praxis 5002 reading practice questions

A series of tests developed by ETS to assess the skills and knowledge of prospective teachers.

A teacher puts the following sentence on the board. April showers turned into such heavy downpours that I saw fish wearing raincoats!
What is the primary reason for using figurative language in the preceding sentence?
  • A. To make a reference to a different point in time
  • B. To describe a comparison between two unlike things
  • C. To exaggerate a point and reveal a sense of humor
  • D. To name an action by imitating a sound associated with it
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: C

Using figurative language primarily serves to exaggerate a point and reveal a sense of humor, enhancing the reader's engagement and understanding. This technique allows for a more vivid expression of ideas, making them memorable and relatable. Option A is incorrect as it implies a temporal reference, which is not the main function of figurative language. Option B, while relevant to similes and metaphors, does not capture the essence of humor in the context. Option D focuses on onomatopoeia, which is a specific type of figurative language, but does not encompass the broader purpose of humor and exaggeration.

Other Related Questions

Which of the following statements best explains the effect fluency has on reading comprehension?
  • A. Once a student has mastered fluency, the student can easily comprehend a text.
  • B. Fluency takes the focus off of decoding and allows the student to comprehend meaning in a text.
  • C. Fluency decreases for students reading texts below reading level, which affects reading comprehension.
  • D. Assessing a student's fluency while reading a text will also reveal the student's reading comprehension level.
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: B

Fluency in reading enables students to focus their cognitive resources on understanding the text rather than on decoding words. This shift enhances comprehension, as students can engage with the material's meaning and context. Option A oversimplifies the relationship; mastery of fluency does not guarantee comprehension, as background knowledge and vocabulary also play significant roles. Option C incorrectly suggests that fluency decreases when reading below level; students may struggle with comprehension due to a lack of engagement or interest rather than fluency alone. Option D conflates fluency assessment with comprehension assessment; while related, fluency does not directly measure comprehension.
Tier 2 vocabulary words are
  • A. basic words that commonly appear in spoken language
  • B. high frequency words used across several content areas
  • C. common words that generally do not require explicit instruction
  • D. low frequency words central to building knowledge within academic topics
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: B

Tier 2 vocabulary words are high-frequency terms that are applicable across various content areas, enhancing students' comprehension and expression in multiple subjects. Option A describes Tier 1 words, which are basic and often used in everyday speech. Option C refers to words that are usually familiar to students and don't need direct teaching, aligning more with Tier 1 vocabulary. Option D inaccurately characterizes Tier 3 vocabulary, which consists of low-frequency, specialized terms specific to particular subjects. Thus, only option B accurately captures the essence of Tier 2 vocabulary.
Which of the following teacher strategies will best help students to master word analysis skills?
  • A. Asking students to complete isolated, worksheet-based vocabulary drills
  • B. Focusing instruction on phonics and comprehension skills independently of one another
  • C. Having students use flash cards to memorize large amounts of sight words
  • D. Providing opportunities to work with word parts, such as syllables and rimes, in context
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: D

Option D effectively supports word analysis skills by allowing students to engage with word parts, such as syllables and rimes, in meaningful contexts. This approach fosters deeper understanding and application of language structures. Option A, while it may reinforce vocabulary, relies on isolated drills that do not promote contextual learning or critical thinking. Option B separates phonics from comprehension, hindering students' ability to connect decoding skills with understanding text. Option C focuses on memorization of sight words, which can limit students' ability to analyze and deconstruct unfamiliar words effectively.
Which THREE of the following words from the passage best create the overall tone?
  • A. brain""
  • B. oversized""
  • C. seized"
  • D. horrible"
  • E. nauseating""
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: C,D,E

The words "seized," "horrible," and "nauseating" effectively convey a tone of urgency and distress. "Seized" suggests a sudden, forceful action, implying a sense of chaos or loss of control. "Horrible" evokes strong negative emotions, indicating something deeply unsettling, while "nauseating" intensifies this feeling, suggesting physical revulsion. In contrast, "brain" is neutral and lacks emotional weight, failing to contribute to the tone. "Oversized," while descriptive, does not carry the same emotional impact and is more factual than evocative. Together, the selected words create a powerful atmosphere that resonates with the passage’s themes.