New Hampshire Foundations of Reading Practice Test

Which of the following sets of words would be most effective to use when introducing students to the concept of structural analysis?

1. late, great, wait, eight

2. afraid, obtain, explain, remain

3. swim, swims, swam, swum

4. pretest, retest, tested, testing

The correct answer is: pretest, retest, tested, testing

The choice of words for introducing students to the concept of structural analysis is significant because it helps them understand how prefixes, suffixes, and root words contribute to meaning. The correct set of words, containing "pretest," "retest," "tested," and "testing," offers a clear demonstration of how prefixes ("pre-" and "re-") modify the meaning of the root word "test," as well as showing different forms and tenses of the verb. Using these words allows students to see the relationship between the root word and the affixes attached to it, which is central to structural analysis. This understanding is crucial for developing vocabulary and comprehension skills. The use of this set provides a straightforward context for discussing how modifying a base word can change its application and meaning, thereby effectively teaching the principle of structural analysis in a relatable manner.