Benchmark
Part of Speech: Noun
Definition:
A standard or point of reference against which things are measured, compared, or evaluated.
Example Sentences:
The teacher used last year’s test scores as a benchmark for evaluating this year’s class performance.
In business, profit margins often serve as benchmarks to measure success.
Running a mile in under six minutes is a benchmark for many high school athletes.
How “Benchmark” May Appear on the GED RLA Exam
The word “benchmark” often appears in reading passages related to education, science, business, or progress measurement. It signals a standard or reference point that helps evaluate performance or achievement.
Example 1: Vocabulary in Context
“Her essay set a new benchmark for quality in the writing class.”
Question:
What does the word benchmark most likely mean in the sentence?
A. An assignment deadline
B. A grading mistake
C. A standard of excellence
D. A practice exercise
Correct Answer: C. A standard of excellence
Example 2: Analyzing Author’s Purpose
“The article argues that international benchmarks help countries improve their education systems.”
Question:
Why does the author mention benchmarks?
A. To describe tests that measure learning against global standards
B. To criticize teachers for unfair grading
C. To encourage schools to remove standardized tests
D. To argue that education systems should not be compared
Correct Answer: A. To describe tests that measure learning against global standards
Example 3: Comparing Ideas
“Unlike previous benchmarks, the new system measures not only speed but also accuracy.”
Question:
How does the use of benchmark show change in the system?
A. It compares new standards with old ones
B. It explains that accuracy no longer matters
C. It suggests the system has no standards
D. It means the system is exactly the same
Correct Answer: A. It compares new standards with old ones
Related GED Vocabulary:
Criterion
Measure
Standard
Want to keep building your GED vocabulary?
Check out our GED RLA Vocab: 110 Academic Words List to strengthen your reading and test skills.
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