SBAC ELA Grade 5 Informational Text 3

Question 1

What is the purpose of a 'summary' of an informational text?

Accepted Answer

To briefly describe the main idea and key details in your own words, without minor details

Answer

A summary restates the main idea and most important details in your own words, leaving out minor details, examples, and personal opinions.

Question 2

What does it mean when two sources on the same topic give different information?

Accepted Answer

The sources may have different perspectives, or one may be outdated or inaccurate — further research is needed

Answer

When sources differ, it may reflect different perspectives, different dates (one may have newer information), errors in one source, or genuine uncertainty on the topic. Critical thinkers investigate further.

Question 3

A scientist writes: 'Further research is needed to confirm these results.' What does this phrase suggest?

Accepted Answer

The current findings are preliminary and need additional evidence before being considered fully established

Answer

In scientific writing, 'further research is needed' means the findings are promising but preliminary — more evidence is required before the conclusion can be considered established.

Question 4

Which heading would BEST help a reader quickly locate information about the effects of pollution on marine life?

Accepted Answer

Effects of Ocean Pollution on Marine Life

Answer

Headings should precisely describe the content in that section. 'Effects of Ocean Pollution on Marine Life' directly matches what the reader is looking for.

Question 5

What does an author mean when they write 'In conclusion' at the beginning of a paragraph?

Accepted Answer

The author is about to summarize the main points and provide a final thought on the topic

Answer

'In conclusion' is a signal phrase that tells readers the author is about to wrap up by summarizing main points and providing final thoughts.

SBAC Practice Test

SBAC Practice Test

SBAC ELA Grade 5 Informational Text 3