Vermont Comprehensive Assessment Program ELA — Grade 6

Read the passage below: Maya stepped onto the narrow hiking trail near Mount Mansfield as the morning sun cast long shadows through the birch trees. The air was crisp, carrying the sharp scent of pine and damp earth. Armed with a trail map, a compass, and a thermos of warm cider, she had planned this autumn trek for weeks. Her goal was to reach the rocky overhang known as Eagle Rock before noon. What is the main setting of the story?

• AA mountain hiking trail on an autumn morning
• BA crowded city park during late summer
• CA sandy beach along the Atlantic coastline
• DAn indoor sports arena during winter

Read the passage below: As Maya climbed higher, the forest thinned, revealing patches of sunlight illuminating yellow fern beds. A small stream gurgled beside the path, its water crystal clear and luminescent under the morning sun. In the passage, what does the word 'luminescent' mean?

• AGlowing or shining with light
• BDark and muddy
• CExtremely cold or frozen
• DSwiftly moving and dangerous

Read the passage below: Maya stopped by a fallen log to check her map. Although her legs were beginning to ache, she smiled. She knew that perseverance was the key to seeing the panoramic view from the summit. Which sentence best expresses the theme of this passage?

• APersistent effort leads to rewarding experiences.
• BHiking without a map is a dangerous activity.
• CForest trees should be protected from destruction.
• DPhysical rest is more important than achieving goals.

Read the passage below: Reaching Eagle Rock at precisely 11:45 AM, Maya poured a cup of cider from her thermos. Looking out over the vibrant canopy of red and orange leaves stretching toward Lake Champlain, she felt a profound sense of accomplishment. How does Maya feel when she reaches Eagle Rock?

• AProud and satisfied with her journey
• BAnxious about getting lost on the way back
• CDisappointed by the view from the top
• DConfused about the directions on her map

Read the passage below: Maya stepped onto the narrow hiking trail near Mount Mansfield... Armed with a trail map, a compass, and a thermos of warm cider, she had planned this autumn trek for weeks. Which detail from the text shows that Maya prepared carefully for her hike?

• AShe brought a trail map, a compass, and warm cider, and planned for weeks.
• BShe ran up the mountain without stopping to take any breaks.
• CShe asked other hikers to give her food and water along the path.
• DShe decided to go hiking on a sudden whim without checking the weather.

Read the informational passage below: Lake Champlain, located between Vermont and New York, is home to diverse fish and wildlife. However, agricultural runoff carrying excess phosphorus poses a threat to its ecosystem. High phosphorus levels trigger rapid algae blooms, which deplete oxygen in the water and harm aquatic life. According to the passage, what is a primary threat to Lake Champlain's ecosystem?

• AAgricultural runoff containing excess phosphorus
• BFreezing surface temperatures during Vermont winters
• COverpopulation of native trout and bass species
• DLack of sunlight reaching the surrounding wetlands

Read the informational passage below: To combat water quality issues, conservation groups in Vermont are planting native trees along streambanks. These root systems absorb excess runoff before it reaches Lake Champlain, acting as natural filters. What is the main function of the tree roots planted along streambanks?

• AThey absorb excess runoff to act as natural water filters.
• BThey provide timber for building lakeside homes.
• CThey warm the water temperature during winter months.
• DThey block boats from entering sensitive bay areas.

Read the informational passage below: High phosphorus levels trigger rapid algae blooms, which deplete oxygen in the water and harm aquatic life. What does the word 'deplete' mean as used in this sentence?

• ATo reduce or use up the supply of something
• BTo add more nutrients to a environment
• CTo clean and purify polluted liquids
• DTo freeze rapidly into a solid state

Read the informational passage below: Lake Champlain, located between Vermont and New York, is home to diverse fish and wildlife. However, agricultural runoff carrying excess phosphorus poses a threat to its ecosystem... Which text structure is used in the Lake Champlain passage?

• AProblem and solution
• BChronological sequence
• CCompare and contrast
• DSpatial description

Read the informational passage below: Conservation groups and local farmers are working together to plant natural tree buffers. By protecting streams, these efforts aim to preserve Lake Champlain for future generations. What is the overall goal of the partnership between farmers and conservation groups?

• ATo protect streams and preserve the lake for the future
• BTo convert farmland into residential housing developments
• CTo build new dams along major tributaries
• DTo increase the speed of motorboats on the lake

Read the informational passage below: Every spring, Vermont sugar makers look forward to the 'sugarbush' season. When temperatures rise above freezing during the day but drop below freezing at night, sap flows through sugar maple trees. This natural pump allows producers to tap the trees and collect the sugary liquid. Which weather pattern is necessary for maple sap to flow?

• AAbove-freezing daytime temperatures paired with below-freezing night temperatures
• BConsistently high heat throughout both day and night
• CSub-zero freezing temperatures that last for several consecutive weeks
• DHeavy summer rains followed by calm wind conditions

Read the informational passage below: It takes approximately 40 gallons of raw maple sap to produce just one gallon of pure maple syrup. The raw sap is boiled in large stainless-steel pans called evaporators until most of the water content evaporates as steam. How much raw sap is typically needed to make one gallon of maple syrup?

• A40 gallons
• B4 gallons
• C100 gallons
• D1 gallon

Read the informational passage below: During the boiling process, sugar makers carefully monitor the temperature. Sap becomes maple syrup when it reaches 7 degrees Fahrenheit above the boiling point of water. What is the purpose of boiling the maple sap?

• ATo evaporate water and concentrate the sugar contents
• BTo freeze the sap into hard maple candies
• CTo change the color of the wood inside the trees
• DTo kill beneficial insects living in the sugarhouse

Read the informational passage below: The raw sap is boiled in large stainless-steel pans called evaporators until most of the water content evaporates as steam, leaving behind concentrated sweet syrup. What does 'evaporates' mean in this context?

• ATurns from liquid into vapor or steam
• BFreezes into solid ice crystals
• CSinks to the bottom of a container
• DChanges into a bright glowing light

Read the informational passage below: Maple syrup production is a long-standing tradition in New England, combining traditional forest knowledge with modern technology to create a natural food product. Which sentence best summarizes the main idea of the maple syrup passage?

• AVermont maple syrup production relies on specific weather conditions and boiling to turn…
• BSugar maple trees can grow in any climate regardless of winter temperatures.
• CModern machinery has eliminated the need for human monitoring in sugarhouses.
• DMaple syrup is primarily manufactured using artificial flavors in factories.

Read the passage below: Leo rooted around in his canvas backpack, looking for his brass pocket compass. When his hand brushed against empty fabric, panic flared. Without his compass, navigating the unfamiliar trails around Camels Hump would be far more challenging. What main problem does Leo encounter?

• AHe realizes he missing his pocket compass while on a trail.
• BHe loses his backpack in a deep mountain river.
• CHe encounters a storm without waterproof clothing.
• DHe takes the wrong turn and arrives in an unknown town.

Read the passage below: Instead of rushing blindly, Leo took a deep breath. He recalled his wilderness training: locate the sun's position and look for recognizable landmarks like the rocky ridge to the west. How does Leo handle his initial panic?

• AHe stays calm and uses landmark knowledge and the sun position.
• BHe runs as fast as possible down the nearest slope.
• CHe sits down and shouts for help until someone arrives.
• DHe decides to set up camp and build a permanent cabin.

Read the passage below: By following the sun's western descent and keeping the rocky ridge on his right, Leo spotted the trailhead sign within an hour. Relief washed over him as he saw his father waiting by the park ranger station. Which word best describes Leo's actions in this situation?

• AResourceful
• BCareless
• CFoolish
• DStubborn

Read the passage below: Relief washed over him as he saw the bright yellow trailhead sign standing like a welcoming beacon in the distance. What figure of speech is used in the phrase 'standing like a welcoming beacon'?

• ASimile
• BMetaphor
• CPersonification
• DHyperbole

Read the passage below: Leo rooted around in his canvas backpack, looking for his brass pocket compass... What is the primary theme of Leo's story?

• AKnowledge and calm thinking help overcome unexpected challenges.
• BHiking alone without equipment is always enjoyable.
• CTechnology can replace all outdoor navigation skills.
• DMountains are too dangerous for recreational hiking.

Read the informational passage below: During the 19th century, wooden bridges were common across New England. However, exposed wooden beams rotted quickly when subjected to harsh rain and snow. Builders began constructing wooden roofs and side walls to protect the heavy supporting trusses underneath. Why were roofs built over wooden bridges in the 19th century?

• ATo protect the supporting wooden trusses from weather damage and rot
• BTo give local artists a place to paint murals
• CTo block heavy wind from blowing carriages off the road
• DTo keep fish in the river below from jumping onto the road

Read the informational passage below: Uncovered wooden bridges typically lasted only 10 to 15 years before rotting. In contrast, covered bridges could endure for over a century with basic roof maintenance. Based on the text, how did adding a roof affect the lifespan of a wooden bridge?

• AIt increased the lifespan from around 10-15 years to over 100 years.
• BIt reduced the lifespan by trapping moisture under the roof.
• CIt had no measurable effect on how long the wood lasted.
• DIt caused the bridge to collapse after only 5 years.

Read the informational passage below: Builders used interconnected wooden triangles, known as trusses, to distribute weight evenly across the structure. In this sentence, what is a 'truss'?

• AA structural framework of connected beams that supports weight
• BA type of metal nail used in modern construction
• CA toll booth placed at the entrance of a bridge
• DA decorative arch carved into stone pillars

Read the informational passage below: Today, Vermont boasts over 100 historic covered bridges, more per square mile than any other state. They remain cherished landmarks attracting visitors from around the world. What makes Vermont's collection of covered bridges notable today?

• AVermont has the highest concentration of covered bridges per square mile in the nation.
• BAll bridges in Vermont are required to be built out of wood.
• CVermont bridges are the only ones in North America that allow car traffic.
• DVermont covered bridges were all built within the last ten years.

Read the informational passage below: Preservationists inspect covered bridges regularly to repair aging timbers and ensure structural safety. Which word is a synonym for 'preservationists' as used in this sentence?

• AProtectors
• BDestroyers
• CVisitors
• DDrivers

Which sentence uses subject pronouns correctly?

• AElena and I completed the science project before the deadline.
• BElena and me completed the science project before the deadline.
• CMe and Elena completed the science project before the deadline.
• DHer and I completed the science project before the deadline.

Which sentence is correctly punctuated with commas?

• AAfter the thunderstorm ended, a bright rainbow appeared over the valley.
• BAfter the thunderstorm ended a bright rainbow, appeared over the valley.
• CAfter, the thunderstorm ended a bright rainbow appeared over the valley.
• DAfter the thunderstorm ended a bright rainbow appeared, over the valley.

Choose the word that best completes the sentence: 'The research team worked __________ to gather samples before the heavy rain began.'

• Aefficiently
• Befficient
• Cefficiency
• Defficacious

What type of figurative language is used in the following sentence? 'The engine roared like a hungry lion when the driver turned the key.'

• ASimile
• BMetaphor
• CHyperbole
• DAlliteration

Which sentence contains a spelling error?

• AThe student received a certificate for outstanding acheivement.
• BThe scientist observed the chemical reaction in the laboratory.
• CIt is necessary to wear protective equipment in the shop.
• DWe separate recyclable materials into distinct bins.

Read the story passage below: In the heart of Barre, Vermont, the clatter of chisels against granite echoed across the quarry basin. Young Tomas stood beside his uncle, watching skilled stonemasons transform raw grey stone into smooth, precise blocks destined for monuments across the country. Tomas touched the rough surface of an uncarved slab. He knew that beneath its rugged exterior lay a hidden sculpture waiting to be freed. What does the quarry environment symbolize for Tomas?

• AA realm of hard work where raw potential can be shaped into art
• BA dangerous place that he desperately wants to escape
• CA noisy location that prevents him from concentrating on school
• DA historical museum showcasing ancient artifacts

Read the story passage below: 'Patience, Tomas,' Uncle Mateo said, adjusting his safety goggles. 'Granite does not yield to haste. A master carver respects the stone's grain and listens to the sound of each strike.' What does Uncle Mateo's advice reveal about the craft of stone carving?

• AIt requires careful attention, technique, and discipline rather than speed.
• BIt can be completed quickly if powerful tools are used.
• CIt is an easy skill that anyone can learn in a single day.
• DIt relies entirely on random luck rather than practice.

Read the story passage below: As Uncle Mateo tapped the steel chisel, a crisp ringing note filled the air. 'Hear that tone?' Mateo asked. 'That sound tells us the stone is solid, free of internal fractures.' How does the sensory detail of the 'crisp ringing note' advance the story?

• AIt explains how carvers test the structural integrity of the stone.
• BIt shows that the chisel is broken and needs replacement.
• CIt indicates that dangerous weather is approaching the quarry.
• DIt signals to the workers that the workday has ended.

Read the story passage below: Tomas picked up a small scrap of granite and a wooden mallet. Under his uncle's watchful eye, he struck his first delicate blow, carving a shallow groove along his sketched line. Which word best describes the tone of this passage?

• AFocused and respectful
• BComical and lighthearted
• CTense and argumentative
• DSarcastic and indifferent

Read the story passage below: By late afternoon, Tomas held his carved stone tile. It was far from perfect, but the clean lines reflected hours of patience. He realized that mastery was not a single moment, but a continuous journey. Which sentence best expresses the theme developed across the story?

• ATrue craftsmanship requires patience, practice, and dedication over time.
• BNatural talent is the only factor in becoming a successful artist.
• CWorking with stone is too difficult for young apprentices.
• DFinishing tasks quickly is more important than quality.

Read the science passage below: A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes directly between Earth and the Sun, blocking all or part of the Sun's light. During a total solar eclipse, the Moon's shadow travels across Earth's surface along a narrow path called the path of totality. Observers inside this path experience brief daytime darkness as the Sun's bright disk is completely obscured. What happens when an observer is standing within the 'path of totality' during a solar eclipse?

• AThey experience brief total darkness during the day as the Sun is fully covered.
• BThey see a partial eclipse where only half the Moon is visible.
• CThey witness an increase in solar warmth and brighter daylight.
• DThey see the Sun disappear permanently from the sky.

Read the science passage below: Although solar eclipses occur somewhere on Earth roughly every 18 months, any specific location on Earth experiences a total solar eclipse only once every 375 years on average. This rarity occurs because the path of totality covers a tiny fraction of Earth's total surface area. Why is experiencing a total solar eclipse at a specific home location considered a rare event?

• AThe path of totality covers only a tiny percentage of Earth's surface during any eclipse.
• BSolar eclipses occur only once every thousand years somewhere on Earth.
• CThe Moon's orbit prevents shadows from ever hitting land masses.
• DThe Sun stops emitting light only during rare solar flare events.

Read the science passage below: Safety is paramount when viewing an eclipse. Looking directly at the Sun without specialized eye protection can cause severe, permanent eye damage. Standard sunglasses, even dark ones, do not provide sufficient filter protection against harmful solar radiation. What does the word 'paramount' mean in this paragraph?

• AOf supreme importance or highest priority
• BUnimportant or secondary
• CExtremely rare or unusual
• DDifficult to understand

Read the science passage below: During totality, scientists can observe the corona—the Sun's outer atmosphere—which is normally hidden by the intense glare of the solar surface. Studying the corona helps astronomers understand solar winds and space weather patterns. Why is a total eclipse scientifically valuable to astronomers?

• AIt allows them to study the Sun's outer atmosphere (corona) without solar glare.
• BIt causes the Sun's surface temperature to drop to zero degrees.
• CIt allows scientists to land research probes on the Moon's surface.
• DIt proves that the Moon produces its own bright luminescence.

Read the science passage below: A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes directly between Earth and the Sun... Safety is paramount when viewing an eclipse... Studying the corona helps astronomers understand solar winds... Which subheading would be most appropriate for the paragraph discussing eye safety?

• AProtecting Your Vision During Eclipse Observation
• BHow Moon Shadows Move Across Oceans
• CThe History of Astronomical Discoveries
• DCalculating the Speed of Solar Radiation

Read the story passage below: Behind Mrs. Gable's dilapidated barn lay a neglected plot of land choked with thistles and wild blackberry brambles. When twelve-year-old Nora discovered the overgrown lot, she did not see a mess; she envisioned a vibrant community garden filled with heirloom tomatoes, marigolds, and pollinators. How does Nora's perspective differ from a typical observer's view of the lot?

• ANora sees potential for growth and beauty where others see an overgrown mess.
• BNora believes the land should be paved over to make a parking lot.
• CNora thinks the land is too dangerous to touch because of wild animals.
• DNora wants to build a commercial shopping center on the plot.

Read the story passage below: Clearing the brambles was grueling work. Thorny vines snagged Nora's gloves, and roots clung stubbornly to the rocky soil. Yet afternoon after afternoon, she returned with her spade, slowly carving out neat planting beds. What does the word 'grueling' suggest about Nora's work?

• AIt was physically demanding and required intense effort.
• BIt was light, cheerful, and completed without energy.
• CIt was boring and required no physical movement.
• DIt was dangerous and caused severe structural damage.

Read the story passage below: Noticing Nora's persistence, neighbors began stopping by. Mr. Chen brought leftover cedar boards for raised beds, while Mrs. Gable supplied seeds saved from her own garden. What started as one girl's project quickly blossomed into a neighborhood effort. How does Nora's individual effort influence her community?

• AHer dedication inspires neighbors to contribute materials and work together.
• BHer work annoys neighbors who preferred the overgrown lot.
• CHer project forces the town council to pass strict gardening rules.
• DHer neighbors hire professional contractors to take over the project.

Read the story passage below: By mid-August, green vines climbed cedar trellises, and red tomatoes glowed like jewels among dark green leaves. The once-barren plot buzzed with bees and laughter. What literary device is used in 'red tomatoes glowed like jewels'?

• ASimile
• BMetaphor
• COnomatopoeia
• DPersonification

Read the story passage below: Behind Mrs. Gable's dilapidated barn... What started as one girl's project quickly blossomed into a neighborhood effort. Which core message is central to the entire narrative?

• AInitiative and hard work can unite people to transform their shared environment.
• BGardening is only successful when performed by trained agricultural scientists.
• COld property should remain untouched to preserve historical ruins.
• DVegetables grown in community gardens are superior to market goods.

Read the historical passage below: In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Vermont's snowy winters transformed from an economic hardship into a sporting attraction. Scandinavian immigrants introduced cross-country skis, while local wooden craftspeople crafted early wooden snowshoes and sleds. By the 1930s, the installation of North America's first rope tow in Woodstock, Vermont, revolutionized downhill skiing. What major technological innovation in 1934 changed winter recreation in Vermont?

• AThe invention and installation of the powered rope tow
• BThe creation of artificial snowmaking cannons
• CThe development of fiberglass snowboards
• DThe construction of heated indoor ice rinks

Read the historical passage below: Before the rope tow was invented, skiers spent up to an hour climbing up steep hills on foot for a single two-minute descent. The mechanical tow allowed athletes to make dozens of runs in a single afternoon. How did the rope tow alter the experience of skiing?

• AIt dramatically increased the amount of time skiers could spend descending slopes.
• BIt made skiing much slower and more physically exhausting.
• CIt restricted skiing to flat meadow areas near towns.
• DIt eliminated the need for skis by towing sleds instead.

Read the historical passage below: Scandinavian immigrants introduced cross-country skis, while local wooden craftspeople crafted early wooden snowshoes and sleds... What does the word 'introduced' mean as used in this sentence?

• ABrought in and made known for the first time
• BRemoved or outlawed by government decree
• CRepaired after being broken in an accident
• DExported to foreign countries across the ocean