12th Grade English Vocabulary Benchmark Assessment
Questions and Answers
- 1.
Hints of what is to come in the action of a play or a story
- A.
Theme
- B.
Diction
- C.
Tone
- D.
Foreshadowing
Correct Answer
D. ForeshadowingExplanation
Foreshadowing is the correct answer because it refers to the hints or clues given in a play or story that suggest what will happen later on. It is a literary technique used by authors to create suspense and anticipation in the reader or audience. By introducing subtle hints or events that allude to future events, foreshadowing adds depth and complexity to the narrative, allowing the audience to make connections and predictions about the story's outcome.Rate this question:
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- 2.
The use of words to imitate the sounds they describe.
- A.
Hyperbole
- B.
Onomatopoeia
- C.
Oxymoron
- D.
Metaphor
Correct Answer
B. OnomatopoeiaExplanation
Onomatopoeia refers to the use of words that imitate the sounds they describe. It is a figure of speech that creates a vivid and sensory experience for the reader or listener. Examples of onomatopoeic words include "buzz," "sizzle," and "crash." Hyperbole, oxymoron, and metaphor are all different figures of speech that do not involve the imitation of sounds.Rate this question:
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- 3.
The repetition of the initial consonant.
- A.
Hyperbole
- B.
Simile
- C.
Onomatopoeia
- D.
Alliteration
Correct Answer
D. AlliterationExplanation
Alliteration refers to the repetition of the initial consonant sound in a series of words. This literary device is used to create rhythm, emphasize certain words or phrases, and make the writing more memorable. In this case, the correct answer is "alliteration" because it best fits the given description of repeating the initial consonant. Hyperbole, simile, and onomatopoeia do not involve the repetition of consonant sounds.Rate this question:
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- 4.
Is giving human qualities to animals or objects
- A.
Simile
- B.
Personification
- C.
Metaphor
- D.
Oxymoron
Correct Answer
B. PersonificationExplanation
Personification is the correct answer because it involves attributing human qualities or characteristics to animals or objects. This literary device is used to make the description more vivid and relatable by giving non-human entities human-like traits, emotions, or actions. It helps create a stronger connection between the reader and the subject being personified, making it easier to understand and visualize.Rate this question:
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- 5.
Figure of speech involving a comparison between unlike things using like, as, or as though.
- A.
Simile
- B.
Metaphor
- C.
Hyperbole
- D.
Personification
Correct Answer
A. SimileExplanation
A simile is a figure of speech that involves a comparison between unlike things using the words "like," "as," or "as though." It is a direct comparison that helps to create vivid imagery and enhance the reader's understanding. In a simile, the comparison is explicitly stated, making it different from a metaphor where the comparison is implied. Examples of similes include "as brave as a lion" or "like a bolt of lightning."Rate this question:
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- 6.
Putting two contradictory words together.
- A.
Hyperbole
- B.
Metaphor
- C.
Personification
- D.
Oxymoron
Correct Answer
D. OxymoronExplanation
An oxymoron is a figure of speech that combines two contradictory terms to create a unique and contrasting effect. It is used to emphasize a point or create a vivid image in the reader's mind. In this case, "putting two contradictory words together" perfectly describes an oxymoron as it highlights the concept of combining contradictory terms to convey a deeper meaning or irony.Rate this question:
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- 7.
A figure of speech involving exaggeration
- A.
Hyperbole
- B.
Metaphor
- C.
Simile
- D.
Oxymoron
Correct Answer
A. HyperboleExplanation
Hyperbole is a figure of speech involving exaggeration. It is used to emphasize a point or create a vivid image by overstating something. It is different from a metaphor, simile, or oxymoron, as those involve making comparisons or combining contradictory terms, whereas hyperbole focuses on exaggeration. Therefore, hyperbole is the correct answer in this case.Rate this question:
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- 8.
A comparison in which one thing is said to be another
- A.
Hyperbole
- B.
Metaphor
- C.
Simile
- D.
Understatement
Correct Answer
B. MetaphorExplanation
A metaphor is a figure of speech that compares two different things by saying that one thing is another. It is a direct comparison that does not use "like" or "as" (which is characteristic of a simile). Hyperbole is an exaggeration, understatement is a form of expression that downplays the importance or intensity of something. Therefore, metaphor is the correct answer as it best fits the description provided.Rate this question:
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- 9.
The conversation between characters
- A.
Parody
- B.
Dialect
- C.
Dialogue
- D.
Monologue
Correct Answer
C. DialogueExplanation
The correct answer is "dialogue". Dialogue refers to a conversation between two or more characters in a literary work or a play. It involves an exchange of ideas, thoughts, or opinions between the characters, allowing the reader or audience to understand their perspectives and motivations. This term is commonly used in literature, theater, and film to depict interactions between characters and advance the plot.Rate this question:
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- 10.
The exact meaning of a word
- A.
Connotation
- B.
Suggestion
- C.
Denotation
- D.
Anecdote
Correct Answer
C. DenotationExplanation
Denotation refers to the literal or dictionary definition of a word, without any emotional or cultural associations. It focuses on the precise meaning of a word, devoid of any connotations or suggestions. In this context, denotation is the correct answer as it directly corresponds to "the exact meaning of a word".Rate this question:
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- 11.
A recurring object, concept, or structure in a work of literature
- A.
Motif
- B.
Myth
- C.
Prose
- D.
Refrain
Correct Answer
A. MotifExplanation
A motif is a recurring object, concept, or structure in a work of literature. It is a literary device that helps to develop the theme or message of the story. Unlike a myth, which is a traditional or legendary story that explains the beliefs or customs of a society, a motif is a recurring element within a single work. Prose refers to ordinary written or spoken language, while a refrain is a repeated line or phrase in a poem or song. Therefore, the correct answer for this question is motif.Rate this question:
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- 12.
Any story that attempts to explain how the world was created or why the world is the way that it is
- A.
Motif
- B.
Myth
- C.
Prose
- D.
Refrain
Correct Answer
B. MythExplanation
The correct answer is myth. A myth is a traditional story or legend that explains natural phenomena, customs, beliefs, or the origins of a culture. It often involves gods, goddesses, and supernatural beings. In this context, a myth would be the most appropriate choice as it refers to a story that attempts to explain the creation or nature of the world. Motif, prose, and refrain do not specifically relate to the concept of explaining the creation or nature of the world.Rate this question:
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- 13.
Repetition of an identical or similarly accented sound or sounds in a work
- A.
Myth
- B.
Prose
- C.
Refrain
- D.
Rhyme
Correct Answer
D. RhymeExplanation
Rhyme refers to the repetition of an identical or similarly accented sound or sounds in a work. It is a literary device commonly used in poetry and songwriting to create a musical and rhythmic effect. Rhyme adds a sense of harmony and cohesion to a piece of writing, making it more memorable and pleasing to the ear. It can also help to emphasize certain words or ideas, and can contribute to the overall structure and flow of a poem or song.Rate this question:
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- 14.
The pattern of rhyme used in a poem
- A.
Fable
- B.
Free verse
- C.
Limerick
- D.
Rhyme scheme
Correct Answer
D. Rhyme schemeExplanation
Rhyme scheme refers to the pattern of rhymes at the end of each line in a poem. It is a way to organize and identify the different sounds that occur in a poem. By analyzing the rhyme scheme, one can determine the specific pattern or structure of the poem, which can provide insights into its form and meaning. Therefore, rhyme scheme is the correct answer as it directly relates to the given explanation.Rate this question:
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- 15.
Referring to how a person, situation, statement, or circumstance is not as it would actually seem
- A.
Fable
- B.
Myth
- C.
Irony
- D.
Motif
Correct Answer
C. IronyExplanation
Irony refers to a situation or statement that is different from what is expected or intended. It involves a contrast between what is said or done and what is actually meant. In this context, irony is the most suitable term as it captures the idea of something being contrary to what it appears to be. A fable is a short story that teaches a moral lesson, a myth is a traditional story explaining natural phenomena, and a motif is a recurring theme or symbol in literature. None of these terms directly relate to the concept of something being not as it seems.Rate this question:
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- 16.
A way the events of a story are conveyed to the reader
- A.
Point of view
- B.
Narrator
- C.
Plot
- D.
Theme
Correct Answer
A. Point of viewExplanation
Point of view refers to the perspective from which a story is told. It determines the lens through which events are presented to the reader and can greatly influence the reader's understanding and interpretation of the story. The point of view can be first person, where the narrator is a character in the story and uses "I" to tell the story, or third person, where the narrator is an outsider and uses "he," "she," or "they" to refer to the characters. The point of view can also be limited, where the narrator only has access to one character's thoughts and feelings, or omniscient, where the narrator knows everything about all the characters.Rate this question:
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- 17.
A distinctive poetic style that uses system or pattern of metrical structure and verse composition usually consisting of fourteen lines, arranged in a set rhyme scheme or pattern
- A.
Prose
- B.
Haiku
- C.
Cinquain
- D.
Sonnet
Correct Answer
D. SonnetExplanation
A sonnet is a form of poetry that is characterized by its distinctive style and structure. It consists of fourteen lines and follows a specific rhyme scheme or pattern. The use of metrical structure and verse composition further adds to its poetic nature. In contrast, prose refers to regular writing without any specific structure or rhyme scheme, while haiku and cinquain are different forms of poetry that have their own unique characteristics. Therefore, the given answer, sonnet, is the correct choice as it accurately describes the poetic style and structure mentioned in the question.Rate this question:
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- 18.
An association that comes along with a particular word
- A.
Connotation
- B.
Definition
- C.
Denotation
- D.
Simile
Correct Answer
A. ConnotationExplanation
Connotation refers to the emotional or cultural associations that a word carries, beyond its literal definition. It encompasses the feelings, ideas, or values that are commonly associated with a particular word. This association is often subjective and can vary depending on individual experiences and cultural backgrounds. Denotation, on the other hand, refers to the literal or dictionary definition of a word. Simile is a figure of speech that compares two things using "like" or "as." Therefore, the correct answer is connotation because it best describes the association that comes along with a particular word.Rate this question:
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- 19.
A narrative folk song
- A.
Diddy
- B.
Limerick
- C.
Ballad
- D.
Jingle
Correct Answer
C. BalladExplanation
A ballad is a narrative folk song that tells a story. It typically has a simple and repetitive structure, with a strong emphasis on storytelling. Unlike a diddy, which is a short and catchy tune, a ballad focuses on conveying a tale through its lyrics. A limerick, on the other hand, is a type of humorous poem with a specific rhyming pattern. Lastly, a jingle is a short and catchy tune used in advertising. Therefore, out of the given options, ballad is the most fitting choice for a narrative folk song.Rate this question:
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- 20.
Unified group of lines in poetry
- A.
Verse
- B.
Stanza
- C.
Prose
- D.
Rhythm
Correct Answer
B. StanzaExplanation
A stanza is a unified group of lines in poetry. It is a section or division within a poem that consists of a certain number of lines. Each stanza usually has a specific rhyme scheme or pattern, and it helps to organize the poem's ideas and themes. In contrast, verse refers to any line of poetry, while rhythm refers to the pattern of stressed and unstressed syllables in a line of poetry. Prose, on the other hand, is written or spoken language in its ordinary form, without any specific structure or rhyme. Therefore, stanza is the correct answer as it specifically refers to a group of lines in poetry.Rate this question:
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- 21.
Rhyming within a line
- A.
Rhyme scheme
- B.
Linear rhyme
- C.
Internal rhyme
- D.
End rhyme
Correct Answer
C. Internal rhymeExplanation
Internal rhyme refers to the rhyming of words within a single line of poetry. It occurs when words within the same line rhyme with each other, creating a musical and rhythmic effect. This is different from end rhyme, which is when the rhyming words occur at the end of different lines. Rhyme scheme, on the other hand, refers to the pattern of rhymes in a poem, while linear rhyme is not a recognized term in poetry. Therefore, the correct answer is internal rhyme.Rate this question:
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- 22.
Unrhymed iambic pentameter
- A.
Blank verse
- B.
Slant rhyme
- C.
Internal rhyme
- D.
Stanza
Correct Answer
A. Blank verseExplanation
Blank verse refers to unrhymed iambic pentameter, which means that each line consists of five pairs of unstressed and stressed syllables. This form of poetry is commonly used in English literature, particularly in plays and epic poems. It provides a natural and rhythmic flow to the lines, allowing for a more conversational and realistic tone. Unlike other forms of poetry, blank verse does not rely on rhyme, making it a versatile and flexible form of expression.Rate this question:
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- 23.
A short work of nonfiction that deals with a single subject
- A.
Novel
- B.
Essay
- C.
Short story
- D.
Poem
Correct Answer
B. EssayExplanation
An essay is a short work of nonfiction that focuses on a single subject. It is a literary form that allows the author to express their thoughts and ideas on a particular topic. Unlike a novel or short story, which are works of fiction, an essay is based on real-life experiences, observations, and analysis. It often presents an argument or explores a specific theme, providing the reader with insights and perspectives on the subject matter. A poem, on the other hand, is a form of literature that uses rhythmic and often rhyming language to convey emotions and imagery. Therefore, the correct answer is essay.Rate this question:
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- 24.
Poetry without regular patterns of rhyme and rhythm
- A.
Haiku
- B.
Cinquain
- C.
Free verse
- D.
Internal rhyme
Correct Answer
C. Free verseExplanation
Free verse is the correct answer because it refers to poetry that does not follow a fixed pattern of rhyme or rhythm. Unlike haiku and cinquain which have specific structures and syllable counts, and internal rhyme which focuses on rhyming within a line, free verse allows poets to express themselves without constraints, giving them the freedom to experiment with different line lengths, rhythms, and structures.Rate this question:
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- 25.
A phrase or expression that means something different from what the words actually say (for example, using the phrase “over his head” instead of “He doesn’t understand”)
- A.
Simile
- B.
Oxymoron
- C.
Hyperbole
- D.
Idiom
Correct Answer
D. IdiomExplanation
An idiom is a phrase or expression that has a figurative meaning that is different from its literal meaning. It is a common way of expressing ideas or emotions in a language that may not make sense when translated literally. Examples of idioms include "kick the bucket" meaning to die, or "break a leg" meaning good luck. In this case, the phrase "over his head" is used as an idiom to mean that someone doesn't understand something. Therefore, the correct answer is idiom.Rate this question:
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- 26.
A short humorous poem composed of five lines that usually has the rhyme scheme aabba *
- A.
Haiku
- B.
Limerick
- C.
Ballad
- D.
Sonnet
Correct Answer
B. LimerickExplanation
A limerick is a short humorous poem composed of five lines. It typically follows the rhyme scheme "aabba", meaning that the first, second, and fifth lines rhyme with each other, while the third and fourth lines rhyme with each other. This form of poetry is known for its witty and often nonsensical content.Rate this question:
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- 27.
The regular pattern of accented and unaccented syllables
- A.
Stanza
- B.
Meter
- C.
Line
- D.
Verse
Correct Answer
B. MeterExplanation
Meter refers to the regular pattern of accented and unaccented syllables in a line of poetry. It determines the rhythm and musicality of a poem. A stanza is a grouping of lines in a poem, while a line is a single row of words. Verse is a general term that refers to a single line of poetry or a poem in its entirety. Therefore, out of the given options, meter is the correct answer as it specifically relates to the regular pattern of accented and unaccented syllables.Rate this question:
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- 28.
A work of fiction that is longer and more complex than a short story
- A.
Essay
- B.
Sonnet
- C.
Novel
- D.
Fable
Correct Answer
C. NovelExplanation
A novel is a work of fiction that is longer and more complex than a short story. It typically has a more extensive plot, character development, and explores various themes and ideas in depth. Essays are non-fiction pieces that present arguments or ideas, while sonnets are a specific form of poetry with a set structure. Fables are short fictional stories that often teach a moral lesson. Therefore, the best fit for the given description is a novel.Rate this question:
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