SC READY English Language Arts — Grade 3

Read the story below, then answer the question. --- The Proud Peacock and the Crane A peacock was walking through the forest showing off his bright, colorful feathers. He met a gray crane standing by the pond. "Look at how dull your feathers are!" laughed the peacock. "Mine shimmer like diamonds with green and gold, while yours are plain and gray." The crane smiled calmly and spread his wide wings. "That may be true," said the crane, "but your beautiful feathers cannot carry you into the sky. I can fly high above the clouds and see the world, while you must stay on the ground like a chicken." --- What is the central message or moral of this story?

• AFlying high in the sky is dangerous for forest birds.
• BUseful abilities are more valuable than outward beauty.
• CGray feathers are always better than colorful feathers.
• DPeacocks and cranes should live in different places.

Read the story below, then answer the question. --- The Proud Peacock and the Crane A peacock was walking through the forest showing off his bright, colorful feathers. He met a gray crane standing by the pond. "Look at how dull your feathers are!" laughed the peacock. "Mine shimmer like diamonds with green and gold, while yours are plain and gray." The crane smiled calmly and spread his wide wings. "That may be true," said the crane, "but your beautiful feathers cannot carry you into the sky. I can fly high above the clouds and see the world, while you must stay on the ground like a chicken." --- Which character trait best describes the peacock in the story?

• AVain and boastful
• BKind and helpful
• CShy and quiet
• DWise and patient

Read the story below, then answer the question. --- The Proud Peacock and the Crane A peacock was walking through the forest showing off his bright, colorful feathers. He met a gray crane standing by the pond. "Look at how dull your feathers are!" laughed the peacock. "Mine shimmer like diamonds with green and gold, while yours are plain and gray." The crane smiled calmly and spread his wide wings. "That may be true," said the crane, "but your beautiful feathers cannot carry you into the sky. I can fly high above the clouds and see the world, while you must stay on the ground like a chicken." --- What does the author mean by the nonliteral phrase "shimmer like diamonds"?

• AThe feathers were hard and sharp like gemstones.
• BThe feathers sparkled and shone brightly in the light.
• CThe peacock carried real diamonds under his wings.
• DThe feathers were very heavy to carry around.

Read the fable below, then answer the question. --- The Ant and the Grasshopper All summer long, Little Ant worked hard carrying corn seeds back to her underground nest. Nearby, Grasshopper spent his days singing in the warm sun and playing his fiddle. "Why work so hard, Ant?" chirped Grasshopper. "Come dance with me!" "I am storing food for the cold winter," replied Ant. "You should do the same." Grasshopper laughed and kept playing. But when winter arrived, heavy snow covered the fields. Grasshopper had nothing to eat and shivered in the freezing wind. He knocked on Ant's door, hungry and weak. Ant shared her food, but Grasshopper learned a lesson he would never forget. --- How did Ant's actions in the summer affect what happened in the winter?

• ABecause Ant stored food during summer, she had enough to eat and share in winter.
• BBecause Ant played music all summer, she became too tired to collect corn.
• CAnt's hard work caused the winter snow to come earlier than expected.
• DAnt lost all her food because her underground nest collapsed in the cold.

Read the fable below, then answer the question. --- The Ant and the Grasshopper All summer long, Little Ant worked hard carrying corn seeds back to her underground nest. Nearby, Grasshopper spent his days singing in the warm sun and playing his fiddle. "Why work so hard, Ant?" chirped Grasshopper. "Come dance with me!" "I am storing food for the cold winter," replied Ant. "You should do the same." Grasshopper laughed and kept playing. But when winter arrived, heavy snow covered the fields. Grasshopper had nothing to eat and shivered in the freezing wind. He knocked on Ant's door, hungry and weak. Ant shared her food, but Grasshopper learned a lesson he would never forget. --- Which sentence best expresses the moral of this fable?

• AIt is wise to prepare today for the needs of tomorrow.
• BPlaying musical instruments is the best way to spend summer.
• CInsects should always sleep throughout the winter months.
• DWinter snow makes finding food easier for forest creatures.

Read the story snippet below, then answer the question. --- Mia's First Treehouse Mia stood at the bottom of the old oak tree holding a wooden board. Her older brother, Leo, was high up in the branches pounding nails into a small platform. Mia's heart fluttered like a trapped butterfly. She wanted to help build the treehouse, but the ladder looked impossibly tall and shaky. "Pass up another board, Mia!" shouted Leo. Mia took a deep breath, gripped the wooden rung tightly, and took her first step up. --- What does the nonliteral phrase "heart fluttered like a trapped butterfly" mean?

• AMia caught an actual insect in her hand.
• BMia felt nervous and fast heartbeats in her chest.
• CMia was excited to draw pictures of butterflies.
• DMia had a chest pain caused by carrying heavy wood.

Read the story snippet below, then answer the question. --- Mia's First Treehouse Mia stood at the bottom of the old oak tree holding a wooden board. Her older brother, Leo, was high up in the branches pounding nails into a small platform. Mia's heart fluttered like a trapped butterfly. She wanted to help build the treehouse, but the ladder looked impossibly tall and shaky. "Pass up another board, Mia!" shouted Leo. Mia took a deep breath, gripped the wooden rung tightly, and took her first step up. --- What character trait does Mia show at the end of the passage?

• ACourage
• BGreed
• CLaziness
• DAnger

Read the story passage below, then answer the question. --- Grandma's Secret Recipe Every Sunday morning, Caleb helped Grandma make blueberry pancakes. Caleb loved measuring the flour and stirring the batter until it was smooth. Today, however, Grandma placed a small jar of golden spice on the counter. "Add half a teaspoon of cinnamon today, Caleb," Grandma whispered with a wink. "That is the secret ingredient my mother taught me when I was eight years old." Caleb carefully sprinkled the cinnamon into the bowl. When the hot pancakes hit the table, Caleb took his first bite. A warm, sweet flavor filled his mouth. He smiled and said, "Now it's my secret, too!" --- Where did Grandma learn her secret pancake recipe?

• AFrom her mother when she was eight years old
• BFrom a cookbook she bought at the grocery store
• CFrom Caleb during their Sunday morning baking
• DFrom a neighbor who lived next door

Read the story passage below, then answer the question. --- Grandma's Secret Recipe Every Sunday morning, Caleb helped Grandma make blueberry pancakes. Caleb loved measuring the flour and stirring the batter until it was smooth. Today, however, Grandma placed a small jar of golden spice on the counter. "Add half a teaspoon of cinnamon today, Caleb," Grandma whispered with a wink. "That is the secret ingredient my mother taught me when I was eight years old." Caleb carefully sprinkled the cinnamon into the bowl. When the hot pancakes hit the table, Caleb took his first bite. A warm, sweet flavor filled his mouth. He smiled and said, "Now it's my secret, too!" --- What is the main theme of this passage?

• APancakes are the only healthy breakfast for growing children.
• BSpecial family traditions build loving bonds between generations.
• CSpices should always be kept locked in kitchen cabinets.
• DChildren should not help adults cook in hot kitchens.

Read the excerpt below, then answer the question. --- The Lost Kite Benny ran across the green meadow holding tightly to the yellow string. Up, up went his diamond-shaped red kite, soaring higher than the tall pine trees. Suddenly, a strong gust of wind snapped the string! Benny watched helplessly as his favorite kite tumbled away into the dark woods. Tears filled Benny's eyes. He sat on a rock and buried his face in his hands. Just then, his dog Buster barked merrily and ran into the bushes. A minute later, Buster trotted back carrying the red kite safely in his jaws, tail wagging proudly. --- How is the story organized from beginning to end?

• ABenny flies a kite, loses it when the string snaps, feels sad, and then his dog recovers…
• BBenny searches the woods for his dog, finds a new kite, and flies it in the meadow.
• CBenny builds a kite with his father, breaks it by accident, and throws it away.
• DBenny plays with his dog in the yard, loses his shoes, and buys a red kite at the store.

Read the story passage below, then answer the question. --- The Lost Kite Benny ran across the green meadow holding tightly to the yellow string. Up, up went his diamond-shaped red kite, soaring higher than the tall pine trees. Suddenly, a strong gust of wind snapped the string! Benny watched helplessly as his favorite kite tumbled away into the dark woods. Tears filled Benny's eyes. He sat on a rock and buried his face in his hands. Just then, his dog Buster barked merrily and ran into the bushes. A minute later, Buster trotted back carrying the red kite safely in his jaws, tail wagging proudly. --- From which point of view is this story told?

• AFirst person (Benny telling his own story using 'I')
• BThird person (a narrator outside the story using 'he' and 'his')
• CSecond person (the story telling 'you' what to do)
• DFirst person (Buster the dog telling the story)

Read the poem below, then answer the question. --- Rainy Day Song Pitter-patter on the pane, Here comes afternoon rain! Dancing on the garden hose, Splashing on my rubber toes. The flowers drink the falling drops, Until the thunder finally stops. Then Mr. Sun comes out to play, And sweeps the stormy clouds away. --- Which lines in the poem show examples of nonliteral language (personification)?

• A"Mr. Sun comes out to play, / And sweeps the stormy clouds away."
• B"Splashing on my rubber toes."
• C"Pitter-patter on the pane,"
• D"Here comes afternoon rain!"

Read the poem below, then answer the question. --- Rainy Day Song Pitter-patter on the pane, Here comes afternoon rain! Dancing on the garden hose, Splashing on my rubber toes. The flowers drink the falling drops, Until the thunder finally stops. Then Mr. Sun comes out to play, And sweeps the stormy clouds away. --- What happens right after the thunder stops?

• AThe sun comes out and clears the clouds away.
• BThe rain begins to hit the window pane.
• CThe speaker puts on rubber boots.
• DThe garden hose dances in the yard.

Read the folktale excerpt below, then answer the question. --- The Turtle's Shell Long ago, Turtle had a smooth, shiny shell. One day, he saw Eagle soaring effortlessly across the sky. Turtle begged Eagle to teach him how to fly. "You have no wings, Turtle," warned Eagle. "The sky is not meant for you." But Turtle complained until Eagle agreed. Eagle carried Turtle high above the mountain and let him go. Turtle flapped his legs wildly, but he fell like a stone, crashing onto the rocks below. His shell cracked into many pieces. Kind Squirrel helped Turtle glue his shell back together, but to this day, every turtle carries a shell marked with cracks. --- Why did Turtle fall when Eagle released him?

• ATurtle did not have wings to catch the wind and fly.
• BEagle pushed Turtle down toward the sharp rocks on purpose.
• CSquirrel startled Turtle while he was flying.
• DTurtle's shell was too smooth and shiny.

Read the folktale excerpt below, then answer the question. --- The Turtle's Shell Long ago, Turtle had a smooth, shiny shell. One day, he saw Eagle soaring effortlessly across the sky. Turtle begged Eagle to teach him how to fly. "You have no wings, Turtle," warned Eagle. "The sky is not meant for you." But Turtle complained until Eagle agreed. Eagle carried Turtle high above the mountain and let him go. Turtle flapped his legs wildly, but he fell like a stone, crashing onto the rocks below. His shell cracked into many pieces. Kind Squirrel helped Turtle glue his shell back together, but to this day, every turtle carries a shell marked with cracks. --- What lesson does Turtle learn in this story?

• ABe content with who you are and listen to wise warnings.
• BRocks are the safest place to rest after flying.
• CEagles are bad birds that should never be trusted.
• DSquirrels are the fastest flyers in the forest.

Read the passage below, then answer the question. --- The New Kid on Maple Street Oliver sat on his front porch watching three boys play basketball down the street. They were laughing and passing the ball with easy skill. Oliver had just moved to South Carolina from Ohio two days ago. He held his basketball in his lap, turning it over and over. He wanted to join them, but his shoes felt glued to the porch steps. Suddenly, the basketball bounced off the court and rolled into Oliver's yard. Oliver ran, picked up the ball, and tossed a perfect chest pass back to a boy in a red shirt. "Great pass!" called the boy. "I'm Sam. Want to play two-on-two?" Oliver smiled brightly. "I'd love to!" --- How do Oliver's feelings change from the beginning of the story to the end?

• AFrom shy and hesitant to happy and included
• BFrom excited and loud to angry and upset
• CFrom angry at his parents to tired and sleepy
• DFrom bored with basketball to interested in soccer

Read the passage below, then answer the question. --- The New Kid on Maple Street Oliver sat on his front porch watching three boys play basketball down the street. They were laughing and passing the ball with easy skill. Oliver had just moved to South Carolina from Ohio two days ago. He held his basketball in his lap, turning it over and over. He wanted to join them, but his shoes felt glued to the porch steps. Suddenly, the basketball bounced off the court and rolled into Oliver's yard. Oliver ran, picked up the ball, and tossed a perfect chest pass back to a boy in a red shirt. "Great pass!" called the boy. "I'm Sam. Want to play two-on-two?" Oliver smiled brightly. "I'd love to!" --- What caused the boys down the street to notice Oliver?

• ATheir basketball rolled into Oliver's yard, and Oliver made a great pass back.
• BOliver shouted loudly from his porch until they stopped playing.
• CSam's mother told the boys to invite Oliver over.
• DOliver threw his own basketball at their hoop from his porch.

Read the short story below, then answer the question. --- Sammie's Garden Problem Sammie planted six tomato seedlings in sunny spots around her garden. Every afternoon, she watered them carefully. By July, green vines climbed up the wooden stakes, covered in tiny yellow flowers. But one morning, Sammie noticed several leafy branches had been chewed down to the stem! "Oh no!" cried Sammie. She searched the plants closely and spotted a fat green caterpillar hiding under a leaf. Instead of squashing it, Sammie carefully moved the caterpillar to an overgrown weed patch behind the garage. She knew caterpillars turned into beautiful butterflies. --- Why did Sammie move the caterpillar to the weed patch instead of harming it?

• AShe recognized that caterpillars turn into butterflies and preferred not to kill it.
• BShe wanted the caterpillar to eat all of her neighbor's vegetables instead.
• CShe was afraid the caterpillar would bite her fingers if she touched it.
• DHer mother ordered her to put all insects in the garage.

Read the short story below, then answer the question. --- Sammie's Garden Problem Sammie planted six tomato seedlings in sunny spots around her garden. Every afternoon, she watered them carefully. By July, green vines climbed up the wooden stakes, covered in tiny yellow flowers. But one morning, Sammie noticed several leafy branches had been chewed down to the stem! "Oh no!" cried Sammie. She searched the plants closely and spotted a fat green caterpillar hiding under a leaf. Instead of squashing it, Sammie carefully moved the caterpillar to an overgrown weed patch behind the garage. She knew caterpillars turned into beautiful butterflies. --- Which word best describes Sammie's attitude toward nature?

• ACaring and thoughtful
• BCruel and impatient
• CFearful and nervous
• DCareless and lazy

Read the paragraph below, then answer the question. --- First Day at Camp As the yellow bus pulled into Camp Pinewood, I squeezed my backpack tightly. My hands were cold blocks of ice. I looked out the window at the tall pine trees and the sparkling blue lake. Would the other campers like me? Would I be good at canoeing? Before I could think any more, the counselor opened the door and called out, "Welcome campers! Who is ready for the best week of summer?" --- What does the author mean by "My hands were cold blocks of ice"?

• AThe speaker was holding actual ice cubes in their hands.
• BThe speaker's hands felt very cold because of nervous anxiety.
• CThe weather outside the camp bus was below freezing.
• DThe counselor dumped ice water over the campers.

Read the paragraph below, then answer the question. --- First Day at Camp As the yellow bus pulled into Camp Pinewood, I squeezed my backpack tightly. My hands were cold blocks of ice. I looked out the window at the tall pine trees and the sparkling blue lake. Would the other campers like me? Would I be good at canoeing? Before I could think any more, the counselor opened the door and called out, "Welcome campers! Who is ready for the best week of summer?" --- Which detail shows that the story is written in the first-person point of view?

• AThe use of words like "I squeezed" and "my backpack"
• BThe mention of tall pine trees and a blue lake
• CThe quote spoken by the camp counselor
• DThe description of the yellow bus pulling into camp

Read the fable below, then answer the question. --- The Dog and His Reflection A dog had stolen a large piece of meat from a butcher shop and was carrying it home in his mouth. On his way, he walked across a narrow wooden plank over a clear stream. As he looked down into the water, he saw his own reflection. Believing it was another dog carrying a piece of meat twice as big as his own, he decided to have that piece too. He opened his mouth wide to bark and snap at the other dog. The moment he opened his jaws, his own piece of meat dropped into the stream and sank out of sight forever. --- Why did the dog drop his piece of meat?

• AHe opened his mouth to snap at what he thought was another dog.
• BThe wooden plank broke underneath his heavy paws.
• CThe butcher ran up behind him and grabbed the meat back.
• DA large fish jumped out of the stream and snatched it.

Read the fable below, then answer the question. --- The Dog and His Reflection A dog had stolen a large piece of meat from a butcher shop and was carrying it home in his mouth. On his way, he walked across a narrow wooden plank over a clear stream. As he looked down into the water, he saw his own reflection. Believing it was another dog carrying a piece of meat twice as big as his own, he decided to have that piece too. He opened his mouth wide to bark and snap at the other dog. The moment he opened his jaws, his own piece of meat dropped into the stream and sank out of sight forever. --- What lesson does this fable teach?

• AIf you are greedy and grasp for more, you may lose what you already have.
• BStreams are dangerous places for dogs to cross.
• CAlways share your food with other dogs you meet.
• DStealing meat from butcher shops is a smart idea.

Read the story passage below, then answer the question. --- The Mystery Box Elena found an old wooden box tucked under the attic floorboards. The brass latch was green with age, and a tiny iron lock held it shut. On the top, carved in faint cursive letters, was the name "Clara - 1924." Elena's mind raced. Who was Clara? Was she Elena's great-grandmother? Elena searched the dusty corners of the attic until she found a small ring of brass keys inside a ceramic teacup. She tried the smallest key in the lock. *Click!* The lock popped open. Inside lay a bundle of ribbon-tied letters and a small silver pocket watch that still ticked softly. --- What happened right after Elena found the ring of keys in the teacup?

• AShe tried the smallest key, and the lock popped open.
• BShe read all the ribbon-tied letters to her mother.
• CShe carved the name Clara into the wooden floorboards.
• DShe hid the box back under the floorboards.

Read the story passage below, then answer the question. --- The Mystery Box Elena found an old wooden box tucked under the attic floorboards. The brass latch was green with age, and a tiny iron lock held it shut. On the top, carved in faint cursive letters, was the name "Clara - 1924." Elena's mind raced. Who was Clara? Was she Elena's great-grandmother? Elena searched the dusty corners of the attic until she found a small ring of brass keys inside a ceramic teacup. She tried the smallest key in the lock. *Click!* The lock popped open. Inside lay a bundle of ribbon-tied letters and a small silver pocket watch that still ticked softly. --- What does the detail about the pocket watch ticking softly suggest?

• AThe watch was surprisingly well-made and preserved over time.
• BThe box contained a bomb that was about to explode.
• CElena had just bought the watch at a department store.
• DThe attic was loud with thunderstorm noise.

Read the poem below, then answer the question. --- The Wind's Secret The autumn wind is a playful ghost, Whistling low around the porch post. He grabs the leaves of red and gold, And spins them round in dances bold. He whispers secrets through the trees, And tickles elbows, chins, and knees. Then off he rushes down the lane, To rattle on my windowpane! --- What does the poet compare the autumn wind to in the first line?

• AA playful ghost
• BA red and gold leaf
• CA cold windowpane
• DA tall porch post

Read the poem below, then answer the question. --- The Wind's Secret The autumn wind is a playful ghost, Whistling low around the porch post. He grabs the leaves of red and gold, And spins them round in dances bold. He whispers secrets through the trees, And tickles elbows, chins, and knees. Then off he rushes down the lane, To rattle on my windowpane! --- Which rhyming word pair comes from the second stanza of the poem?

• Atrees / knees
• Bghost / post
• Cgold / bold
• Dlane / post

Read the story passage below, then answer the question. --- The Broken Toy Liam accidentally stepped on his sister Maya's plastic robot, snapping off its left arm. Liam felt his stomach tie itself into a tight knot. Maya loved that robot. Liam thought about hiding the broken piece under the rug. But he remembered how his dad always said that honesty builds trust. Taking a deep breath, Liam walked into the kitchen where Maya was drawing. "Maya, I am really sorry. I stepped on your robot by mistake," he said, holding out the broken pieces. "I can help you glue it back together." Maya looked sad for a moment, but then smiled gently. "Thank you for telling me the truth, Liam. Let's fix it together." --- What does the phrase "stomach tie itself into a tight knot" mean?

• ALiam felt sick and anxious because of guilt and fear.
• BLiam was very hungry and wanted to eat lunch.
• CLiam tied his belt too tight around his waist.
• DLiam had done gymnastics exercises on the floor.

Read the story passage below, then answer the question. --- The Broken Toy Liam accidentally stepped on his sister Maya's plastic robot, snapping off its left arm. Liam felt his stomach tie itself into a tight knot. Maya loved that robot. Liam thought about hiding the broken piece under the rug. But he remembered how his dad always said that honesty builds trust. Taking a deep breath, Liam walked into the kitchen where Maya was drawing. "Maya, I am really sorry. I stepped on your robot by mistake," he said, holding out the broken pieces. "I can help you glue it back together." Maya looked sad for a moment, but then smiled gently. "Thank you for telling me the truth, Liam. Let's fix it together." --- What main lesson does Liam learn in this story?

• AAdmitting mistakes honestly is better than hiding them.
• BPlastic toys should never be brought into the kitchen.
• CRobots are too fragile for young children to play with.
• DHiding broken items under rugs is a smart solution.

Read the passage below, then answer the question. --- Jackson's First Piano Recital Jackson stood backstage in his crisp white shirt and black tie. His palms were sweaty as he listened to the applause for the girl before him. He had practiced his song, "The Wild Horse," every day for three months. Yet, standing behind the heavy velvet curtain, his mind went completely blank. He couldn't remember the opening notes! "You're up, Jackson," whispered Mrs. Gable, his piano teacher, giving his shoulder a gentle squeeze. "Trust your fingers. They know what to do." Jackson walked out to the grand piano, sat on the bench, and placed his hands on the keys. As soon as he touched the ivories, his fingers moved automatically, filling the auditorium with rich, beautiful music. --- How did Mrs. Gable help Jackson overcome his fear?

• AShe gave him encouraging words and reminded him to trust his practice.
• BShe played the opening notes for him on stage.
• CShe canceled his turn so he could go home early.
• DShe handed him sheet music to read while playing.

Read the passage below, then answer the question. --- Jackson's First Piano Recital Jackson stood backstage in his crisp white shirt and black tie. His palms were sweaty as he listened to the applause for the girl before him. He had practiced his song, "The Wild Horse," every day for three months. Yet, standing behind the heavy velvet curtain, his mind went completely blank. He couldn't remember the opening notes! "You're up, Jackson," whispered Mrs. Gable, his piano teacher, giving his shoulder a gentle squeeze. "Trust your fingers. They know what to do." Jackson walked out to the grand piano, sat on the bench, and placed his hands on the keys. As soon as he touched the ivories, his fingers moved automatically, filling the auditorium with rich, beautiful music. --- Why did Jackson's fingers move automatically once he sat at the piano?

• AHe had practiced the song repeatedly for three months, creating strong muscle memory.
• BThe piano bench was equipped with a automatic mechanical player.
• CMrs. Gable stood behind him pushing his hands.
• DThe audience shouted out the musical notes to him.

Read the fable snippet below, then answer the question. --- The Crow and the Pitcher A thirsty crow found a tall pitcher with a little water at the bottom. However, the pitcher was so tall and narrow that the crow could not reach the water with his beak. He tried to tip the pitcher over, but it was too heavy. Then the crow saw a pile of small pebbles nearby. He picked up one pebble at a time in his beak and dropped it into the pitcher. With each pebble, the water level rose higher and higher. Soon, the water reached the top rim, and the crow drank his fill. --- What problem did the crow face at the beginning of the fable?

• AHe could not reach the water inside the tall pitcher.
• BThe pebbles nearby were too heavy for him to lift.
• CThe water in the pitcher was frozen solid.
• DAnother bird chased him away from the stream.

Read the fable snippet below, then answer the question. --- The Crow and the Pitcher A thirsty crow found a tall pitcher with a little water at the bottom. However, the pitcher was so tall and narrow that the crow could not reach the water with his beak. He tried to tip the pitcher over, but it was too heavy. Then the crow saw a pile of small pebbles nearby. He picked up one pebble at a time in his beak and dropped it into the pitcher. With each pebble, the water level rose higher and higher. Soon, the water reached the top rim, and the crow drank his fill. --- Which character trait did the crow display to solve his problem?

• ACleverness and patience
• BFoolishness and anger
• CLaziness and weakness
• DFearfulness and greed

Read the story excerpt below, then answer the question. --- The Camping Adventure "Look at all those bright stars!" shouted Ethan, pointing up at the dark night sky. We were sitting around the crackling campfire roasting marshmallows on long wooden sticks. My dad was telling us an old legend about the constellation Orion. The warmth of the fire toasted my face while the cool night breeze tickled my neck. This was my favorite night of the whole summer. --- Which sentence proves that this story is told from the first-person perspective?

• A"The warmth of the fire toasted my face while the cool night breeze tickled my neck."
• B"'Look at all those bright stars!' shouted Ethan..."
• C"My dad was telling us an old legend about the constellation Orion."
• DBoth "The warmth of the fire..." and "My dad was telling us..." use first-person pronouns.

Read the passage below, then answer the question. --- Lily's Secret Kindness Lily noticed that her classmate Noah had been sitting alone at recess all week. His family had recently moved to town, and he looked quiet and lonely. On Friday, during art class, Lily drew a colorful card that said, "Welcome to our class! Want to play kickball today?" She quietly slipped the folded paper into Noah's desk folder while he was washing his paintbrushes. At recess, Noah walked out to the field with a big smile and joined Lily's kickball team. Lily never told anyone she wrote the note, but seeing Noah laugh made her heart feel warm. --- What is the central theme of this passage?

• ASmall, quiet acts of kindness can make a big difference in someone's life.
• BKickball is the most popular game to play at school recess.
• CArt class is the best time to finish homework assignments.
• DMoving to a new town always makes children unhappy forever.

Read the article snippet below, then answer the question. --- Loggerhead Sea Turtles of South Carolina Every summer, loggerhead sea turtles crawl onto the sandy beaches of South Carolina to lay their eggs. Female loggerheads return to the exact same beaches where they hatched decades earlier! A female turtle digs a hole in the dry sand with her back flippers and lays about 100 round, white eggs. She then covers the nest with sand and swims back into the Atlantic Ocean. After about 60 days, tiny turtle hatchlings dig their way out of the sand. They emerge mostly at night when it is cooler and safer from predators. Using the bright light of the moon reflecting on the ocean waves, the hatchlings crawl quickly toward the sea. --- What is the main idea of this article?

• ALoggerhead sea turtles nest on South Carolina beaches and their hatchlings head to the oc…
• BAtlantic Ocean water is too cold for adult sea turtles during the winter.
• CFemale sea turtles stay on the beach to guard their eggs for 60 days.
• DMoonlight is the only source of light available on coastal beaches.

Read the article snippet below, then answer the question. --- Loggerhead Sea Turtles of South Carolina Every summer, loggerhead sea turtles crawl onto the sandy beaches of South Carolina to lay their eggs. Female loggerheads return to the exact same beaches where they hatched decades earlier! A female turtle digs a hole in the dry sand with her back flippers and lays about 100 round, white eggs. She then covers the nest with sand and swims back into the Atlantic Ocean. After about 60 days, tiny turtle hatchlings dig their way out of the sand. They emerge mostly at night when it is cooler and safer from predators. Using the bright light of the moon reflecting on the ocean waves, the hatchlings crawl quickly toward the sea. --- How do hatchlings find their way to the ocean after emerging from the nest?

• AThey follow the bright moonlight reflecting on the ocean waves.
• BThey follow the scent of dry sand left by their mothers.
• CThey listen to the loud calls of adult turtles swimming offshore.
• DThey follow streetlights from nearby coastal towns.

Read the text below, then answer the question. --- How Honeybees Make Honey Honeybees are incredible insects that work together in large colonies. The process of making honey involves several steps: 1. **Collecting Nectar:** Worker bees fly from flower to flower drinking a sweet liquid called nectar. 2. **Carrying to the Hive:** The bees store nectar in a special stomach called a honey sac and carry it back to their hive. 3. **Breaking Down Sugars:** Inside the hive, worker bees pass the nectar to processor bees, which break down the complex sugars. 4. **Evaporating Water:** Bees spread the liquid into honeycomb cells and flap their wings rapidly to dry out extra water until it thickens into rich honey. 5. **Sealing the Cell:** Finally, bees cap the honeycomb cell with beeswax to save the honey for winter. --- Which text feature helps the reader identify the main steps in honey production?

• ANumbered bold headings for each step in the process
• BA map showing flower fields across the state
• CA glossary definition of insect wings
• DAn alphabetical index of bee species

Read the text below, then answer the question. --- How Honeybees Make Honey Honeybees are incredible insects that work together in large colonies. The process of making honey involves several steps: 1. **Collecting Nectar:** Worker bees fly from flower to flower drinking a sweet liquid called nectar. 2. **Carrying to the Hive:** The bees store nectar in a special stomach called a honey sac and carry it back to their hive. 3. **Breaking Down Sugars:** Inside the hive, worker bees pass the nectar to processor bees, which break down the complex sugars. 4. **Evaporating Water:** Bees spread the liquid into honeycomb cells and flap their wings rapidly to dry out extra water until it thickens into rich honey. 5. **Sealing the Cell:** Finally, bees cap the honeycomb cell with beeswax to save the honey for winter. --- Why do bees flap their wings rapidly over the liquid in the honeycomb cells?

• ATo evaporate extra water so the liquid thickens into honey
• BTo cool down the hive when the summer weather is too hot
• CTo scare away predator wasps trying to enter the hive
• DTo signal to the queen bee that new nectar has arrived

Read the article section below, then answer the question. --- Solar Energy: Power from the Sun Solar panels are dark, flat devices installed on roofs or in open fields. They capture sunlight and convert it directly into electricity. Because the sun shines every day, solar energy is a **renewable** resource — meaning it will never run out like coal or oil. Using solar power also helps protect the environment. Traditional power plants burn fossil fuels, which releases harmful smoke and greenhouse gases into the air. In contrast, solar panels produce clean energy without creating air pollution. Today, many schools and homes in South Carolina are installing solar panels to save money and keep the air clean. --- Based on the context of the article, what does the word **renewable** mean?

• AAble to be replaced naturally and never run out
• BVery expensive to purchase and install
• CDangerous to touch during stormy weather
• DOld-fashioned and no longer useful

Read the article section below, then answer the question. --- Solar Energy: Power from the Sun Solar panels are dark, flat devices installed on roofs or in open fields. They capture sunlight and convert it directly into electricity. Because the sun shines every day, solar energy is a **renewable** resource — meaning it will never run out like coal or oil. Using solar power also helps protect the environment. Traditional power plants burn fossil fuels, which releases harmful smoke and greenhouse gases into the air. In contrast, solar panels produce clean energy without creating air pollution. Today, many schools and homes in South Carolina are installing solar panels to save money and keep the air clean. --- What is the author's primary purpose in writing this text?

• ATo inform readers about how solar panels work and why solar energy benefits the environme…
• BTo persuade readers to move away from South Carolina to sunny states
• CTo entertain readers with a funny story about a broken solar panel
• DTo instruct readers on how to build their own electrical power plant

Read the text excerpt below, then answer the question. --- The Life of Venus Flytraps Did you know that the carnivorous Venus flytrap plant grows naturally in only one place on Earth? They are native to the damp coastal wetlands within a 60-mile radius of Wilmington, North Carolina, extending into northeastern South Carolina. Because the soil in boggy wetlands lacks nitrogen, Venus flytraps get their nutrients by catching insects. The leaves of the flytrap have tiny sensitive hairs. When a fly or ant touches two hairs within 20 seconds, the leaf snaps shut in less than a second! Special juices inside the trap dissolve the insect over 5 to 12 days, giving the plant essential nutrients. --- Why do Venus flytraps catch and digest insects?

• ABecause the wetland soil lacks nitrogen, so they need nutrients from insects.
• BBecause insects try to eat the plant's roots and flowers.
• CBecause they need to protect nearby flowers from bee stings.
• DBecause sunlight cannot reach the bottom of coastal bogs.

Read the text excerpt below, then answer the question. --- The Life of Venus Flytraps Did you know that the carnivorous Venus flytrap plant grows naturally in only one place on Earth? They are native to the damp coastal wetlands within a 60-mile radius of Wilmington, North Carolina, extending into northeastern South Carolina. Because the soil in boggy wetlands lacks nitrogen, Venus flytraps get their nutrients by catching insects. The leaves of the flytrap have tiny sensitive hairs. When a fly or ant touches two hairs within 20 seconds, the leaf snaps shut in less than a second! Special juices inside the trap dissolve the insect over 5 to 12 days, giving the plant essential nutrients. --- What triggers a Venus flytrap leaf to snap shut?

• AAn insect touching two sensitive leaf hairs within 20 seconds
• BA drop of heavy rain falling on the leaf surface
• CThe sun setting behind the wetland trees
• DStrong coastal wind blowing through the bog

Read the passage below, then answer the question. --- How Bridges Stand Up Bridges allow cars, trains, and pedestrians to cross over rivers and canyons safely. Engineers design different types of bridges based on distance and weight requirements: * **Beam Bridges:** The simplest bridges, made of horizontal beams supported by pillars at each end. Best for short distances. * **Arch Bridges:** Curved structures that push weight outward toward supports at each end. Very strong and durable. * **Suspension Bridges:** Long cables strung between high towers support the roadway. Ideal for spanning wide harbors and deep bays. --- Which type of bridge is best suited for crossing wide harbors?

• ASuspension bridges
• BBeam bridges
• CArch bridges
• DWooden plank bridges

Read the passage below, then answer the question. --- How Bridges Stand Up Bridges allow cars, trains, and pedestrians to cross over rivers and canyons safely. Engineers design different types of bridges based on distance and weight requirements: * **Beam Bridges:** The simplest bridges, made of horizontal beams supported by pillars at each end. Best for short distances. * **Arch Bridges:** Curved structures that push weight outward toward supports at each end. Very strong and durable. * **Suspension Bridges:** Long cables strung between high towers support the roadway. Ideal for spanning wide harbors and deep bays. --- How does the author organize the information in this text?

• ABy listing categories of bridges with bullet points describing their characteristics
• BBy telling a chronological story about an engineer building a bridge
• CBy comparing the cost of steel bridges to concrete roads
• DBy describing a problem with a broken bridge and how it was repaired

Read the short article below, then answer the question. --- Sweet Potatoes: South Carolina's Superfood Sweet potatoes are one of South Carolina's top agricultural crops. Unlike regular white potatoes, sweet potatoes are root vegetables packed with vitamin A, vitamin C, and fiber. Native Americans grew sweet potatoes long before European settlers arrived in the South. Sweet potatoes thrive in South Carolina's warm climate and sandy soil. Farmers plant slips (small sprouts) in late spring. By autumn, the roots grow plump underground and are ready for harvest. Sweet potatoes can be baked, mashed, or made into delicious pies! --- Why do sweet potatoes grow so well in South Carolina?

• ABecause of the state's warm climate and sandy soil
• BBecause farmers flood the fields with saltwater every week
• CBecause sweet potatoes grow best in freezing winter weather
• DBecause they require no soil to grow underground

Read the short article below, then answer the question. --- Sweet Potatoes: South Carolina's Superfood Sweet potatoes are one of South Carolina's top agricultural crops. Unlike regular white potatoes, sweet potatoes are root vegetables packed with vitamin A, vitamin C, and fiber. Native Americans grew sweet potatoes long before European settlers arrived in the South. Sweet potatoes thrive in South Carolina's warm climate and sandy soil. Farmers plant slips (small sprouts) in late spring. By autumn, the roots grow plump underground and are ready for harvest. Sweet potatoes can be baked, mashed, or made into delicious pies! --- What is the meaning of the word **harvest** as used in paragraph 2?

• AGathering mature crops from the fields
• BWatering seeds with a garden hose
• CSelling farm land to home builders
• DCooking vegetables in a hot oven

Read the article below, then answer the question. --- The Work of Firefighters Firefighters protect communities from dangerous fires and emergency situations. Their work requires extensive training, specialized gear, and teamwork. **Protective Gear:** Firefighters wear thick fire-resistant coats and pants called turnouts. They also wear heavy rubber boots, heat-proof gloves, and helmets with face shields. A air tank on their back supplies clean oxygen inside smoky buildings. **Firehouse Duties:** When firefighters are not responding to 911 calls, they inspect equipment, practice rescue drills, and teach fire safety lessons to elementary school students. --- What is the main purpose of the bold section heading **Protective Gear**?

• ATo tell the reader that the following paragraph will describe firefighter clothing and sa…
• BTo explain how firefighters drive fire trucks to emergency scenes
• CTo list the phone numbers of local South Carolina fire stations
• DTo show how to cook healthy meals inside a firehouse kitchen