Grade 6 Placement Test

Next, let's get go over some instructions so you know what to do!

This assessment consists of three parts: (1) vocabulary, (2) reading, and (3) writing. You will have 10 or 12 minutes to complete each section, so we'll have you prepare a timer in just a minute.

First, however, let's preview what each section will look like.

Vocabulary: The vocabulary assessment will contain 20 questions total. For each question, please select the answer choice that is closest in meaning to the given word. You can change your answer simply by selecting a different choice.

Please take a quick look at the example below:

As we can see, the word "look" is closest in meaning to the third choice provided, "watch," so please click the button next to "watch" to select that as your answer.

Reading: The reading assessment will contain 2 reading passages (non-fiction and fiction) and 10 questions total. You should read the passages and answer the questions that follow. You can change your answer simply by selecting a different choice.

Please take a look at the example below:

(Example) Rainbows are a natural phenomenon that occurs when light is refracted, reflected, and dispersed by water droplets in the air. They appear as colorful arcs in the sky, with red on the outer edge and violet on the inner edge. Rainbows are often associated with hope and promise, and have been the subject of myth and legend throughout history.

Writing: The writing assessment consists of writing ONE essay on ONE of the prompts given to you. This essay will be written with a pencil and paper, so we'll take a moment soon to get those prepared.

Your aim is to write seven sentences or more.

When you are finished, your parents will help you take a photo of your writing and upload it to this form before you submit it.

Please take a look at the checklist below and make sure you have everything ready to take your test! Once you've got through the list and checked every item, please click "Next" to begin your assessment.

Great! It seems like you are ready to go.

Remember to set your timer for 10 minutes and get ready for your the first part of your assessment.

You should start your timer as soon as you hit "Next." Please do your best. If you run out of time and don't have time to answer all of the questions, that's okay. When the timer runs out, please reset it and hit "Next" to move on to the following assessment. If you finish before the timer runs out, please use that time to check your answers.

Good luck!

Reading 1 (fiction)

Hana was both excited and nervous about starting junior high school in Japan. Although she was Japanese, she had spent most of her life in London. Her family had just moved back to Japan, and Hana was anxious about fitting in at her new school. She worried that her English-accented Japanese and lack of familiarity with Japanese school culture would make her stand out in a negative way.

On her first day, Hana walked into the school with a mix of apprehension and hope. The school hallways were bustling with students chatting and laughing, and Hana felt a bit lost. She clutched her school bag tightly and tried to follow the crowd, but she had no idea where to go.

As she was looking around, a friendly voice called out, "Hey, you look a bit lost! Do you need some help?" Hana turned to see a girl with short hair and a bright smile. The girl introduced herself as Aiko, and Hana learned that she had spent several years in New York before moving back to Japan.

"I know how you feel," Aiko said. "When I first came back to Japan, I was nervous too. But you'll get used to it quickly. Let me show you around."

Aiko walked Hana through the school, introducing her to teachers and helping her find her classrooms. They even grabbed lunch together in the cafeteria. Hana was relieved to find that Aiko spoke English well, which made their conversation easier and more comfortable.

Over the next few weeks, Aiko and Hana became good friends. Aiko explained many of the social customs and unwritten rules of Japanese school life, from how to bow correctly to understanding group dynamics. Hana appreciated Aiko’s patience and guidance, and she soon began to feel more at ease.

One day, Hana found herself confidently joining a group of classmates in a conversation and even sharing a joke. She realized that she was no longer feeling like an outsider. Thanks to Aiko's support, Hana had adjusted to her new school life much quicker than she had expected.

On the way home from school, Hana thanked Aiko. "I couldn't have done this without you. You've really helped me feel like I belong here."

Aiko smiled. "I'm glad I could help. Remember, it's all about giving yourself time to adjust. You'll be great!"

Reading 2 (non-fiction)

Gasoline, a crucial component of modern internal combustion engines, has a fascinating history that dates back to the 19th century. The origins of gasoline can be traced to the early days of the oil industry, particularly in the United States. The term "gasoline" itself is derived from the word "gasolene," which was a term used in the late 19th century to describe a light hydrocarbon product obtained from petroleum.

In the 1850s, the process of refining petroleum was in its infancy. Early refiners primarily extracted kerosene, a more stable product used for lighting lamps. Gasoline, initially considered a byproduct, was often discarded or used for cleaning purposes. It wasn’t until the 1890s that gasoline began to gain significance, largely due to the development of the internal combustion engine. Pioneers such as Karl Benz and Henry Ford demonstrated the viability of gasoline-powered vehicles, which created a substantial demand for gasoline.

The early 20th century saw rapid advancements in gasoline production and distribution. The introduction of the assembly line by Henry Ford significantly lowered the cost of automobiles, which in turn increased the demand for gasoline. By the 1920s, gasoline stations began to appear across the United States, providing a more convenient means for fueling vehicles.

The mid-20th century brought about further innovations, such as the development of leaded gasoline, which improved engine performance but had detrimental environmental effects. The discovery of the harmful impacts of lead on human health and the environment led to the gradual phase-out of leaded gasoline starting in the 1970s. Unleaded gasoline became the standard, driven by growing environmental regulations and technological advancements.

In recent decades, the focus has shifted toward alternative fuels and renewable energy sources as concerns about climate change and sustainability have increased. However, gasoline remains a critical energy source due to its energy density and the established infrastructure for its distribution and use.

Option 1: Describe a memorable experience you had with a piece of art or music that deeply affected you. In your essay, include details about the artwork or musical piece, the setting in which you encountered it, and your emotional response. Reflect on what this experience taught you about art, music, or yourself.

Option 2: What is your favorite subject or topic to study? Why does it interest you?

Once you've uploaded the file above, click the green "Submit" button to finish this assessment, and make sure you take a rest. You deserve it!