There is little to no life on the continent of Antarctica. The harsh environment makes it very difficult for living creatures to survive. It is the driest continent. There is little growth of any plants, so there is nothing for animals to eat. The cold and wind make it nearly impossible to survive. What does the word "harsh" mean?

As the koalas travel from tree to tree in search of food, the baby will cling to its mother’s back. The baby is unable to travel on its own when it is so little, so it holds on tightly to its mother’s back to get to the new location. By holding on tightly, the baby koala is safe during travel. What does the word "cling" mean?

As I tried to write my speech to become class president, I couldn’t find the right words. I would write one sentence down, reread it, and crumple up the paper. Then I would open up the wrinkled and bent paper to reread the sentence again. There was a big collection of crushed papers around my trash can. Writing a speech was harder than I thought! What does the word "crumple" mean?

When the leaves fall from the trees, they cover my yard. On the weekends, my brother and I rake and put the leaves into piles. We take breaks and pick the leaves up, throw them in the air, and watch them scatter on the lawn again. It gives us more work with the rake, but it’s fun to watch the leaves spread out as they drift to the ground. What does the word "scatter" mean?

I was flabbergasted when I found out I won the art contest. -- What does "flabbergasted" probably mean?

Ms. Chen admonished her students to complete their homework. -- What does "admonished" probably mean?

Jason was in a somber mood when he heard the bad news. -- What does "somber" probably mean?

The man’s large hat and sunglasses concealed his face. -- What does "concealed" probably mean?

Eating too much junk food may be hazardous to your health. -- What does "hazardous" probably mean?

The boat sailed gently on the tranquil lake. -- What does "tranquil" probably mean?

Billy descended the stairs into his basement. -- What does "descended" probably mean?