Context Clues and Reading Comprehension

Text 1 It was difficult to understand what Tommy is saying. Tommy droned on and on like an alarm clock that won’t stop ringing. I had to tell Tommy to slow down and stop. What does ‘droned’ mean? a. talk slowly b. chat in a friendly manner c. spoke continuously 2. What kind of person is Tommy? a. shy b. talkative c. quiet

Text 2 Uncle Joe knew the river was teeming and overflowing with bass. Therefore, uncle Joe brought a big net to help get the fish in the boat. What does ‘teeming’ mean? a. swimming in groups b. being full of c. having very little 2. What is ‘bass’? a. a musical instrument b. a fishing boat c. a kind of fish

Text 3 “I and the Village” received favorable reviews. No wonder many people attended and watched it. Some even watched it more than once. What does ‘favorable’ mean? a. negative b. uncertain c. pleasing d. clear 2. What is ‘I and the Village’? a. a musical instrument b. a movie c. a magazine d. a place

Text 4 No, Honey, I don’t want you to spend a lot of money on my birthday present. Just having you for a husband is the only gift I need. In fact, I’ll just drive my old rusty bucket of bolts down to the mall and buy myself a little present. And if the poor old car doesn't break down, I’ll be back soon. What does ‘old rusty bucket of bolts’? bucket that needs repair rusty tools a cheap present a shabby car   2. What is the message? I don’t want a gift. Buy me a new car. The mall is fun. I’ll carry a bucket for you.

Text 5 “Larry, as your boss, I must say it’s been very interesting working with you,” Miss Valdez said. “However, it seems that our company’s needs and your performance style are not well matched. Therefore, it makes me very sad to have to ask you to resign your position effective today.” 2. What was Miss Valdez telling Larry? a. She would feel really bad if he decided to quit. b. He was being fired. c. He was getting a raise in pay. d. She really enjoyed having him in the office. 1. What does ‘resign’ mean? Start working Continue working Stop working Be promoted