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Common Core State Standard
LS.CCS.4/5/6 Grades 3-12: Students are asked to determine the meaning of unknown and multiple-meaning words through multiple choice vocabulary quizzes. Quizzes are designed to help students demonstrate understanding of figurative language, word relationships and nuances in words, acquire and use accurately grade-appropriate general academic and domain-specific words, and gather vocabulary knowledge when considering a word or phrase important to comprehension or expression. Students are then asked to find the words within the newspaper and copy the sentence for context to its overall meaning or function in a sentence.
This Week's Word In The News 

DONNED

DEFINITION:
To have put something on, as in clothing or hats.

FOUND IN THE NEWS:
Quarterback Matthew Stafford donned his neoprene undergarment.
The Los Angeles Times, 01/19/2026

Words in the News Quiz
5 Middle School Words

Click on the correct answer in the quiz below.
Then see if you can find the word in your newspaper -- the print edition, the website or the digital edition and copy the sentence for context. NOTE: High School words are much harder to find!


1. Salmonella

Any of several rod-shaped bacteria, of the genus Salmonella, that cause food poisoning and other diseases.

A diffuse mass of interstellar dust or gas or both, visible as luminous patches or areas of darkness

Similarity in some respects between things that are otherwise dissimilar.

Using or marked by the use of few words; terse or concise.


2. Gargoyle

A grotesque ornamental figure or projection.

One who rejects a religion, cause, allegiance, or group for another; a deserter.

The quality or state of being tranquil; serenity.

A person with masterly skill or technique in the arts.


3. Despondent

The quality or state of being tranquil; serenity.

A person with masterly skill or technique in the arts.

One that takes in everything available, as with the mind.

Being without or almost without hope


4. Jaunty

Having a buoyant or self-confident air; brisk.

Any of various relatively small sailing or motor-driven vessels used for pleasure cruises or racing.

Either of two times of the year when the sun is at its greatest distance from the celestial equator.

A drawing consisting of the outline of something, especially a human profile, filled in with a solid color.


5. Outrageous

A relationship of mutual benefit or dependence.

Grossly offensive to decency or morality.

Any of various nonplacental mammals, including kangaroos, opossums, bandicoots, and wombats, found principally in Australia and the Americas.

Forfeiture of something highly valued for the sake of one considered to have a greater value or claim.


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