CAASPP Success - Reading Comprehension - Argumentative #2
Read the passage and answer the questions.
Texting Beats Phone Calls, fr
[1] Picture this: you need to tell a friend something important. Do you grab your phone to call them, or do you send a quick text? There's so many reasons that texting is the more popular nowadays. It’s faster, more convenient, and fits right into our busy lives. Let’s dive into why texting beats phone calls.
[2] For starters, texting saves time. In our fast-paced lives, no one has time to sit down for a long phone call. With a text, you get your message across in seconds, and the best part? The other person can respond whenever they’re free. You don’t need to worry about interrupting someone’s day or catching them at a bad time. Texts wait patiently, unlike phone calls that demand immediate attention.
[3] Another advantage of texting is its flexibility. Whether you’re in a noisy place or somewhere that requires quiet, like a library, a text works without disturbing others. It allows you to communicate without worrying about your surroundings. Plus, you can have multiple conversations going at once, something that’s tricky to manage with phone calls.
[4] But the perks of texting don’t stop there. Texting allows you to think before you reply. In a phone call, you might feel rushed to answer, which can lead to saying something you don’t mean. With texting, you can take a moment to craft the perfect response. This helps avoid misunderstandings and keeps conversations clear and thoughtful.
[5] Some people argue that phone calls are more personal, but texting can be just as meaningful. Texting lets you express yourself through emojis, gifs, and even pictures. These add a fun and personal touch to your messages. And let’s face it—most people respond to texts faster than they do to phone calls. Studies show that 95% of texts get a reply within three minutes, making texting both quick and effective.
[6] However, there are times when a phone call works better than a text. If you need to discuss something complex or urgent, a call can get things sorted out quickly. Phone calls allow for immediate back-and-forth conversation, making it easier to clear up confusion or get detailed answers. When you need to share sensitive information, hearing someone's voice can provide clarity and reduce misunderstandings.
[7] Generational differences also play a role in how people view texting versus calling. Younger generations, who grew up with smartphones, often prefer texting for its convenience and speed. Older generations, who might not be as comfortable with texting, tend to favor phone calls for their familiarity and personal touch. This difference sometimes causes a disconnect, with younger people feeling that calls are disruptive, while older people see texts as impersonal.
[8] Finally, texting keeps a record of your conversations. Need to remember an appointment or a piece of advice? Just scroll back through your messages. This feature makes texting not only convenient but also practical for keeping track of important information.
[9] In the end, texting wins over phone calls for several reasons. It fits seamlessly into our busy lives, lets us communicate without pressure, and adds a layer of creativity that phone calls simply can’t match. The next time you need to reach out to someone, consider texting—it’s the smarter choice.
Class Companion
Question 1
The author suggests texting is better for which type of communication?
Complex conversations.
Urgent discussions.
Quick messages.
Sensitive information.
Question 2
According to the passage, what is one reason all generations do not agree on the best way to communicate?
Younger people find phone calls fun.
Older people prefer using social media.
Younger people see calls as disruptive.
Older people enjoy sending pictures.
Question 3
Which feature of texting helps avoid misunderstandings, according to the passage?
Responding quickly.
Taking time to craft the perfect response.
The use of emojis and gifs.
Keeping a record of conversations.
Question 4a
Part A: According to the passage, what is a benefit of texting related to response time?
Texting allows immediate back-and-forth conversation.
Texting ensures that responses are well-thought-out.
Texts are typically responded to very quickly.
Texting reduces the need for further clarification.
Question 4b
Part B: Which sentence from the passage best supports your answer to Part A?
"Texts provide a record of your conversations."
"In a phone call, you might feel rushed to answer, which can lead to saying something you don’t mean."
"With a text, you get your message across in seconds, and the best part?"
"Studies show that 95% of texts get a reply within three minutes, making texting both quick and effective."
Question 5
Why might it be difficult to have multiple phone conversations at once, according to the passage?
You cannot use emojis.
Phone calls require immediate attention.
Phone calls are too short.
Conversations can be misunderstood.
Question 6
What is the main idea of the passage?
Texting is the best way to contact friends.
Texting has several advantages over phone calls.
Texting is more fun than calling.
It is important to keep records of conversations.
Question 7
Which detail from the passage shows how texting saves time?
Texts can be sent from noisy places.
Texts can include emojis and gifs.
Texts do not need immediate attention.
Texts provide a record of your conversations.
Question 8
Read these sentences from the passage: "Whether you’re in a noisy place or somewhere that requires quiet, like a library, a text works without disturbing others." What does the word "disturbing" most likely mean?
solving
bothering
exciting
pleasing
Question 9
Which statement best explains why some people argue that phone calls are more personal than texts?
Phone calls let you quickly send emojis.
Phone calls allow immediate back-and-forth conversation.
Phone calls can be made from noisy places.
Phone calls keep a record of your conversations.
Question 10
Which sentence from the passage best supports the idea that texting allows you to communicate without pressure?
Texts wait patiently, unlike phone calls that demand immediate attention.
Texting allows you to think before you reply.
Texting lets you express yourself through emojis, gifs, and even pictures.
This feature makes texting not only convenient but also practical for keeping track of important information.
Question 11a
Part A: Which statement about the emotional aspect of texting is supported by the author?
Texting is always less personal than phone calls.
Texting allows people to send thoughtful and personal responses.
Texting often leads to emotional misunderstandings.
Texting can be overwhelming due to the lack of immediate feedback.
Question 11b
Part B: Which sentence from the passage best supports your answer to Part A?
"Texting can be just as meaningful."
"Texting lets you express yourself through emojis, gifs, and even pictures."
"Phone calls allow for immediate back-and-forth conversation."
"With texting, you can take a moment to craft the perfect response."
Question 12
What is the author's purpose in writing this
Teach with AI superpowers
Why teachers love Class Companion
Import assignments to get started in no time.
Create your own rubric to customize the AI feedback to your liking.
Overrule the AI feedback if a student disputes.