SSAT SSAT Practice Test (Lower Level: Reading) 1

Question 1

In a passage about honeybees, the author says they 'communicate through an elaborate waggle dance.' What does the word 'elaborate' most likely mean?

Accepted Answer

Detailed and complex

Answer

Elaborate means highly developed, detailed, or complex in nature.

Question 2

A story begins: 'Maya clutched her umbrella and glanced at the darkening sky.' What can you infer?

Accepted Answer

It might rain soon

Answer

The darkening sky and the umbrella both suggest rain is coming.

Question 3

Which text structure is used when a passage lists causes and their effects?

Accepted Answer

Cause and effect

Answer

Cause and effect structure explains why events happen and what results from them.

Question 4

A passage says wolves are 'apex predators.' What does 'apex' most likely mean?

Accepted Answer

Top

Answer

Apex means the top or peak, so an apex predator is at the top of the food chain.

Question 5

What is the main purpose of a nonfiction text that explains how volcanoes form?

Accepted Answer

To inform readers about a scientific process

Answer

Explanatory nonfiction texts aim to inform readers about how or why something occurs.