Reading 7th Practice Test PDF

Sample Items Printout Total Items: 29 05-December-2024 Stimulus # Item ID Grade S...

Sample Items Printout Total Items: 29 05-December-2024 Stimulus # Item ID Grade Subject Claim Target Standard DOK Type ID 1 183169 7 193797 ELA 1 1 7.RL.1 2 MC 2 98335 7 172952 ELA 1 1 7.RL.1 2 HTQ 3 98325 7 172952 ELA 1 2 7.RL.2 2 MS 4 98333 7 172952 ELA 1 3 7.L.4c 2 HTQ 5 98331 7 172952 ELA 1 4 7.RL.3 4 SA 6 26655 7 170053 ELA 1 13 7.RI.5 3 MS 7 183165 7 193797 ELA 1 7 7.RL.4 3 MC 8 183167 7 193797 ELA 1 5 7.RL.6 3 MC 9 182968 7 193782 ELA 1 9 7.RI.2 2 MC 10 26653 7 170053 ELA 1 12 7.RI.3 3 EBSR 11 183040 7 193782 ELA 1 11 7.RI.1 4 HTQ 12 99297 7 172952 ELA 1 6 7.RL.5 3 MC 13 182971 7 193782 ELA 1 13 7.RI.5 2 MC 14 183175 7 193797 ELA 1 6 7.RL.5 2 MS 15 183184 7 193797 ELA 1 5 7.RL.3 4 MS 16 98341 7 172952 ELA 1 6 7.RL.5 3 MC 17 26647 7 170053 ELA 1 9 7.RI.2 2 EBSR 18 182967 7 193782 ELA 1 8 7.RI.1 2 MC 19 183171 7 193797 ELA 1 3 7.RL.4 2 MS 20 26643 7 170053 ELA 1 8 7.RI.1 2 MC 21 183173 7 193797 ELA 1 4 7.RL.3 3 SA 22 26645 7 170053 ELA 1 9 7.RI.2 2 HTQ 23 103946 7 172952 ELA 1 3 7.L.4a 1 MC 24 98329 7 172952 ELA 1 4 7.RL.3 3 EBSR 25 182969 7 193782 ELA 1 9 7.RI.2 3 SA 26 182970 7 193782 ELA 1 10 7.RI.4 2 MC 27 183186 7 193797 ELA 1 2 7.RL.2 3 SA 28 98343 7 172952 ELA 1 7 7.RL.4 3 MC 29 26649 7 170053 ELA 1 10 7.RI.4 1 MS Page 1 of 68 © 2024 The Regents of the University of California  #1 - 183169 Read the text and answer the questions. The Capture of Father Time by L. Frank Baum Jim was the son of a cowboy, and lived on the broad plains of Arizona. His father had trained him to lasso a bronco or a young bull with perfect accuracy, and had Jim possessed the strength to back up his skill he would have been as good a cowboy as any in all Arizona. When he was twelve years old he made his first visit to the east, where Uncle Charles, his father's brother, lived. Of course Jim took his lasso with him, for he was proud of his skill in casting it, and wanted to show his cousins what a cowboy could do. At first the city boys and girls were much interested in watching Jim lasso posts and fence pickets, but they soon tired of it, and even Jim decided it was not the right sort of sport for cities. But one day the butcher asked Jim to ride one of his horses into the country, to a pasture that had been engaged, and Jim eagerly consented. He had been longing for a horseback ride, and to make it seem like old times he took his lasso with him. He rode through the streets demurely enough, but on reaching the open country roads his spirits broke forth into wild jubilation, and, urging the butcher's horse to full gallop, he dashed away in true cowboy fashion. Then he wanted still more liberty, and letting down the bars that led into a big field he began riding over the meadow and throwing his lasso at imaginary cattle, while he yelled and whooped to his heart's content. Suddenly, on making a long cast with his lasso, the loop caught upon something and rested about three feet from the ground, while the rope drew taut and nearly pulled Jim from his horse. This was unexpected. More than that, it was wonderful; for the field seemed bare of even a stump. Jim's eyes grew big with amazement, but he knew he had caught something when a voice cried out: Page 2 of 68 © 2024 The Regents of the University of California  "Here, let go! Let go, I say! Can't you see what you've done?" No, Jim couldn't see, nor did he intend to let go until he found out what was holding the loop of the lasso. So he resorted to an old trick his father had taught him and, putting the butcher's horse to a run, began riding in a circle around the spot where his lasso had caught. As he thus drew nearer and nearer his quarry he saw the rope coil up, yet it looked to be coiling over nothing but air. One end of the lasso was made fast to a ring in the saddle, and when the rope was almost wound up and the horse began to pull away and snort with fear, Jim dismounted. Holding the reins of the bridle in one hand, he followed the rope, and an instant later saw a man caught fast in the coils of the lasso. While Jim gazed wonderingly upon him, this venerable old man spoke in an angry voice: "Now, then—get that rope off as fast as you can! You've brought everything on earth to a standstill by your foolishness! Well—what are you staring at? Don't you know who I am?" "No," said Jim. "Well, I'm Time—Father Time! Now, make haste and set me free—if you want the world to run properly." "How did I happen to catch you?" asked Jim, without making a move to release his captive. "I don't know. I've never been caught before," growled Father Time. "But I suppose it was because you were foolishly throwing your lasso at nothing." "I didn't see you," said Jim. "Of course you didn't. I'm invisible to the eyes of human beings unless they get within three feet of me, and I take care to keep more than that distance away from them. That's why I was crossing this field, where I supposed no one would be. And I should have been perfectly safe had it not been for your beastly lasso. Now, then," he added, crossly, "are you going to get that rope off?" "Why should I?" asked Jim. Page 3 of 68 © 2024 The Regents of the University of California  "Because everything in the world stopped moving the moment you caught me. I don't suppose you want to make an end of all business and pleasure? Not a watch has ticked since you tied me up!" Jim laughed. It really was funny to see the old man wound round and round with coils of rope from his knees up to his chin. "It'll do you good to rest," said the boy. "From all I've heard you lead a rather busy life." "Indeed I do," replied Father Time, with a sigh. "I'm due in Kamchatka this very minute. And to think one small boy is upsetting all my regular habits!" "Too bad!" said Jim, with a grin. "But since the world has stopped anyhow, it won't matter if it takes a little longer recess. As soon as I let you go Time will fly again." "The Capture of Father Time" by L. Frank Baum, from American Fairy Tales. Copyright © 2011 by The Floating Press. #1 - 183169 Read this statement and the directions that follow. When Jim was visiting his Uncle Charles in the east, he missed riding his horses on the broad plains of Arizona. Which evidence from the text best supports this statement? A. Jim’s eyes grew big with amazement, but he knew he had caught something when a voice cried out. B. He had been longing for a horseback ride, and to make it seem like old times he took his lasso with him. C. Suddenly, on making a long cast with his lasso, the loop caught upon something and rested about three feet from the ground, while the rope drew taut and nearly pulled Jim from his horse. D. At first the city boys and girls were much interested in watching Jim lasso posts and fence pickets, but they soon tired of it, and even Jim decided it was not the right sort of sport for cities. English glossary : longing : having a strong wish to do something lasso : rope with a loop at the end Page 4 of 68 © 2024 The Regents of the University of California  taut : very tight from pulling pickets : sticks or posts with a pointed end and the other end in the ground #2 - 98335 , #3 - 98325 , #4 - 98333 , #5 - 98331 Read the text. Then answer the questions. from The Kingfisher’s Tale by Mark Delaney Peter and Mattie entered the Courier office building. Mattie watched the whirlwind of activity and found himself thinking of an ant farm he had once owned as a child. The newsroom was immense, lit by huge banks of fluorescent lights in the ceiling. Phones jangled a dozen at a time. Behind the jangling, the voices of reporters, photographers, and editors overlapped in a wash of background noise. “Hmm,” said Peter, observing the scene. “It’s hard to know where to begin.” “Are we looking for someone in particular?” asked Mattie. “Not necessarily.” Mattie pulled a quarter from his pocket and set it across the back of his hand. With a practiced motion of his fingers, he rolled the coin back and forth, a one-handed dexterity trick that had required weeks of practice. “So,” he said, “tell me again why we need to talk to a reporter.” “Freedom of the press,” said Peter. “A reporter can get away with asking questions we can’t. A reporter has the name of a newspaper or magazine standing behind him. A reporter can go places we can’t.” Mattie frowned. “Well—suppose the person doesn’t want to answer a question. Then the reporter isn’t any better off than we are.” Peter raised his index finger. ‘‘Aha,” he said, “that’s the beautiful part of it. A reporter can write up a news story whether or not the subject of the story wants to cooperate. Most people will answer a reporter’s questions because they want their side told.” Most of the people they saw were speaking into telephones or typing furiously into computers. A few glanced up as the teenagers passed. One young man wearing a sweater vest and a bow tie ran through the office, clutching sheets of paper that crackled in his hand as he sped Page 5 of 68 © 2024 The Regents of the University of California  by. Peter called to him. “Excuse me? Can you tell us who we see about a news story?” The man looked at the two teenagers, clearly assessing whether or not the question was a waste of his all-too-valuable time. He paused, threw an impatient gesture toward an office cubicle, and stormed off. Mattie walked to the cubicle and waved Peter to join him. On the cubicle entrance was a plastic nameplate held in place by tiny brass screws. The nameplate said Rebecca Kaidanov, Features. The cubicle was empty. Peter stared intently at the workspace, and Mattie sensed he saw far more in the clippings, the Post-it notes, and the messy desktop than others would. But Peter didn’t offer any information; he just yawned, took off his glasses, and wiped the lenses, saying, “She’ll be back shortly.” Mattie frowned. “How do you know?” Moments later a young woman approached the cubicle, steam swirling from the white mug in her hand. She wore jeans and a long-sleeved, white blouse. Her coarse black hair hung in a clump at the back of her neck, twirled around a pencil. She strode past Peter and Mattie, nodded a greeting, and plunked the mug down on the desk, splashing a few drops of hot coffee across her hand. Mattie grinned and threw a look at Peter. Right again. “Ow,” said the woman, reaching for a tissue. “Can I help you?” “Your nameplate here says ‘features,’ ” said Peter. “Do you cover news stories?” “Depends,” she replied. “Do you own a puppy?” Peter and Mattie looked at each other. The reporter made a dismissive wave. “Never mind.” She shook Peter’s hand, then Mattie’s. “Rebecca Kaidanov. What can I do for you?” Mattie noted the odd way the woman pronounced her vowels, the hard way she clicked off the K in her last name. Peter handed her a business card. “Misfits, Inc., huh?” said Rebecca. Her hair tumbled down as she drew the pencil from it. She then stuck the pencil into an electric sharpener on her desk, and the sharpener made a dull humming sound, not the shrill grinding of motor-driven blades Mattie expected. The reporter tossed the pencil onto her desktop and reached into a drawer for another. “Sorry,” she said. “I keep forgetting the sharpener’s broken. Okay, let’s get started.” Page 6 of 68 © 2024 The Regents of the University of California  She took notes as Peter told her of the events in the forest, beginning with the discovery of the dead kingfishers. As Peter finished the account of the events in the woods, she frowned at her notepad. “The story seems a little thin,” she said. “I’m not sure what I can do.” “There’s more,” said Peter. He told her how the FBI and the Forestry Service had appeared at his door, and how they had confiscated the dead bird. The reporter sat a little more upright and began scribbling a little faster. “Can you give me names?” she asked. Mattie smiled as Peter rattled off the names, the correct spelling of the names, the badge numbers of Ranger Tummins and Agent Polaski, and the make, model, and license number of the car they had arrived in. The reporter wrote down the information, thoughtfully tapping her pencil against the desktop when she finished. “Why all the fuss over a dead bird?” she asked. “And why involve the FBI?” She opened a desk drawer and withdrew a small stack of business cards. She handed one to Peter. “I will try to look into your story, but I cannot make any promises. If anything else happens that might be connected, make sure you call me.” Peter hesitated a moment, then took the card and slid it into his wallet. He looked at Mattie, clearly struggling to hide his disappointment—and failing. The two of them rose to leave. “This isn’t over yet,” he muttered as they headed for the door. Excerpt from The Kingfisher’s Tale by Mark Delaney. Copyright © 2000 by Peachtree Publishers. Reprinted by permission of Peachtree Publishers. Page 7 of 68 © 2024 The Regents of the University of California  #2 - 98335 Click the four sentences that best support the inference that the employees in the newspaper office are very busy. Most of the people they saw were speaking into telephones or typing furiously into computers. A few glanced up as the teenagers passed. One young man wearing a sweater vest and a bow tie ran through the office, clutching sheets of paper that crackled in his hand as he sped by. Peter called to him. “Excuse me? Can you tell us who we see about a news story?” The man looked at the two teenagers, clearly assessing whether or not the question was a waste of his all-too-valuable time. He paused, threw an impatient gesture toward an office cubicle, and stormed off. Mattie walked to the cubicle and waved Peter to join him. On the cubicle entrance was a plastic nameplate held in place by tiny brass screws. The nameplate said Rebecca Kaidanov, Features. The cubicle was empty. #3 - 98325 Select the two sentences that should be included in a summary of the text. A. There are many phones ringing in the newspaper office when Peter and Mattie arrive. B. Peter and Mattie speak with Rebecca regarding the story about the dead kingfishers. C. Mattie rolls a coin back and forth across his hand while he asks Peter why they are there. D. Peter feels disappointed when Rebecca doesn’t take more action with the story right away. E. Peter and Mattie are not looking for anyone in particular when they first enter the newspaper office. F. Rebecca forgets that her pencil sharpener is broken when she tries to sharpen the pencil from her hair. Page 8 of 68 © 2024 The Regents of the University of California  #4 - 98333 First, read the dictionary definition. Then, complete the task. (v) 1. take by public authority Click the underlined word in the sentences that most closely matches the definition provided. As Peter finished the account of the events in the woods, she frowned at her notepad. “The story seems a little thin,” she said. “I’m not sure what I can do.” “There’s more,” said Peter. He told her how the FBI and the Forestry Service had appeared at his door, and how they had confiscated the dead bird. The reporter sat a little more upright and began scribbling a little faster. #5 - 98331 What inference can be made about Peter’s relationship with Mattie? Support your answer with details from the text. Page 9 of 68 © 2024 The Regents of the University of California  #6 - 26655 Read the text and answer the questions. A Living Fossil by Shannon Kietzman Although scientists once thought that the coelacanth died out with the dinosaurs, it is now considered to be a living fossil. In 1938, scientists were shocked when this primitive deep sea fish was discovered alive off the coast of South London, Africa. In addition, scientists were surprised by the coelacanth's many unique features that are not found in other known living vertebrate. Due to its history, which may date back as far as 360 million years, and its prehistoric features, the coelacanth provides important information about ancient life forms. The modern day coelacanth, which may weigh as much as 198 pounds and be as long as 6.5 feet, exhibits four features commonly found in prehistoric fish. For example, the coelacanth boasts thick scales that have only been previously found on extinct fish. A second prehistoric feature is a hinged joint in its skull that allows the fish to widen its mouth so it can eat large prey. The third is its rostral organ. Located in the fish's snout, this electro-sensory organ is thought to help the coelacanth detect prey. Finally, the fish also has an oil-filled tube that serves as its backbone. This tube is known as a notochord. Scientists are not quite sure how to classify the coelacanth because of some of its physical features. Although the coelacanth is definitely a fish, some of its features resemble those found in four-legged animals. For example, the coelacanth has paired lobe fins. These limb-like fins are internally supported by bone. These fins also extend away from the fish's body just like legs and move in an alternating pattern. Despite having fins that function in the same way as legs, the coelacanth uses those fins for swimming. Coelacanths can be found in many places around the world. Most coelacanths are found in the Western Indian Ocean near the Comoros Islands. Some have also been captured off the west coast of the island of Madagascar. Others have been spotted on the east coast of Africa and in areas of the ocean near India. Only two of the coelacanths that have been captured were carrying young, known as pups. One specimen contained five full-term young. The other had 26. In both cases, the pups were approximately 14 inches in length. This discovery helped scientists better understand how the coelacanth reproduces. Page 10 of 68 © 2024 The Regents of the University of California  Although the coelacanth typically dwells in waters that are 500 to 800 feet deep, some may be found as deep as 2,500 feet. Consequently, it has been difficult for researchers to observe the fish in its natural habitat. Special modern-day deep sea diving equipment is making it possible for researchers to enjoy occasional sightings of the coelacanth. Based on these sightings, researchers have determined that there may be only about 1,000 coelacanths left. As such, the coelacanth is considered to be an endangered species. Sadly, it may not be long before these living windows into the past really are nothing more than fossils. #6 - 26655 What does the author accomplish by including details about the coelacanth in the second paragraph? Select two options. A. The details help support the idea that the coelacanth did not die out with the dinosaurs. B. The details help support the idea that the coelacanth’s features can help scientists learn about prehistoric life forms. C. The details help support the idea that each living creature has unique features that make it unlike any other living creature. D. The details help support the idea that it is incredible that an animal such as the coelacanth could still be in existence today. E. The details help support the understanding that the unique prehistoric features tie the coelacanth to other ancient life forms. F. The details help support the idea that other living vertebrates do not have the same features that are found in the coelacanth. English glossary : accomplish : to succeed in doing something vertebrates : animals with backbones #7 - 183165 , #8 - 183167 Read the text and answer the questions. The Capture of Father Time by L. Frank Baum Jim was the son of a cowboy, and lived on the broad plains of Arizona. His father had trained him to lasso a bronco or a young bull with Page 11 of 68 © 2024 The Regents of the University of California  perfect accuracy, and had Jim possessed the strength to back up his skill he would have been as good a cowboy as any in all Arizona. When he was twelve years old he made his first visit to the east, where Uncle Charles, his father's brother, lived. Of course Jim took his lasso with him, for he was proud of his skill in casting it, and wanted to show his cousins what a cowboy could do. At first the city boys and girls were much interested in watching Jim lasso posts and fence pickets, but they soon tired of it, and even Jim decided it was not the right sort of sport for cities. But one day the butcher asked Jim to ride one of his horses into the country, to a pasture that had been engaged, and Jim eagerly consented. He had been longing for a horseback ride, and to make it seem like old times he took his lasso with him. He rode through the streets demurely enough, but on reaching the open country roads his spirits broke forth into wild jubilation, and, urging the butcher's horse to full gallop, he dashed away in true cowboy fashion. Then he wanted still more liberty, and letting down the bars that led into a big field he began riding over the meadow and throwing his lasso at imaginary cattle, while he yelled and whooped to his heart's content. Suddenly, on making a long cast with his lasso, the loop caught upon something and rested about three feet from the ground, while the rope drew taut and nearly pulled Jim from his horse. This was unexpected. More than that, it was wonderful; for the field seemed bare of even a stump. Jim's eyes grew big with amazement, but he knew he had caught something when a voice cried out: "Here, let go! Let go, I say! Can't you see what you've done?" No, Jim couldn't see, nor did he intend to let go until he found out what was holding the loop of the lasso. So he resorted to an old trick his father had taught him and, putting the butcher's horse to a run, began riding in a circle around the spot where his lasso had caught. As he thus drew nearer and nearer his quarry he saw the rope coil up, yet it looked to be coiling over nothing but air. One end of the lasso was made fast to a ring in the saddle, and when the rope was almost wound up and the horse began to pull away and snort with fear, Jim Page 12 of 68 © 2024 The Regents of the University of California  dismounted. Holding the reins of the bridle in one hand, he followed the rope, and an instant later saw a man caught fast in the coils of the lasso. While Jim gazed wonderingly upon him, this venerable old man spoke in an angry voice: "Now, then—get that rope off as fast as you can! You've brought everything on earth to a standstill by your foolishness! Well—what are you staring at? Don't you know who I am?" "No," said Jim. "Well, I'm Time—Father Time! Now, make haste and set me free—if you want the world to run properly." "How did I happen to catch you?" asked Jim, without making a move to release his captive. "I don't know. I've never been caught before," growled Father Time. "But I suppose it was because you were foolishly throwing your lasso at nothing." "I didn't see you," said Jim. "Of course you didn't. I'm invisible to the eyes of human beings unless they get within three feet of me, and I take care to keep more than that distance away from them. That's why I was crossing this field, where I supposed no one would be. And I should have been perfectly safe had it not been for your beastly lasso. Now, then," he added, crossly, "are you going to get that rope off?" "Why should I?" asked Jim. "Because everything in the world stopped moving the moment you caught me. I don't suppose you want to make an end of all business and pleasure? Not a watch has ticked since you tied me up!" Jim laughed. It really was funny to see the old man wound round and round with coils of rope from his knees up to his chin. "It'll do you good to rest," said the boy. "From all I've heard you lead a rather busy life." Page 13 of 68 © 2024 The Regents of the University of California  "Indeed I do," replied Father Time, with a sigh. "I'm due in Kamchatka this very minute. And to think one small boy is upsetting all my regular habits!" "Too bad!" said Jim, with a grin. "But since the world has stopped anyhow, it won't matter if it takes a little longer recess. As soon as I let you go Time will fly again." "The Capture of Father Time" by L. Frank Baum, from American Fairy Tales. Copyright © 2011 by The Floating Press. #7 - 183165 Read the sentence from the text. He rode through the streets demurely enough, but on reaching the open country roads his spirits broke forth into wild jubilation, and, urging the butcher’s horse to full gallop, he dashed away in true cowboy fashion. How does the author’s use of the phrase, spirits broke forth, help the reader understand Jim’s experience in the country? A. The phrase shows the reader that Jim feels late for his morning job. B. The phrase lets the reader see that Jim can ride a horse very well. C. The phrase indicates that Jim needed to move forward in his life. D. The phrase emphasizes that Jim feels confined in the city. English glossary : demurely : quietly jubilation : great joy urging : encouraging someone or something to move gallop : run dashed away : hurried off Page 14 of 68 © 2024 The Regents of the University of California  #8 - 183167 How does the author develop the relationship between Jim and Father Time? A. through their own points of view B. through their dialogue with each other C. with description of each character D. with details about the setting English glossary : develop : give more information dialogue : conversation between two or more characters in a story points of view : ways of looking at something setting : time and place in a story #9 - 182968 Read the text and answer the questions. Who Were the Celts? by Amy Baskin "Celt" is a name given to early Indo-European peoples. In the Iron Age they spread out from Central Europe to the British Isles and Spain. In the sixth century BCE the Greeks first named these people "Keltoi." Later the Romans called these same people living in what is now southern France "Galli," or "Gauls." The Celts or Gauls have often been defined by what they were not: Romans or Greeks. Unfortunately, the ancient Celtic tribes never wrote about themselves. Written accounts were penned by biased narrators: the Romans and the Greeks, warring neighbors with whom they often clashed. Ammianus Marcellinus, a Roman historian, lived in the fourth century CE. He wrote that the Celts were "terrible for the fierceness of their eyes, fond of quarreling, and of overbearing insolence." This is not a flattering description. Romans and Greeks often saw the Celts as barbaric and uncivilized. They fought to conquer Celtic territory. Page 15 of 68 © 2024 The Regents of the University of California  Recently archaeologists have excavated many Celtic sites and examined artifacts. These clues paint a fairer, more reliable picture of the Celts. We now use the word "Celt" to describe many distinct groups who never referred to themselves as Celt. The word Celt is used in much the same way as the term "Native American" in that it describes people who share similarities of heritage but are different in meaningful ways. These tribes had different ways of life and were only loosely related. For instance, while the Romans pledged allegiance to a single emperor, the Celts never had a unifying leader. What they did share in common were similar languages, elegant artistic styles, and complex mythologies. Trade also connected these tribes when they were not fighting each other. Three Periods of the Ancient Celts There are three major periods of early Celtic history. Clues found in one chieftain's burial site in Austria give us information about the Hallstatt Period from the ninth century BCE to the fifth century BCE. The chieftain's clothing was made with silk. Silk was obtained from China. This is evidence that even this far back into history, this Celtic tribe engaged in trade with distant cultures. Since ancient salt mines were also found near the site, we can reasonably conclude that the Celts traded salt for the silk. In those times salt was valuable, as it was used to preserve foods. Artifacts from many sites across Europe show that Celts were active and talented traders, metalworkers, and farmers. They wove and dyed their own cloth, made their tools, weapons, and ornaments out of iron and bronze, and traded widely. The next era is called the La Tène Period. It lasted from the fifth century BCE to the first century BCE. During this time tribes spread throughout Europe. The Celts adorned metal and stonework with exquisitely rounded shapes and swirling lines, as well as with complex symbolic images of animals and people. As far north as Denmark, archaeologists have reconstructed whole villages based on patterns of holes in the ground. These holes once held wooden posts. From this they have determined that Celtic tribes typically lived in rounded huts. Thatched roofs with holes in the middle let out smoke from their fires. Steep mud walls surrounding the villages kept enemies out. Page 16 of 68 © 2024 The Regents of the University of California  In Ireland and other regions, scientists have found bodies of Celts in peat bogs. They are astonishingly well preserved. These Celts had manicured fingernails. Some even used an early form of gel to style their hair. The Celts used colorful dyes to decorate their plaid fabrics. The third major time frame is the Romano-Celtic Period. This period lasted from the first century BCE through the fifth century CE. During this time the Romans conquered all of what is now France, and much of Britain. Many Celts were assimilated into the Roman Empire and much Celtic culture was lost. Their lack of unity against the Romans may have led to their eventual demise. Most of mainland Western Europe eventually adopted the culture of the Romans. In some parts the old Celtic culture disappeared entirely. There are very few signs of Celtic culture left which have survived over time, especially in lands closest to Rome. Celtic Culture Today In areas where the Celts resisted the Roman invasion, the Celts held on to more of their traditions. On the fringes of Western Europe— Scotland, Ireland, Wales, and even France—sleek, rounded Celtic designs still decorate homes and architecture. People wear plaid fabrics inherited from their Celtic ancestors. Traces of the ancient Celts can be found in the names of some places in Europe, especially rivers. The rivers Thames, Seine, Danube, and Rhine all have names derived from Celtic languages. The Celts may not have kept written records of themselves, but thankfully, they were great storytellers. Much of their oral tradition has been passed down from one generation to the next. Today we have the Celts to thank for many famous legends of the British Isles. Tales of King Arthur and the Mabinogion stem from Wales. Stories of the Irish High King Brian Boru and Scotland's William Wallace, known as Braveheart, are also Celtic lore. Though the ancient Celts are long gone, Celtic stories are very much alive and inspiring artists today. "Celtic of any sort," observed the English writer J. R. R. Tolkien, is "a magic bag, into which anything may be put, and out of which almost anything may come." Without Celtic folklore, Tolkien could never have written The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings. If you ever have the opportunity to travel through Europe, listen very carefully. You will hear people speak and sing in Celtic languages: Gaelic in Ireland, Welsh in Wales, and Breton in Western France. The old expression "all the world loves an underdog" seems to apply to how the Celts are thought of in contemporary culture. We remain fascinated by the history, myths, languages, and artistic expressions of a culture once conquered by Rome but, remarkably, still thriving. Page 17 of 68 © 2024 The Regents of the University of California  #9 - 182968 Which sentence from the text best summarizes the central idea? A. "We now use the word 'Celt' to describe many distinct groups who never referred to themselves as Celt." B. "What they did share in common were similar languages, elegant artistic styles, and complex mythologies." C. "Many Celts were assimilated into the Roman Empire and much Celtic culture was lost." D. "We remain fascinated by the history, myths, languages, and artistic expressions of a culture once conquered by Rome but, remarkably, still thriving." #10 - 26653 Read the text and answer the questions. A Living Fossil by Shannon Kietzman Although scientists once thought that the coelacanth died out with the dinosaurs, it is now considered to be a living fossil. In 1938, scientists were shocked when this primitive deep sea fish was discovered alive off the coast of South London, Africa. In addition, scientists were surprised by the coelacanth's many unique features that are not found in other known living vertebrate. Due to its history, which may date back as far as 360 million years, and its prehistoric features, the coelacanth provides important information about ancient life forms. The modern day coelacanth, which may weigh as much as 198 pounds and be as long as 6.5 feet, exhibits four features commonly found in prehistoric fish. For example, the coelacanth boasts thick scales that have only been previously found on extinct fish. A second prehistoric feature is a hinged joint in its skull that allows the fish to widen its mouth so it can eat large prey. The third is its rostral organ. Located in the fish's snout, this electro-sensory organ is thought to help the coelacanth detect prey. Finally, the fish also has an oil-filled tube that serves as its backbone. This tube is known as a notochord. Scientists are not quite sure how to classify the coelacanth because of some of its physical features. Although the coelacanth is definitely a fish, some of its features resemble those found in four-legged animals. For example, the coelacanth has paired lobe fins. These limb-like fins are internally supported by bone. These fins also extend away from Page 18 of 68 © 2024 The Regents of the University of California  the fish's body just like legs and move in an alternating pattern. Despite having fins that function in the same way as legs, the coelacanth uses those fins for swimming. Coelacanths can be found in many places around the world. Most coelacanths are found in the Western Indian Ocean near the Comoros Islands. Some have also been captured off the west coast of the island of Madagascar. Others have been spotted on the east coast of Africa and in areas of the ocean near India. Only two of the coelacanths that have been captured were carrying young, known as pups. One specimen contained five full-term young. The other had 26. In both cases, the pups were approximately 14 inches in length. This discovery helped scientists better understand how the coelacanth reproduces. Although the coelacanth typically dwells in waters that are 500 to 800 feet deep, some may be found as deep as 2,500 feet. Consequently, it has been difficult for researchers to observe the fish in its natural habitat. Special modern-day deep sea diving equipment is making it possible for researchers to enjoy occasional sightings of the coelacanth. Based on these sightings, researchers have determined that there may be only about 1,000 coelacanths left. As such, the coelacanth is considered to be an endangered species. Sadly, it may not be long before these living windows into the past really are nothing more than fossils. Page 19 of 68 © 2024 The Regents of the University of California  #10 - 26653 The following question has two parts. First, answer part A. Then, answer part B. Select the statement that best describes how the author develops the ideas over the course of the text. Part A A. The ideas are presented in a main idea and details format, to provide an overview of the coelacanth followed by the specifics about it. B. The ideas are placed in a compare and contrast format, to compare the individual features of the coelacanth to the features of other fish. C. The ideas are placed in chronological order, starting from the coelacanth’s beginnings in the prehistoric era to its existence in the present. D. The ideas are placed in a problem and solution format, so that the problem that the coelacanth faces is presented along with possible solutions. Which sentences from the text best support your answer in part A? Choose one option. Part B A. “Although scientists once thought that the coelacanth died out with the dinosaurs, it is now considered to be a living fossil. In 1938, scientists were shocked when this primitive deep sea fish was discovered alive off the coast of South London, Africa.” B. “Due to its history, which may date back as far as 360 million years, and its prehistoric features, the coelacanth provides important information about ancient life forms. The modern day coelacanth, which may weigh as much as 198 pounds and be as long as 6.5 feet, exhibits four features commonly found in prehistoric fish.” C. “For example, the coelacanth boasts thick scales that have only been previously found on extinct fish. A second prehistoric feature is a hinged joint in its skull that allows the fish to widen its mouth so it can eat large prey.” D. “Based on these sightings, researchers have determined that there may be only about 1,000 coelacanths left. As such, the coelacanth is considered to be an endangered species.” Page 20 of 68 © 2024 The Regents of the University of California  #11 - 183040 Read the text and answer the questions. Who Were the Celts? by Amy Baskin "Celt" is a name given to early Indo-European peoples. In the Iron Age they spread out from Central Europe to the British Isles and Spain. In the sixth century BCE the Greeks first named these people "Keltoi." Later the Romans called these same people living in what is now southern France "Galli," or "Gauls." The Celts or Gauls have often been defined by what they were not: Romans or Greeks. Unfortunately, the ancient Celtic tribes never wrote about themselves. Written accounts were penned by biased narrators: the Romans and the Greeks, warring neighbors with whom they often clashed. Ammianus Marcellinus, a Roman historian, lived in the fourth century CE. He wrote that the Celts were "terrible for the fierceness of their eyes, fond of quarreling, and of overbearing insolence." This is not a flattering description. Romans and Greeks often saw the Celts as barbaric and uncivilized. They fought to conquer Celtic territory. Recently archaeologists have excavated many Celtic sites and examined artifacts. These clues paint a fairer, more reliable picture of the Celts. We now use the word "Celt" to describe many distinct groups who never referred to themselves as Celt. The word Celt is used in much the same way as the term "Native American" in that it describes people who share similarities of heritage but are different in meaningful ways. These tribes had different ways of life and were only loosely related. For instance, while the Romans pledged allegiance to a single emperor, the Celts never had a unifying leader. What they did share in common were similar languages, elegant artistic styles, and complex mythologies. Trade also connected these tribes when they were not fighting each other. Three Periods of the Ancient Celts Page 21 of 68 © 2024 The Regents of the University of California  There are three major periods of early Celtic history. Clues found in one chieftain's burial site in Austria give us information about the Hallstatt Period from the ninth century BCE to the fifth century BCE. The chieftain's clothing was made with silk. Silk was obtained from China. This is evidence that even this far back into history, this Celtic tribe engaged in trade with distant cultures. Since ancient salt mines were also found near the site, we can reasonably conclude that the Celts traded salt for the silk. In those times salt was valuable, as it was used to preserve foods. Artifacts from many sites across Europe show that Celts were active and talented traders, metalworkers, and farmers. They wove and dyed their own cloth, made their tools, weapons, and ornaments out of iron and bronze, and traded widely. The next era is called the La Tène Period. It lasted from the fifth century BCE to the first century BCE. During this time tribes spread throughout Europe. The Celts adorned metal and stonework with exquisitely rounded shapes and swirling lines, as well as with complex symbolic images of animals and people. As far north as Denmark, archaeologists have reconstructed whole villages based on patterns of holes in the ground. These holes once held wooden posts. From this they have determined that Celtic tribes typically lived in rounded huts. Thatched roofs with holes in the middle let out smoke from their fires. Steep mud walls surrounding the villages kept enemies out. In Ireland and other regions, scientists have found bodies of Celts in peat bogs. They are astonishingly well preserved. These Celts had manicured fingernails. Some even used an early form of gel to style their hair. The Celts used colorful dyes to decorate their plaid fabrics. The third major time frame is the Romano-Celtic Period. This period lasted from the first century BCE through the fifth century CE. During this time the Romans conquered all of what is now France, and much of Britain. Many Celts were assimilated into the Roman Empire and much Celtic culture was lost. Their lack of unity against the Romans may have led to their eventual demise. Most of mainland Western Europe eventually adopted the culture of the Romans. In some parts the old Celtic culture disappeared entirely. There are very few signs of Celtic culture left which have survived over time, especially in lands closest to Rome. Celtic Culture Today Page 22 of 68 © 2024 The Regents of the University of California  In areas where the Celts resisted the Roman invasion, the Celts held on to more of their traditions. On the fringes of Western Europe— Scotland, Ireland, Wales, and even France—sleek, rounded Celtic designs still decorate homes and architecture. People wear plaid fabrics inherited from their Celtic ancestors. Traces of the ancient Celts can be found in the names of some places in Europe, especially rivers. The rivers Thames, Seine, Danube, and Rhine all have names derived from Celtic languages. The Celts may not have kept written records of themselves, but thankfully, they were great storytellers. Much of their oral tradition has been passed down from one generation to the next. Today we have the Celts to thank for many famous legends of the British Isles. Tales of King Arthur and the Mabinogion stem from Wales. Stories of the Irish High King Brian Boru and Scotland's William Wallace, known as Braveheart, are also Celtic lore. Though the ancient Celts are long gone, Celtic stories are very much alive and inspiring artists today. "Celtic of any sort," observed the English writer J. R. R. Tolkien, is "a magic bag, into which anything may be put, and out of which almost anything may come." Without Celtic folklore, Tolkien could never have written The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings. If you ever have the opportunity to travel through Europe, listen very carefully. You will hear people speak and sing in Celtic languages: Gaelic in Ireland, Welsh in Wales, and Breton in Western France. The old expression "all the world loves an underdog" seems to apply to how the Celts are thought of in contemporary culture. We remain fascinated by the history, myths, languages, and artistic expressions of a culture once conquered by Rome but, remarkably, still thriving. Page 23 of 68 © 2024 The Regents of the University of California  #11 - 183040 This question has two parts. First, complete part A. Then, complete part B. Part A Click on the statement that best provides a conclusion that can be drawn about the evidence presented in the text. A. The author used details to show the popularity of Celtic culture. B. The author used details to show the importance of oral tradition. C. The author used details to show just how influential Celtic culture is today. D. The author used details to show that well-known stories originated from Celtic lore. Part B Click on the sentence that best provides support for your answer in part A. The Celts may not have kept written records of themselves, but thankfully, they were great storytellers. Much of their oral tradition has been passed down from one generation to the next. Today we have the Celts to thank for many famous legends of the British Isles. Tales of King Arthur and the Mabinogion stem from Wales. Stories of the Irish High King Brian Boru and Scotland’s William Wallace, known as Braveheart, are also Celtic lore. Though the ancient Celts are long gone, Celtic stories are very much alive and inspiring artists today. “Celtic of any sort,” observed the English writer J. R. R. Tolkien, is “a magic bag, into which anything may be put, and out of which almost anything may come.” Without Celtic folklore, Tolkien could never have written The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings. #12 - 99297 Page 24 of 68 © 2024 The Regents of the University of California  Read the text. Then answer the questions. from The Kingfisher’s Tale by Mark Delaney Peter and Mattie entered the Courier office building. Mattie watched the whirlwind of activity and found himself thinking of an ant farm he had once owned as a child. The newsroom was immense, lit by huge banks of fluorescent lights in the ceiling. Phones jangled a dozen at a time. Behind the jangling, the voices of reporters, photographers, and editors overlapped in a wash of background noise. “Hmm,” said Peter, observing the scene. “It’s hard to know where to begin.” “Are we looking for someone in particular?” asked Mattie. “Not necessarily.” Mattie pulled a quarter from his pocket and set it across the back of his hand. With a practiced motion of his fingers, he rolled the coin back and forth, a one-handed dexterity trick that had required weeks of practice. “So,” he said, “tell me again why we need to talk to a reporter.” “Freedom of the press,” said Peter. “A reporter can get away with asking questions we can’t. A reporter has the name of a newspaper or magazine standing behind him. A reporter can go places we can’t.” Mattie frowned. “Well—suppose the person doesn’t want to answer a question. Then the reporter isn’t any better off than we are.” Peter raised his index finger. ‘‘Aha,” he said, “that’s the beautiful part of it. A reporter can write up a news story whether or not the subject of the story wants to cooperate. Most people will answer a reporter’s questions because they want their side told.” Most of the people they saw were speaking into telephones or typing furiously into computers. A few glanced up as the teenagers passed. One young man wearing a sweater vest and a bow tie ran through the office, clutching sheets of paper that crackled in his hand as he sped by. Peter called to him. “Excuse me? Can you tell us who we see about a news story?” The man looked at the two teenagers, clearly assessing whether or not the question was a waste of his all-too-valuable time. He paused, threw an impatient gesture toward an office cubicle, and stormed off. Page 25 of 68 © 2024 The Regents of the University of California  Mattie walked to the cubicle and waved Peter to join him. On the cubicle entrance was a plastic nameplate held in place by tiny brass screws. The nameplate said Rebecca Kaidanov, Features. The cubicle was empty. Peter stared intently at the workspace, and Mattie sensed he saw far more in the clippings, the Post-it notes, and the messy desktop than others would. But Peter didn’t offer any information; he just yawned, took off his glasses, and wiped the lenses, saying, “She’ll be back shortly.” Mattie frowned. “How do you know?” Moments later a young woman approached the cubicle, steam swirling from the white mug in her hand. She wore jeans and a long-sleeved, white blouse. Her coarse black hair hung in a clump at the back of her neck, twirled around a pencil. She strode past Peter and Mattie, nodded a greeting, and plunked the mug down on the desk, splashing a few drops of hot coffee across her hand. Mattie grinned and threw a look at Peter. Right again. “Ow,” said the woman, reaching for a tissue. “Can I help you?” “Your nameplate here says ‘features,’ ” said Peter. “Do you cover news stories?” “Depends,” she replied. “Do you own a puppy?” Peter and Mattie looked at each other. The reporter made a dismissive wave. “Never mind.” She shook Peter’s hand, then Mattie’s. “Rebecca Kaidanov. What can I do for you?” Mattie noted the odd way the woman pronounced her vowels, the hard way she clicked off the K in her last name. Peter handed her a business card. “Misfits, Inc., huh?” said Rebecca. Her hair tumbled down as she drew the pencil from it. She then stuck the pencil into an electric sharpener on her desk, and the sharpener made a dull humming sound, not the shrill grinding of motor-driven blades Mattie expected. The reporter tossed the pencil onto her desktop and reached into a drawer for another. “Sorry,” she said. “I keep forgetting the sharpener’s broken. Okay, let’s get started.” She took notes as Peter told her of the events in the forest, beginning with the discovery of the dead kingfishers. As Peter finished the account of the events in the woods, she frowned at her notepad. “The story seems a little thin,” she said. “I’m not sure what I can do.” “There’s more,” said Peter. He told her how the FBI and the Forestry Page 26 of 68 © 2024 The Regents of the University of California  Service had appeared at his door, and how they had confiscated the dead bird. The reporter sat a little more upright and began scribbling a little faster. “Can you give me names?” she asked. Mattie smiled as Peter rattled off the names, the correct spelling of the names, the badge numbers of Ranger Tummins and Agent Polaski, and the make, model, and license number of the car they had arrived in. The reporter wrote down the information, thoughtfully tapping her pencil against the desktop when she finished. “Why all the fuss over a dead bird?” she asked. “And why involve the FBI?” She opened a desk drawer and withdrew a small stack of business cards. She handed one to Peter. “I will try to look into your story, but I cannot make any promises. If anything else happens that might be connected, make sure you call me.” Peter hesitated a moment, then took the card and slid it into his wallet. He looked at Mattie, clearly struggling to hide his disappointment—and failing. The two of them rose to leave. “This isn’t over yet,” he muttered as they headed for the door. Excerpt from The Kingfisher’s Tale by Mark Delaney. Copyright © 2000 by Peachtree Publishers. Reprinted by permission of Peachtree Publishers. #12 - 99297 What is the most likely reason the author used dialogue in the text? A. to better explain the central conflict B. to reveal the first-person point of view C. to give additional details about the setting D. to provide facts as background information #13 - 182971 Read the text and answer the questions. Who Were the Celts? by Amy Baskin Page 27 of 68 © 2024 The Regents of the University of California  "Celt" is a name given to early Indo-European peoples. In the Iron Age they spread out from Central Europe to the British Isles and Spain. In the sixth century BCE the Greeks first named these people "Keltoi." Later the Romans called these same people living in what is now southern France "Galli," or "Gauls." The Celts or Gauls have often been defined by what they were not: Romans or Greeks. Unfortunately, the ancient Celtic tribes never wrote about themselves. Written accounts were penned by biased narrators: the Romans and the Greeks, warring neighbors with whom they often clashed. Ammianus Marcellinus, a Roman historian, lived in the fourth century CE. He wrote that the Celts were "terrible for the fierceness of their eyes, fond of quarreling, and of overbearing insolence." This is not a flattering description. Romans and Greeks often saw the Celts as barbaric and uncivilized. They fought to conquer Celtic territory. Recently archaeologists have excavated many Celtic sites and examined artifacts. These clues paint a fairer, more reliable picture of the Celts. We now use the word "Celt" to describe many distinct groups who never referred to themselves as Celt. The word Celt is used in much the same way as the term "Native American" in that it describes people who share similarities of heritage but are different in meaningful ways. These tribes had different ways of life and were only loosely related. For instance, while the Romans pledged allegiance to a single emperor, the Celts never had a unifying leader. What they did share in common were similar languages, elegant artistic styles, and complex mythologies. Trade also connected these tribes when they were not fighting each other. Three Periods of the Ancient Celts There are three major periods of early Celtic history. Clues found in one chieftain's burial site in Austria give us information about the Hallstatt Period from the ninth century BCE to the fifth century BCE. The chieftain's clothing was made with silk. Silk was obtained from China. This is evidence that even this far back into history, this Celtic tribe engaged in trade with distant cultures. Since ancient salt mines were also found near the site, we can reasonably conclude that the Celts traded salt for the silk. In those times salt was valuable, as it was used to preserve foods. Page 28 of 68 © 2024 The Regents of the University of California  Artifacts from many sites across Europe show that Celts were active and talented traders, metalworkers, and farmers. They wove and dyed their own cloth, made their tools, weapons, and ornaments out of iron and bronze, and traded widely. The next era is called the La Tène Period. It lasted from the fifth century BCE to the first century BCE. During this time tribes spread throughout Europe. The Celts adorned metal and stonework with exquisitely rounded shapes and swirling lines, as well as with complex symbolic images of animals and people. As far north as Denmark, archaeologists have reconstructed whole villages based on patterns of holes in the ground. These holes once held wooden posts. From this they have determined that Celtic tribes typically lived in rounded huts. Thatched roofs with holes in the middle let out smoke from their fires. Steep mud walls surrounding the villages kept enemies out. In Ireland and other regions, scientists have found bodies of Celts in peat bogs. They are astonishingly well preserved. These Celts had manicured fingernails. Some even used an early form of gel to style their hair. The Celts used colorful dyes to decorate their plaid fabrics. The third major time frame is the Romano-Celtic Period. This period lasted from the first century BCE through the fifth century CE. During this time the Romans conquered all of what is now France, and much of Britain. Many Celts were assimilated into the Roman Empire and much Celtic culture was lost. Their lack of unity against the Romans may have led to their eventual demise. Most of mainland Western Europe eventually adopted the culture of the Romans. In some parts the old Celtic culture disappeared entirely. There are very few signs of Celtic culture left which have survived over time, especially in lands closest to Rome. Celtic Culture Today In areas where the Celts resisted the Roman invasion, the Celts held on to more of their traditions. On the fringes of Western Europe— Scotland, Ireland, Wales, and even France—sleek, rounded Celtic designs still decorate homes and architecture. People wear plaid fabrics inherited from their Celtic ancestors. Traces of the ancient Celts can be found in the names of some places in Europe, especially rivers. The rivers Thames, Seine, Danube, and Rhine all have names derived from Celtic languages. Page 29 of 68 © 2024 The Regents of the University of California  The Celts may not have kept written records of themselves, but thankfully, they were great storytellers. Much of their oral tradition has been passed down from one generation to the next. Today we have the Celts to thank for many famous legends of the British Isles. Tales of King Arthur and the Mabinogion stem from Wales. Stories of the Irish High King Brian Boru and Scotland's William Wallace, known as Braveheart, are also Celtic lore. Though the ancient Celts are long gone, Celtic stories are very much alive and inspiring artists today. "Celtic of any sort," observed the English writer J. R. R. Tolkien, is "a magic bag, into which anything may be put, and out of which almost anything may come." Without Celtic folklore, Tolkien could never have written The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings. If you ever have the opportunity to travel through Europe, listen very carefully. You will hear people speak and sing in Celtic languages: Gaelic in Ireland, Welsh in Wales, and Breton in Western France. The old expression "all the world loves an underdog" seems to apply to how the Celts are thought of in contemporary culture. We remain fascinated by the history, myths, languages, and artistic expressions of a culture once conquered by Rome but, remarkably, still thriving. #13 - 182971 How does the section “Three Periods of the Ancient Celts” add to the central idea of the text? A. It describes the belief system of the Celts, giving the reader clues as to why the culture still exists today. B. It establishes a timeline of events, illustrating the historical importance of discovering valuable artifacts from the Celts. C. It chronicles the lives of the Celts throughout history, providing details that enable the reader to visualize the unique culture. D. It highlights advancements made by the Celts, developing a foundation upon which comparisons to modern Celts can be made. #14 - 183175 , #15 - 183184 Read the text and answer the questions. The Capture of Father Time by L. Frank Baum Page 30 of 68 © 2024 The Regents of the University of California  Jim was the son of a cowboy, and lived on the broad plains of Arizona. His father had trained him to lasso a bronco or a young bull with perfect accuracy, and had Jim possessed the strength to back up his skill he would have been as good a cowboy as any in all Arizona. When he was twelve years old he made his first visit to the east, where Uncle Charles, his father's brother, lived. Of course Jim took his lasso with him, for he was proud of his skill in casting it, and wanted to show his cousins what a cowboy could do. At first the city boys and girls were much interested in watching Jim lasso posts and fence pickets, but they soon tired of it, and even Jim decided it was not the right sort of sport for cities. But one day the butcher asked Jim to ride one of his horses into the country, to a pasture that had been engaged, and Jim eagerly consented. He had been longing for a horseback ride, and to make it seem like old times he took his lasso with him. He rode through the streets demurely enough, but on reaching the open country roads his spirits broke forth into wild jubilation, and, urging the butcher's horse to full gallop, he dashed away in true cowboy fashion. Then he wanted still more liberty, and letting down the bars that led into a big field he began riding over the meadow and throwing his lasso at imaginary cattle, while he yelled and whooped to his heart's content. Suddenly, on making a long cast with his lasso, the loop caught upon something and rested about three feet from the ground, while the rope drew taut and nearly pulled Jim from his horse. This was unexpected. More than that, it was wonderful; for the field seemed bare of even a stump. Jim's eyes grew big with amazement, but he knew he had caught something when a voice cried out: "Here, let go! Let go, I say! Can't you see what you've done?" No, Jim couldn't see, nor did he intend to let go until he found out what was holding the loop of the lasso. So he resorted to an old trick his father had taught him and, putting the butcher's horse to a run, began riding in a circle around the spot where his lasso had caught. Page 31 of 68 © 2024 The Regents of the University of California  As he thus drew nearer and nearer his quarry he saw the rope coil up, yet it looked to be coiling over nothing but air. One end of the lasso was made fast to a ring in the saddle, and when the rope was almost wound up and the horse began to pull away and snort with fear, Jim dismounted. Holding the reins of the bridle in one hand, he followed the rope, and an instant later saw a man caught fast in the coils of the lasso. While Jim gazed wonderingly upon him, this venerable old man spoke in an angry voice: "Now, then—get that rope off as fast as you can! You've brought everything on earth to a standstill by your foolishness! Well—what are you staring at? Don't you know who I am?" "No," said Jim. "Well, I'm Time—Father Time! Now, make haste and set me free—if you want the world to run properly." "How did I happen to catch you?" asked Jim, without making a move to release his captive. "I don't know. I've never been caught before," growled Father Time. "But I suppose it was because you were foolishly throwing your lasso at nothing." "I didn't see you," said Jim. "Of course you didn't. I'm invisible to the eyes of human beings unless they get within three feet of me, and I take care to keep more than that distance away from them. That's why I was crossing this field, where I supposed no one would be. And I should have been perfectly safe had it not been for your beastly lasso. Now, then," he added, crossly, "are you going to get that rope off?" "Why should I?" asked Jim. "Because everything in the world stopped moving the moment you caught me. I don't suppose you want to make an end of all business and pleasure? Not a watch has ticked since you tied me up!" Jim laughed. It really was funny to see the old man wound round and round with coils of rope from his knees up to his chin. Page 32 of 68 © 2024 The Regents of the University of California  "It'll do you good to rest," said the boy. "From all I've heard you lead a rather busy life." "Indeed I do," replied Father Time, with a sigh. "I'm due in Kamchatka this very minute. And to think one small boy is upsetting all my regular habits!" "Too bad!" said Jim, with a grin. "But since the world has stopped anyhow, it won't matter if it takes a little longer recess. As soon as I let you go Time will fly again." "The Capture of Father Time" by L. Frank Baum, from American Fairy Tales. Copyright © 2011 by The Floating Press. #14 - 183175 What effect does dialogue have on the reader's understanding of the events surrounding Father Time being captured by Jim? Select two options. A. It allows the reader to understand how long Jim has been waiting for the chance to ride a horse. B. It allows the reader to understand that Jim is skilled with a lasso and has captured someone. C. It allows the reader to understand how Father Time has the ability to choose to stop time as he feels like it. D. It allows the reader to understand Jim has captured something that can speak, but doesn't reveal who at first. E. It allows the reader to understand that Father Time has been captured by humans many times before. F. It allows the reader to understand that Father Time is quite upset with Jim and his lack of understanding of what he has done. English glossary : captured : was taken hold of with force lasso : long rope used to catch running animals, such as cows ability : power or skill to do something reveal : tell or make known Page 33 of 68 © 2024 The Regents of the University of California  #15 - 183184 What does the use of dialogue show about the relationship between Jim and Father Time? Select three options. A. The dialogue shows that Jim and Father Time are old friends. B. The dialogue signifies that they have a lot in common in their lives. C. The dialogue indicates that Jim and Father Time have different opinions. D. The dialogue demonstrates that Jim and Father Time reach a conclusion. E. The dialogue tells the reader that they do not understand each other’s point of view. F. The dialogue helps the reader picture the scene between Father Time and Jim. English glossary : signifies : shows dialogue : conversation between people #16 - 98341 Read the text. Then answer the questions. from The Kingfisher’s Tale by Mark Delaney Peter and Mattie entered the Courier office building. Mattie watched the whirlwind of activity and found himself thinking of an ant farm he had once owned as a child. The newsroom was immense, lit by huge banks of fluorescent lights in the ceiling. Phones jangled a dozen at a time. Behind the jangling, the voices of reporters, photographers, and editors overlapped in a wash of background noise. “Hmm,” said Peter, observing the scene. “It’s hard to know where to begin.” “Are we looking for someone in particular?” asked Mattie. “Not necessarily.” Mattie pulled a quarter from his pocket and set it across the back of Page 34 of 68 © 2024 The Regents of the University of California  his hand. With a practiced motion of his fingers, he rolled the coin back and forth, a one-handed dexterity trick that had required weeks of practice. “So,” he said, “tell me again why we need to talk to a reporter.” “Freedom of the press,” said Peter. “A reporter can get away with asking questions we can’t. A reporter has the name of a newspaper or magazine standing behind him. A reporter can go places we can’t.” Mattie frowned. “Well—suppose the person doesn’t want to answer a question. Then the reporter isn’t any better off than we are.” Peter raised his index finger. ‘‘Aha,” he said, “that’s the beautiful part of it. A reporter can write up a news story whether or not the subject of the story wants to cooperate. Most people will answer a reporter’s questions because they want their side told.” Most of the people they saw were speaking into telephones or typing furiously into computers. A few glanced up as the teenagers passed. One young man wearing a sweater vest and a bow tie ran through the office, clutching sheets of paper that crackled in his hand as he sped by. Peter called to him. “Excuse me? Can you tell us who we see about a news story?” The man looked at the two teenagers, clearly assessing whether or not the question was a waste of his all-too-valuable time. He paused, threw an impatient gesture toward an office cubicle, and stormed off. Mattie walked to the cubicle and waved Peter to join him. On the cubicle entrance was a plastic nameplate held in place by tiny brass screws. The nameplate said Rebecca Kaidanov, Features. The cubicle was empty. Peter stared intently at the workspace, and Mattie sensed he saw far more in the clippings, the Post-it notes, and the messy desktop than others would. But Peter didn’t offer any information; he just yawned, took off his glasses, and wiped the lenses, saying, “She’ll be back shortly.” Mattie frowned. “How do you know?” Moments later a young woman approached the cubicle, steam swirling from the white mug in her hand. She wore jeans and a long-sleeved, white blouse. Her coarse black hair hung in a clump at the back of her neck, twirled around a pencil. She strode past Peter and Mattie, nodded a greeting, and plunked the mug down on the desk, splashing a few drops of hot coffee across her hand. Mattie grinned and threw a look at Peter. Right again. “Ow,” said the woman, reaching for a tissue. “Can I help you?” Page 35 of 68 © 2024 The Regents of the University of California  “Your nameplate here says ‘features,’ ” said Peter. “Do you cover news stories?” “Depends,” she replied. “Do you own a puppy?” Peter and Mattie looked at each other. The reporter made a dismissive wave. “Never mind.” She shook Peter’s hand, then Mattie’s. “Rebecca Kaidanov. What can I do for you?” Mattie noted the odd way the woman pronounced her vowels, the hard way she clicked off the K in her last name. Peter handed her a business card. “Misfits, Inc., huh?” said Rebecca. Her hair tumbled down as she drew the pencil from it. She then stuck the pencil into an electric sharpener on her desk, and the sharpener made a dull humming sound, not the shrill grinding of motor-driven blades Mattie expected. The reporter tossed the pencil onto her desktop and reached into a drawer for another. “Sorry,” she said. “I keep forgetting the sharpener’s broken. Okay, let’s get started.” She took notes as Peter told her of the events in the forest, beginning with the discovery of the dead kingfishers. As Peter finished the account of the events in the woods, she frowned at her notepad. “The story seems a little thin,” she said. “I’m not sure what I can do.” “There’s more,” said Peter. He told her how the FBI and the Forestry Service had appeared at his door, and how they had confiscated the dead bird. The reporter sat a little more upright and began scribbling a little faster. “Can you give me names?” she asked. Mattie smiled as Peter rattled off the names, the correct spelling of the names, the badge numbers of Ranger Tummins and Agent Polaski, and the make, model, and license number of the car they had arrived in. The reporter wrote down the information, thoughtfully tapping her pencil against the desktop when she finished. “Why all the fuss over a dead bird?” she asked. “And why involve the FBI?” She opened a desk drawer and withdrew a small stack of business cards. She handed one to Peter. “I will try to look into your story, but I cannot make any promises. If anything else happens that might be connected, make sure you call me.” Peter hesitated a moment, then took the card and slid it into his wallet. He looked at Mattie, clearly struggling to hide his disappointment—and failing. The two of them rose to leave. “This isn’t over yet,” he muttered as they headed for the door. Page 36 of 68 © 2024 The Regents of the University of California  Excerpt from The Kingfisher’s Tale by Mark Delaney. Copyright © 2000 by Peachtree Publishers. Reprinted by permission of Peachtree Publishers. #16 - 98341 How does the last sentence add to the development of Peter’s character? A. It displays his confusion over why officials are interested in the kingfisher. B. It shows his relief that Agent Polaski is trying to help protect the environment. C. It shows his annoyance that Rebecca Kaidanov is not willing to listen to him. D. It indicates his dedication to finding answers to his questions about the kingfisher. #17 - 26647 Read the text and answer the questions. A Living Fossil by Shannon Kietzman Although scientists once thought that the coelacanth died out with the dinosaurs, it is now considered to be a living fossil. In 1938, scientists were shocked when this primitive deep sea fish was discovered alive off the coast of South London, Africa. In addition, scientists were surprised by the coelacanth's many unique features that are not found in other known living vertebrate. Due to its history, which may date back as far as 360 million years, and its prehistoric features, the coelacanth provides important information about ancient life forms. The modern day coelacanth, which may weigh as much as 198 pounds and be as long as 6.5 feet, exhibits four features commonly found in prehistoric fish. For example, the coelacanth boasts thick scales that have only been previously found on extinct fish. A second prehistoric feature is a hinged joint in its skull that allows the fish to widen its mouth so it can eat large prey. The third is its rostral organ. Located in the fish's snout, this electro-sensory organ is thought to help the coelacanth detect prey. Finally, the fish also has an oil-filled tube that serves as its backbone. This tube is known as a notochord. Scientists are not quite sure how to classify the coelacanth because of some of its physical features. Although the coelacanth is definitely a Page 37 of 68 © 2024 The Regents of the University of California  fish, some of its features resemble those found in four-legged animals. For example, the coelacanth has paired lobe fins. These limb-like fins are internally supported by bone. These fins also extend away from the fish's body just like legs and move in an alternating pattern. Despite having fins that function in the same way as legs, the coelacanth uses those fins for swimming. Coelacanths can be found in many places around the world. Most coelacanths are found in the Western Indian Ocean near the Comoros Islands. Some have also been captured off the west coast of the island of Madagascar. Others have been spotted on the east coast of Africa and in areas of the ocean near India. Only two of the coelacanths that have been captured were carrying young, known as pups. One specimen contained five full-term young. The other had 26. In both cases, the pups were approximately 14 inches in length. This discovery helped scientists better understand how the coelacanth reproduces. Although the coelacanth typically dwells in waters that are 500 to 800 feet deep, some may be found as deep as 2,500 feet. Consequently, it has been difficult for researchers to observe the fish in its natural habitat. Special modern-day deep sea diving equipment is making it possible for researchers to enjoy occasional sightings of the coelacanth. Based on these sightings, researchers have determined that there may be only about 1,000 coelacanths left. As such, the coelacanth is considered to be an endangered species. Sadly, it may not be long before these living windows into the past really are nothing more than fossils. Page 38 of 68 © 2024 The Regents of the University of California  #17 - 26647 The following question has two parts. First, answer part A. Then, answer part B. Read this paragraph from the text. Although the coelacanth typically dwells in waters that are 500 to 800 feet deep, some may be found as deep as 2,500 feet. Consequently, it has been difficult for researchers to observe the fish in its natural habitat. Special modern-day deep sea diving equipment is making it possible for researchers to enjoy occasional sightings of the coelacanth. Based on these sightings, researchers have determined that there may be only about 1,000 coelacanths left. As such, the coelacanth is considered to be an endangered species. Sadly, it may not be long before these living windows into the past really are nothing more than fossils. What is the central idea of the paragraph? Part A A. Most coelacanths live in deep water. B. New technology helps scientists study the coelacanth. C. The coelacanth is a rare fish that may soon disappear. D. Scientists have had a hard time studying the coelacanth. Which sentence from the text supports your answer to part A? Part B A. “Although the coelacanth typically dwells in waters that are 500 to 800 feet deep, some may be found as deep as 2,500 feet.” B. “Consequently, it has been difficult for researchers to observe the fish in its natural habitat.” C. “Special modern-day deep sea diving equipment is making it possible for researchers to enjoy occasional sightings of the coelacanth.” D. “Based on these sightings, researchers have determined that there may be only about 1,000 coelacanths left.” #18 - 182967 Page 39 of 68 © 2024 The Regents of the University of California  Read the text and answer the questions. Who Were the Celts? by Amy Baskin "Celt" is a name given to early Indo-European peoples. In the Iron Age they spread out from Central Europe to the British Isles and Spain. In the sixth century BCE the Greeks first named these people "Keltoi." Later the Romans called these same people living in what is now southern France "Galli," or "Gauls." The Celts or Gauls have often been defined by what they were not: Romans or Greeks. Unfortunately, the ancient Celtic tribes never wrote about themselves. Written accounts were penned by biased narrators: the Romans and the Greeks, warring neighbors with whom they often clashed. Ammianus Marcellinus, a Roman historian, lived in the fourth century CE. He wrote that the Celts were "terrible for the fierceness of their eyes, fond of quarreling, and of overbearing insolence." This is not a flattering description. Romans and Greeks often saw the Celts as barbaric and uncivilized. They fought to conquer Celtic territory. Recently archaeologists have excavated many Celtic sites and examined artifacts. These clues paint a fairer, more reliable picture of the Celts. We now use the word "Celt" to describe many distinct groups who never referred to themselves as Celt. The word Celt is used in much the same way as the term "Native American" in that it describes people who share similarities of heritage but are different in meaningful ways. These tribes had different ways of life and were only loosely related. For instance, while the Romans pledged allegiance to a single emperor, the Celts never had a unifying leader. What they did share in common were similar languages, elegant artistic styles, and complex mythologies. Trade also connected these tribes when they were not fighting each other. Three Periods of the Ancient Celts There are three major periods of early Celtic history. Clues found in one chieftain's burial site in Austria give us information about the Hallstatt Period from the ninth century BCE to the fifth century BCE. Page 40 of 68 © 2024 The Regents of the University of California  The chieftain's clothing was made with silk. Silk was obtained from China. This is evidence that even this far back into history, this Celtic tribe engaged in trade with distant cultures. Since ancient salt mines were also found near the site, we can reasonably conclude that the Celts traded salt for the silk. In those times salt was valuable, as it was used to preserve foods. Artifacts from many sites across Europe show that Celts were active and talented traders, metalworkers, and farmers. They wove and dyed their own cloth, made their tools, weapons, and ornaments out of iron and bronze, and traded widely. The next era is called the La Tène Period. It lasted from the fifth century BCE to the first century BCE. During this time tribes spread throughout Europe. The Celts adorned metal and stonework with exquisitely rounded shapes and swirling lines, as well as with complex symbolic images of animals and people. As far north as Denmark, archaeologists have reconstructed whole villages based on patterns of holes in the ground. These holes once held wooden posts. From this they have determined that Celtic tribes typically lived in rounded huts. Thatched roofs with holes in the middle let out smoke from their fires. Steep mud walls surrounding the villages kept enemies out. In Ireland and other regions, scientists have found bodies of Celts in peat bogs. They are astonishingly well preserved. These Celts had manicured fingernails. Some even used an early form of gel to style their hair. The Celts used colorful dyes to decorate their plaid fabrics. The third major time frame is the Romano-Celtic Period. This period lasted from the first century BCE through the fifth century CE. During this time the Romans conquered all of what is now France, and much of Britain. Many Celts were assimilated into the Roman Empire and much Celtic culture was lost. Their lack of unity against the Romans may have led to their eventual demise. Most of mainland Western Europe eventually adopted the culture of the Romans. In some parts the old Celtic culture disappeared entirely. There are very few signs of Celtic culture left which have survived over time, especially in lands closest to Rome. Celtic Culture Today Page 41 of 68 © 2024 The Regents of the University of California  In areas where the Celts resisted the Roman invasion, the Celts held on to more of their traditions. On the fringes of Western Europe— Scotland, Ireland, Wales, and even France—sleek, rounded Celtic designs still decorate homes and architecture. People wear plaid fabrics inherited from their Celtic ancestors. Traces of the ancient Celts can be found in the names of some places in Europe, especially rivers. The rivers Thames, Seine, Danube, and Rhine all have names derived from Celtic languages. The Celts may not have kept written records of themselves, but thankfully, they were great storytellers. Much of their oral tradition has been passed down from one generation to the next. Today we have the Celts to thank for many famous legends of the British Isles. Tales of King Arthur and the Mabinogion stem from Wales. Stories of the Irish High King Brian Boru and Scotland's William Wallace, known as Braveheart, are also Celtic lore. Though the ancient Celts are long gone, Celtic stories are very much alive and inspiring artists today. "Celtic of any sort," observed the English writer J. R. R. Tolkien, is "a magic bag, into which anything may be put, and out of which almost anything may come." Without Celtic folklore, Tolkien could never have written The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings. If you ever have the opportunity to travel through Europe, listen very carefully. You will hear people speak and sing in Celtic languages: Gaelic in Ireland, Welsh in Wales, and Breton in Western France. The old expression "all the world loves an underdog" seems to apply to how the Celts are thought of in contemporary culture. We remain fascinated by the history, myths, languages, and artistic expressions of a culture once conquered by Rome but, remarkably, still thriving. #18 - 182967 Which evidence from the text best supports the inference that Celts were perceived as unpleasant people? A. The Celts were noted as fierce and fond of quarreling. B. Written accounts about the Celts