NJSLA Vocabulary in Context Questions and Answers

Question 1

Read the sentence from the passage. 'The desert, a seemingly barren landscape, actually teems with a variety of hardy flora that have adapted to the arid conditions.' What is the meaning of the word 'flora' as it is used in the sentence?

Accepted Answer

Plants

Answer

The context clue 'hardy' and the phrase 'adapted to the arid conditions' suggest that 'flora' refers to living things that can survive in a desert. The word 'flora' is the scientific term for plant life in a particular region.

Question 2

In the historical account, the author describes the king's reaction to the rebellion as initially dismissive, but his attitude changed to one of great consternation after his spies reported the massive size of the opposing army. Which of the following is the best definition for 'consternation'?

Accepted Answer

Feelings of anxiety or dismay, typically at something unexpected

Answer

The sentence contrasts the king's initial 'dismissive' attitude with his later feeling of 'consternation'. The cause of this change was the 'massive size of the opposing army'. This cause-and-effect relationship indicates that 'consternation' must be a negative feeling of worry or alarm.

Question 3

The manual stated, 'Before assembling the bookcase, it is imperative to read all instructions carefully. Unlike optional steps that can be skipped, this first step is absolutely essential.' Based on the context, what does the word 'imperative' mean?

Accepted Answer

Vital

Answer

The sentence provides a contrast clue. It states that reading the instructions is 'imperative' and then contrasts this with 'optional steps that can be skipped'. The phrase 'absolutely essential' acts as a synonym or restatement, directly clarifying that 'imperative' means something is required and vital.

Question 4

The scientist was known for her meticulous approach to research; she would check her data repeatedly, document every step of her experiments, and organize her lab with extreme precision. What does the word 'meticulous' mean in this context?

Accepted Answer

Showing great attention to detail; very careful and precise

Answer

The sentence provides several examples of the scientist's behavior: checking data repeatedly, documenting every step, and organizing with precision. These examples all illustrate the meaning of 'meticulous' as being very careful and paying close attention to detail.

Question 5

The politician's speech was filled with platitudes, such as 'we must work together for a better tomorrow' and 'every voice matters.' While the crowd applauded, some critics noted the lack of any concrete proposals. Based on this scenario, a 'platitude' is most likely a...

Accepted Answer

Remark or statement, especially one with a moral content, that has been used too often to be interesting or thoughtful

Answer

The context contrasts the 'platitudes' with 'concrete proposals'. The examples given ('we must work together for a better tomorrow') are common, unoriginal statements. This contrast implies that platitudes are remarks that sound good but lack specific meaning or substance.

NJSLA Exam Practice Test

NJSLA Exam Practice Test

NJSLA Vocabulary in Context Questions and Answers