HSPT Reading

A comprehensive guide to understanding and mastering the HSPT Reading section, focusing on comprehension, vocabulary, and analytical skills.

Understanding Reading ComprehensionVocabulary in ContextIdentifying Author’s Purpose and Tone
Making Inferences and Drawing ConclusionsAnalyzing Passage StructureEvaluating Arguments and Evidence
Reading for School and HomeworkUnderstanding Instructions and DirectionsCritical Reading in Everyday Media
Skimming and Scanning TechniquesProcess of Elimination
Understanding Readin...Vocabulary in Contex...Identifying Author’s...Making Inferences an...Analyzing Passage St...Evaluating Arguments...Reading for School a...Understanding Instru...Critical Reading in ...Skimming and Scannin...Process of Eliminati...
Advanced Topics

Analyzing Passage Structure

How Passages are Built

Passages are organized in different ways. Understanding the structure helps you find information and answer questions faster.

Common Structures

  • Chronological: Events happen in time order.
  • Cause and Effect: Shows why something happens and what results.
  • Compare and Contrast: Looks at similarities and differences.
  • Problem and Solution: States a problem and explains how it's solved.

Spotting Structure

  • Look for transition words like "first," "because," "however," and "on the other hand."
  • Make a quick outline of the passage’s main parts.

Examples

  • A passage uses 'first,' 'next,' and 'finally,' showing a chronological structure.

  • Two animals are compared using words like 'similarly' and 'unlike.'

In a Nutshell

Knowing how passages are organized helps you understand them quickly.

Next
Evaluating Arguments and Evidence
Analyzing Passage Structure - HSPT Reading Content | Practice Hub