SHSAT • Reading Comprehension ·
SHSAT Question of the Week
Although Maya had practiced the speech many times, she hesitated before stepping onto the stage.
What does the word “although” show?
- Choice A: She forgot her speech.
- Choice B: She was confident.
- Choice C: Her hesitation contrasts with how much she practiced.
- Choice D: She decided not to speak.
Correct answer: C. Her hesitation contrasts with how much she practiced.
The word “although” signals a contrast between two ideas. Maya practiced the speech many times, so we might expect her to feel prepared and confident. However, she still hesitated before going on stage. That contrast is exactly what “although” communicates.
SHSAT Strategy Tip
When you see transition words such as although, however, but, yet, even though or despite, look for two ideas that contrast with each other.
Ask yourself: “What did I expect to happen, and what happened instead?”
- Expected:
- Maya practiced many times, so she should feel confident.
- Instead:
- She hesitated.
That leads directly to Choice C.