Phoenix Firefighter key terms

The most important point a passage makes about its subject. It is often stated in a topic sentence, or it must be pieced together from the details the author chose to include.

A specific fact, example, or reason an author uses to explain or prove the main idea. Removing it would weaken the passage but would not change the passage's central point.

A conclusion a reader draws by combining information stated in the text with ordinary knowledge. It is not written word for word, but the passage must contain enough clues to support it.

Words, phrases, or examples surrounding an unfamiliar term that hint at its meaning. Using them lets a reader work out vocabulary without stopping to look the word up.

The reason a writer created a text, such as to inform, persuade, entertain, or explain a procedure. Purpose shapes which details are included and the tone the writer uses.

A fact can be checked and proven true, while an opinion expresses a belief, feeling, or judgment. Recognizing the difference helps a reader decide how much weight to give a statement.

The order in which events or steps happen within a passage. Signal words such as first, next, then, and finally help a reader follow that order correctly.

A comparison of two quantities by division, often written as 3:1 or 3/1. It tells how much of one thing exists for each unit of another.

An equation stating that two ratios are equal, such as 2/3 = 4/6. Solving one lets you find an unknown quantity when the relationship between the amounts stays constant.

A number expressed as a part of 100. To find it, multiply the whole by the percent written as a decimal, such as using 0.25 for 25 percent.

The sum of a set of numbers divided by how many numbers are in the set. It gives one value that represents the typical size of the group.

Changing a measurement from one unit to another, such as feet to inches, by multiplying by a known equivalence. The same physical amount is being described with a different label.

The amount of flat surface inside a two-dimensional shape, measured in square units. For a rectangle, you find it by multiplying length by width.

The agreed sequence for evaluating a math expression: parentheses, exponents, multiplication and division, then addition and subtraction. Following it ensures everyone who solves the problem gets the same answer.

A rigid bar that pivots on a fixed point to lift or move a load. A small effort applied far from the pivot can raise a heavy object placed near it.

The fixed pivot point on which a lever turns. Moving the fulcrum closer to the load increases the force the lever can lift but shortens the distance the load travels.

The number of times a machine multiplies the effort force you apply. A value greater than one means the machine lets you move a load using less force.

A wheel with a grooved rim and a rope running through it, used to change the direction of a pull or to reduce the force needed to lift a load.

A toothed wheel that meshes with another wheel to transmit motion and force. A small gear turning a large one increases force but slows the rotation.

The resistance that occurs when two surfaces slide or rub against each other. It converts motion into heat and makes moving objects harder to push.

The amount of force applied over a given area, often measured in pounds per square inch. Spreading the same force over more area lowers the pressure.

The four main compass points: north, east, south, and west. They provide the basic frame for describing where something is and which way to travel on a map.

The ratio between a distance on a map and the real distance it stands for. It lets you convert a measured map distance into an actual ground distance.

A pair of letters and numbers that pinpoints a location on a map divided into squares. You read the horizontal reference first, then the vertical one.

Imagining how an object would look after being turned in space. Firefighters use it to picture a room, tool, or route from a different angle before acting.

A scaled drawing showing rooms, walls, doors, and windows as seen from above. It helps you plan travel routes and understand how a building is laid out.

The straight, unobstructed path between an observer and a target. If a wall or other object blocks that path, the target cannot be seen directly.

A direction stated as an angle measured clockwise from north, such as 90 degrees for east. It gives a precise heading for navigation.

Fully concentrating on a speaker, then restating or asking questions to confirm understanding. It shows respect and reduces miscommunication during stressful incidents.

The ability to understand and share another person's feelings without necessarily agreeing with them. It helps responders calm upset people and build trust.

A process for settling disagreements by identifying the real issue and finding a solution both sides can accept. It focuses on the problem rather than on blaming people.

The formal line of authority that shows who reports to whom. Following it keeps orders clear and prevents confusion during an emergency.

Techniques that calm a tense situation by lowering voices, giving space, and listening. The goal is to reduce the chance of violence before it starts.

Messages sent through posture, facial expression, gestures, and tone rather than through words. These cues often reveal feelings a person is not saying aloud.

Coordinated effort by people who share a goal and rely on each other's skills. Clear roles and honest communication keep the group working safely and efficiently.