Reading Instruction Competence Assessment (RICA) Practice Test

Which of the following examples represents a compound word?

1. Inside

2. Running

3. Bicycle

4. Happy

The correct answer is: Inside

A compound word is formed when two independent words are joined together to create a new word with its own meaning. The correct choice, which is "bicycle," consists of two parts: "bi-" meaning two, and "cycle," meaning a wheel or circular object. When combined, they reference a vehicle with two wheels. On the other hand, "inside" is not composed of two free-standing words but rather functions as a single word with its own unique meaning. "Running" is the present participle of the verb “to run” and does not result from the union of two distinct words. Similarly, "happy" is an adjective that stands alone and does not combine two separate words. Thus, "bicycle" exemplifies the concept of a compound word by successfully merging two standalone elements into one cohesive term.