®
STAAR
State of Texas
Assessments of
Academic Readiness
GRADE 7
Reading
Administered May 2022
RELEASED
Copyright © 2022, Texas Education Agency. All rights reserved. Reproduction of all or portions of this work is prohibited without express
written permission from the Texas Education Agency.
Reading
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READING
Reading
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4158
Read the selection and choose the best answer to each question.
Then fill in the answer on your answer document.
Time for a “Digital Diet”
1 Young people today rely heavily on digital technology. Text
messaging and email allow people to effortlessly stay connected to
others. Television and computer screens provide people with
constant entertainment. Everywhere you look people are distracted
by screens. Technology can be useful, but it is easy for someone to
become too dependent on it. In fact, research has shown that the
way young people interact with each other and with the world is
rapidly changing due to digital overload. Staying connected has
become so important that many young people find it stressful to be
away from their phones. As a result, people have developed bad
habits. They spend less time outside, get less sleep, and develop a
shorter attention span. However, it is possible to achieve a more
balanced relationship with technology. People should consider going
on a “digital diet.”
2 When people think of a diet, they usually think about it in relation to
food. There are some healthy eating habits you can develop, and
there are bad eating habits. A digital diet helps promote developing
healthy habits with technology. Developing healthy habits with
digital devices looks different for everyone. But overall the main goal
is to limit the amount of time we spend using digital devices.
3 “The primary use of technology by young people is for
entertainment,” states media expert Michael Levine. On average,
young people spend over seven hours in front of a screen every day.
As a result, children and teenagers today spend as little as four
minutes outside per day. Limiting the amount of time young people
spend on their screens is one way to establish a healthy digital
habit. By taking a break from digital devices, young people have
more time to go outside. Collin O’Mara is the head of the
National Wildlife Federation. She believes that outdoor free time
provides a wide variety of benefits. Some of these benefits include
better school performance, more creativity, and higher levels of
fitness. Rather than spending several hours in front of a screen,
people can gain the benefits from spending time outside instead.
4 Another boundary that people can set is avoiding using digital
devices before going to sleep. Doctors suggest establishing a
specific time of night when all devices must be turned off. Stopping
the use of digital devices two hours before bedtime will likely lead to
better sleep. Staring at a cell phone, computer, or television screen
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right before bedtime is distracting. Researcher Jean Twenge says
that “answering texts and scrolling through social media is mentally
and emotionally stimulating, which leads to disturbed sleep.” In
addition, the blue light that smartphones emit keeps the brain from
producing melatonin. Melatonin helps people fall asleep and stay
asleep throughout the night.
5 Being more mindful of when we use technology allows us to be more
present when interacting with others. Doctors and scientists are
concerned that the heavy use of electronic devices is creating a
generation that is easily distracted. People who depend on
technology shift their attention from one media platform to another
about 27 times per hour. Additionally, the majority of young people
say they would rather text people than speak with them in person.
It can be difficult to have a meaningful conversation with friends
when everyone is distracted by a cell-phone screen. If you notice
that those around you are using their phones too much, speak up. It
is much more rewarding to have a conversation with people who are
attentive.
6 Some people think it is best to cut the use of technology completely.
Although this seems like a good solution, eliminating technology is
not always possible. The use of digital devices can even be helpful in
some instances. For example, a student may want to use a
computer to complete schoolwork. A person who is driving to an
unfamiliar location may want to look up directions on a phone before
making the trip. The goal is to use digital devices when they are
needed but to spend some time away from them as well.
7 Forming healthier digital habits is possible without having to give up
technology completely. Going on a digital diet may not be easy, but
it is worth it. Limiting the amount of time spent using digital devices
helps us live a more balanced life.
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50017_3
1 Look at this cartoon from the selection.
© Dave Coverly/speedbump.com
What is the most likely reason the author includes the cartoon?
A To highlight how children have created new ways to use phones
for play
B To indicate that children today should use phones when outside
C To suggest that children are too attached to phones
D To emphasize that phones can help children complete activities
50006_2
2 What does the word attentive mean in paragraph 5?
F Encouraging
G Focused
H Grateful
J Understanding
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3 Based on the information throughout the selection, how could a
person put a digital diet into practice?
A By adjusting the brightness of a screen when using an electronic
device at night
B By playing games over the computer with a group of friends
C By memorizing different routes to avoid using a map on the
internet
D By putting away the phone when eating lunch with a friend
50010_3
4 Which detail from the selection supports the key idea that a digital
diet is rewarding?
F Television screens offer a good source of entertainment.
G Students can use a computer to help them with homework.
H Mindfulness allows us to be more present with others.
J Reading text messages keeps the mind alert.
49594_4
5 The author uses a comparison to present the ideas in paragraph 2
so that the reader will understand that a digital diet —
A is a complicated process that requires careful planning
B causes some people to think about food
C solves a number of problems for everyone
D can help people form better habits
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50013_1
6 What is the best summary of the selection?
F Technology is an important part of people’s lives, but the time
spent with digital devices needs to be balanced with other
activities. A digital diet would help people limit screen time and
reverse some bad habits from too much digital use. This balance
could mean more time outside, more sleep, and longer attention
spans. A digital diet would be worth the effort.
G Young people depend on technology for almost everything, but
too much technology can be bad. Everyone who uses digital
devices needs to restrict the hours they spend with screens.
People can limit their time on a screen by spending more time
outside or reading a book before they go to bed. Even though
computers are still needed for homework, people would benefit
from less screen time.
H Most people rely on technology to communicate with others
through text and email, but too much time looking at a screen
creates bad habits. Instead, everyone should try to go outside
during their free time so that they can get better grades in
school and develop their creativity. Although a digital diet would
be hard at first, it would help people in the end.
J Although electronic devices can help people, they can also be
bad for people’s health. Digital overload should be replaced with
a digital diet. Most people know that a food diet helps people get
rid of poor eating habits, and the same is true with a digital diet.
Going on a digital diet would prevent people from developing
poor habits with their digital devices.
50019_4
7 What is the most likely reason the author includes the phrase
“Everywhere you look” in paragraph 1?
A To suggest that people want to ignore a critical issue
B To show how society has only recently changed
C To explain that people are fascinated by trends
D To emphasize a problem that is widespread
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8 What primary claim does the author make in this selection?
F Electronic devices are the main reason why people have
meaningless conversations.
G Children and teenagers should give up their digital devices
completely.
H People would benefit greatly by limiting their time with
technology.
J Individuals are spending more time indoors using screens than
ever before.
49593_1
9 What is the most likely reason the author includes a quotation in
paragraph 4?
A To explain what can happen when people do not take a break
from technology
B To show that people must be able to send information at all
times
C To highlight a typical routine of someone who regularly uses
technology
D To suggest that people do not know how to give up their devices
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10 Read this sentence from paragraph 5.
If you notice that those around you are using their
phones too much, speak up.
What is the most likely reason the author uses direct address in
this sentence?
F To show the reader that texting is enjoyable
G To suggest that the reader take action
H To encourage the reader to be more observant
J To help the reader develop better friendships
Reading
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3921_Grade7Reading
Read the selection and choose the best answer to each question.
Then fill in the answer on your answer document.
Silas and Caleb, soldiers in the Continental army, are standing guard
at Valley Forge. They are watching for spies. Caleb exits, leaving
Silas alone.
Martha Washington’s Spy
by Earl J. Dias
Characters
GENERAL GEORGE WASHINGTON
MARTHA WASHINGTON
SILAS WEGG: Young soldier
CALEB JENKINS: Young soldier
BETSY: A young woman
SAM HOWARD: Young soldier
TIME: A cold night in January, 1777.
SETTING: A sentry outpost at Valley Forge.
1 (Silas begins pacing. There is a sudden noise offstage left, followed
by an exclamation. Silas advances cautiously toward exit. He exits.
Silas returns holding Betsy by the collar. She wears a man’s coat
and hat. Silas points at his captive, who huddles, shivering and
afraid.)
2 SILAS: Now, my sly fellow, just what is your business here? (Silas
advances toward captive, examines the face closely, and then
whistles in surprise.) You’re a girl!
3 BETSY: Y-yes. My name is Betsy.
4 SILAS: So the British are using females now to do their nasty work!
5 BETSY: (With spirit.) What do you mean?
6 SILAS: My meaning should be clear. Here you are, creeping about
the camp on a night as cold as King George’s heart, and dressed as
a man, too! It’s as plain as a dish of beans that you’re bent on
mischief.
7 BETSY: That’s not true.
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8 SILAS: (He whistles loudly.) That will bring somebody here who’ll
take you to General Washington.
9 BETSY: (Cringing.) I swear to you that I’m not a spy!
10 CALEB: What’s wrong, Silas? I heard your signal. (Looking at
Betsy.) And who is this?
11 SILAS: A female dressed as a man, Caleb.
12 CALEB: (Going to Betsy and examining her closely.) I told you the
countryside was swarming with spies. I’ll bring the General to her.
He’s not far from here now. And his wife is with him.
13 (Caleb exits.)
14 BETSY: I wish he’d hurry, then.
15 (Caleb enters, followed by General Washington and Martha
Washington.)
16 WASHINGTON: (Looking at Betsy.) And who is this? Is this war
now being fought by women?
17 SILAS: She’s a spy, sir.
18 WASHINGTON: Hm-m. (To Betsy.) And what have you to say for
yourself, young woman?
19 BETSY: I am not a spy, sir.
20 MARTHA: You certainly don’t look like a spy.
21 WASHINGTON: If you’re not a spy, what are you? And what are
you doing here?
22 BETSY: (Defiantly.) I can’t say, sir.
23 WASHINGTON: (A bit impatiently.) Surely, if your presence here is
entirely innocent, you can tell us about it. (More gently.) I don’t
bite, child.
24 BETSY: (Beginning to cry.) I—I can’t say.
25 MARTHA: (Gently.) Why can’t you tell us why you are here?
26 BETSY: Because—well, because someone would get into trouble if I
did.
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27 MARTHA: But can’t you see that you’re in even greater trouble
yourself?
28 WASHINGTON: Please—let’s get to the business at hand. You had
better come with us, young woman.
29 MARTHA: Wait, George. (Leading Betsy right.) Let’s go over here,
and you can whisper your secret to me.
30 BETSY: (Obviously relieved.) I will! (She starts whispering to
Martha, who smiles and nods with increasing signs of approval.)
31 WASHINGTON: Do you know anything of a soldier named Sam
Howard? He’s missing from his quarters.
32 SILAS: (Hesitating.) W-well, sir—
33 WASHINGTON: I see. He has deserted, and you don’t want to give
him away.
34 CALEB: Sam has gone back to his farm, sir. It’s only a few miles
from here.
35 WASHINGTON: (Shaking his head.) If only we can get through this
bitter winter. It does things to a man, weakens the very moral fiber
of him.
36 (Martha and Betsy walk to center.)
37 MARTHA: George—this young woman is no spy.
38 WASHINGTON: Indeed—then what is she?
39 MARTHA: I’ll tell you privately, George. There is no reason for her
secret to be shared by the entire army.
40 WASHINGTON: (Dubiously.) But, surely—
41 MARTHA: (Irritated.) George, certainly you don’t doubt the word of
your own wife.
42 WASHINGTON: (To Silas and Caleb.) Give her something warm to
drink.
43 (Silas, Caleb and Betsy go toward right. Before they exit, Betsy
speaks.)
44 BETSY: Thank you with all my heart. (The three exit.)
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45 (Sam Howard enters quietly and pauses hesitantly.)
46 WASHINGTON: Who goes there? (Sam goes center, surprised at
the sight of Washington.) Your face is familiar.
47 SAM: (Saluting.) Sam Howard, sir.
48 WASHINGTON: I heard you had gone back to your farm.
49 SAM: I couldn’t do it, sir.
50 WASHINGTON: Good lad!
51 SAM: You see, sir, I have been worried about my wife. She hasn’t
been well, and then there is the baby to care for.
52 MARTHA: Your Betsy is here. She came near to being taken as a
spy.
53 SAM: What is she doing so far from home?
54 WASHINGTON: You’re not the only one who would like to solve
that mystery.
55 MARTHA: (To Sam.) When Betsy received your last letter, Sam—
56 SAM: (Sighing, ruefully.) I said a lot of foolish things in that letter.
57 MARTHA: When Betsy received it, she had a suspicion you might be
planning to desert the army. So she walked a good eight or ten
miles to see you tonight.
58 SAM: Poor Betsy—in all this cold.
59 MARTHA: She wanted to persuade you to stay. She says that she is
over her sickness, and that she can manage things on the farm. Her
mother and father have come to stay with her.
60 WASHINGTON: (Thoughtfully.) So that is why young Betsy
attempted to break through the lines tonight. I see now why she
was reluctant to discuss her mission.
“Martha Washington’s Spy” by Earl J. Dias is reprinted with the permission of Plays, the Drama Magazine for a Young
People/Sterling Partners, Inc. Copyright © 1987. Sterling Partners, Inc.
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11 What is significant about Martha’s approach to talking with Betsy?
A It causes George Washington to change the way he speaks to
others.
B It allows Martha to show Betsy that her presence at the camp is
unnecessary.
C It allows Betsy to keep her motive hidden from George
Washington.
D It causes Betsy to feel comfortable sharing her reason for being
near the camp.
48892_3
12 In line 6, the playwright uses the comparison “it’s as plain as a dish
of beans” most likely to emphasize that —
F Betsy is dressed like a common farmer
G Betsy appears weary and hungry from her journey
H Betsy is obviously doing something suspicious
J Betsy’s presence is insignificant
48885_4
13 How does the historical time period affect the plot?
A By making Sam regret what he wrote to Betsy in a letter
B By forcing Silas to ask for help in dealing with a problem
C By leading Martha to need to speak to George away from others
D By causing Betsy to have to travel in order to communicate with
Sam
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14 What is a central message in this play?
F Sometimes it is difficult to correct a mistake.
G It is important to rely on others for help.
H Understanding a situation may take time and patience.
J Ignoring advice from others can have harsh consequences.
48888_2
15 How does the playwright develop George Washington’s character
through the dialogue in lines 37 through 42?
A By revealing that Washington does not believe in keeping
secrets from his soldiers
B By demonstrating that Washington considers the opinion of his
wife
C By suggesting that Washington is suspicious of anyone
unfamiliar to him
D By showing that Washington depends on his wife to identify
spies
Reading
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5016_2
Read the next two selections and choose the best answer to each
question. Then fill in the answer on your answer document.
Last Dance
1 Every evening before my older sister Becca and I went to sleep, we
would take five minutes to have a full-blown dance party. We took
turns each night picking which song to dance to, and no matter
what had gone on that day or how mad we would be at each other,
we would dance.
2 It was a tradition my dad helped establish when we were little. One
day Becca and I were having a huge argument over who got to play
with Olivia the doll. A few minutes in time-out had not been enough
for us to stop being angry at each other, so before bedtime our dad
took us to the living room and turned on his favorite song.
3 “You two are going to dance!” he exclaimed with a huge smile. “For
a full five minutes. No talking, only rhythmic movement. Then
you’re going to bed.”
4 My sister and I shared the same expression as we stared back at my
dad. He had gone crazy.
5 Nonetheless, he replayed the song until we both agreed to start
dancing. Becca went first—making a sarcastic, jerky movement—but
it was all I needed to break out my best moves. Becca and I both
started laughing and continued to dance as our anger crept out of
the living room. After the five minutes were over, we were laughing
so hard that neither of us remembered Olivia or why we had been
angry.
6 Since that night, and up until recently, our five-minute dance party
was something we returned to every evening; it was a refuge in the
midst of our petty arguments and silly misunderstandings.
7 Now it was the night before Becca moved across the country to
attend college, and it had been a whole month since our last dance
party. We were older now, and I understood that Becca had things
to do and was preoccupied with spending her final days of high
school with her friends. I never realized how much I had cherished
those nightly dance parties with my sister. I couldn’t shake the
feeling of how upset I would be if we didn’t get to have one last
dance party.
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8 Becca and I sat with my parents at the dinner table as we had so
many nights before. It was sad to think this would be the last time
we all ate together for a while.
9 My mom had made Becca’s favorite meal, but Becca seemed more
distracted than usual. She quickly ate her meal and asked to be
excused.
10 “I just want to go say bye to Alex and Jeanie one more time!” she
exclaimed.
11 My mom sighed but agreed. I stared at the empty chair at the table
and started to reminisce about times with Becca as I finished my
meal. I thought about the days when our biggest problems involved
Olivia the doll.
12 Some hours passed, and I began to get ready for bed, giving up on
the notion that a last dance party would be happening. I felt childish
worrying about it in the first place. Maybe it was time to grow up.
13 Suddenly I heard a slight knock on my door.
14 “Are you still up?” Becca whispered and tiptoed in.
15 “Yes, I’m still awake. What are you doing?”
16 Becca chuckled and flicked on the light. “Julie, you didn’t seriously
think I was going to leave tomorrow without us dancing it out one
more time, did you?”
17 I tried to fight the smile from forming on my lips and threw a pillow
at her.
18 “I think it’s only appropriate that I get to pick the departing song,”
she declared.
19 I stood waiting, assuming she’d pick a song by one of those weird
groups she had been listening to lately. I was surprised when the
melody of Dad’s favorite song—the one that had started it all—
began playing. Becca jerked her arm and started dancing, and I
laughed, following her lead. We didn’t even notice when Dad
stepped into the doorway, watching us with the same smile he had
on that first night.
20 I basked in the bittersweet, realizing that these were the moments
to cherish. Things would always be changing, and though I hated to
think of my sister leaving, the fact that this last dance was as
important to her as it was to me made the moment even more
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special. I pushed the thought of Becca leaving tomorrow out of my
head, and we danced.
5016
The Tree
by William Virgil Davis
Each evening for a full five minutes,
when the light is right, the elm
across the street casts its shadow
upon my neighbor’s house.
5 The tree
seems to grow into the house, its shadow
alive in the solid stucco. The leaves
dance within the windows, filled,
fractured, by the wind, the twilight.
10 For years I never noticed. Then,
one morning, the saws awakened me.
That evening the tree was gone,
cut up and carted off in trucks.
The gap it left created a silence,
15 an emptiness, along the street:
the presence of the absence of the tree.
That evening, before the darkness fell,
the sky burned brilliant red and gold
and the shadow of the outline of the tree
20 fell full against my neighbor’s house.
Used with permission.
Reading
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49355_1
16 Use Last Dance to answer the following question.
What does the word reminisce mean in paragraph 11 of the story
“Last Dance”?
F To remember past events
G To have doubts
H To judge someone’s actions
J To resolve an issue
49226_4
17 Use Last Dance to answer the following question.
What can the reader infer about the narrator based on paragraph 7
of the story “Last Dance”?
A She is angry that Becca has spent the last month busy with
friends.
B She wonders if her relationship with Becca will change after the
move.
C She thinks that Becca is happy about leaving home to go to
college.
D She fears that the nightly tradition is no longer important to
Becca.
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18 Use Last Dance to answer the following question.
Read this sentence from paragraph 5 of the story “Last Dance.”
Becca and I both started laughing and continued to
dance as our anger crept out of the living room.
What is the most likely reason the author uses personification in
this sentence?
F To suggest that the girls appreciate their dad’s suggestion
G To show that the girls have forgotten about their argument
H To highlight the bond the girls have with each other
J To emphasize the girls’ willingness to work together
50045_4
19 Use Last Dance to answer the following question.
Which sentence from the story “Last Dance” best conveys the
theme?
A We took turns each night picking which song to dance to, and no
matter what had gone on that day or how mad we would be at
each other, we would dance.
(paragraph 1)
B A few minutes in time-out had not been enough for us to stop
being angry at each other, so before bedtime our dad took us to
the living room and turned on his favorite song.
(paragraph 2)
C Some hours passed, and I began to get ready for bed, giving up
on the notion that a last dance party would be happening.
(paragraph 12)
D I basked in the bittersweet, realizing that these were the
moments to cherish. (paragraph 20)
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20 Use The Tree to answer the following question.
What is a message in the poem “The Tree”?
F Some things in life are not fully appreciated until they are gone.
G The world is sometimes beyond our own understanding.
H Home is where people feel most comfortable to be themselves.
J It is difficult to predict the actions of our neighbors.
49229_4
21 Use The Tree to answer the following question.
Which line from the poem “The Tree” best helps the reader
understand that the speaker is experiencing regret?
A Each evening for a full five minutes, (line 1)
B upon my neighbor’s house. (line 4)
C That evening the tree was gone, (line 12)
D an emptiness, along the street: (line 15)
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22 Use The Tree to answer the following question.
How does the author’s use of language in lines 14 through 16
contribute to the mood of the poem “The Tree”?
F By explaining that the speaker is surprised by feelings of
disappointment
G By highlighting how the speaker is frustrated with the current
situation
H By suggesting that the speaker is uncertain about what will
happen next
J By showing that the speaker is experiencing a sense of
abandonment
49227_2
23 Use The Tree to answer the following question.
Based on lines 10 and 11 of the poem “The Tree,” what can the
reader infer about the speaker?
A The speaker pays little attention to the nearby environment.
B The speaker has suddenly become mindful of the tree.
C The speaker prefers to sleep when it is completely silent.
D The speaker fears the tree has accidentally been cut down.
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24 Use Last Dance and The Tree to answer the following question.
Which idea do BOTH the story “Last Dance” and the poem
“The Tree” emphasize?
F A need for help
G A fascination with time
H A noticeable loss
J A longing for something new
49357_3
25 Use Last Dance and The Tree to answer the following question.
In what way is the narrator in the story “Last Dance” UNLIKE the
speaker of the poem “The Tree”?
A The narrator spends most of her time alone, but the speaker is
surrounded by others.
B The narrator has a lot of time to sit and think, but the speaker is
too busy to take time for reflection.
C The narrator knows her sister has not permanently left home
yet, but the speaker sees that the tree is already gone.
D The narrator has spent her whole life with her sister, but the
speaker has only lived by the tree for a short amount of time.
Reading
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26 Use Last Dance and The Tree to answer the following question.
What is a theme that is present in BOTH the story “Last Dance”
and the poem “The Tree”?
F Have the courage to live life to its fullest.
G Always be prepared to confide in loved ones.
H Have patience when striving to reach a goal.
J Never take for granted the small wonders of daily life.
49236_2
27 Use Last Dance and The Tree to answer the following question.
One major DIFFERENCE between the story “Last Dance” and the
poem “The Tree” is that only the story ends with a sense of —
A adventure
B fulfillment
C sympathy
D concern
Reading
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4323
Read the selection and choose the best answer to each question.
Then fill in the answer on your answer document.
Brittany has been training for a gymnastics competition for several
months. Her best friend Alix has been coming to every practice and
cheering her on, but also critiquing Brittany’s performance—and
with the competition only a week away, Brittany is tiring of Alix’s
suggestions.
A Dose of Support
1 “Brittany, your routine looks great—the judges will be so
impressed!” Alix shouted and greeted Brittany with a hug after an
excruciating practice. “But tomorrow, it might help if you reduce the
number of flips toward the end of the routine so that it can look a
bit more polished—then you’re sure to get a perfect score.”
2 “Look, Alix,” Brittany interrupted, unable to hide her feelings. “I
know what’s best for my routine—I’ve been perfecting it for
months—and I can figure out what needs to be fixed, if anything.
I’ve got it from here.”
3 Alix frowned, clearly perturbed by Brittany’s response.
4 “I’m sorry, Brittany, I know you’re great at gymnastics, but I was
just trying to offer some advice. I just thought . . . never mind. I’ll
give you some space.” With that, Alix turned and headed toward the
exit.
5 Brittany felt a dark cloud above her, realizing she had driven her
friend away, but she refused to let her feelings distract her. It’ll be
easier to focus without the constant critiquing, Brittany convinced
herself.
6 Five days had passed since Brittany had confronted Alix—and just
two days were left until the competition.
7 “Come on, Brittany—watch that somersault!” Coach Jen yelled from
the sidelines as Brittany rehearsed her routine. Brittany grunted
with pain and frustration; her muscles were strained, and sweat
from her brow stung her eyes. Brittany looked into the stands and
saw the empty seat beside Coach Jen and tried to ignore the pang
she felt from her friend’s absence.
8 Coach Jen approached Brittany after practice. “You seem off your
game, Brit—and you need to get it together by Saturday morning.
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I’d hate to see all your hard work go to waste.” Coach Jen walked
off with a look of disappointment, leaving Brittany feeling alone.
9 Brittany sat on the tumbling mat, her hands holding her head as if it
were a weighty boulder. Alix always nitpicked her performance too,
but she always had something supportive to say as well. Brittany
missed the encouragement Alix gave her when she was doubting
herself—like now. Brittany stared at the empty stands, imagining
how she must have made Alix feel.
10 When the day of the competition finally arrived, Brittany was
plagued with nerves. Her parents were in the stands, and Coach Jen
was in the front row beside other coaches. Brittany practiced her
moves and, although she had memorized the routine, she felt
clumsy and insecure. Brittany stood with a solemn expression,
concerned that this was about to be a disaster.
11 “You’re going to be great!” Brittany heard suddenly. She turned
toward the familiar voice and was stunned to see Alix walking
toward her.
12 Brittany stood with her mouth hanging open. “I really didn’t think
you were going to show up. I’m sorry—you were just trying to help
me, and I didn’t want to take the time to listen to what you had to
say.”
13 Alix enveloped Brittany in a hug. “I know how important this
competition is to you, Brit. There’s no way I was going to miss this—
you’re my best friend! I know you needed your space, but that
doesn’t mean I was going to abandon you.”
14 Alix placed her hands on Brittany’s shoulders and gave her a little
shake. “You’ve got this, Brit; and no matter what happens, I’ll be
cheering you on.” Brittany gave Alix a warm embrace before Alix
went to sit in the stands beside Brittany’s parents.
15 After a few moments, the judges announced the beginning of the
event and called Brittany’s name first. Brittany approached the edge
of the mat with her head held high. She saw Alix, giving two thumbs
up, and Brittany envisioned the judges giving her the same gesture
after her routine. She felt a weight lift from her shoulders, now
buoyed by a dose of support from her friend.
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50054_2
28 Read this sentence from paragraph 15.
She felt a weight lift from her shoulders, now
buoyed by a dose of support from her friend.
What does the author’s use of figurative language in this sentence
help the reader understand?
F The burden Brittany feels about winning the competition
G The sense of relief Brittany feels from Alix’s presence
H The mutual respect Brittany and Alix have for each other
J The challenges in gymnastics that Brittany has had to overcome
50050_1
29 In paragraph 10, what does the word solemn mean?
A Serious
B Confused
C Shocked
D Annoyed
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49475_2
30 Which sentence supports the idea that Brittany is concerned about
her friendship with Alix?
F With that, Alix turned and headed toward the exit.
(paragraph 4)
G Brittany stared at the empty stands, imagining how she must
have made Alix feel. (paragraph 9)
H Alix placed her hands on Brittany’s shoulders and gave her a
little shake. (paragraph 14)
J She saw Alix, giving two thumbs up, and Brittany envisioned the
judges giving her the same gesture after her routine.
(paragraph 15)
50052_3
31 Which sentence suggests that Brittany’s performance suffers
because of Alix’s absence?
A “I’m sorry, Brittany, I know you’re great at gymnastics, but I
was just trying to offer some advice.” (paragraph 4)
B Five days had passed since Brittany had confronted Alix—and
just two days were left until the competition. (paragraph 6)
C “You seem off your game, Brit—and you need to get it together
by Saturday morning.” (paragraph 8)
D Brittany approached the edge of the mat with her head held
high. (paragraph 15)
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32 How does the change of setting in paragraph 10 of the story
contribute to the plot?
F By causing Brittany to believe that Alix will not come to support
her
G By increasing the pressure Brittany feels about her performance
H By revealing that Brittany has practiced as much as she can for
the competition
J By highlighting the reason Brittany needed time apart from Alix
49716_4
33 Read this sentence from paragraph 14.
“You’ve got this, Brit; and no matter what happens,
I’ll be cheering you on.”
How does this sentence support a primary theme of the story?
A By explaining that it is important to be honest with others
B By revealing that achieving a goal often requires eliminating
distractions
C By suggesting that participating in athletic competitions can be
stressful
D By showing that good relationships can withstand minor
disagreements
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34 In paragraph 15, the author’s choice of language creates a
mood of —
F fondness
G admiration
H hopefulness
J amusement
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4054_Grade7Reading
Read the selection and choose the best answer to each question.
Then fill in the answer on your answer document.
Ready, Set, Walk!
1 Most people know that exercise is important. When people think of
exercise, they probably envision someone muscular lifting hundreds
of pounds on a barbell or swift and strong sprinters speeding along
a racetrack. It is daunting to think about exerting this kind of
energy. However, you don’t have to be like the professional athletes
who push their bodies to the limit to get in a good workout. Luckily
there is a much easier form of exercise that is just as beneficial as
an intense sport. If you are looking to incorporate exercise into your
routine, then you should consider walking.
Easing into Exercise
2 The American Heart Association recommends that people get 150
minutes of exercise a week. That means that a person should
exercise for about 30 minutes a day, five days a week. A half hour
of brisk walking can easily help someone meet that goal. Simply
increasing your normal walking speed from a slothlike pace to a
quick-step movement counts as a moderate form of exercise. You
don’t need to walk 30 minutes all at one time to start either. A
professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School, Dr. I-Min Lee,
recommends that beginners start with three short 10-minute walks.
Eventually longer walks will become easier. Who knew that such a
small change in something we already do counts as exercise?
3 Some people believe that exercise requires certain equipment or
gear. For this reason people are discouraged to exercise because
they do not believe they have what they need. One great benefit to
walking is that you do not need special equipment. You do not even
need to have access to a special area like a racetrack. You can begin
walking toward better health as early as today. Don’t have workout
clothes to wear? You’re in luck, because what you’re wearing right
now is probably perfect for walking. Anywhere you can walk at a
quick pace is a suitable way to get in your daily steps. Once you are
finished, you can have the satisfaction of knowing you have done
something good for your health. All you need to do is walk quickly
enough to raise your heart rate.
It Does a Body Good
4 Many studies stress the values of walking and its benefits for our
health and fitness. According to a Harvard Medical School study,
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research has shown that briskly walking for 30 minutes can burn
over 100 calories. Walking also builds muscle in your legs and core.
Although it may not seem like it, walking is weight training because
your legs carry the weight of your upper body whenever you walk.
Walking does not cause the same strain on your bones that running
or other high-impact exercises do. As a result, walking helps your
leg bones become stronger and resist the bone loss that typically
happens as people get older.
5 Even your immune system benefits when you walk. A report from
Harvard noted one study involving over 1,000 participants. It
showed that “those who walked at least 20 minutes a day, at least
five days a week, had 43% fewer sick days than those who
exercised once a week or less. And if they did get sick, it was for a
shorter duration, and their symptoms were milder.” Beyond reducing
your chances of catching the common cold, walking has been shown
to reduce your risk of developing several severe diseases such as
diabetes, cancer, and heart disease.
Clear Your Mind
6 If the physical perks of walking aren’t enough to motivate you, know
that walking also has positive effects on your mood. Walks can be
taken in peaceful places such as nature trails or parks. Walking in
these areas can help a person feel calm. Going on a daily walk gives
your mind a break from the busyness of each day as well. A good
walk lets you clear your mind. The exercise causes your brain to
produce chemicals that improve your mood. As a bonus, walking
with a friend provides a bonding opportunity to strengthen your
relationships and enjoy the company of others.
© iStock.com/MarioGuti
A Walking Trail
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Join the Crowd
7 Walking has long been valued as a way to stay fit. It has also been a
way for people to engage in healthy competition. It is believed that
hieroglyphics in ancient Egypt document walking contests dating
over 4,000 years ago! A competitive sport known as racewalking
officially began in England when the Amateur Athletics Association
(AAA) held the AAA Championships in 1880. Since then racewalking
has gone on to become an Olympic event.
8 Walking for exercise is increasing in popularity with the arrival of
new technologies too. Fitness trackers and step counters on
smartphones and wristbands are becoming commonplace. People
can set goals on these trackers to help themselves reach the
numbers of steps they hope to walk each day. It is clear that people
everywhere are embracing this great activity.
9 If you are looking for a simple exercise that comes with several
benefits, then walking may be the activity for you. Lace up your
shoes, and take a walk!
Third party trademarks American Heart Association® and Harvard Medical School® were used in these testing
materials.
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49554_4
35 What is the most likely reason the author uses a cause-and-effect
organizational structure in the selection?
A To help the reader understand the common misunderstandings
associated with exercising
B To help the reader understand the steps to follow when
beginning a new exercise program
C To help the reader understand the ways to introduce a variety of
exercises into daily life
D To help the reader understand the advantages of adopting a
regular exercise routine
49550_3
36 Which inference about walking is supported by the information in
paragraph 2?
F Skilled athletes can complete their daily walk in a few minutes.
G People have trouble finding time in their day to walk.
H Longer walks may be difficult for beginners to complete.
J Moving at a fast pace makes walking a more enjoyable
experience.
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37 Read this sentence from paragraph 1.
When people think of exercise, they probably
envision someone muscular lifting hundreds of
pounds on a barbell or swift and strong sprinters
speeding along a racetrack.
Which key idea is suggested by this sentence?
A Most exercise routines require an advanced level of skill.
B Proper equipment is often needed for certain exercise programs.
C Anyone can take part in exercise with the right amount of
training.
D People avoid exercise because they think it is beyond their
capabilities.
49891_1
38 Which sentence states the author’s main claim in the selection?
F If you are looking to incorporate exercise into your routine, then
you should consider walking. (paragraph 1)
G You’re in luck, because what you’re wearing right now is
probably perfect for walking. (paragraph 3)
H As a result, walking helps your leg bones become stronger and
resist the bone loss that typically happens as people get older.
(paragraph 4)
J As a bonus, walking with a friend provides a bonding opportunity
to strengthen your relationships and enjoy the company of
others.
(paragraph 6)
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39 In paragraph 5, in what way does the information about the
findings in the Harvard study support the author’s argument?
A The findings confirm that many people appreciate walking.
B The findings explain why people choose to take walks.
C The findings prove that walking has desirable results.
D The findings show how often people go for a walk.
49549_1
40 Which phrase in paragraph 8 helps the reader understand the
meaning of commonplace?
F increasing in popularity
G arrival of new technologies
H can set goals
J help themselves reach
49894_4
41 Who is the intended audience of the selection?
A People who participate in sports on a daily basis
B People who have prepared for athletic competitions in the past
C People who are familiar with the best ways to exercise
D People who are interested in starting an exercise routine
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42 Look at this photograph from the selection.
© iStock.com/MarioGuti
A Walking Trail
What is the most likely reason the author includes this photograph?
F To show how walking produces chemicals in the brain that can
improve a person’s mood
G To indicate that walking can be done in places that bring feelings
of peace
H To emphasize that walking gets easier once it becomes a habit
J To highlight how walking provides countless physical advantages
to a person’s well-being
BE SURE YOU HAVE RECORDED ALL OF YOUR ANSWERS
ON THE ANSWER DOCUMENT.
5
STAAR
GRADE 7
Reading
May 2022
