Chapters 5, 6, and 7 Test Study Guide

For the Chapters 5, 6, and 7 Test, you will be asked to

1. Read two passages and identify the main idea, the number of major details, the major details themselves, and the transition words that introduce the major details.

2. Answer 8 comprehension questions that will come from your notes and readings.

3. Determine the implied main ideas for 5 paragraphs.

4. Recognize the transitional sentences and topic sentences for two paragraphs.

Sample Questions

1.  Addition words (such as first, second, and third) usually introduce

    a. main ideas    b. major details    c. minor details

2. Which of the following transition words signal a reversal?

    a. hence, due to
    b. although, yet
    c. for example, for instance       
    d. today, before

3. Which of the following is a true statement about the last sentences of paragraphs?

    a. The last sentence of a paragraph must always restate the main idea, though sometimes in different words.
    b. The last sentence often introduces an unrelated idea.
    c. The last sentence is almost never a statement of the main idea.
    d. The last sentence can function as a transition that prepares the reader for the next paragraph.

4. Transition words

    a. Always carry the same meaning    B. Sometimes carry a different meaning.

5. Transition words

    a. Always appear at the beginning of a sentence.
    b. Always appear at the end of a sentence.
    c. May appear almost anywhere in a sentence.

6. Transitions may

    a. Prepare for a shift in the writer's train of thought.
    b. Help trace an event over time.
    c. Introduce examples of the main idea.
    d. All of the above

7. Which of the following is a false statement about major details.

    a. Major details are more general than the main idea.
    b. Major details are more specific than the main idea.

8. Which of the following is/are true about implied main ideas?

    a. Must be a general statement that covers all or most of the specific ideas in a paragraph.
    b. Should not be too broad.
    c. Should not be too narrow.
    d. All of the above are true.

According to most social psychologists, there are several reasons why stereotypes are basically false.  First of all, they exaggerate the differences between groups (for example, the Irish are drunks; Jews don't drink).  Furthermore, they often carry the totally unproven assumption that the group's behavior is biologically inherited.  Third, many of the traits assigned through stereotyping are simply not there.  For example, contrary to popular opinion, homosexuals do not have a distinct personality type, and women are not the bad drivers many believe they are.

9.    How many major details are there in the paragraph above?  ____

10.  What transition word introduces the second major detail? ______

11.   What is the last major detail?

Some students think that the Writing Lab has materials only for writing students.  However, this is not the case.  The Writing Lab offers a variety of materials to enhance reading skills.  Speed Reading Plus is a software program found on all Writing Lab computers.  This program is designed to improve reading rate while maintaining or improving comprehension.  In addition, all Writing Lab computers have reading skills practice for vocabulary in context and for building vocabulary. Writing Lab computers also have software programs that will enable students to prepare for the COMPASS reading exam and the Regents' Reading Test.  The Writing Lab even has books that offer practice in timed reading and reading in the content areas.

12. The transitional sentence is _________________.

13. The topic sentence is _____________________.

Many people who suffer from hypothyroidism not only have problems losing weight but they seem to gain weight without reason. 
They may also feel tired and weak and even depressed and moody.  People with hypothyroid disease often have skin that is dry and rough;
in addition, many experience hair loss.  Their fingernails may be thin and brittle; they may have problems with constipation; and they become cold easily.
In more severe cases, victims of thyroid disease may experience muscular weakness and pain, including cramps and stiffness. Other symptoms include joint pain and tingling and burning in the arch of the foot.

14.  The implied main idea for the paragraph above is

a. People with thyroid problems should seek medical help.
b. There are many symptoms associated with hypothyroidism.
c. Thyroid disease often goes undiagnosed.
d. People with thyroid disease have many problems with their hair and skin.

Link to Answer Key (Active!)

NOTE: Additional practice for implied main ideas and stated main ideas can be found on my homepage and in the Writing Lab on the computers under Townsend Press.  Additional practice identifying supporting details and can be found in the Writing Lab on the computers under Townsend Press.