NJSLA Comprehending Informational Texts 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: A student reads a science article that includes a diagram showing how photosynthesis works. What is the PRIMARY purpose of including this diagram?
- To replace the written explanation entirely
- To provide a visual representation that supports understanding of the process (Correct answer)
- To make the article appear more professional
- To confuse readers who prefer text
Correct answer: To provide a visual representation that supports understanding of the process
Diagrams in informational texts visually represent complex processes to help readers understand relationships and sequences described in the text.
Question 2: Which text structure is being used when an author explains why deforestation occurs and then describes its effects on wildlife?
- Chronological order
- Compare and contrast
- Cause and effect (Correct answer)
- Problem and solution
Correct answer: Cause and effect
Cause-and-effect structure connects reasons (causes) to outcomes (effects), as in linking deforestation to wildlife consequences.
Question 3: An informational article uses the words 'in contrast' and 'on the other hand.' These signal words indicate the author is using which organizational pattern?
- Sequential order
- Compare and contrast (Correct answer)
- Cause and effect
- Description
Correct answer: Compare and contrast
Signal words like 'in contrast' and 'on the other hand' indicate that the author is highlighting differences between two ideas or subjects.
Question 4: A reader encounters an unfamiliar word in a science text but notices it is followed by a comma and a brief definition. This is an example of which context clue strategy?
- Synonym clue
- Antonym clue
- Appositive clue (Correct answer)
- Example clue
Correct answer: Appositive clue
An appositive clue provides a definition or restatement of an unknown word, often set off by commas immediately after the word.
Question 5: When summarizing an informational text, which element is MOST important to include?
- The author's name and publication date
- The central idea and key supporting details (Correct answer)
- Personal opinions about the topic
- Every fact mentioned in the article
Correct answer: The central idea and key supporting details
An effective summary captures the central idea and the most important supporting details without including minor details or personal opinions.
Question 6: A student reads two articles about climate change. Article A is written by a climate scientist and Article B is written by an oil company's spokesperson. Why is it important to evaluate the source of each article?
- Sources don't affect the accuracy of information
- The scientist's article will always be shorter
- Different sources may have different perspectives or biases that affect how information is presented (Correct answer)
- Only articles with photographs are credible
Correct answer: Different sources may have different perspectives or biases that affect how information is presented
Evaluating sources helps readers recognize potential bias and determine how an author's background or purpose may influence the way information is presented.
Question 7: In an informational text, a heading that reads 'The Economic Impact of Solar Energy' tells readers that the following section will most likely discuss:
- The history of solar panels
- How solar panels are manufactured
- The financial effects of using solar energy (Correct answer)
- Environmental benefits of solar power
Correct answer: The financial effects of using solar energy
Headings preview the content of a section; 'economic impact' signals that the discussion will focus on financial effects.
NJSLA Comprehending Informational Texts 2
A student reads a science article that includes a diagram showing how photosynthesis works.
What is the PRIMARY purpose of including this diagram?