Excerpt: Our school throws away hundreds of plastic forks each week. If every student brought a reusable fork, we could cut trash and save money. Why did the author write this?

Excerpt: The first public libraries in America were small rooms with shared books. Today, libraries offer books, computers, classes, and meeting spaces. Why did the author write this?

Excerpt: A rain garden collects water from roofs and sidewalks. Its deep-rooted plants help keep polluted runoff out of streams. Why did the author write this?

Excerpt: Malik practiced his speech until the mirror knew every word. When his name was called, his knees shook, but his voice rang clear. Why did the author write this?

Excerpt: Before you toss old jeans, consider donating them. A local shelter can give warm clothing to someone who needs it tonight. Why did the author write this?

Excerpt: Sea turtles return to sandy beaches to lay eggs. After hatching, the tiny turtles crawl toward moonlight reflected on the ocean. Why did the author write this?

Excerpt: The town clock had stopped for ten years. On Saturday, neighbors cheered as its bell finally boomed across Main Street again. Why did the author write this?

Excerpt: Lena wanted the fastest robot, but her first design tipped over. After listening to her team, she rebuilt it lower and steadier. What is the message?

Excerpt: The creek looked hopelessly dirty, so one family began picking up cans each Saturday. Soon, neighbors joined them, and fish returned. What is the message?

Excerpt: Jada rushed through her model airplane and skipped the directions. Her careful second try flew twice as far as the first. What is the message?

Excerpt: Uncle Ray told funny stories about losing games before he became a chess champion. He said each loss taught him one better move. What is the message?

Excerpt: The new student ate alone until Sam invited him to join the table. By Friday, three classmates were saving him a seat. What is the message?

A passage explains how a rescued puppy learned commands: first sit, then stay, then come. How does chronology serve the author's purpose?

A passage compares paper maps and phone maps to help readers choose one for a hike. How does comparison serve the author's purpose?

A passage explains that bright porch lights confuse migrating birds, causing crashes into windows. How does cause and effect serve the author's purpose?

A passage describes a crowded hallway and then explains a new one-way walking plan. How does problem and solution serve the author's purpose?

A passage lists events in Clara Barton's life from childhood through the founding of the Red Cross. How does chronology serve the author's purpose?

Excerpt: Our park has only one water fountain. Children wait in long lines after games. Adding another fountain would keep players safe and comfortable. Which sentence reveals the purpose?

Excerpt: Honeybees carry pollen from flower to flower. This helps many fruits and vegetables grow. A single hive may visit millions of blossoms. Which sentence reveals the purpose?

Excerpt: Nora shivered as a snowflake hit her mitten. Snow fell all night. Soon the street glittered, and Nora laughed as her sled flew downhill. The author wants to share a joyful winter moment. Which sentence best shows that purpose?