Free STAAR 5th Grade Practice Questions

The 5th grade STAAR test is a major checkpoint before middle school and strong preparation now can make that transition smoother and more successful. Ariav, our STAAR expert, has created a test preparation package to help you prepare at home..

In 5th grade, students face longer reading passages, more complex math problems, and higher expectations for written responses. With the right practice, your child can approach the test with confidence instead of anxiety.

On this page, you’ll find:

  • Free STAAR 5th grade sample questions in Math, Reading, and Writing
  • Clear explanations for every answer
  • Expert tips to support learning at home
  • Direct access to our full STAAR 5th Grade Prep Pack

5th Grade STAAR Practice Questions

Our comprehensive 5th Grade STAAR Test PrepPack is specifically designed to help students bridge this important educational gap. Below are sample questions aligned with TEA-released formats.

5th Grade STAAR Math Practice Questions

The STAAR Math for 5th grade assesses more advanced concepts, including:

  • Multi-step problem solving
  • Algebraic thinking
  • Geometry and measurement
  • Data analysis and graphs

In this first section, we begin by assessing percentage calculation and proportional reasoning.

5th Grade Math: STAAR Practice Test Question 1

Answer the following question:

As part of a local survey, Merry asked 700 people from his village to name their favorite food. The results showed that 28 of the villagers like mushrooms best.

What percentage of the villagers surveyed prefer mushrooms to all other food?

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The correct answer is D.

  1. Total number of people surveyed: 700
  2. Number of people who prefer mushrooms: 28
  3. To calculate the percentage, use the formula: Percentage = (Number of people who prefer mushrooms ÷ Total number of people surveyed) × 100
  4. Plugging in the numbers: Percentage = (28 ÷ 700) × 100
  5. First, divide 28 by 700: 28 ÷ 700 = 0.04
  6. Multiply by 100 to convert to a percentage: 0.04 × 100 = 4

Therefore, 4% of the villagers surveyed prefer mushrooms to all other food.

To double-check:

  • 4% of 700 = 0.04 × 700 = 28 ✓
  • This confirms our calculation is correct

The answer is 4%.

Next, we move from percentages to testing decimal division and equal partitioning.

5th Grade Math: STAAR Practice Test Question 2

Answer the following question:

Rosie has a long ribbon that is 31.76 inches in length. She wants to cut it into eight matching ribbons of equal length.

What is the length of each ribbon in inches?

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The correct answer is B.

To determine the length of each ribbon, divide the total length of the ribbon by the number of ribbons: 

Use long division. You want to divide 31.76 by 8.

8 ⟌ 31.76

Step 1: Start with the first digit (3):

  • Can 8 go into 3? No, because 8 is larger than 3.
  • Place a 0 above the 3 in the quotient.

0

8 ⟌ 31.76

3

Since 8 did not go into 3 at all, you must bring the 3 down together with the next digit, 1, and try to divide 8 into 31.

0

8 ⟌ 31.76

31

The number 8 goes into 31 three times, so you must put a 3 above as your next digit in the answer. When 8 went into 31 three times, it only reached 24, so it still had 7 left to reach 31. Therefore, you must bring down that 7 and put it before the next digit, and that forms the next number that 8 needs to divide into: 77.

03

8 ⟌ 31.76

77

The number 8 goes into 77 nine times, reaching 72, with 5 left to reach 77. So put the 9 on top as your next digit and bring the 5 down with the 6, forming the last number you need to divide 8 into: 56. Remember to keep your decimal point in the same place above.

03.9

8 ⟌ 31.76

56

The number 8 goes into 56 exactly 7 times. So put the 7 on top as your final digit in the answer, and there is no remainder to bring down. You are left with your final answer.

03.97

8 ⟌ 31.76

56

Or: 3.97

Now, we shift from numerical operations to geometric reasoning and visual analysis.

5th Grade Math: STAAR Practice Test Question 3

How many lines of symmetry are there in the shape?

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The correct answer is (D).

A line of symmetry splits a shape into two identical halves. If no such line can be drawn, then there is no line of symmetry.
There are eight lines of symmetry in a regular octagon, as shown in the diagram.



Therefore, the correct answer is (D).

After math, we transition into Reading Language Arts by focusing on literary devices and imagery.


5th Grade STAAR RLA Questions

The Reading Language Arts section of the STAAR test requires strong comprehension and analytical skills. As demonstrated by these sample questions, your child must identify literary devices, understand the author's tone, determine the main purpose, and analyze word choice to succeed.

This question tests your understanding of how an author creates mental imagery. You must also identify the literary devices used.

5th Grade RLA: STAAR Practice Test Question 1

Read the text, then answer the question:

The city of Genoa (Italian: Genova) is located in the north of Italy and is the sixth-largest city in Italy. Its uniqueness becomes evident when you start wandering around its streets. As you walk along the port, the smell of fresh fish surrounds you, nearly engulfing the strong smell of the ocean.

The ocean is particularly beautiful in this city, with the water waltzing in the light wind and glowing in the evening sun with a unique hue. As you keep walking, you can hear the whisper of the waves on one side and the musical, loud Italian on the other; yes, the Genovese are warm, kind, and loud! Genoa is nicknamed "The Vertical Town" because of its many narrow, steep stairways in the middle of the street, many of which can only be climbed by one person at a time.

The stairways are often the only way to get from one place to another in the streets of Genoa, so be prepared to climb quite a lot.

Which of the following is used in the passage to create a mental image of the city of Genoa?

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The correct answer is A.

The passage describes the city of Genoa and uses many adjectives to create a mental image of the city; it appeals to the senses and describes the sights, smells, and sounds of the city.

Explanation:

Personification is when non-human elements are described with human qualities. The passage uses personification to create vivid imagery, such as "the water waltzing in the light wind" and "the whisper of the waves." These descriptions give human-like qualities to the water and waves, helping readers visualize Genoa's beauty.

  • Simile (B) involves comparisons using "like" or "as," which is not present here.
  • Irony (C) does not apply as the text lacks any contrasting meaning or sarcasm.
  • Alliteration (D) involves repetition of sounds, which is not a key technique in this passage.

Next, we move from identifying literary devices to analyzing the author’s tone.

5th Grade RLA: STAAR Practice Test Question 2

Which sentence best describes the predominant tone the author uses to describe the city of Genoa?

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Correct Answer: B - The author sounds enthusiastic and full of appreciation for Genoa.

Why B is Correct:

Positive Language: The passage uses many words and phrases that convey positive feelings. Think about words like "uniqueness," "beautiful," "glowing," "warm," and "kind." These are all positive descriptors.

Sensory Details - Positively Presented: The sensory details, like "smell of fresh fish," "water waltzing," "glowing in the evening sun," "whisper of waves," and "musical Italian," are presented in a way that evokes a pleasant and appealing experience. Even the "strong smell of the ocean" and "loud Italian" are not framed negatively, but as part of the city's character.

"Nicknamed 'The Vertical Town'" - Affectionate: The mention of the nickname "The Vertical Town" suggests an endearing or interesting characteristic, rather than a problem.
"Be Prepared to Climb" - Encouraging, not warning: Even the mention of the stairs ("be prepared to climb quite a lot") doesn't sound like a complaint, but more like an adventurous encouragement to experience the city fully.

Overall Impression: The overall impression left by the passage is one of admiration and enjoyment of Genoa. The author is clearly highlighting the positive aspects and unique charm of the city.

Why other options are incorrect:

A. The author sounds critical and points out many problems with Genoa.

Lack of Criticism: The passage doesn't point out any problems with Genoa. There are no negative descriptions, complaints, or criticisms presented. Everything is described in a positive or neutral light, even the challenging stairs are presented as a unique characteristic to be "prepared for," not a flaw.
Positive Focus: The entire passage is focused on the appealing sensory experiences and unique qualities of Genoa, not on any drawbacks.

C. The author sounds neutral and simply lists facts about Genoa.

Emotional Language: The passage goes beyond simply listing facts. The author uses emotionally charged and descriptive language that goes beyond neutrality. Words like "uniqueness," "beautiful," "waltzing," "glowing," "warm," and "kind" are not neutral factual descriptors.

Evocative Descriptions: The descriptions are designed to evoke feelings and create a specific impression, rather than just providing objective information. For example, describing the ocean as "waltzing" and "glowing" is clearly not neutral language.

D. The author sounds confused and unsure about what to think of Genoa.

Clear Positive Stance: The author demonstrates a very clear and positive stance throughout the passage. There is no indication of confusion or uncertainty. The descriptions are confident and assured, painting a clear picture of a charming and interesting city.

Consistent Tone: The tone remains consistently positive and appreciative from the beginning to the end of the passage, showing a clear and decided opinion of Genoa. There are no shifts or contradictory statements that would suggest confusion.

Just like these sample questions, the STAAR RLA 5th Grade test will challenge your child to delve into passages, identify literary techniques, understand tone, find the main purpose, and analyze word choice. Now, we shift from tone to identifying the main purpose of an informational passage.

5th Grade RLA: STAAR Practice Test Question 3

Learning to cook is an essential life skill that all students should acquire. Not only does it promote independence, but it also encourages healthier eating habits and can save money in the long run. Cooking allows students to understand nutrition better, experiment with different cultures through food, and develop critical thinking skills as they learn to follow recipes and improvise in the kitchen. Moreover, the ability to prepare meals can be a source of pride and creativity, boosting self-confidence. As students transition into adulthood, knowing how to cook will prove invaluable, whether they're living on their own, feeding a family, or simply wanting to impress friends with a homemade dish.

What is the main purpose of this passage?

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The correct answer is C because the passage focuses on outlining various advantages of students learning to cook, such as promoting independence, encouraging healthier eating, saving money, understanding nutrition, exploring cultures, developing critical thinking, boosting self-confidence, and preparing for adulthood.

  • Answer A is incorrect because the passage doesn't provide any specific cooking techniques. It only discusses the importance of learning to cook in general.
  • Answer B is incorrect because while the passage suggests that all students should learn to cook, it doesn't explicitly argue for making it a mandatory subject in schools.
  • Answer D is incorrect because the passage doesn't compare cooking skills to other life skills. It focuses solely on the benefits of cooking.

Finally, we move from determining main idea to analyzing the author’s word choice and purpose.

5th Grade RLA: STAAR Practice Test Question 4

The author uses words like "essential" and "invaluable" when talking about learning to cook. What is the main reason the author chooses to use words like these?

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View Explanation

Explanation: Why D is Correct:

"Essential" and "invaluable" Mean Important: Both "essential" and "invaluable" are strong words that communicate importance and high value. "Essential" means absolutely necessary, and "invaluable" means priceless or having immense worth.

Author's Purpose: By using these words, the author is emphasizing the significance of learning to cook. They want the reader to understand that this is not just a fun hobby, but a skill that is truly important and beneficial in life.

Context of the Passage: The entire passage argues for the importance of learning to cook, listing benefits like independence, healthier eating, saving money, and building self-confidence. The word choice reinforces this central message.

Why other options are incorrect:

A. To make learning to cook sound like a very easy and simple task.

"Essential" and "invaluable" Don't Mean Easy: Words like "essential" and "invaluable" actually suggest something is important and valuable, not necessarily easy. The passage doesn't focus on how easy cooking is.
Passage Focus is on Importance: The passage emphasizes the benefits and reasons why cooking is important, not on making it seem simple to learn.

B. To make the passage sound funny and entertaining for the reader.

"Essential" and "invaluable" are Serious Words: These words are serious and emphasize importance, not humor. They are not used to create a funny or lighthearted tone.
Passage Tone is Informative and Persuasive: The tone of the passage is informative and persuasive, aimed at convincing the reader of the value of cooking, not entertaining them with jokes.

C. To suggest that cooking is only useful for adults, not for students.

Passage is About Students: The very first sentence states "Learning to cook is an essential life skill that all students should acquire." The passage is specifically directed at why students should learn to cook.
Benefits Apply to Students: The benefits listed, like independence, healthier eating habits, and self-confidence, are all highly relevant to students. The author is arguing for students learning to cook, not against it or suggesting it's only for adults.

5th Grade STAAR RLA Writing Tasks

What happens during the 5th Grade RLA test

  • Read passages on the computer during the test
  • Write a longer response that explains ideas from the passage using strong text evidence
  • Answer short writing questions, such as combining or revising sentences
  • Demonstrate correct capitalization, punctuation, grammar, and spelling
  • Responses are scored using TEA rubrics that measure how clearly students explain their ideas, use evidence, and write correctly

This is an important year, as 5th grade marks the end of elementary school and prepares students for the higher writing expectations they will face in middle school.

Why Parents Trust Our STAAR Preparation Materials

  • Designed specifically for 5th grade standards
  • Questions that reflect the structure and difficulty of the real STAAR test
  • Clear explanations that help identify skill gaps

With the right preparation, your child can approach the 5th grade STAAR feeling confident and ready.

What STAAR Results Mean for Your Child at School

Once you receive your child’s score report, you’ll see both their performance level and a breakdown of which skills they’ve mastered and which need more work. This information helps teachers adjust instruction and helps families support learning at home.

STAAR results typically fall into these levels:

  • Did Not Meet Grade Level: Your child may receive additional academic support.
  • Approaches Grade Level: Your child is making progress but needs targeted reinforcement.
  • Meets Grade Level: Your child is performing at grade level and ready for the next grade.
  • Masters Grade Level: Your child is performing above expectations and may benefit from enrichment.

Schools use this information to guide instruction. Our 5th grade Prep Pack supports growth at every level,  from intervention to enrichment.

What’s Inside the 5th Grade STAAR Prep Pack?

  • 180+ practice questions across quizzes and tests
  • 1 full-length Math test
  • 1 full-length Reading Language Arts test
  • Retake all tests as often as needed
  • 6-month access license

Everything your child needs to build skills, strengthen confidence, and succeed on the 5th grade STAAR.

For More Practice Check Out All Our STAAR Test Preparation Packages

Full-length tests covering 

STAAR RLA and STAAR Math

Math quizzes and Reading quizzes

Each quiz focused on a different sub-topic

Ask Ariav

A certified teacher with a Master’s in Education and a STAAR Test specialist with over a decade of experience developing STAAR-aligned questions that match the real test’s rigor. Ariav creates materials with clear, detailed explanations that build understanding, boost reasoning skills, and help every child perform their best on the STAAR assessment.

STAAR Test FAQs

The STAAR test measures your child’s understanding of 5th-grade math, reading, and writing standards. This year is important as students prepare for the transition to middle school.


Most Texas students take the STAAR test in the spring, usually between April and May.


Yes. Parents and guardians can access individual STAAR results through the Texas Assessment Family Portal once scores are released.


Parents can log in to the TEA Family Portal at https://txfamilyportal.org
or use the portal link on TexasAssessment.gov.


Local districts make promotion decisions. STAAR performance is one factor among many, including classroom grades and teacher recommendations.


Practice with realistic questions, review key concepts, and build study routines that reduce stress and increase confidence.


Yes. Our prep materials reflect the actual STAAR in format and difficulty and include detailed answer explanations.


Consistent practice over several weeks is best. Short daily sessions are more effective than long, last-minute studying.


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