English Literature 8th grade
Read the passage. Dawn was just breaking when Jake and I broke camp. The mountain air was cold as we hiked upward, our packs heavy on our backs. Our goal was to reach the summit by noon. But an hour later, the sky was gray, and heavy clouds threatened to spill snow. "I can hardly tell that it's morning" I said. "Matt, should we turn back?" Jake asked. "Getting stranded in a blizzard wasn't part of our plan." I hesitated. This was the fifth day of the climb, and I hated to give up. "We may never have this chance again. We can make it in another two hours; I know it." What is the initiating event?
A blizzard could begin and make continuing dangerous
From "The Snowstorm" by Ralph Waldo Emerson Announced by all the trumpets of the sky,Arrives the snow, and, drive o'er the fields,Seems nowhere to alight: the whited airHides hill and woods, the river, and the heaven,And veils the farmhouse at the garden's end.The sled and traveler stopped, the courier's feetDelayed, all friends shut out, the housemates sitAround the radiant fireplace, enclosedIn a tumultuous privacy of storm. Which is the best paraphrase of lines 1-2 of the excerpt?
A snowstorm has begun.
Read the passage. (1) Alex picked up the bat and tapped his foot with it. (2) He pulled the bat through the air several times, practicing his swing. (3) He adjusted his helmet and tugged on his glove. (4) He was hitting below .500 for the first time in his career, and he knew that the managers were talking about sending him down to the minors. (5) Alex had doubled his practice time this week and felt good about the changes he had made. (6) He stepped up to the plate, swung the bat over his shoulder, and looked the pitcher squarely in the eye. (7) "Give me your best shot," Alex mumbled under his breath. (8) The fans in the bleachers scrambled for the ball. One of the conflicts in this story is between _____.
Alex and himself
Read the passage. If you live in a big city, you may take for granted the tall buildings. Even if you live in a smaller town, you probably have seen tall buildings. These buildings have existed for a little more than 100 years. Before that, materials were not strong enough to hold up tall structures. In older buildings, the walls carried the weight of the upper stories. Therefore, a building could have only a limited number of floors. With new materials such as ready-made steel and concrete blocks, builders could shift the weight from walls to columns and beams. Cranes and other machines were invented to allow the lifting of huge blocks and pieces of steel high into the sky. The elevator car, although dating from the nineteenth century, became more important because of taller buildings. Even with these advances, some critics say that ideas and methods in the construction industry do not change quickly. However, you can judge for yourself. Which sentence best states the main idea for a summary of this passage?
Changes in materials made it possible for workers to build taller buildings.
"Independence Day! Everyone has the day off! I can't wait to hang out with my friends," Jeremy exclaims as he drinks his juice at the kitchen table. He looks up as his father enters the kitchen dressed for work. "Dad, uh . . . you're looking rather formal this morning," Jeremy frowns as he looks his father up and down. "Really? You know that I always dress professionally for work." "Yeah. Sure, Dad." Jeremy says, rolling his eyes. His father quickly takes the milk out of the refrigerator, pours it into a bowl of cereal, and begins eating. "I'd better hurry, or I'll be late for work! Hey, aren't you supposed be getting ready for soccer practice?" "No, Dad. Today's July 4th. It's a holiday, remember?" Jeremy's father abruptly stops munching his cereal. "Oh, goodness! And I even got up early today!" After a few moments of silence, he shouts, "Hey, I've got a great idea! Since we have the day off, why don't you help me mulch the yard and weed the garden? I'd love to show you a few things about gardening." "Oooo, that sounds like fun." "Come on, I'm serious. It'll be good for you. I'll show you what hard work means. You know, when I was your age, I loved helping my dad out around the yard. You teenagers just don't know what it means to work . . ." Jeremy's father begins to lecture. "Yeah. I know, Dad. You've told that story a million times," Jeremy interrupts, losing his patience. What is the theme of this passage? Fathers like to tell the same stories repeatedly. Children and parents often have different values. Professional dress is appropriate for any occasion. All adults enjoy yardwork.
Children and parents often have different values.
Read the passage. No one knows for sure when the game of chess was invented. An early version of the game was popular at the end of the tenth century. The modern game was developed in southern Europe a few centuries later. Players in the sixteenth century wanted others to study their games to become better players. The best players were proclaimed "masters" and were highly honored. Books on chess were soon being read all over the world and the game grew in popularity. After the Russian Revolution, the Russian government deliberately set out to dominate world chess. It set up a program of chess education for children. It offered financial support to the country's best players. Russian players dominated the game throughout the twentieth century. What inference can you make about why the Russian government set up chess instruction for young children?
Children are easier than adults to train to play games such as chess.
Read the passage. Dragons in World Cultures Dragon myths have been told for thousands of years in various cultures throughout the word. Most people are familiar with the fire-breathing dragon on European folklore. This huge, snakelike monster is almost always portrayed as a threat to society. Eventually, outraged citizens get upset, and some brave individual must step forward to battle the dreadful beast. In medieval tales, it is usually a brave knight who volunteers to slay the dragon and free the maiden it holds captive. Of course, the dragon does not want to give up without a fight. In the end, however, the knight's effort is always successful. Despite its great physical strength, the wicked dragon is eventually killed, and the knight walks away with wealth and great honor. Which detail from the selection supports the prediction that tales like this one are ancient?
Dragon myths have been told for thousands of years in various cultures throughout the world.
Read the passage. Over the centuries, wigs have been popular accessories in various cultures. In ancient Egypt, both men and women of the nobility wore wigs on special occasions. These wigs were made of human hair and were usually adorned with flowers and gold ornaments. There are even paintings of dead Egyptians wearing wigs. Egyptians believed that everything needed in the afterlife must be buried with the dead. In ancient Rome, blond hair was preferred to dark hair. Therefore, many women wore wigs made from the hair of blond captives. Through the years, wigs went in and out of style, often on the whims of a king or queen. For example, King Louis XIII of France went bald at an early age, so he wore a wig of long, curly locks. In the 1700s, wigs for women were designed with support wires and powder that raised the hair three feet into the air. Some wigs included cages of live birds or models of sailing ships. Only a very agile woman could move easily in such a headpiece without tipping over! Which detail supports the main idea?
Egyptians believed that everything needed in the afterlife must be buried with the dead.
Churchill: [growing more impatient] We have got to try harder to come up with a solution, or else England will fall to Hitler. I won't stand for having my country handed over to the Nazis. Mr. Soames: [taking off his glasses and rubbing his weary eyes] But, sir, it is nearly two in the morning, and we've all been working since just after breakfast— Mr. Wright: [glaring at Churchill] Except for the Prime Minister, who indulged in a nap— Churchill: [drawing a deep breath and exhaling slowly before speaking] All right, gentlemen. I don't wish to deplete my finest resources. Let us end this meeting and resume tomorrow at nine. What does this selection reveal about the character of Churchill?
He cares deeply about the safety of his country.
Read the passage. Churchill: [growing more impatient] We have got to try harder to come up with a solution, or else England will fall to Hitler. I won't stand for having my country handed over to the Nazis. Mr. Soames: [taking off his glasses and rubbing his weary eyes] But, sir, it is nearly two in the morning, and we've all been working since just after breakfast— Mr. Wright: [glaring at Churchill] Except for the Prime Minister, who indulged in a nap— Churchill: [drawing a deep breath and exhaling slowly before speaking] All right, gentlemen. I don't wish to deplete my finest resources. Let us end this meeting and resume tomorrow at nine. What does this selection reveal about the character of Churchill?
He cares deeply about the safety of his country.
[Daylight is disappearing on a quiet street. A young boy is timidly walking up the front steps of a large, eerie house. He is carrying a box of candy bars with him. His older brother stands at the end of the driveway. The young boy has a fearful look on his face. His older brother looks irritated.] Damien: [anxiously tapping his foot] Go on! You're the one who wants the prize for selling the most candy bars. Get up there. Noah: [taking a deep breath] I'm going. [He slowly makes his way up to the front door and knocks. There is no response.] I don't think anyone's home. [Suddenly a large dog jumps up to the front window, barking loudly and pressing against the screen. It looks as if the dog could jump through the screen. Noah screams loudly.] Damien: [running up onto the porch and stepping in front of his brother] Okay, nobody's home. [protectively guiding Noah down the steps and off the porch] Besides, we should get home. Dinner's probably ready. Noah: [looking gratefully up at his brother as they walk onto the sidewalk] Yeah, you're right. Damien: [smiling down at his brother] Race you home! [The boys run down the street.] What do you learn about Noah from the stage directions at the beginning of the passage?
He is frightened.
Read the passage. Jeremiah hurried over to his backpack and heaved it onto a large tree stump. He opened it and surveyed everything that he had packed the night before: compass, change of clothes, bug spray, apples, granola, and bottled water. It was all in order. His stomach rumbled. All he had to do now was wait for everyone else to wake up. What can you infer about Jeremiah's eating habits?
He often skips breakfast.
Which sentence would most likely express the theme of a story?
Honesty is the essential foundation of a relationship.
From "The Day is Done" by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow (1) The day is done, and the darknessFalls from the wings of Night,As a feather is wafted downwardFrom an eagle in his flight. (5) I see the lights of the villageGleam through the rain and mist,And a feeling of sadness comes o'er meThat my soul cannot resist: A feeling of sadness and longing,(10) That is not akin to pain,And resembles sorrow onlyAs the mist resembles the rain. Come, read to me some poem,Some simple and heartfelt lay,(15) That shall soothe this restless feeling,And banish the thoughts of day. Which is a paraphrase of this entire excerpt from Longfellow's poem?
I feel a bit down, but poetry will brighten my mood.
Read the passage. Over the centuries, wigs have been popular accessories in various cultures. In ancient Egypt, both men and women of the nobility wore wigs on special occasions. These wigs were made of human hair and were usually adorned with flowers and gold ornaments. There are even paintings of dead Egyptians wearing wigs. Egyptians believed that everything needed in the afterlife must be buried with the dead. In ancient Rome, blond hair was preferred to dark hair. Therefore, many women wore wigs made from the hair of blond captives. Through the years, wigs went in and out of style, often on the whims of a king or queen. For example, King Louis XIII of France went bald at an early age, so he wore a wig of long, curly locks. In the 1700s, wigs for women were designed with support wires and powder that raised the hair three feet into the air. Some wigs included cages of live birds or models of sailing ships. Only a very agile woman could move easily in such a headpiece without tipping over! Which statement could be added to help support the main idea?
In colonial America, wealthy men often wore wigs.
Read the passage. Thomas: Come on, Patrick, you'll have fun. You'll learn a lot, and you'll be helping a family have a home that they otherwise couldn't afford. Patrick: I don't know, Thomas. I've never built anything before, much less a house. Thomas: You don't have to build the whole thing by yourself. There are dozens of people donating their time. Someone will show you just what to do. Patrick: What if a piece of wood falls on me or I step on a nail? Thomas: What if, what if. What if you just said yes to the project? Patrick: Well, I don't know. . . . Thomas: Come for three hours on Saturday. If you're not having fun by then, you can leave. And I won't tease you like I did when you quit the baseball team. Which conclusion about the building project is supported by the selection?
It is a volunteer project to help others.
Read the passage. Act 1, Scene 1 [It is early morning in a large city. The sounds of automobiles and buses can be heard through an open window. The home is small—a three-room flat. The furnishings are sparse, but the place is tidy. A gray-haired man stands in the tiny kitchen, cracking eggs into a bowl and scrambling them. A teenage girl is sitting at the kitchen table.] Grandfather: Are you running this morning, little one? Jessica: I don't know yet, Grandfather. It's hot already, and I could use a little extra sleep. [She rubs her eyes.] Grandfather: You don't know what this day will bring, Jess. You'd better run now, before school. You'll be at the hospital this afternoon. Your mom should be out of surgery by then. The dialogue in this passage reveals that _____.
Jessica's mom is having surgery that day
Read the passage. History is filled with tragic examples of cities going up in flames. Among the first recorded major fire disasters is the burning of Rome in July of 64 A.D. A fire broke out in one of the wooden shops near the Circus Maximus, a large stadium. The fire raged for six days before it was brought under control. Then it started again and burned for three more days. Accounts of the time report that strong winds fanned the flames. In the narrow streets, the fire spread quickly, causing many deaths. The role of Emperor Nero is a side story to this great fire. According to a famous myth, "Nero fiddled while Rome burned." He was accused of being outside the city, playing music while watching the fire. Although Nero was known as an entertainer, the thought that he might sing a ballad of Rome's destruction at such a time seems unlikely. In fact, Nero was hailed for his response to the fire. His actions included opening his royal gardens and surviving public buildings to the homeless. He also directed the rebuilding of Rome. Following the fire, builders relied on marble and stone for rebuilding the city. What conclusion about building materials is supported by the passage?
Marble and granite are fireproof, but wood burns easily.
Dawn was just breaking when Jake and I broke camp. The mountain air was cold as we hiked upward, our packs heavy on our backs. Our goal was to reach the summit by noon. But an hour later, the sky was gray, and heavy clouds threatened to spill snow. "I can hardly tell that it's morning" I said. "Matt, should we turn back?" Jake asked. "Getting stranded in a blizzard wasn't part of our plan." I hesitated. This was the fifth day of the climb, and I hated to give up. "We may never have this chance again. We can make it in another two hours; I know it." Which statement best describes the plot?
Matt and Jake try to reach the top of a mountain before the snow falls.
Read the passage. [Scene 1. Hallway in a cozy and cheerful house. Morning sunlight is pouring in, and a soft breeze is blowing from two open French doors in the background.] Mom: [She looks annoyed at GILLIAN, then seems to remember something.] Oh, don't forget to close the doors down here. I left the French doors open to let in a little breeze, but if you're going to be upstairs in your room, you should just close them. [She looks at her watch and grabs her briefcase.] I'm running late. Gotta go! [MOM exits. GILLIAN sighs with relief and picks up the tiny black kitten that has been watching her from a bench in the hallway.] Gillian: I was beginning to think she'd never leave. Why do mothers always worry so much? Huh, Piper? [PIPER purrs as GILLIAN scratches the kitten's head.] Let's go back upstairs. [As GILLIAN climbs the stairs with PIPER, a squirrel creeps in through the French doors, which have been left open.] We're going to enjoy a nice, quiet day in the house by ourselves. Which of the following items is a prop in this scene?
Mom's briefcase
History is filled with tragic examples of cities going up in flames. Among the first recorded major fire disasters is the burning of Rome in July of 64 A.D. A fire broke out in one of the wooden shops near the Circus Maximus, a large stadium. The fire raged for six days before it was brought under control. Then it started again and burned for three more days. Accounts of the time report that strong winds fanned the flames. In the narrow streets, the fire spread quickly, causing many deaths. The role of Emperor Nero is a side story to this great fire. According to a famous myth, "Nero fiddled while Rome burned." He was accused of being outside the city, playing music while watching the fire. Although Nero was known as an entertainer, the thought that he might sing a ballad of Rome's destruction at such a time seems unlikely. In fact, Nero was hailed for his response to the fire. His actions included opening his royal gardens and surviving public buildings to the homeless. He also directed the rebuilding of Rome. Following the fire, builders relied on marble and stone for rebuilding the city. From the second paragraph, what can you conclude about myths and history?
Myths are unreliable, but history records the facts.
From "The Day is Done" by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow (1) The day is done, and the darknessFalls from the wings of Night,As a feather is wafted downwardFrom an eagle in his flight. (5) I see the lights of the villageGleam through the rain and mist,And a feeling of sadness comes o'er meThat my soul cannot resist: A feeling of sadness and longing,(10) That is not akin to pain,And resembles sorrow onlyAs the mist resembles the rain. Come, read to me some poem,Some simple and heartfelt lay,(15) That shall soothe this restless feeling,And banish the thoughts of day. Which is a paraphrase of lines 1-4 of Longfellow's poem?
Nighttime has come.
Read the excerpt. From "The Day is Done" by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow (1) The day is done, and the darknessFalls from the wings of Night,As a feather is wafted downwardFrom an eagle in his flight. (5) I see the lights of the villageGleam through the rain and mist,And a feeling of sadness comes o'er meThat my soul cannot resist: A feeling of sadness and longing,(10) That is not akin to pain,And resembles sorrow onlyAs the mist resembles the rain. Come, read to me some poem,Some simple and heartfelt lay,(15) That shall soothe this restless feeling,And banish the thoughts of day. Which is a paraphrase of lines 1-4 of Longfellow's poem?
Nighttime has come.
[Daylight is disappearing on a quiet street. A young boy is timidly walking up the front steps of a large, eerie house. He is carrying a box of candy bars with him. His older brother stands at the end of the driveway. The young boy has a fearful look on his face. His older brother looks irritated.] Damien: [anxiously tapping his foot] Go on! You're the one who wants the prize for selling the most candy bars. Get up there. Noah: [taking a deep breath] I'm going. [He slowly makes his way up to the front door and knocks. There is no response.] I don't think anyone's home. [Suddenly a large dog jumps up to the front window, barking loudly and pressing against the screen. It looks as if the dog could jump through the screen. Noah screams loudly.] Damien: [running up onto the porch and stepping in front of his brother] Okay, nobody's home. [protectively guiding Noah down the steps and off the porch] Besides, we should get home. Dinner's probably ready. Noah: [looking gratefully up at his brother as they walk onto the sidewalk] Yeah, you're right. Damien: [smiling down at his brother] Race you home! [The boys run down the street.] Which detail adds to the suspense of the passage?
Noah is approaching a large, eerie house.
Read the passage. Try these steps if your computer display goes blank or if your system freezes: Unplug all external devices except the power adapter. Simultaneously press the Command and Control keys, as well as the Power button, to reactivate the system. Allow the battery to charge at least 10 percent before plugging in external devices. Note: Look at the Battery Status icon to determine how much the battery has recharged. Which sentence is the best paraphrase of step 2?
Press the Command, Control, and Power buttons all at the same time.
Read the passage. (1) Researchers at Six Flags Marine World, in California, were observing young bottlenose dolphins as they blew bubbles under water. The dolphins sometimes made bubble rings by expelling air through their blow holes. As a bubble ring rose in the water, a dolphin would bat it with a fin. Then, before the ring reached the surface, the dolphin would bite the ring to pop it. (2) The dolphins' behavior made the scientists wonder whether dolphins could plan ahead. The scientists think that this might be true. If a dolphin's first ring was well formed, the dolphin was more likely to make a second ring. The two rings usually combined to make a large ring that seemed even more fun to bat and bite. If the first ring was poorly formed, though, the dolphin would not bother to make another one. It was as though the dolphin were saying, "Why bother?" Which is the best one-sentence summary of the selection?
Scientists think that dolphins' bubble-blowing might show that they can plan ahead.
Read the sentence. Hope's hands began to shake as she approached the edge of the high-dive board. What inference could you make about Hope?
She is afraid of heights.
Read the passage. The argument over whether slavery should be legal in the United States became heated when, in 1817, Missouri applied to become a state. At the time, there were an equal number of states that did not support slavery as there were states that did. Slavery was legal in Missouri, so if it joined the Union, there would no longer be a balance. The Missouri Compromise was reached, which stated that Maine would be accepted as a free state, and Missouri would be a slave state. From then on, slavery was banned from the territories north of Missouri's border. This compromise seemed to settle the issue. However, the conflict between the North and South over slavery continued to worsen. Which sentence best states the main idea of the passage?
The Missouri compromise allowed Missouri and Maine to become states in the Union.
Read the passage. Dragons in World Cultures Dragon myths have been told for thousands of years in various cultures throughout the word. Most people are familiar with the fire-breathing dragon on European folklore. This huge, snakelike monster is almost always portrayed as a threat to society. Eventually, outraged citizens get upset, and some brave individual must step forward to battle the dreadful beast. In medieval tales, it is usually a brave knight who volunteers to slay the dragon and free the maiden it holds captive. Of course, the dragon does not want to give up without a fight. In the end, however, the knight's effort is always successful. Despite its great physical strength, the wicked dragon is eventually killed, and the knight walks away with wealth and great honor. Which detail supports the prediction that the knight who slays the dragon will win the heart of the maiden? The dragon has no intention of giving up without a fight. The brave knight volunteers to slay the dragon. The dragon is cunning and has great physical strength. The brave knight frees the dragon's captive.
The brave knight frees the dragon's captive.
Read the passages. Story Elena and Isabel stopped in front of the bookstore while Elena glanced at her receipt. She noticed that she had been charged for only two of the three books that she had just purchased. She explained to Isabel what had happened, and Isabel told her to forget it and consider herself lucky because the store always overcharged for its books. Elena was shocked—she could not believe that her friend would suggest such a thing! Elena knew that she could not enjoy the book if she didn't go back and pay for it. As the girls discussed the situation, Isabel told Elena that she was being too honest about such a small matter. Dramatization [Inside the local mall, in front of the entrance to the bookstore. The afternoon sun streams in through skylights. The buzz from chatty, eager shoppers nearly drowns out the soft music playing throughout the mall. Elena's hair is pulled back into a ponytail, and she is wearing the green dress she received for her birthday. Isabel is wearing jeans and a yellow blouse.] Elena: [Elena studies a receipt.] Hey, the clerk forgot to charge me for one of these books. Isabel: Great! You got a free book, then. Elena: [twisting her head toward Isabel and placing her hands on her hips] What? Are you saying that I shouldn't go back and tell him? Isabel: [frowning and waving her hand dismissively] Don't be silly. The store probably won't notice, so just consider it a little gift. That store charges too much for books, anyway. Elena: I'd feel terrible. I couldn't enjoy the book—every time I'd read it, I'd remember that I didn't pay for it. It's just not right. Isabel: [Shaking her head.] Suit yourself, but I think you're being too honest about the whole thing In what way are the story and the dramatization different?
The dramatization includes dialogue and staging.
How is a play adapted from another form of writing?
The same story is told by using stage directions and dialogue.
Read the excerpt. From "The Snowstorm" by Ralph Waldo Emerson Announced by all the trumpets of the sky,Arrives the snow, and, drive o'er the fields,(3) Seems nowhere to alight: the whited airHides hill and woods, the river, and the heaven,(5) And veils the farmhouse at the garden's end.The sled and traveler stopped, the courier's feetDelayed, all friends shut out, the housemates sitAround the radiant fireplace, enclosedIn a tumultuous privacy of storm. Which best expresses the meaning of lines 3-5 of the excerpt?
The snow blots out everything.
The first rays of sun illuminated the frost on the inside of the window. Jack knew then that the temperature had dipped below zero overnight. The tiny cabin on Mount Rainier was little more than a shack. It had smelled musty when he and Armando first entered it last night, but the strong odor of smoke from the fire filled his nostrils now. Jack was glad to see that Armando was sleeping on the tattered cot. His friend had fallen more than 30 feet onto a rocky ledge. Jack was certain that Armando's leg was shattered. Jack began to think of the treacherous route back to the nearest town. He would have to cross rugged terrain and frozen streams. But Jack knew that he would have to make it there today to find a doctor. Jack drew in a deep breath and began to pack. As his resolve grew, his shaking hands began to steady. He would not let his friend down. Which detail best describes the setting of this selection? Jack was glad to see that Armando was sleeping on the tattered cot. The tiny cabin on Mount Rainier was little more than a shack. As his resolve grew, his shaking hands began to steady. But Jack knew that they would have to make it there today to find a doctor.
The tiny cabin on Mount Rainier was little more than a shack.
From "The Rainy Day" by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow My life is cold, and dark, and dreary;It rains, and the wind is never weary;My thoughts still cling to the mouldering Past,But the hopes of youth fall thick in the blast,And the days are dark and dreary.Be still, sad heart! and cease repining;Behind the clouds is the sun still shining;Thy fate is the common fate of all,Into each life some rain must fall,Some days must be dark and dreary. What type of context clue for repining is the word shining?
antonym
Read the passage. Over the centuries, wigs have been popular accessories in various cultures. In ancient Egypt, both men and women of the nobility wore wigs on special occasions. These wigs were made of human hair and were usually adorned with flowers and gold ornaments. There are even paintings of dead Egyptians wearing wigs. Egyptians believed that everything needed in the afterlife must be buried with the dead. In ancient Rome, blond hair was preferred to dark hair. Therefore, many women wore wigs made from the hair of blond captives. Through the years, wigs went in and out of style, often on the whims of a king or queen. For example, King Louis XIII of France went bald at an early age, so he wore a wig of long, curly locks. In the 1700s, wigs for women were designed with support wires and powder that raised the hair three feet into the air. Some wigs included cages of live birds or models of sailing ships. Only a very agile woman could move easily in such a headpiece without tipping over! What is the main idea of this selection?
Wigs have been a popular accessory throughout history.
Read the passage. Favian Mercado and his friends looked with great interest at the colorful posters announcing the upcoming elections for student-body president. On one poster, Favian read that the president skipped class for meetings and rode the float in the town parade. Without further thought, Favian decided to run for president. A month later, when the votes were counted and Favian had won the election, he met with the vice principal to go over his new duties. After the meeting, Favian was overwhelmed. He had no idea that he would have to attend school board meetings, write monthly reports, and organize the annual fundraiser. If he had known that being president would be so much work, he might not have entered the election. What is the theme of this story?
With power comes responsibility.
Read the following questions. Then, choose the best answer. Which type of writing would be a good example of a summary?
a description of a movie on an Internet blog
[It is evening on the front porch of a small cabin in the woods. A lantern placed on a porch table gives off a soft glow. The buzzing of insects and croaking of frogs can be heard in the distance. Now and then there is the sound of water splashing, as if a fish has jumped in a pond. A gray-haired woman in her sixties rocks back and forth in a rocking chair on the porch. Her granddaughter, an 8-year-old girl, sits nearby, eating a cookie. It is obvious that there is great affection between the grandmother and girl, in the way they speak to each other.] What information is included in these stage directions?
a description of sounds
Which type of poem typically uses the speech of a character?
a dramatic poem
What is an epic poem?
a long narrative poem about a hero
What is a concrete poem?
a poem arranged in a visual image that suggests its meaning
The road was a dead end into the heart of the country. Where the woodland broke into a field, the sun poured down like honey from the vivid blue sky. Usually this was a quiet spot, but today—the first really warm day of spring—was a little different. The warm sun had melted the snows to create temporary pools of water, and in those pools thousands of frogs were hatching. They made a joyful symphony, higher pitched than the calls of birds but more tuneful than any insect's. It would last for only a day or two, and then it would be over. What mood do the details in this setting description help create? a strange but cheerful mood a tense and hectic mood a quiet and thoughtful mood an eerie, somewhat frightening mood
a quiet and thoughtful mood
All fiction and nonfiction works have _____.
a setting, mood, and style of writing
Read the sentence. She sells seashells by the seashore. What sound device does this sentence use?
alliteration
She sells seashells by the seashore. What sound device does this sentence use?
alliteration
Which is a brief remark that a character directs privately to the audience or to another character?
an aside
[Scene: The stage is divided in two. Downstage left is a school gymnasium being decorated for a dance. Teens are making large, colorful flowers and hanging them throughout the gym. A sign on the wall reads: Dance Tonight! Upstage right is a teenage girl's bedroom. Several trophies are lined on a shelf above a desk. The lights are brought up in the bedroom. Samantha Jackson is in her bedroom, attempting to pirouette. Her right ankle is taped.] Samantha Jackson: Ouch! I'll never be able to go to the dance tonight. Why did I think skating the day before the biggest dance of the year was a good idea? I have to go tonight! I'll do anything! [Her mother enters the bedroom, carrying a pair of crutches.] Samantha's words in this scene are _____.
an aside
Read the poem. From "The Rainy Day" by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow My life is cold, and dark, and dreary;It rains, and the wind is never weary;My thoughts still cling to the mouldering Past,But the hopes of youth fall thick in the blast,And the days are dark and dreary.Be still, sad heart! and cease repining;Behind the clouds is the sun still shining;Thy fate is the common fate of all,Into each life some rain must fall,Some days must be dark and dreary. What type of context clue for repining is the word shining?
antonym
Read the scene. [Scene 3. Gillian's bedroom. The sun has set, and the room is lit by a lamp on Gillian's desk. A phone sits next to the lamp.] Gillian: [She appears frightened.] I really don't want to go downstairs. Who knows what I'm going to find down there? I really wish that Mom would get home. She said that she'd be home by six o'clock, but she must be running late. [She hears a loud bang coming from downstairs and is visibly startled.] There it is again! It can't be Piper. She's hiding under the bed. Ohhhh, why do these things always happen to me when I'm alone? Maybe I should call the police. Okay, that's what I'll do. I'll call the police. Better safe than sorry. Then again, what if it turns out to be nothing? I'll feel ridiculous if the police come here and don't find anything. They'll think I'm paranoid. [She hears something move across the hardwood floor below and the sound of glass breaking.] That's it! I've got to do something. I can't just stand here shaking. I'm calling the police right now. I can't take such chances. What if there's a burglar down there...or worse? [She rushes to the phone on her desk and picks up the receiver.] Which emotion does Gillian reveal in this scene?
anxiety
What can paraphrasing help you do?
avoid plagiarism, or using someone else's words as your own
From "The Chimney-Sweeper" by William Blake When my mother died I was very young,And my father sold me while yet my tongueCould scarcely cry "Weep! weep! weep! weep!"So your chimneys I sweep, and in soot I sleep. There's little Tom Dacre, who cried when his head,That curled like a lamb's back, was shaved; so I said,"Hush, Tom! never mind it, for, when your head's bare,You know that the soot cannot spoil your white hair." Which is an example of end rhyme from the poem?
bare/hair
Read the poem. From "The Chimney-Sweeper" by William Blake When my mother died I was very young,And my father sold me while yet my tongueCould scarcely cry "Weep! weep! weep! weep!"So your chimneys I sweep, and in soot I sleep. There's little Tom Dacre, who cried when his head,That curled like a lamb's back, was shaved; so I said,"Hush, Tom! never mind it, for, when your head's bare,You know that the soot cannot spoil your white hair." Which is an example of end rhyme from the poem?
bare/hair
Read the passage. A cold wind raked across the barren moor and night was beginning to set in when we reached our final destination. The horses' hooves beat a steady drum as the carriage proceeded up the sweeping length of the driveway. At last we came to a stop in front of a crumbling mansion. One light shone brightly near an upper window, but the rest of the house was in inky darkness. Which choice best describes the mood of the passage?
bleak and eerie
how does a writer use indirect characterization in a work of fiction?
by hinting at a characters qualities through the characters actions or thoughts
To modify a prediction means to _____.
change the prediction
A parent of a Washington School student fought the school board and city council for a change in the bus routes. What kind of conflict is this? character versus character character versus self character versus the world an internal conflict
character versus the world
The most exciting moment in a plot is called the turning point or _____.
climax
The most exciting moment in a plot is called the turning point or _____. exposition denouement climax resolution
climax
Read the passages. Story Manuel and his brother, Juan, were relaxing in Juan's boat on Lake Erie when dark clouds appeared. The men could not make it back to shore before the storm hit. As Manuel bailed water and Juan steered, the effort exhausted both men. Juan had worked hard to fix the boat and could not let it sink, so despite growing weakness, he desperately continued steering against the wind. Manuel could see that Juan was becoming too tired. Although weak himself, Manuel made Juan rest while he took a turn steering. Manuel knew that they'd be fine if they worked together. Dramatization [A storm rages over Lake Erie. Dark clouds conceal most of the sunlight as thunder crashes overhead and wind buffets Juan's boat. Manuel and his brother, Juan, wear protective rain gear and life vests.] Manuel: [shouting to himself over the wind and feeling exhausted from bailing water] Where'd this storm come from? [shouting to Juan] You've been steering for half an hour! Take a break! Juan: [steeling himself even more against the wind] I know, but I don't want to lose the boat in this storm. I spent a whole year fixing it! Manuel: [making his way to the rear of the boat and taking the rudder from Juan.] I can steer. Rest for a few minutes, and then bail some water. If we work together, we'll get through this storm just fine. Manuel's motivation reveals him as _____.
concerned about his brother
Mom thinks that I'm a chronic slob. My room has always been a mess because I never clean it. Mom nags me to straighten up my room, but I like it the way it is. It may seem like a mess to her, but the way that I have my room organized makes perfect sense to me. I've compiled a mental list of the room's furnishings. My desk chair holds my dirty clothes. The dresser in the corner is piled with my school books. One side of the bed is covered with clean towels and laundry that I never fold or put away. I always know where to find my things, so I don't think it's messy at all! What is the meaning of chronic?
constant
Read the passage. Mom thinks that I'm a chronic slob. My room has always been a mess because I never clean it. Mom nags me to straighten up my room, but I like it the way it is. It may seem like a mess to her, but the way that I have my room organized makes perfect sense to me. I've compiled a mental list of the room's furnishings. My desk chair holds my dirty clothes. The dresser in the corner is piled with my school books. One side of the bed is covered with clean towels and laundry that I never fold or put away. I always know where to find my things, so I don't think it's messy at all! What is the meaning of chronic?
constant
A free verse poem _____.
does not use regular meter
Dragons in World Cultures Dragon myths have been told for thousands of years in various cultures throughout the word. Most people are familiar with the fire-breathing dragon on European folklore. This huge, snakelike monster is almost always portrayed as a threat to society. Eventually, outraged citizens get upset, and some brave individual must step forward to battle the dreadful beast. In medieval tales, it is usually a brave knight who volunteers to slay the dragon and free the maiden it holds captive. Of course, the dragon does not want to give up without a fight. In the end, however, the knight's effort is always successful. Despite its great physical strength, the wicked dragon is eventually killed, and the knight walks away with wealth and great honor. On the basis of the title and the subheading, what do you predict the next paragraph will be about? the deeds of famous knights three- and four-toed dragons dragons in European cultures medieval weapons and armor
dragons in European cultures
Read the passage. Dragons in World Cultures Dragon myths have been told for thousands of years in various cultures throughout the word. Most people are familiar with the fire-breathing dragon on European folklore. This huge, snakelike monster is almost always portrayed as a threat to society. Eventually, outraged citizens get upset, and some brave individual must step forward to battle the dreadful beast. In medieval tales, it is usually a brave knight who volunteers to slay the dragon and free the maiden it holds captive. Of course, the dragon does not want to give up without a fight. In the end, however, the knight's effort is always successful. Despite its great physical strength, the wicked dragon is eventually killed, and the knight walks away with wealth and great honor. On the basis of the title and the subheading, what do you predict the next paragraph will be about?
dragons in European cultures
When a short story is presented on stage, the play is called a _____.
dramatization
From "The Rainy Day" by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow My life is cold, and dark, and dreary;It rains, and the wind is never weary;My thoughts still cling to the mouldering Past,But the hopes of youth fall thick in the blast,And the days are dark and dreary.Be still, sad heart! and cease repining;Behind the clouds is the sun still shining;Thy fate is the common fate of all,Into each life some rain must fall,Some days must be dark and dreary. Which is a possible meaning for the word repining in the poem?
expressing discontent
Read the poem. From "The Rainy Day" by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow My life is cold, and dark, and dreary;It rains, and the wind is never weary;My thoughts still cling to the mouldering Past,But the hopes of youth fall thick in the blast,And the days are dark and dreary.Be still, sad heart! and cease repining;Behind the clouds is the sun still shining;Thy fate is the common fate of all,Into each life some rain must fall,Some days must be dark and dreary. Which is a possible meaning for the word repining in the poem?
expressing discontent
The conflict of a story begins to wind down after the climax and during the _____ part of the story. initiating event falling action resolution rising action
falling action
Read the passages. Story Elena and Isabel stopped in front of the bookstore while Elena glanced at her receipt. She noticed that she had been charged for only two of the three books that she had just purchased. She explained to Isabel what had happened, and Isabel told her to forget it and consider herself lucky because the store always overcharged for its books. Elena was shocked—she could not believe that her friend would suggest such a thing! Elena knew that she could not enjoy the book if she didn't go back and pay for it. As the girls discussed the situation, Isabel told Elena that she was being too honest about such a small matter. Dramatization [Inside the local mall, in front of the entrance to the bookstore. The afternoon sun streams in through skylights. The buzz from chatty, eager shoppers nearly drowns out the soft music playing throughout the mall. Elena's hair is pulled back into a ponytail, and she is wearing the green dress she received for her birthday. Isabel is wearing jeans and a yellow blouse.] Elena: [Elena studies a receipt.] Hey, the clerk forgot to charge me for one of these books. Isabel: Great! You got a free book, then. Elena: [twisting her head toward Isabel and placing her hands on her hips] What? Are you saying that I shouldn't go back and tell him? Isabel: [frowning and waving her hand dismissively] Don't be silly. The store probably won't notice, so just consider it a little gift. That store charges too much for books, anyway. Elena: I'd feel terrible. I couldn't enjoy the book—every time I'd read it, I'd remember that I didn't pay for it. It's just not right. Isabel: [Shaking her head.] Suit yourself, but I think you're being too honest about the whole thing The story and the dramatization are similar because both _____.
follow the same plot
Read the passage. From The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin In 1717 my brother James returned from England with a press and letters to set up his business in Boston. I liked it much better than that of my father, but still had a hankering for the sea. To prevent the apprehended effect of such an inclination, my father was impatient to have me bound to my brother. I stood out some time, but at last was persuaded, and signed the indenture when I was yet but twelve years old. I was to serve as an apprentice till I was twenty-one years of age, only I was to be allowed journeyman's wages during the last year. Which word best describes the author's style?
formal
Read the passage. Computer programs that play chess first appeared in the 1960s, but these programs were no match for the top human players. It was not until 1997 that a chess computer called Deep Blue was able to narrowly defeat world champion Garry Kasparov in a series of games. Kasparov concealed his disappointment as best he could, but he could not hide the embarrassment he felt over losing to a machine. Readers can infer that computer programs that play chess _____.
have improved over time
Before you paraphrase a line or a passage, you should first _____.
identify the most basic information
"Independence Day! Everyone has the day off! I can't wait to hang out with my friends," Jeremy exclaims as he drinks his juice at the kitchen table. He looks up as his father enters the kitchen dressed for work. "Dad, uh . . . you're looking rather formal this morning," Jeremy frowns as he looks his father up and down. "Really? You know that I always dress professionally for work." "Yeah. Sure, Dad." Jeremy says, rolling his eyes. His father quickly takes the milk out of the refrigerator, pours it into a bowl of cereal, and begins eating. "I'd better hurry, or I'll be late for work! Hey, aren't you supposed be getting ready for soccer practice?" "No, Dad. Today's July 4th. It's a holiday, remember?" Jeremy's father abruptly stops munching his cereal. "Oh, goodness! And I even got up early today!" After a few moments of silence, he shouts, "Hey, I've got a great idea! Since we have the day off, why don't you help me mulch the yard and weed the garden? I'd love to show you a few things about gardening." "Oooo, that sounds like fun." "Come on, I'm serious. It'll be good for you. I'll show you what hard work means. You know, when I was your age, I loved helping my dad out around the yard. You teenagers just don't know what it means to work . . ." Jeremy's father begins to lecture. "Yeah. I know, Dad. You've told that story a million times," Jeremy interrupts, losing his patience. In this selection, the theme is _____. dramatic direct implied universal
implied
Read the passage. "Nice shot, Vinnie! Looks like you need to practice basketball more than math!" Dante joked. Vincent chuckled as he walked home to study. As he reviewed the math rules, he occasionally glanced out the window and saw Dante practicing jump shots. Soon, Dante was at the door. "Haven't you studied enough?" he said. "Let's play!" "I'd love to play," Vincent replied, "but tomorrow's the quiz! You'd better study harder for it, or you'll be sorry!" "I'll do fine. I've studied for it. See you tomorrow." As Dante walked home, he thought, "The teacher's going to quiz us on only certain kinds of equations. I don't need to learn all of the rules." The following morning, students took the quiz. To Dante's surprise, almost all of the questions were about the rules! His heart sank. He regretted having spent so much time playing instead of studying. However, Vincent was thrilled. He was the first one finished. He felt great for having had the sense to cut short his playing time to study. He had mastered the new math chapter! The theme of this passage is _____.
implied
Read the passage. Please sit down. Do not talk. Just listen to me. You must stop being mean to your little sister. It's against the rules. She can be a pest, I know. But you must be patient. She's just a little girl. Please try to be kind to her. Which answer describes the author's word choice?
many simple, everyday words
From "The Chimney-Sweeper" by William Blake When my mother died I was very young,And my father sold me while yet my tongueCould scarcely cry "Weep! weep! weep! weep!"(4) So your chimneys I sweep, and in soot I sleep. There's little Tom Dacre, who cried when his head,That curled like a lamb's back, was shaved; so I said,"Hush, Tom! never mind it, for, when your head's bare,You know that the soot cannot spoil your white hair." Which phrase from line 4 is an example of alliteration?
in soot I sleep
Read the poem. From "The Chimney-Sweeper" by William Blake When my mother died I was very young,And my father sold me while yet my tongueCould scarcely cry "Weep! weep! weep! weep!"(4) So your chimneys I sweep, and in soot I sleep. There's little Tom Dacre, who cried when his head,That curled like a lamb's back, was shaved; so I said,"Hush, Tom! never mind it, for, when your head's bare,You know that the soot cannot spoil your white hair." Which phrase from line 4 is an example of alliteration?
in soot I sleep
Act 1, Scene 1 [It is early morning in a large city. The sounds of automobiles and buses can be heard through an open window. The home is small—a three-room flat. The furnishings are sparse, but the place is tidy. A gray-haired man stands in the tiny kitchen, cracking eggs into a bowl and scrambling them. A teenage girl is sitting at the kitchen table.] Grandfather: Are you running this morning, little one? Jessica: I don't know yet, Grandfather. It's hot already, and I could use a little extra sleep. [She rubs her eyes.] Grandfather: You don't know what this day will bring, Jess. You'd better run now, before school. You'll be at the hospital this afternoon. Your mom should be out of surgery by then. What is Grandfather's motivation for urging Jess to run in the morning?
internal motivation because he is concerned about Jess and her mom
Read the passage. Act 1, Scene 1 [It is early morning in a large city. The sounds of automobiles and buses can be heard through an open window. The home is small—a three-room flat. The furnishings are sparse, but the place is tidy. A gray-haired man stands in the tiny kitchen, cracking eggs into a bowl and scrambling them. A teenage girl is sitting at the kitchen table.] Grandfather: Are you running this morning, little one? Jessica: I don't know yet, Grandfather. It's hot already, and I could use a little extra sleep. [She rubs her eyes.] Grandfather: You don't know what this day will bring, Jess. You'd better run now, before school. You'll be at the hospital this afternoon. Your mom should be out of surgery by then. What is Grandfather's motivation for urging Jess to run in the morning?
internal motivation because he is concerned about Jess and her mom
From "The Chimney-Sweeper" by William Blake When my mother died I was very young,And my father sold me while yet my tongueCould scarcely cry "Weep! weep! weep! weep!"(4) So your chimneys I sweep, and in soot I sleep. There's little Tom Dacre, who cried when his head,That curled like a lamb's back, was shaved; so I said,"Hush, Tom! never mind it, for, when your head's bare,You know that the soot cannot spoil your white hair." What sound device is used in line 4 of the poem?
internal rhyme
Read the poem. From "The Chimney-Sweeper" by William Blake When my mother died I was very young,And my father sold me while yet my tongueCould scarcely cry "Weep! weep! weep! weep!"(4) So your chimneys I sweep, and in soot I sleep. There's little Tom Dacre, who cried when his head,That curled like a lamb's back, was shaved; so I said,"Hush, Tom! never mind it, for, when your head's bare,You know that the soot cannot spoil your white hair." What sound device is used in line 4 of the poem?
internal rhyme
The speaker in a piece of fiction is called the _____.
narrator
A story is told from the third-person point of view by a _____. narrator involved in the action narrator outside the action of a story a writer; a real person character in the story
narrator outside the action of a story
One of the most common subjects of traditional haiku poetry is _____.
nature
Essays and articles are a type of _____. fiction both fiction and nonfiction nonfiction novella
nonfiction
Mom thinks that I'm a chronic slob. My room has always been a mess because I never clean it. Mom nags me to straighten up my room, but I like it the way it is. It may seem like a mess to her, but the way that I have my room organized makes perfect sense to me. I've compiled a mental list of the room's furnishings. My desk chair holds my dirty clothes. The dresser in the corner is piled with my school books. One side of the bed is covered with clean towels and laundry that I never fold or put away. I always know where to find my things, so I don't think it's messy at all! Based on the passage's context, the idiom straighten up means _____.
organize carefully
Read the passage. Mom thinks that I'm a chronic slob. My room has always been a mess because I never clean it. Mom nags me to straighten up my room, but I like it the way it is. It may seem like a mess to her, but the way that I have my room organized makes perfect sense to me. I've compiled a mental list of the room's furnishings. My desk chair holds my dirty clothes. The dresser in the corner is piled with my school books. One side of the bed is covered with clean towels and laundry that I never fold or put away. I always know where to find my things, so I don't think it's messy at all! Based on the passage's context, the idiom straighten up means _____.
organize carefully
Read the passage. Last night I attended the varsity baseball game. As usual, the players stomped the other team, pushing their winning streak up to ten games. However, our stands were only half full. When football season comes around, everyone makes it to the games. The basketball team also plays to a packed gymnasium. But for some reason, the baseball team never receives this support. We owe it to these baseball players to go to their games. They practice hard, and their hard work shines through. Kyle Rodder's pitching has been amazing. Some of the plays that Marcus Garrett makes at shortstop do not seem humanly possible. And Rod Folley regularly sends the ball out to the parking lot. So gather some of your friends, and come out to the ballpark. The only downside is that your throat may hurt from all of the cheering that you will do! This passage is an example of _____ writing.
persuasive
Read the passage. Emily Dickinson is considered one of America's greatest poets, but few of her poems were published in her lifetime. Born in 1830, Dickinson grew up in Amherst, Massachusetts, and attended school there and in nearby Holyoke. She was no doubt familiar with other popular New England writers of her day, especially Ralph Waldo Emerson. Dickinson had a fairly normal social life until she reached her mid-twenties, after which she rarely left the home she inherited from her parents. Instead, she may have been able to understand the world better by viewing it from a distance. With a sharp eye and keen intellect, she pondered nature, friendship, love, and death in poems of powerful simplicity. Only about seven of her poems were published during her lifetime, all without her consent. When she died in 1886, relatives found over 1,500 more of Dickinson's poems, many of them written on napkins and slips of paper neatly tied up with ribbons. Which word best describes the author's attitude toward the subject?
positive
Story Manuel and his brother, Juan, were relaxing in Juan's boat on Lake Erie when dark clouds appeared. The men could not make it back to shore before the storm hit. As Manuel bailed water and Juan steered, the effort exhausted both men. Juan had worked hard to fix the boat and could not let it sink, so despite growing weakness, he desperately continued steering against the wind. Manuel could see that Juan was becoming too tired. Although weak himself, Manuel made Juan rest while he took a turn steering. Manuel knew that they'd be fine if they worked together. Dramatization [A storm rages over Lake Erie. Dark clouds conceal most of the sunlight as thunder crashes overhead and wind buffets Juan's boat. Manuel and his brother, Juan, wear protective rain gear and life vests.] Manuel: [shouting to himself over the wind and feeling exhausted from bailing water] Where'd this storm come from? [shouting to Juan] You've been steering for half an hour! Take a break! Juan: [steeling himself even more against the wind] I know, but I don't want to lose the boat in this storm. I spent a whole year fixing it! Manuel: [making his way to the rear of the boat and taking the rudder from Juan.] I can steer. Rest for a few minutes, and then bail some water. If we work together, we'll get through this storm just fine. The bucket that Manuel uses to bail water is a _____.
prop
(1) Alex picked up the bat and tapped his foot with it. (2) He pulled the bat through the air several times, practicing his swing. (3) He adjusted his helmet and tugged on his glove. (4) He was hitting below .500 for the first time in his career, and he knew that the managers were talking about sending him down to the minors. (5) Alex had doubled his practice time this week and felt good about the changes he had made. (6) He stepped up to the plate, swung the bat over his shoulder, and looked the pitcher squarely in the eye. (7) "Give me your best shot," Alex mumbled under his breath. (8) The fans in the bleachers scrambled for the ball. Sentence 8 is the _____ of the story's conflict. falling action resolution foreshadowing rising action
resolution
Read the passage. (1) Alex picked up the bat and tapped his foot with it. (2) He pulled the bat through the air several times, practicing his swing. (3) He adjusted his helmet and tugged on his glove. (4) He was hitting below .500 for the first time in his career, and he knew that the managers were talking about sending him down to the minors. (5) Alex had doubled his practice time this week and felt good about the changes he had made. (6) He stepped up to the plate, swung the bat over his shoulder, and looked the pitcher squarely in the eye. (7) "Give me your best shot," Alex mumbled under his breath. (8) The fans in the bleachers scrambled for the ball. Sentence 8 is the _____ of the story's conflict.
resolution
What is paraphrasing?
restating the text in your own words
Read the following questions. Then, choose the best answer. Summarizing is a valuable skill because it allows you to _____.
review important information without rereading the selection
Read the passage. (1) Alex picked up the bat and tapped his foot with it. (2) He pulled the bat through the air several times, practicing his swing. (3) He adjusted his helmet and tugged on his glove. (4) He was hitting below .500 for the first time in his career, and he knew that the managers were talking about sending him down to the minors. (5) Alex had doubled his practice time this week and felt good about the changes he had made. (6) He stepped up to the plate, swung the bat over his shoulder, and looked the pitcher squarely in the eye. (7) "Give me your best shot," Alex mumbled under his breath. (8) The fans in the bleachers scrambled for the ball. Which part of the story is the exposition, in which the conflict is introduced sentence 2 sentence 1 sentence 4 sentence 3
sentence 4
Read the passage. Emily Dickinson is considered one of America's greatest poets, but few of her poems were published in her lifetime. Born in 1830, Dickinson grew up in Amherst, Massachusetts, and attended school there and in nearby Holyoke. She was no doubt familiar with other popular New England writers of her day, especially Ralph Waldo Emerson. Dickinson had a fairly normal social life until she reached her mid-twenties, after which she rarely left the home she inherited from her parents. Instead, she may have been able to understand the world better by viewing it from a distance. With a sharp eye and keen intellect, she pondered nature, friendship, love, and death in poems of powerful simplicity. Only about seven of her poems were published during her lifetime, all without her consent. When she died in 1886, relatives found over 1,500 more of Dickinson's poems, many of them written on napkins and slips of paper neatly tied up with ribbons. Which word best describes the author's style in this passage?
serious
Which genre is most likely to be dramatized?
short story
Read the title of a magazine article. The Vision of Maya Ying Lin, Student Architect Based on this title, what do you predict the article will cover? something designed by Maya Ying Lin the eyesight of Maya Ying Lin something Maya Yin Lin dreamed the story Maya Yin Lin wrote
something designed by Maya Ying Lin
Read the passage. Last night I attended the varsity baseball game. As usual, the players stomped the other team, pushing their winning streak up to ten games. However, our stands were only half full. When football season comes around, everyone makes it to the games. The basketball team also plays to a packed gymnasium. But for some reason, the baseball team never receives this support. We owe it to these baseball players to go to their games. They practice hard, and their hard work shines through. Kyle Rodder's pitching has been amazing. Some of the plays that Marcus Garrett makes at shortstop do not seem humanly possible. And Rod Folley regularly sends the ball out to the parking lot. So gather some of your friends, and come out to the ballpark. The only downside is that your throat may hurt from all of the cheering that you will do! Which word best describes the tone of this passage?
supportive
Read the passage. The first rays of sun illuminated the frost on the inside of the window. Jack knew then that the temperature had dipped below zero overnight. The tiny cabin on Mount Rainier was little more than a shack. It had smelled musty when he and Armando first entered it last night, but the strong odor of smoke from the fire filled his nostrils now. Jack was glad to see that Armando was sleeping on the tattered cot. His friend had fallen more than 30 feet onto a rocky ledge. Jack was certain that Armando's leg was shattered. Jack began to think of the treacherous route back to the nearest town. He would have to cross rugged terrain and frozen streams. But Jack knew that he would have to make it there today to find a doctor. Jack drew in a deep breath and began to pack. As his resolve grew, his shaking hands began to steady. He would not let his friend down. Which word describes the overall mood of the selection?
suspenseful
Which describes fiction? a biography a memoir tells about made-up people and events tells about real people and events
tells about made-up people and events
Read the passage. From the Aesop's fable "The Ant and the Dove" An Ant went to the bank of a river to quench its thirst, and being carried away by the rush of the stream, was at the point of nearly drowning. A Dove sitting on a tree overhanging the water plucked a leaf and let it fall into the stream close to her. The Ant climbed onto it and floated safely into the bank. Shortly afterward, a birdcatcher came and stood underneath the tree, and laid his lime-twigs for the Dove, which sat on the branches. The Ant, perceiving his design, stung him in the foot. In pain the birdcatcher threw down the twigs, and the noise made the Dove fly away. Which is a character-versus-character conflict of the fable?
the Ant against the birdcatcher
Which best defines staging?
the act of putting on a play
Read the passage. Act 1, Scene 1 [It is early morning in a large city. The sounds of automobiles and buses can be heard through an open window. The home is small—a three-room flat. The furnishings are sparse, but the place is tidy. A gray-haired man stands in the tiny kitchen, cracking eggs into a bowl and scrambling them. A teenage girl is sitting at the kitchen table.] Grandfather: Are you running this morning, little one? Jessica: I don't know yet, Grandfather. It's hot already, and I could use a little extra sleep. [She rubs her eyes.] Grandfather: You don't know what this day will bring, Jess. You'd better run now, before school. You'll be at the hospital this afternoon. Your mom should be out of surgery by then. From the stage directions, you learn that _____.
the apartment is tidy and neat
To make a prediction before reading the text of a magazine article, you should first preview _____.
the article's title, captions, and photographs
What is meant by the term theme in a narrative? the setting and action of the story the music that goes with the story the central message of a story the conclusion of the story
the central message of a story
In a discussion of literature, to what does the term mood refer?
the feeling or atmosphere that the work creates for the reader
Read the scene. [Scene 4. The red and blue lights of a police vehicle are flashing on the walls of the hallway. The front door opens as Mom walks in, followed by two police officers.] Mom: What is going on? Gillian? Where are you? Gillian: [She rushes down the stairs, looking excited.] Mom! Police Officer 1: Ma'am, wait right here while we look around. Mom: Go ahead. Gillian, what happened? Why are the police here? Gillian: I went back upstairs with Piper after you left this morning. I still felt dizzy, so I got back into bed. I slept, and then I did some homework. Around six o'clock, I heard a crash downstairs. At first, I thought Piper was making noise. I figured she'd knocked something over. I was about to go downstairs when I saw Piper dash under my bed. Then I heard another crash. Mom, I got really scared! I called the police because I didn't know what to do! [MOM is about to speak but she is interrupted when POLICE OFFICER 2 enters.] Police Officer 2: [He is smiling.] We've solved the mystery; you've got a squirrel in your kitchen. Mom: Oh, Gillian! Did you forget to close the French doors when you went upstairs? Gillian: [She covers her face with her hands.] Oh, no! I completely forgot! Mom: [She laughs.] Who's the worrywort now? Police Officer 1: [He laughs.] We'll arrange to have someone get the squirrel. Gillian: [She is smiling sheepishly.] Boy, I feel foolish. Which is part of the set?
the front door
Which pair of details is most likely to contribute to the mood of a story?
the images and the setting
What is a word's context?
the other words or phrases that surround i
What is a word's context?
the other words or phrases that surround it
The road was a dead end into the heart of the country. Where the woodland broke into a field, the sun poured down like honey from the vivid blue sky. Usually this was a quiet spot, but today—the first really warm day of spring—was a little different. The warm sun had melted the snows to create temporary pools of water, and in those pools thousands of frogs were hatching. They made a joyful symphony, higher pitched than the calls of birds but more tuneful than any insect's. It would last for only a day or two, and then it would be over. Which aspect of the setting is most important to the description in this passage? the physical features of the land and the customs of the characters the customs and beliefs of the characters and the physical features of the land the weather or season of the year and the historical era in which the action takes place the physical features of the land and the weather or season of the year
the physical features of the land and the weather or season of the year
Dramatization [Inside the local mall, in front of the entrance to the bookstore. The afternoon sun streams in through skylights. The buzz from chatty, eager shoppers nearly drowns out the soft music playing throughout the mall. Elena's hair is pulled back into a ponytail, and she is wearing the green dress she received for her birthday. Isabel is wearing jeans and a yellow blouse.] Elena: [Elena studies a receipt.] Hey, the clerk forgot to charge me for one of these books. Isabel: Great! You got a free book, then. Elena: [twisting her head toward Isabel and placing her hands on her hips] What? Are you saying that I shouldn't go back and tell him? Isabel: [frowning and waving her hand dismissively] Don't be silly. The store probably won't notice, so just consider it a little gift. That store charges too much for books, anyway. Elena: I'd feel terrible. I couldn't enjoy the book—every time I'd read it, I'd remember that I didn't pay for it. It's just not right. Isabel: [Shaking her head.] Suit yourself, but I think you're being too honest about the whole thing Which of these is a prop?
the receipt
Read the passage. Depending on the railway car you were riding in, traveling by train in the late 1800s could be a grand experience or an awful one. If you were in a Pullman train car, you could expect considerable luxury and a great deal of service. A Pullman car boasted leather seats, lamps with silk shades, chandeliers, and gourmet food. However, only the wealthy could afford such a ride. For most passengers, trains provided a different experience. A long train ride was often a cheerless journey, due to hard seats, terrible food, and bad smells. Why does the writer include a description of a regular train car?
to contrast its poor conditions with the comfort of a Pullman car
Read the lines of poetry. What was the constant knock,knock, knockingWaking me before dawn? Why did the poet repeat the word knock?
to show that the knocking is continuous
What was the constant knock,knock, knockingWaking me before dawn? Why did the poet repeat the word knock?
to show that the knocking is continuous
Read the passage. [It is evening on the front porch of a small cabin in the woods. A lantern placed on a porch table gives off a soft glow. The buzzing of insects and croaking of frogs can be heard in the distance. Now and then there is the sound of water splashing, as if a fish has jumped in a pond. A gray-haired woman in her sixties rocks back and forth in a rocking chair on the porch. Her granddaughter, an 8-year-old girl, sits nearby, eating a cookie. It is obvious that there is great affection between the grandmother and girl, in the way they speak to each other.] To whom might these stage directions be most useful?
to someone reading the play
An author's style is revealed by elements in the writing such as _____.
word choice and length of sentences
A nonfiction work is almost always told from the point of view of the _____.
writer, a real person
