Recipe

Ingredients:

1 block extra-firm tofu

1 Tbsp. neutral-flavored oil, such as canola or grapeseed

1 Tbsp. soy sauce

1 Tbsp. cornstarch

Directions:

Preheat oven to 400° F. Remove tofu from package and drain. Gently press tofu between two paper towels to remove excess water. Cut into cubes. Add tofu cubes to a medium mixing bowl. Add oil and soy sauce; stir gently with a rubber spatula to combine. Add cornstarch and mix until tofu cubes are evenly coated. Transfer to a lined baking sheet. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes.

 

What can be inferred about the author's purpose in developing this recipe?

Maria Montessori’s Preface

In the introduction to Dr. Montessori’s Own Handbook, Maria Montessori describes the role of a preface in a book. She states that a preface should provide insight into the purpose of the text and help readers understand its content. Additionally, she expresses her hope that the book will be useful to families, especially those with young children who are constantly learning. She also acknowledges and thanks notable figures like Helen Keller and Anne Sullivan, whose work and lives significantly influenced her views on education and child development.

Based on the passage, who is the intended audience for Maria Montessori’s book?

Baking Seasonal Fruit Pies

Baking a pie with seasonal fruit ensures the use of fresh, flavorful ingredients and offers an opportunity to enjoy the distinct tastes of each season. In the spring, a strawberry rhubarb pie balances the sweetness of ripe strawberries with the tartness of rhubarb. Summer brings a variety of choices, including peach, blueberry, and cherry pies. As fall arrives, apples and pears are perfect for classic apple pies or creative pear and cranberry combinations. Although winter may seem less bountiful, it offers citrus fruits at their peak, such as oranges and lemons, ideal for a tangy lemon meringue or a rich caramelized orange tart.

Based on the passage, which of the following can be inferred about the availability of fruits in different seasons? 

Maria Montessori’s Preface

In the introduction to Dr. Montessori’s Own Handbook, Maria Montessori describes the role of a preface in a book. She states that a preface should provide insight into the purpose of the text and help readers understand its content. Additionally, she expresses her hope that the book will be useful to families, especially those with young children who are constantly learning. She also acknowledges and thanks notable figures like Helen Keller and Anne Sullivan, whose work and lives significantly influenced her views on education and child development.

According to Maria Montessori, what is the primary purpose of a book’s preface?

Haiku: A Form of Japanese Poetry

Haiku is a form of Japanese poetry known for its simplicity and depth. It consists of three unrhymed lines, where the first and third lines have five syllables, and the second has seven. This 5-7-5 structure succinctly captures a moment, emotion, or natural scene. Traditional haikus often focus on nature or the seasons, but modern poets explore various themes. The beauty of haiku lies in its ability to convey a profound insight within a limited syllable pattern.

For example:
Morning light breaks through,
Silence covers the waking earth,
Day whispers softly.

Which of the following conclusions can be drawn about the structure of a haiku based on the example provided in the passage?

Vacation Rentals

1. Lakeside Lodge Retreat

Location: Clearwater Lake, Wisconsin
Description: Nestled on the shores of a crystal-clear lake, this charming lodge provides a peaceful escape with breathtaking views. It features three bedrooms, a modern kitchen, and a cozy living room with a fireplace. Guests can enjoy activities such as kayaking, fishing, or simply relaxing on the private dock.

2. Mountain Vista Chalet

Location: Aspen, Colorado
Description: Perched high in the Rocky Mountains, this luxurious chalet offers panoramic views. With four bedrooms, an indoor hot tub, and a stone fireplace, it is ideal for a skiing trip or summer retreat. Hiking trails and ski lifts are just steps away.

3. Coastal Cottage

Location: Outer Banks, North Carolina
Description: This quaint seaside cottage is only a short walk from the beach. It features two cozy bedrooms, a sunlit living area, and a spacious porch—perfect for those who love the ocean breeze. Local seafood restaurants and shops are nearby.

4. Forest Hideaway Cabin

Location: Redwood National Park, California
Description: Hidden among towering redwood trees, this secluded cabin offers a true escape into nature. It has two bedrooms, a wood-burning stove, and large windows with stunning forest views. Guests can explore nearby hiking trails or simply enjoy the solitude.

Based on the description of the Coastal Cottage, what does the phrase “quaint cottage” suggest?

Vacation Rentals

1. Lakeside Lodge Retreat

Location: Clearwater Lake, Wisconsin
Description: Nestled on the shores of a crystal-clear lake, this charming lodge provides a peaceful escape with breathtaking views. It features three bedrooms, a modern kitchen, and a cozy living room with a fireplace. Guests can enjoy activities such as kayaking, fishing, or simply relaxing on the private dock.

2. Mountain Vista Chalet

Location: Aspen, Colorado
Description: Perched high in the Rocky Mountains, this luxurious chalet offers panoramic views. With four bedrooms, an indoor hot tub, and a stone fireplace, it is ideal for a skiing trip or summer retreat. Hiking trails and ski lifts are just steps away.

3. Coastal Cottage

Location: Outer Banks, North Carolina
Description: This quaint seaside cottage is only a short walk from the beach. It features two cozy bedrooms, a sunlit living area, and a spacious porch—perfect for those who love the ocean breeze. Local seafood restaurants and shops are nearby.

4. Forest Hideaway Cabin

Location: Redwood National Park, California
Description: Hidden among towering redwood trees, this secluded cabin offers a true escape into nature. It has two bedrooms, a wood-burning stove, and large windows with stunning forest views. Guests can explore nearby hiking trails or simply enjoy the solitude.

What is the connotative meaning of the word “escape” in the description of Lakeside Lodge Retreat?

The Writing Process

Writers often go through several key stages while developing their work. These stages typically include prewriting, research, drafting, revision, editing, and publishing. However, the writing process is not always linear—it is recursive, meaning writers frequently return to earlier stages to refine their work. Having sufficient time allows for multiple rounds of revision, leading to a stronger final product.

What does the word “recursive” mean in the passage?

Excerpt from The Secret 'Stache by A. Barber
For thousands of years, several characteristics have been consistent across human societies around the world. Animal husbandry, agriculture, and artistic expression are some of the similarities all societies share. Another similarity is the mustache. So now I mustache a question: why have mustaches had such a notable presence in human history?
Humans have been shaving for as long as there has been facial hair to shave. However, it is in the past several centuries that mustaches have undergone a more creative transformation. Now, there are many different types of mustaches. The Handlebar, Pencil, and Walrus are only a few of the many types known today. With just a sharpened razor and some mustache wax, the creativity of people and their mustaches can be endless.

Though the popularity of the mustache in different cultures varies over time, it has certainly influenced other creations. In the 1800s and early 1900s, mustaches were so popular that a new style of drinking cup, the mustache cup, was created. The mustache cup had a built-in covering over the top so mustaches would not be touched by the beverage. A more recent example of the mark of mustaches can be seen by the first World Mustache Tournament in 2013. The mustache truly is part of the human experience.
Due to its place in the human experience, the mustache is a symbol with varied significance: power, prestige, beauty. When one thinks of mustaches, one may think of a villain from silent films, twisting the ends of his mustache. One may also think of a respected leader with a mustache of prominence. Perhaps one may think of people with famous mustaches: Tom Selleck, Burt Reynolds, and Charlie Chaplin, to name a few. No matter what one pictures when thinking of mustaches, it is clear that the mustache has a substantial effect on human perception.
 

Which of the following is the main idea of the second paragraph in the passage?

Dear Diary
Today on my school field trip I learned a lot about penguins. I wasn't very excited at first, but then I found out how cool they can be! For example, even though they're flightless birds, some species of penguins have a maximum swimming speed of over 7 miles per hour! Flying is pretty awesome, but swimming seems really cool too. It makes sense that penguins are such strong swimmers, though. Apparently, they spend half their lives on land, and the other half in the water! And since they usually live close to the water, penguins often eat krill, fish, and other seafood. I've never really liked seafood, but now I want to try some. That's all that I remember for today, but I hope I get to go back to the zoo soon to learn more about them.
 

Which of the following terms describe the author's tone?

Excerpt from The Secret 'Stache by A. Barber
For thousands of years, several characteristics have been consistent across human societies around the world. Animal husbandry, agriculture, and artistic expression are some of the similarities all societies share. Another similarity is the mustache. So now I mustache a question: why have mustaches had such a notable presence in human history?
Humans have been shaving for as long as there has been facial hair to shave. However, it is in the past several centuries that mustaches have undergone a more creative transformation. Now, there are many different types of mustaches. The Handlebar, Pencil, and Walrus are only a few of the many types known today. With just a sharpened razor and some mustache wax, the creativity of people and their mustaches can be endless.

Though the popularity of the mustache in different cultures varies over time, it has certainly influenced other creations. In the 1800s and early 1900s, mustaches were so popular that a new style of drinking cup, the mustache cup, was created. The mustache cup had a built-in covering over the top so mustaches would not be touched by the beverage. A more recent example of the mark of mustaches can be seen by the first World Mustache Tournament in 2013. The mustache truly is part of the human experience.
Due to its place in the human experience, the mustache is a symbol with varied significance: power, prestige, beauty. When one thinks of mustaches, one may think of a villain from silent films, twisting the ends of his mustache. One may also think of a respected leader with a mustache of prominence. Perhaps one may think of people with famous mustaches: Tom Selleck, Burt Reynolds, and Charlie Chaplin, to name a few. No matter what one pictures when thinking of mustaches, it is clear that the mustache has a substantial effect on human perception.
 

Which of the following is a true statement regarding themes?