Vocabulary

Directions: For numbers 11 - 14, choose the word or word group that has about the same meaning as the underlined word.

Word Study

Directions: For numbers 16-19, choose the word that has the same VC/ V or V /CV syllable pattern as the boldfaced word.

Reading Comprehension

Directions: Read the selection. Then answer each question.

Hiding in Plain Sight

1) No matter where they live, many animals must find ways to stay safe. One way they can do this is to hide from their predators. As you will see, there are a lot of ways for animals to hide from danger.

2) Some animals have patterns that are difficult for predators to see. The black and white stripes of a zebra can confuse a lion. Zebras travel in large groups. When they all stand together, it is difficult for a lion to pick out just one zebra.

3) Raccoon butterflyfish are black and yellow. When these fish swim together in schools, predators cannot see just one fish to catch. They just see a big blob moving in the water!

4) Some snakes have tails that look like their heads. The similar markings at both ends help the snake get away from a predator that might try to grab it.

5) One type of octopus is a real master of disguise. When the octopus swims, its skin is covered with black and white bands. Then, the octopus lets its long arms drag behind it. This makes the octopus look just like a dangerous lion-fish. The octopus can also bury itself partly in the bottom of the ocean to look like a sea snake.

6) There are other animals whose colors change to match their environment. The arctic fox's fur changes color, depending on the season. For example, in the winter, the fur becomes white, and the arctic fox blends in with the snow around it. During the warmer months, the fur turns brown to better match the fox's surroundings.

7) Many animals depend on these characteristics to protect themselves. But some animals have patterns that help them hunt for food. The spots on a leopard help it to hide in the tall grasses. This makes it easier for the leopard to catch prey. No matter the disguise, the ability to blend in helps an animal survive.

Writing - Informational

Reading Comprehension

Directions: Read the selection. Then answer each question.

Plants and Fire

1) When conditions are hot and dry, a single lightning strike can destroy half of a forest. Soon after the fire, new plants are poking up in the burned areas. Where did they come from?

2) Some plants produce seeds that are fire-resistant. These seeds have hard, protective outer shells. After the fire in over, the seeds just need some water to begin growing. Some seeds, however, need fire to help them grow.

3) Jack pine trees need fire to start the growth of seeds. In Michigan, a certain type of bird depends on the young jack pines for shelter. Many animals depend on plants that grow after fires.

4) There are even some seeds that only need smoke to begin growing. These seeds stay in the ground for years, watiing for fire to clear other plants and fertilze the ground. The presence of smoke is their signal to begin to grow.

5) In the prairies of the United States, fires are sometimes set at the end of the year. These fires burn rapidly through the dried grasses. Some grasses need the fire to crack the hard outer coating of their seeds. Without fire, new grass would not grow well.