Worksheet

Formal or friendly: matching the writing to the reader

Grade 8 Reading Worksheet - Challenge Me

NameDate

Circle the best answer.

  1. Read this first

    A Recycling Program for the Cafeteria (student draft: proposal to the principal)

    [1] Dear Principal Kim, our Green Team is writing to propose a recycling program for the school cafeteria. [2] Every day, the cafeteria discards hundreds of plastic bottles, milk cartons, and aluminum cans. [3] These items could be recycled instead of sent to the landfill.

    [4] Honestly, it's kind of embarrassing that our school throws away so much good stuff. [5] We propose placing three labeled bins near the exit: one for plastic, one for paper cartons, and one for metal. [6] Green Team volunteers would check the bins each lunch period to make sure items are sorted correctly.

    [7] If you want, you guys could announce the new program during morning announcements. [8] The recycling center on Cedar Road will take all three kinds for free, no joke. [9] We have already spoken with a custodian, who agreed to move the full bins each afternoon.

    [10] We believe this program would reduce waste, teach students responsible habits, and save the school money on trash pickup. [11] We would welcome the opportunity to present our plan at a staff meeting. [12] Thank you for considering our proposal.

  2. Pia edits sentences [4] and [7] of the recycling proposal so they fit a letter to a principal. Which revision fixes both and keeps the meaning?

    • [4] It is regrettable that our school discards so many reusable items. [7] If you agree, the school could cancel the new program during morning announcements.
    • [4] It is regrettable that our school discards so many reusable items. [7] If you want, you guys could announce the new program during morning announcements.
    • [4] Honestly, it's kind of embarrassing that our school throws away so much good stuff. [7] If you agree, the school could announce the new program during morning announcements.
    • [4] It is regrettable that our school discards so many reusable items. [7] If you agree, the school could announce the new program during morning announcements.

  3. Ren wants sentence [8] of the recycling proposal to keep the detail about Cedar Road and fit a letter to a principal. Which revision does that?

    • The recycling center on Cedar Road will take all three kinds for free, no joke.
    • The recycling establishment situated upon Cedar Road accepts all aforementioned materials gratis.
    • A recycling center accepts all three materials at no charge.
    • The recycling center on Cedar Road accepts all three materials at no charge.

  4. A Recycling Program for the Cafeteria (student draft: proposal to the principal)

    [1] Dear Principal Kim, our Green Team is writing to propose a recycling program for the school cafeteria. [2] Every day, the cafeteria discards hundreds of plastic bottles, milk cartons, and aluminum cans. [3] These items could be recycled instead of sent to the landfill.

    [4] Honestly, it's kind of embarrassing that our school throws away so much good stuff. [5] We propose placing three labeled bins near the exit: one for plastic, one for paper cartons, and one for metal. [6] Green Team volunteers would check the bins each lunch period to make sure items are sorted correctly.

    [7] If you want, you guys could announce the new program during morning announcements. [8] The recycling center on Cedar Road will take all three kinds for free, no joke. [9] We have already spoken with a custodian, who agreed to move the full bins each afternoon.

    [10] We believe this program would reduce waste, teach students responsible habits, and save the school money on trash pickup. [11] We would welcome the opportunity to present our plan at a staff meeting. [12] Thank you for considering our proposal. Change shown: Sentence [4] before: Honestly, it's kind of embarrassing that our school throws away so much good stuff. After: It is regrettable that our school discards so many reusable items.

  5. The writer changed sentence [4] of the recycling proposal. Tala asks what the change does for the principal. Which reason is true?

    • It makes the sentence sound smarter and more advanced.
    • It speaks to the principal in a serious, respectful voice that fits a proposal.
    • It tells the principal that the school wastes more than any other school.
    • It makes the sentence friendlier for classmates reading the school newsletter.

  6. Does Light Color Change Plant Growth? (student draft: science report)

    [1] This report summarizes our science fair project, which tested whether the color of light affects how fast bean plants grow. [2] We placed twelve bean seedlings under each of three kinds of lights: white, blue, and red. [3] Every group received twelve hours of light per day for three weeks.

    [4] We measured each plant every Monday and recorded the results in a chart. [5] The results were seriously cool, and we were totally shocked. [6] The plants under red light grew the tallest, with an average height of fourteen centimeters. [7] The plants under blue light averaged eleven centimeters, and the plants under white light averaged twelve.

    [8] We think these numbers are probably not perfect, so you shouldn't take them as the final word. [9] Other factors, such as temperature and the amount of water, were kept the same for every group. [10] A larger study with more kinds of plants would give stronger evidence.

    [11] The LED strips we used came from the hardware store on Birch Avenue, and they cost almost nothing, believe it or not. [12] We thank Ms. Duarte for lending us her classroom for the experiment.

  7. Zee edits sentences [5] and [8] of the light color report so they fit a science report. Which revision fixes both and keeps the meaning?

    • [5] The results were surprising, and we did not expect them. [8] These numbers may not be exact, so they should not be treated as final.
    • [5] The results were surprising, and we did not expect them. [8] These numbers are exact, so they should be treated as final.
    • [5] The results were surprising, and we did not expect them. [8] We think these numbers are probably not perfect, so you shouldn't take them as the final word.
    • [5] The results were seriously cool, and we were totally shocked. [8] These numbers may not be exact, so they should not be treated as final.

  8. Ari wants sentence [11] of the light color report to keep the detail about Birch Avenue and fit a science report. Which revision does that?

    • The luminous diode strips employed herein were acquired at the hardware emporium on Birch Avenue for a negligible sum.
    • The LED strips we used were purchased at a store and cost very little.
    • The LED strips we used were purchased at the hardware store on Birch Avenue and cost very little.
    • The LED strips we used came from the hardware store on Birch Avenue, and they cost almost nothing, believe it or not.

  9. Does Light Color Change Plant Growth? (student draft: science report)

    [1] This report summarizes our science fair project, which tested whether the color of light affects how fast bean plants grow. [2] We placed twelve bean seedlings under each of three kinds of lights: white, blue, and red. [3] Every group received twelve hours of light per day for three weeks.

    [4] We measured each plant every Monday and recorded the results in a chart. [5] The results were seriously cool, and we were totally shocked. [6] The plants under red light grew the tallest, with an average height of fourteen centimeters. [7] The plants under blue light averaged eleven centimeters, and the plants under white light averaged twelve.

    [8] We think these numbers are probably not perfect, so you shouldn't take them as the final word. [9] Other factors, such as temperature and the amount of water, were kept the same for every group. [10] A larger study with more kinds of plants would give stronger evidence.

    [11] The LED strips we used came from the hardware store on Birch Avenue, and they cost almost nothing, believe it or not. [12] We thank Ms. Duarte for lending us her classroom for the experiment. Change shown: Sentence [5] before: The results were seriously cool, and we were totally shocked. After: The results were surprising, and we did not expect them.

  10. The writer changed sentence [5] of the light color report. Bo asks what the change does for the science fair judges. Which reason is true?

    • It tells the judges that the experiment was repeated twice.
    • It makes the sentence friendlier for classmates reading a blog.
    • It makes the sentence sound smarter and more advanced.
    • It gives the judges a serious, objective voice that fits a science report.

  11. Welcome, New Sixth Graders! (student draft: welcome post)

    [1] Hi, new sixth graders! [2] We are the student ambassadors, and we are here to help you feel at home on your very first day. [3] Walking into a big new school can feel a little overwhelming, but we promise it gets easier fast.

    [4] Students are advised to consult the building map upon arrival at the main entrance. [5] Your homeroom teacher will be waiting to say hello and to show you your locker and your first-period room. [6] Lockers can be tricky, so we will practice the combination together during homeroom until it feels easy.

    [7] Lunch is a great time to meet new friends, and we sit by the big window if you want to join us. [8] Participation in lunchtime activities is strongly encouraged for all new students. [9] Numerous extracurricular organizations, including chess, art, robotics, and gardening, are available for student enrollment.

    [10] Remember that everybody feels nervous at first, and that includes us when we were new. [11] If you ever feel lost, just ask any ambassador wearing a blue badge, because we love to help. [12] We cannot wait to meet you!

  12. Esme edits sentences [4] and [8] of the welcome post so they sound friendly to new sixth graders. Which revision fixes both and keeps the meaning?

    • [4] Grab a building map when you walk in the front door. [8] Please stay away from the lunchtime games and activities!
    • [4] Grab a building map when you walk in the front door. [8] Come join in the lunchtime games and activities!
    • [4] Students are advised to consult the building map upon arrival at the main entrance. [8] Come join in the lunchtime games and activities!
    • [4] Grab a building map when you walk in the front door. [8] Participation in lunchtime activities is strongly encouraged for new students.

  13. Jun wants sentence [9] of the welcome post to keep the list of clubs and sound friendly to new sixth graders. Which revision does that?

    • Numerous clubs, including chess, art, robotics, and gardening, are available for enrollment.
    • There are tons of clubs to try, like chess, art, robotics, and gardening!
    • Clubs, clubs, CLUBS!!! Chess!!! Art!!! Robotics!!! Gardening!!! Join everything NOW!!!
    • There are lots of clubs to try, so you can find one you like!

  14. Welcome, New Sixth Graders! (student draft: welcome post)

    [1] Hi, new sixth graders! [2] We are the student ambassadors, and we are here to help you feel at home on your very first day. [3] Walking into a big new school can feel a little overwhelming, but we promise it gets easier fast.

    [4] Students are advised to consult the building map upon arrival at the main entrance. [5] Your homeroom teacher will be waiting to say hello and to show you your locker and your first-period room. [6] Lockers can be tricky, so we will practice the combination together during homeroom until it feels easy.

    [7] Lunch is a great time to meet new friends, and we sit by the big window if you want to join us. [8] Participation in lunchtime activities is strongly encouraged for all new students. [9] Numerous extracurricular organizations, including chess, art, robotics, and gardening, are available for student enrollment.

    [10] Remember that everybody feels nervous at first, and that includes us when we were new. [11] If you ever feel lost, just ask any ambassador wearing a blue badge, because we love to help. [12] We cannot wait to meet you! Change shown: Sentence [4] before: Students are advised to consult the building map upon arrival at the main entrance. After: Grab a building map when you walk in the front door.

  15. The writer changed sentence [4] of the welcome post. Kira asks what the change does for new sixth graders. Which reason is true?

    • It makes the post sound more modern and fun.
    • It speaks to new sixth graders in a plain, friendly voice, so the first step is easy to follow.
    • It makes the sentence more formal for the members of the school board.
    • It tells new students that maps are free at the front desk.

  16. The Paper Airplane Contest (student draft: post for classmates)

    [1] Get ready, because the school paper airplane contest is coming up on Friday! [2] Anyone in grades six through eight can enter, and every plane must be made from a single sheet of regular paper that is the same size as everyone else's. [3] You can fold your plane any way you like, as long as you do not use tape, glue, or staples.

    [4] Contestants must submit their aircraft to the judges' table prior to the commencement of the event. [5] The judges will measure how far each plane flies in three tries, and they will use the average of the three flights to choose the winner. [6] The plane with the longest average flight wins a trophy shaped like a gold paper airplane.

    [7] There will also be a prize for the most creative design. [8] It is anticipated that participants will exhibit a high level of sportsmanship. [9] The Math Club has produced a flight chart displaying which wing shapes remain airborne longest.

    [10] You can practice at lunch in the gym on Wednesday and Thursday, and the gym teacher will be there to help. [11] Bring your best plane and your best throwing arm, and do not forget to write your name on the wing. [12] See you there!

  17. Luz edits sentences [4] and [8] of the paper airplane post so they sound friendly to classmates. Which revision fixes both and keeps the meaning?

    • [4] Bring your plane to the judges' table before the contest starts. [8] It is anticipated that participants will exhibit a high level of sportsmanship.
    • [4] Bring your plane to the judges' table before the contest starts. [8] We hope everybody cheers for each other and plays fair.
    • [4] Contestants must submit their aircraft to the judges' table prior to the commencement of the event. [8] We hope everybody cheers for each other and plays fair.
    • [4] Bring your plane to the judges' table after the contest ends. [8] We hope everybody cheers for each other and plays fair.
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Formal or friendly: matching the writing to the reader

Answer Key - Grade 8 Reading Worksheet - Challenge Me

Circle the best answer.

  1. Read this first

    A Recycling Program for the Cafeteria (student draft: proposal to the principal)

    [1] Dear Principal Kim, our Green Team is writing to propose a recycling program for the school cafeteria. [2] Every day, the cafeteria discards hundreds of plastic bottles, milk cartons, and aluminum cans. [3] These items could be recycled instead of sent to the landfill.

    [4] Honestly, it's kind of embarrassing that our school throws away so much good stuff. [5] We propose placing three labeled bins near the exit: one for plastic, one for paper cartons, and one for metal. [6] Green Team volunteers would check the bins each lunch period to make sure items are sorted correctly.

    [7] If you want, you guys could announce the new program during morning announcements. [8] The recycling center on Cedar Road will take all three kinds for free, no joke. [9] We have already spoken with a custodian, who agreed to move the full bins each afternoon.

    [10] We believe this program would reduce waste, teach students responsible habits, and save the school money on trash pickup. [11] We would welcome the opportunity to present our plan at a staff meeting. [12] Thank you for considering our proposal.

  2. Pia edits sentences [4] and [7] of the recycling proposal so they fit a letter to a principal. Which revision fixes both and keeps the meaning?

    • [4] It is regrettable that our school discards so many reusable items. [7] If you agree, the school could cancel the new program during morning announcements.
    • [4] It is regrettable that our school discards so many reusable items. [7] If you want, you guys could announce the new program during morning announcements.
    • [4] Honestly, it's kind of embarrassing that our school throws away so much good stuff. [7] If you agree, the school could announce the new program during morning announcements.
    • [4] It is regrettable that our school discards so many reusable items. [7] If you agree, the school could announce the new program during morning announcements.

  3. Ren wants sentence [8] of the recycling proposal to keep the detail about Cedar Road and fit a letter to a principal. Which revision does that?

    • The recycling center on Cedar Road will take all three kinds for free, no joke.
    • The recycling establishment situated upon Cedar Road accepts all aforementioned materials gratis.
    • A recycling center accepts all three materials at no charge.
    • The recycling center on Cedar Road accepts all three materials at no charge.

  4. A Recycling Program for the Cafeteria (student draft: proposal to the principal)

    [1] Dear Principal Kim, our Green Team is writing to propose a recycling program for the school cafeteria. [2] Every day, the cafeteria discards hundreds of plastic bottles, milk cartons, and aluminum cans. [3] These items could be recycled instead of sent to the landfill.

    [4] Honestly, it's kind of embarrassing that our school throws away so much good stuff. [5] We propose placing three labeled bins near the exit: one for plastic, one for paper cartons, and one for metal. [6] Green Team volunteers would check the bins each lunch period to make sure items are sorted correctly.

    [7] If you want, you guys could announce the new program during morning announcements. [8] The recycling center on Cedar Road will take all three kinds for free, no joke. [9] We have already spoken with a custodian, who agreed to move the full bins each afternoon.

    [10] We believe this program would reduce waste, teach students responsible habits, and save the school money on trash pickup. [11] We would welcome the opportunity to present our plan at a staff meeting. [12] Thank you for considering our proposal. Change shown: Sentence [4] before: Honestly, it's kind of embarrassing that our school throws away so much good stuff. After: It is regrettable that our school discards so many reusable items.

  5. The writer changed sentence [4] of the recycling proposal. Tala asks what the change does for the principal. Which reason is true?

    • It makes the sentence sound smarter and more advanced.
    • It speaks to the principal in a serious, respectful voice that fits a proposal.
    • It tells the principal that the school wastes more than any other school.
    • It makes the sentence friendlier for classmates reading the school newsletter.

  6. Does Light Color Change Plant Growth? (student draft: science report)

    [1] This report summarizes our science fair project, which tested whether the color of light affects how fast bean plants grow. [2] We placed twelve bean seedlings under each of three kinds of lights: white, blue, and red. [3] Every group received twelve hours of light per day for three weeks.

    [4] We measured each plant every Monday and recorded the results in a chart. [5] The results were seriously cool, and we were totally shocked. [6] The plants under red light grew the tallest, with an average height of fourteen centimeters. [7] The plants under blue light averaged eleven centimeters, and the plants under white light averaged twelve.

    [8] We think these numbers are probably not perfect, so you shouldn't take them as the final word. [9] Other factors, such as temperature and the amount of water, were kept the same for every group. [10] A larger study with more kinds of plants would give stronger evidence.

    [11] The LED strips we used came from the hardware store on Birch Avenue, and they cost almost nothing, believe it or not. [12] We thank Ms. Duarte for lending us her classroom for the experiment.

  7. Zee edits sentences [5] and [8] of the light color report so they fit a science report. Which revision fixes both and keeps the meaning?

    • [5] The results were surprising, and we did not expect them. [8] These numbers may not be exact, so they should not be treated as final.
    • [5] The results were surprising, and we did not expect them. [8] These numbers are exact, so they should be treated as final.
    • [5] The results were surprising, and we did not expect them. [8] We think these numbers are probably not perfect, so you shouldn't take them as the final word.
    • [5] The results were seriously cool, and we were totally shocked. [8] These numbers may not be exact, so they should not be treated as final.

  8. Ari wants sentence [11] of the light color report to keep the detail about Birch Avenue and fit a science report. Which revision does that?

    • The luminous diode strips employed herein were acquired at the hardware emporium on Birch Avenue for a negligible sum.
    • The LED strips we used were purchased at a store and cost very little.
    • The LED strips we used were purchased at the hardware store on Birch Avenue and cost very little.
    • The LED strips we used came from the hardware store on Birch Avenue, and they cost almost nothing, believe it or not.

  9. Does Light Color Change Plant Growth? (student draft: science report)

    [1] This report summarizes our science fair project, which tested whether the color of light affects how fast bean plants grow. [2] We placed twelve bean seedlings under each of three kinds of lights: white, blue, and red. [3] Every group received twelve hours of light per day for three weeks.

    [4] We measured each plant every Monday and recorded the results in a chart. [5] The results were seriously cool, and we were totally shocked. [6] The plants under red light grew the tallest, with an average height of fourteen centimeters. [7] The plants under blue light averaged eleven centimeters, and the plants under white light averaged twelve.

    [8] We think these numbers are probably not perfect, so you shouldn't take them as the final word. [9] Other factors, such as temperature and the amount of water, were kept the same for every group. [10] A larger study with more kinds of plants would give stronger evidence.

    [11] The LED strips we used came from the hardware store on Birch Avenue, and they cost almost nothing, believe it or not. [12] We thank Ms. Duarte for lending us her classroom for the experiment. Change shown: Sentence [5] before: The results were seriously cool, and we were totally shocked. After: The results were surprising, and we did not expect them.

  10. The writer changed sentence [5] of the light color report. Bo asks what the change does for the science fair judges. Which reason is true?

    • It tells the judges that the experiment was repeated twice.
    • It makes the sentence friendlier for classmates reading a blog.
    • It makes the sentence sound smarter and more advanced.
    • It gives the judges a serious, objective voice that fits a science report.

  11. Welcome, New Sixth Graders! (student draft: welcome post)

    [1] Hi, new sixth graders! [2] We are the student ambassadors, and we are here to help you feel at home on your very first day. [3] Walking into a big new school can feel a little overwhelming, but we promise it gets easier fast.

    [4] Students are advised to consult the building map upon arrival at the main entrance. [5] Your homeroom teacher will be waiting to say hello and to show you your locker and your first-period room. [6] Lockers can be tricky, so we will practice the combination together during homeroom until it feels easy.

    [7] Lunch is a great time to meet new friends, and we sit by the big window if you want to join us. [8] Participation in lunchtime activities is strongly encouraged for all new students. [9] Numerous extracurricular organizations, including chess, art, robotics, and gardening, are available for student enrollment.

    [10] Remember that everybody feels nervous at first, and that includes us when we were new. [11] If you ever feel lost, just ask any ambassador wearing a blue badge, because we love to help. [12] We cannot wait to meet you!

  12. Esme edits sentences [4] and [8] of the welcome post so they sound friendly to new sixth graders. Which revision fixes both and keeps the meaning?

    • [4] Grab a building map when you walk in the front door. [8] Please stay away from the lunchtime games and activities!
    • [4] Grab a building map when you walk in the front door. [8] Come join in the lunchtime games and activities!
    • [4] Students are advised to consult the building map upon arrival at the main entrance. [8] Come join in the lunchtime games and activities!
    • [4] Grab a building map when you walk in the front door. [8] Participation in lunchtime activities is strongly encouraged for new students.

  13. Jun wants sentence [9] of the welcome post to keep the list of clubs and sound friendly to new sixth graders. Which revision does that?

    • Numerous clubs, including chess, art, robotics, and gardening, are available for enrollment.
    • There are tons of clubs to try, like chess, art, robotics, and gardening!
    • Clubs, clubs, CLUBS!!! Chess!!! Art!!! Robotics!!! Gardening!!! Join everything NOW!!!
    • There are lots of clubs to try, so you can find one you like!

  14. Welcome, New Sixth Graders! (student draft: welcome post)

    [1] Hi, new sixth graders! [2] We are the student ambassadors, and we are here to help you feel at home on your very first day. [3] Walking into a big new school can feel a little overwhelming, but we promise it gets easier fast.

    [4] Students are advised to consult the building map upon arrival at the main entrance. [5] Your homeroom teacher will be waiting to say hello and to show you your locker and your first-period room. [6] Lockers can be tricky, so we will practice the combination together during homeroom until it feels easy.

    [7] Lunch is a great time to meet new friends, and we sit by the big window if you want to join us. [8] Participation in lunchtime activities is strongly encouraged for all new students. [9] Numerous extracurricular organizations, including chess, art, robotics, and gardening, are available for student enrollment.

    [10] Remember that everybody feels nervous at first, and that includes us when we were new. [11] If you ever feel lost, just ask any ambassador wearing a blue badge, because we love to help. [12] We cannot wait to meet you! Change shown: Sentence [4] before: Students are advised to consult the building map upon arrival at the main entrance. After: Grab a building map when you walk in the front door.

  15. The writer changed sentence [4] of the welcome post. Kira asks what the change does for new sixth graders. Which reason is true?

    • It makes the post sound more modern and fun.
    • It speaks to new sixth graders in a plain, friendly voice, so the first step is easy to follow.
    • It makes the sentence more formal for the members of the school board.
    • It tells new students that maps are free at the front desk.

  16. The Paper Airplane Contest (student draft: post for classmates)

    [1] Get ready, because the school paper airplane contest is coming up on Friday! [2] Anyone in grades six through eight can enter, and every plane must be made from a single sheet of regular paper that is the same size as everyone else's. [3] You can fold your plane any way you like, as long as you do not use tape, glue, or staples.

    [4] Contestants must submit their aircraft to the judges' table prior to the commencement of the event. [5] The judges will measure how far each plane flies in three tries, and they will use the average of the three flights to choose the winner. [6] The plane with the longest average flight wins a trophy shaped like a gold paper airplane.

    [7] There will also be a prize for the most creative design. [8] It is anticipated that participants will exhibit a high level of sportsmanship. [9] The Math Club has produced a flight chart displaying which wing shapes remain airborne longest.

    [10] You can practice at lunch in the gym on Wednesday and Thursday, and the gym teacher will be there to help. [11] Bring your best plane and your best throwing arm, and do not forget to write your name on the wing. [12] See you there!

  17. Luz edits sentences [4] and [8] of the paper airplane post so they sound friendly to classmates. Which revision fixes both and keeps the meaning?

    • [4] Bring your plane to the judges' table before the contest starts. [8] It is anticipated that participants will exhibit a high level of sportsmanship.
    • [4] Bring your plane to the judges' table before the contest starts. [8] We hope everybody cheers for each other and plays fair.
    • [4] Contestants must submit their aircraft to the judges' table prior to the commencement of the event. [8] We hope everybody cheers for each other and plays fair.
    • [4] Bring your plane to the judges' table after the contest ends. [8] We hope everybody cheers for each other and plays fair.