconcile mean?

end a friendship forever
ignore each other
make up and restore friendship (Correct answer)
start a new argument

Correct answer: make up and restore friendship

Shaking hands and promising to be friends again shows reconcile means to make up after a conflict.

IREAD-3 Indiana Reading Evaluation and Determination Assessment

The IREAD-3 is Indiana's statewide summative reading assessment administered to Grade 3 students, measuring foundational reading skills including phonics, vocabulary, and comprehension of literary and informational texts. Students must pass to demonstrate reading proficiency.

103

Questions

90 min

Time Limit

70%

To Pass

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