Unit 1 - Epic Beginnings

Old English developed from ___________ tribes.

Germanic

Beowulf is a(n) __________ epic poem.

Anglo-Saxon

Read the excerpt from Gilgamesh: A New English Version. Gilgamesh said, "Courage, dear brother, this is no time to give in to fear. We have come so far, across so many mountains, and our journey is about to reach its goal. You were raised in the wild, with your own hands you have killed marauding lions and wolves, you are brave, your heart has been tested in combat. Though your arms feel weak now and your legs tremble, you are a warrior, you know what to do. Shout out your battle-cry, let your voice pound like a kettle drum. Let your heart inspire you to be joyous in battle, to forget about death. If we help each other and fight side by side, we will make a lasting name for ourselves, we will stamp our fame on men's minds forever." Which evidence from the excerpt best illustrates the point that Gilgamesh is a leader who believes in teamwork? a. Gilgamesh said, "Courage, dear brother, / this is no time to give in to fear. / We have come so far, across so many mountains" b. You were raised in the wild, with your own hands / you have killed marauding lions and wolves, / you are brave, your heart has been tested in combat. c. Though your arms feel weak now and your legs tremble, / you are a warrior, you know what to do. d. If we help each other and fight side by side, / we will make a lasting name for ourselves, / we will stamp our fame on men's minds forever.

NOT a. Gilgamesh said, "Courage, dear brother, / this is no time to give to to fear. / We have come so far, across so many mountains"

Read the passage from Beowulf. Beowulf, Ecgtheow's son, replied: "Well, friend Unferth, you have had your say about Breca and me. But it was mostly beer that was doing the talking. The truth is this: when the going was heavy in those high waves, I was the strongest swimmer of all. We'd been children together and we grew up daring ourselves to outdo each other, boasting and urging each other to risk our lives on the sea. Now read Luka's inference. Even though he's a warrior, Beowulf often uses diplomacy instead of rushing to anger and aggression. Which sentence from the passage best supports his inference? a. Well, friend Unferth, you have had your say about Breca and me. b. But it was mostly beer that was doing the talking. c. The truth is this: when the going was heavy in those high waves, I was the strongest swimmer of all. d. We'd been children together and we grew up daring ourselves to outdo each other, boasting and urging each other to risk our lives on the sea.

NOT c.

Read the paragraph from Liam's narrative. 1 I had never been more frightened in my entire life. 2 As I stepped onto the diving platform, I waited for instructions from my diving coach. 3 Only because his directions were so clear, and because he was so nice, was I able to do it. 4 It had all been worth it, I thought, as I changed from my bathing suit back into clothes. 5 I had achieved what I had set out to do. Which sentence could replace sentence 5 to make the paragraph more precise? a. I was able to accomplish the goal I had set for myself. b. I had finally managed to dive from the highest platform. c. I had surprised myself by being able to do what I didn't think I could. d. I truly owed a lot to Coach Wilkerson for all the help he had given me.

NOT c. I had surprised myself by being able to do what I didn't think I could.

Read the excerpt from Gilgamesh: A New English Version. Gilgamesh said, "Courage, dear brother, this is no time to give in to fear. We have come so far, across so many mountains, and our journey is about to reach its goal." Which statement best paraphrases these sentences from the text? a. Gilgamesh commands Enkidu to stay strong because they are about to reach the end of their long journey. b. Gilgamesh encourages Enkidu by reminding him that they have traveled a long way and are very close to achieving their goal. c. Gilgamesh tells Enkidu to have courage because they will definitely win after the horrific things they have endured. d. Gilgamesh tries to inspire Enkidu by reminding him that they have had to cross many mountains to get where they are.

NOT d. Gilgamesh tries to inspire Enkidu by reminding him that they have had to cross many mountains to get where they are.

When a student studies the way the English language has evolved, the student is studying English's a. alliteration. b. development. c. origin. d. repetition.

b. development.

What topics are commonly explored in epics? Check all that apply. a. love and romance b. fame and glory c. academia d. perseverance e. leadership

b. fame and glory d. perseverance e. leadership

Read the excerpt from Gilgamesh: A New English Version. Gilgamesh stopped. He was trembling. Tears flowed down his cheeks. "O Shamash," he cried, "protect me on this dangerous journey. Remember me, help me, hear my prayer." Which statement best paraphrases these sentences from the text? a. Frightened, Gilgamesh pleads with the god Shamash to protect him during this dangerous journey. b. Trembling and crying, Gilgamesh honors Shamash so that Shamash will grant his wish. c. Gilgamesh shows great respect for the god Shamash by praying to him for protection. d. Shamash is a powerful god, so Gilgamesh asks him to provide safety as he faces great danger.

a. Frightened, Gilgamesh pleads with the god Shamash to protect him during this dangerous journey.

Read the excerpt from Dominique's narrative. 1 Tired of waiting for the bus, which was late for the fifth day in a row, I sat leafing through an old magazine I had stuffed in my purse the previous night. 2 It was terribly warm for a September afternoon, and the sun cast transitory shadows on the bus stop sign with each car that passed. 3 I fleetingly wondered when the weather would get cooler and when the new bus driver would start arriving on time. 4 It was about then that I first noticed the apparent agitation of the man sitting next to me. 5 Finally, the bus arrived and ambled to a gradual stop directly in front of the restless man. 6 The doors widened, and the bus driver greeted the man with his usual banter in his usual monotone. 7 "Good afternoon. How are you today?" Which sentence would best create a strong, descriptive image in the reader's mind if it were added after sentence 4? a. He was casting quick, sideways glances in the direction the bus should be coming from, and his left foot beat a steady rhythm on the hot pavement. b. All of the man's actions and mannerisms clearly indicated his distress, and I could not help staring at him while we waited for the bus to finally arrive. c. The man's behaviors led me to guess that he was anxious about something, and I wondered if the tardy bus could have caused such upset in someone. d. In fact, he appeared to be so aggravated that I thought for a second that he would explode with anger, but then he just sat down and silently waited.

a. He was casting quick, sideways glances in the direction the bus show be coming from, and his left foot beat a steady rhythm on the hot pavement.

Why is repetition an important part of an epic's structure? Check all that apply. a. It allows poets to remember and retell the poem. b. It introduces additional themes. c. It helps the audience absorb the poem. d. It distracts from the main idea. e. It creates a rhythmic pattern. f. It emphasizes important ideas.

a. It allows poets to remember and retell the poem. c. It helps the audience absorb the poem. e. It creates a rhythmic pattern. f. It emphasizes important ideas.

Read the excerpt from Grendel. He sang of battles and marriages, of funerals and hangings, the whimperings of beaten enemies, of splendid hunts and harvests. He sang of Hrothgar, hoarfrost white, magnificent of mind. When he finished, the hall was as quiet as a mound. I too was silent, my ear pressed tight against the timbers. Even to me, incredibly, he had made it all seem true and very fine. Which statement best describes Grendel's perspective? a. He is frightened by the power of Hrothgar and his musician. b. He is lonely and wishes to befriend the people in the great hall. c. He is caught up in the harpist's song, just like Hrothgar's people. d. He is confused by the people's interest in a stranger's song.

c. He is caught up in the harpist's song, just like Hrothgar's people.

Consider the passage and theme. Devin kept a low profile in school. He attended classes and talked with his friends in the hall, but few knew him well. He rarely raised his hand in class and never spoke out of turn. Even in band class, he refused to draw attention to himself. Though he had earned the honor of first-chair saxophone, he did not reveal his passion for his instrument to his classmates. Then, sophomore year, Devin joined the marching band despite his fear of public scrutiny. The night of the first football game, his palms were sweating and his heart was racing as the band marched onto the field. But as soon as he began to play, his fears were forgotten, and through the glare of the lights he could see the crowd swaying and clapping to the music. Devin was completely at ease during his solo, and after the game a friend told him, "You were great! I didn't know you had it in you." Theme One: It is important to take risks. What other theme is addressed in the passage? a. People can reveal themselves through their passions. b. Music entertains people with varied interests. c. A leader knows how to share the spotlight with others. d. Shyness can prevent people from finding social success.

a. People can reveal themselves through their passions.

Which detail from Gilgamesh: A New English Version best illustrates a challenging journey? a. The two men travel a thousand miles at a time before they stop for the night. b. Gilgamesh makes an offering to the mountain and asks for a favorable dream. c. Gilgamesh dreams that an enormous mountain falls on him and Enkidu. d. The two men can hear the roar of Humbaba as they get to the Cedar Forest.

a. The two men travel a thousand miles at a time before they stop for the night.

Read the excerpt from Gilgamesh: A New English Version. Gilgamesh answered, "Dear friend, dear brother, I cannot kill Humbaba alone. Please stay here with me. Stand at my side. 'Two boats lashed together will never sink. A three-ply rope is not easily broken.' If we help each other and fight side by side, what harm can come to us?" The author includes this excerpt to establish Gilgamesh as a. a compelling speaker. b. a ruthless warrior. c. a devoted servant of Shamash. d. a long-distance traveler.

a. a compelling speaker.

Which of these are features of epic poetry? Check all that apply. a. a courageous hero who answers a call to adventure b. a main character who has to overcome common challenges c. a journey filled with many obstacles d. a vast setting of distant landscapes e. supernatural forces, such as gods or monsters, that intervene f. circumstances that would be very familiar to readers

a. a courageous hero who answers a call to adventure. c. a journey filled with many obstacles d. a vast setting of distant landscapes e. supernatural forces, such as gods or monsters, that intervene

Read the passage from Beowulf. They marched in step, hurrying on till the timbered hall rose before them, radiant with gold. Nobody on earth knew of another building like it. Majesty lodged there, its light shone over many lands. Which feature of Old English poetry did this modern translation maintain? a. alliteration b. full lines c. rhyme d. short pauses

a. alliteration

Which elements does strong narrative writing always contain? Check all that apply. a. engaging dialogue b. rich descriptions c. a famous quotation d. cited sources e. thoughtful reflection

a. engaging dialogue b. rich descriptions e. thoughtful reflection

Read the passage from Beowulf. Then it was like old times in the echoing hall, proud talk and the people happy, loud and excited; until soon enough Halfdane's heir had to be away to his night's rest. He realized that the demon was going to descend on the hall, that he had plotted all day, from dawn-light until darkness gathered again over the world and stealthy night-shapes came stealing forth under the cloud-murk. The passage features Anglo-Saxon culture because people are a. feasting. b. laughing. c. relaxing. d. worrying.

a. feasting.

Which qualities define an epic hero? Check all that apply. a. is a strong leader or warrior b. embarks on a long journey c. studies at an academic institution d. demonstrates impressive courage e. treats enemies with compassion

a. is a strong leader or warrior b. embarks on a long journey d. demonstrates impressive courage

Read the excerpt from Gilgamesh: A New English Version. Gilgamesh said, "Courage, dear brother, this is no time to give in to fear. We have come so far, across so many mountains, and our journey is about to reach its goal. You were raised in the wild, with your own hands you have killed marauding lions and wolves, you are brave, your heart has been tested in combat. Though your arms feel weak now and your legs tremble, you are a warrior, you know what to do." What characteristics of an epic hero does Gilgamesh demonstrate in this excerpt? Check all that apply. a. leadership b. courage c. honesty d. triumph in battle e. compelling speech

a. leadership b. courage e. compelling speech

Which best defines the word repetition in epic poetry? a. the recurrence of words and phrases for a specific effect b. the duplication of main ideas for development c. the reproduction of images for emphasis d. the reappearance of characters for a surprise reaction

a. the recurrence of words and phrases for a specific effect

Which of these are elements of an epic poem's structure and style? Check all that apply. a. the use of poetic verse throughout the epic b. a narrative voice that tells the story c. the use of prose in some passages d. short descriptions e. elevated, or eloquent, style f. compelling speeches

a. the use of poetic verse throughout the epic b. a narrative voice that tells the story e. elevated, or eloquent, style f. compelling speeches

Read the point and the chart below. Point: Gilgamesh believes in the power of supernatural forces. Quoted evidence: Gilgamesh stopped. He was trembling. Tears / flowed down his cheeks. "O Shamash," he cried, / "protect me on this dangerous journey. / Remember me, help me, hear my prayer." Paraphrased evidence: _______________________________________ Which statement best completes the blank in this chart? a. So frightened that he is trembling and crying, Gilgamesh prays fervently for anyone to hear and protect him. b. Frightened by what he faces, Gilgamesh pleads to the god Shamash to protect him on this dangerous journey. c. Believing that Shamash is the most powerful god, Gilgamesh cries and begs him for help on the journey. d. Gilgamesh is scared about his dangerous journey, and he has no idea where to turn for help aside from the gods.

b. Frightened by what he faces, Gilgamesh pleads to the god Shamash to protect him on this dangerous journey.

Read the excerpt from Gilgamesh: A New English Version. Gilgamesh felt his courage return. They charged at Humbaba like two wild bulls. The monster let out a deafening cry, his roar boomed forth like a blast of thunder, he stamped and the ground burst open, his steps split the mountains of Lebanon, the clouds turned black, a sulfurous fog descended on them and made their eyes ache. Then Shamash threw strong winds at Humbaba, the south wind, the north wind, the east and the west, storm wind, gale wind, hurricane, tornado, to pin him down and paralyze his steps. He could not move forward, could not retreat. Gilgamesh saw it, he leaped upon him, he held a knife to Humbaba's throat. What is the best conclusion that can be drawn about Gilgamesh's character from this excerpt? a. He prides himself on his triumphs in battle. b. He believes in the power of teamwork. c. He relies on supernatural forces to save him. d. He demonstrates bravery and takes risks.

b. He believes in the power of teamwork.

Read the excerpt from Gilgamesh: A New English Version. Enkidu said, "Don't worry, my friend, the dream you had is a favorable one. The mountain stands for Humbaba. He will fall just like that mountain. Lord Shamash will grant us victory, we will kill the monster and leave his corpse on the battlefield." Gilgamesh, happy with his good dream, smiled, and his face lit up with pleasure. What is the effect of Enkidu's dream interpretation? a. It causes Gilgamesh to doubt his quest's purpose. b. It encourages Gilgamesh to continue his journey. c. It distracts Gilgamesh from his intended quest. d. It frightens Gilgamesh away from fighting Humbaba.

b. It encourages Gilgamesh to continue his journey.

Read the excerpt from Gilgamesh: A New English Version. Then, from heaven, the voice of the god called to Gilgamesh: "Hurry, attack, attack Humbaba while the time is right, before he enters the depths of the forest, before he can hide there and wrap himself in his seven auras with their paralyzing glare. He is wearing just one now. Attack him! Now!" What effect does Lord Shamash's intervention have on the epic? a. It scares Gilgamesh and leads the audience to believe that Gilgamesh will lose. b. It encourages Gilgamesh to fight and adds excitement for the audience. c. It causes Gilgamesh to run away and increases the audience's unease. d. It causes Gilgamesh to slowly withdraw and provides the audience with relief.

b. It encourages Gilgamesh to fight and adds excitement for the audience.

Consider the excerpt and theme from Gilgamesh: A New English Version. Enkidu said, "Don't worry, my friend, the dream you had is a favorable one. The eagle that you saw, with a lion's head, stands for Humbaba. Though it dived straight toward you and terrifying flames shot from its mouth, nothing could cause you harm. The young man who came to your rescue was our lord, Shamash. He will stand beside us when the monster attacks. Whatever happens, we will prevail." Gilgamesh, happy with his good dream, smiled, and his face lit up with pleasure. Theme One: Dreams have valuable meanings. What other theme is addressed in the excerpt? a. Imaginary monsters pose no threat. b. People can depend on their god(s). c. One must be prepared for battle. d. Happiness leads to great success.

b. People can depend on their god(s).

Which statement best describes the effect of Gilgamesh's repeated dreams in Gilgamesh: A New English Version? a. The repetition of the dreams introduces one clear theme. b. The repetition of the dreams creates rhythm, interest, and drama. c. The repetition of the dreams gives the epic an informal tone. d. The repetition of the dreams establishes Gilgamesh as the hero.

b. The repetition of the dreams creates rhythm, interest, and drama.

Which examples from Gilgamesh: A New English Version most effectively illustrate the point that Gilgamesh takes risks? Check all that apply. a. From far off they saw the Cedar Mountain, / sacred to Ishtar, where the gods dwell, / the slopes of it steep, and rich in cedars b. They advanced to the monster's den. Humbaba / charged out roaring at them and said, / "I know you, Gilgamesh. Don't be a fool." c. Gilgamesh felt his courage return. / They charged at Humbaba like two wild bulls. d. He could not move forward, could not retreat. / Gilgamesh saw it, he leaped upon him, / he held a knife to Humbaba's throat. e. Gilgamesh chopped down the mighty trees, / Enkidu hewed the trunks into timbers.

b. They advanced to the monster's den. Humbaba / charged out roaring at them and said, / "I know you, Gilgamesh. Don't be a fool." c. Gilgamesh felt his courage return. / They charged at Humbaba like two wild bulls. d. He could not move forward, could not retreat. / Gilgamesh saw it, he leaped upon him, / he held a knife to HUmbaba's throat.

Read the passage from Beowulf. "My lord, the conquering king of the Danes, bids me announce that he knows your ancestry; also that he welcomes you here to Heorot and salutes your arrival from across the sea. You are free to move forward to meet Hrothgar, in helmets and armour, but shields must stay here and spears be stacked until the outcome of the audience is clear." Which phrase from the passage contains a feature of Anglo-Saxon culture? a. bids me announce that he knows your ancestry b. also that he welcomes you here to Heorot c. You are free to move forward d. until the outcome of the audience is clear

b. also that he welcomes you here to Heorot

Read the excerpt from Gilgamesh: A New English Version. Gilgamesh said, "Courage, dear brother, this is no time to give in to fear. We have come so far, across so many mountains, and our journey is about to reach its goal. You were raised in the wild, with your own hands you have killed marauding lions and wolves, you are brave, your heart has been tested in combat. Though your arms feel weak now and your legs tremble, you are a warrior, you know what to do. Shout out your battle-cry, let your voice pound like a kettle drum. Let your heart inspire you to be joyous in battle, to forget about death." This excerpt most supports the conclusion that Gilgamesh is a a. bold and determined traveler. b. compelling and confident speaker. c. strong and ferocious warrior. d. brave and courageous risk-taker.

b. compelling and confident speaker.

Read the paragraph from Yasmin's narrative. I took a long, lingering look at the tremendous beauty that surrounded me. Nature abounded as far as the eye could see, and the only sounds to be heard were the peaceful murmurs of that which existed in the wilderness. As I sat there, my tent and sleeping bag the only signs of civilization for miles, my heart swelled with relief that I had decided to take this weekend camping trip. I could feel every muscle in my body gradually relaxing with every sight, every sound, every smell within this untouched slice of tranquility. Which narrative element would most effectively increase the reader's understanding of the tranquility Yasmin describes? a. additional information about why Yasmin chose to camp at that specific campsite b. more specific descriptions of the sights, sounds, and smells mentioned by Yasmin c. background information about Yasmin's previous camping experiences and expertise d. examples of other instances in Yasmin's life when she felt so peaceful and relaxed

b. more specific descriptions of the sights, sounds, and smells by Yasmin

Read the excerpt from Gilgamesh: A New English Version. Gilgamesh, hearing his beloved friend, came to himself. He yelled, he lifted his massive axe, he swung it, it tore into Humbaba's neck, the blood shot out, again the axe bit flesh and bone, the monster staggered, his eyes rolled, and at the axe's third stroke he toppled like a cedar and crashed to the ground. In this excerpt, Gilgamesh is most characterized as a. compassionate because he listens to his friend. b. strong because he is triumphant in battle. c. practical because he does what it takes to survive. d. confident because he takes unnecessary risks.

b. strong because his is triumphant in battle.

Read the passage from Beowulf. The hero arose, surrounded closely by his powerful thanes. A party remained under orders to keep watch on the arms; the rest proceeded, led by their prince under Heorot's roof. And standing on the hearth in webbed links that the smith had woven, the fine-forged mesh of his gleaming mail-shirt, resolute in his helmet, Beowulf spoke: Which word from the passage is a feature of Anglo-Saxon culture? a. powerful b. thanes c. roof d. gleaming

b. thanes

A literary theme is defined as a. the series of events that construct a tale. b. the message a text conveys about a topic. c. the location where a text takes place. d. the author's opinion of previous experiences.

b. the message a text conveys about a topic.

Read the excerpt from Gilgamesh: A New English Version. At four hundred miles they stopped to eat, at a thousand miles they pitched their camp. They had traveled for just three days and nights, a six weeks' journey for ordinary men. When the sun was setting, they dug a well, they filled their waterskins with fresh water, Gilgamesh climbed to the mountaintop What characteristic of an epic hero does the excerpt reveal? a. bravery in the face of danger b. willingness to endure a voyage c. ability to deliver compelling speeches d. tendency to seek supernatural assistance

b. willingness to endure a voyage

Consider the passage and theme. Ria was thrilled when her doctor removed her cast. It had only been a month, but the inconvenience of wearing a cast and using crutches had been a constant challenge. She had learned that her high school, while accessible, was not easy to navigate with crutches. The stairs were treacherous, and the elevator was slow, but what bothered Ria the most were the entrances. Since her high school sat on a hill with a wide, concrete stairway to the front door, all of the ramps were at entrances far off her usual course. Fortunately, Ria made some new friends venturing to and from the ramps. She noticed that these friends were upbeat and determined, and they had more interesting things to discuss than the minor inconvenience of a ramp. Still, when the student council asked for suggestions about a class project, Ria submitted a proposal for a front-entrance ramp instead of the high-def scoreboard she had once prioritized. Theme One: Lessons are often learned through one's struggles. What other theme is addressed in the passage? a. Injuries are a stumbling block to maintaining good health. b. Considering life from a new point of view is enlightening. c. High school projects allow students to improve their schools. d. Learning to make new friends is an important social skill.

b.Considering life from a new point of view is enlightening.

Read the excerpt from Gilgamesh: A New English Version. Gilgamesh answered, "Dear friend, dear brother, I cannot kill Humbaba alone. Please stay here with me. Stand at my side. 'Two boats lashed together will never sink. A three-ply rope is not easily broken.' If we help each other and fight side by side, what harm can come to us? Let us go on and attack the monster. We have come so far. Whatever you are feeling, let us go on." Which statement best paraphrases evidence to support the conclusion that Gilgamesh is an effective and confident leader? a. Gilgamesh demands that Enkidu stay by his side, reminding him that one person alone cannot defeat Humbaba. b. Gilgamesh reminds Enkidu of how far they have come and how disappointed he will be if Enkidu leaves now. c. Gilgamesh encourages Enkidu to stay by telling him that together they will be strong enough to defeat Humbaba. d. Gilgamesh uses clever comparisons about boats and ropes to inspire Enkidu to stay and help him in the attack.

c. Gilgamesh encourages Enkidu to stay by telling hum that together they will be strong enough to defeat Humbaba.

Read the point and the chart below. Point: Gilgamesh has the bravery and strength to triumph in battle. Quoted evidence: He yelled, he lifted / his massive axe, he swung it, it tore / into Humbaba's neck, the blood / shot out, again the axe bit flesh / and bone, the monster staggered, his eyes / rolled, and at the axe's third stroke / he toppled like a cedar and crashed to the ground. Which statement best completes the blank in this chart? a. Gilgamesh yells, lifts his massive axe, and swings it aggressively at Humbaba's neck three times. b. Humbaba suffers great blood loss before staggering and toppling to the ground like a cedar tree. c. Gilgamesh fiercely attacks Humbaba repeatedly with his axe until the monster topples and crashes to the ground. d. Humbaba is severely injured by the attack, as evidenced by the fact that the axe cut through flesh and bone.

c. Gilgamesh fiercely attacks Humbaba repeatedly with his axe until the monster topples and crashes to the ground.

Read the paragraph from a personal narrative. 1 It may have seemed like an ordinary day to everyone else, but to me, it couldn't have been further from it. 2 Today was my first day working as a waitress at Pete's Pizza Haven, and I could not have been more excited. 3 In fact, I was so excited that I rushed to get ready much faster than I typically do. 4 "I'm ready to go!" I shouted, bouncing down the stairs and flying into the kitchen, where my mom was making breakfast. 5 "I have so much to learn and don't want to be late," I declared for emphasis. 6 My mom just grinned and placed a steaming plate of eggs before me. Which should be added after sentence 6 to most effectively move the plot forward? a. The excitement of my new job started to wane, and I began to reconsider if this was truly how I wanted to spend my summer. b. Once I arrived, I quickly learned that my job would also entail wiping tables, mopping floors, and washing dishes. c. I gulped down my food, grabbed my bus card, and pecked my mother on the cheek as I raced out the door. d. As I think back on my first job, I remember the many mistakes I made and the important lessons I learned.

c. I gulped down my food, grabbed my bus card, and pecked my mother on the cheek as I raced out the door.

Which line best helps the reader understand Grendel's character? a. In the beginning there were various groups of them: ragged little bands that roamed the forest on foot or horseback . . . b. Ice clung to their eyebrows and beards and eyelashes, and I'd hear them whining and groaning as they walked. c. In time I began to be more amused than revolted by what they threatened. It didn't matter to me what they did to each other. d. Spears flying, swords whonking, arrows raining from the windows and doors of the meadhall and the edge of the woods.

c. In time I began to be more amused than revolted by what they threatened. It didn't matter to me what they did to each other.

Read the paragraph from Lucy's narrative. I could see that my neighbor was struggling with the lone bag of groceries cradled in her arms, but I wasn't sure what I should do. Grandma June—what all the neighborhood kids had called her for as long as I could remember—had always been the one to care for us, to help us build stronger forts, to grow better flowers, and to learn from our mistakes. To ask if she needed help with something as simple as carrying in one bag of groceries would be like shouting to the world that she was aging, that she was no longer as strong as she once had been. Hesitantly, I walked to the wooden gate that divided our front lawn from hers and stood there as the package she was carrying threatened to spill from her arms. Lucy decides that this may not be the most effective way to tell her story. If she wants to create more suspense in the plot, what would be the best possible change she could make? a. She could remove the background information about her past with Grandma June, allowing suspense to build as the reader wonders who Grandma June is. b. She could include more reasons she is hesitant to assist Grandma June, allowing suspense to build as the reader begins to believe she will not help. c. She could start with the last sentence instead, allowing suspense to build as the reader wonders why she is hesitant to ask if Grandma June needs help. d. She could begin with more stories about Grandma June, allowing suspense to build as the reader wonders why she is talking about Grandma June.

c. She could start with the last sentence instead, allowing suspense to build as the reader wonders why she is hesitant to ask if Grandma June needs help.

Read the excerpt from Gilgamesh: A New English Version. Enkidu said, "Don't worry, my friend, the dream you had is a favorable one. The eagle that you saw, with a lion's head, stands for Humbaba. Though it dived straight toward you and terrifying flames shot from its mouth, nothing could cause you harm. The young man who came to your rescue was our lord, Shamash. He will stand beside us when the monster attacks. Whatever happens, we will prevail." Which statement best describes the epic feature used in this excerpt and its effect on the plot? a. The difficult journey that Gilgamesh must undertake causes him to feel defeated. b. The vast landscape that Gilgamesh must travel through adds tension to the plot. c. The intervention of the supernatural gives Gilgamesh hope that he will defeat Humbaba. d. The narrative voice of the epic poem makes it difficult for the audience to relate to Gilgamesh.

c. The intervention of the supernatural gives Gilgamesh hope that he will defeat Humbaba.

Jamal's assignment for class is to write his own verse to add to Beowulf, using some of the traditions that were used in Old English poetry. Which excerpt from Jamal's poem best fulfills the assignment? a. And Unferth heard Beowulf's story. And he sulked, hearing all that glory. b. As Unferth listened to what Beowulf said, he felt overcome with envy at what he heard c. Unferth sat back, brooding on his bench, listening bitterly to Beowulf's conquests d. Unferth remained in the hall with others, Where he hid how much he was truly bothered.

c. Unferth sat back, brooding on his bench, listening to Beowulf's conquests

Read the excerpt from Dominique's personal narrative. Tired of waiting for the bus, which was late for the fifth day in a row, I sat leafing through an old magazine I had stuffed in my purse the previous night. It was terribly warm for a September afternoon, and the sun cast fleeting shadows on the bus stop sign with each car that passed. I wondered when the weather would get cooler and when the new bus driver would start arriving on time. It was about then that I first noticed the apparent agitation of the man sitting next to me. Finally, the bus arrived and ambled to a gradual stop directly in front of the restless man. The doors widened, and the bus driver greeted the man with his usual banter in his usual monotone. "Good afternoon. How are you today?" When writing the next few lines of dialogue, Dominique should be certain that the lines a. provide clues about what will happen later on in the narrative. b. contain made-up details that make the story more exciting. c. include everyday language that seems real and natural. d. use precise words that make both men sound educated.

c. include everyday language that seems real and natural.

Read the passage from Beowulf. From where he crouched at the king's feet, Unferth, a son of Ecglaf's, spoke contrary words. Beowulf's coming, his sea-braving, made him sick with envy: he could not brook or abide the fact that anyone else alive under heaven might enjoy greater regard than he did: The passage supports the inference that Unferth is a. acclaimed. b. frail. c. petty. d. religious.

c. petty.

To make an inference correctly, a reader should a. explain how the inference is influenced by modern language. b. show how the inference impacts the language in the text. c. provide evidence to support the inference. d. describe how the inference affects the plot.

c. provide evidence to support the inference.

Read the excerpt from Gilgamesh: A New English Version. Gilgamesh backed away, He said, "How dreadful Humbaba's face has become! It is changing into a thousand nightmare faces, more horrible than I can bear. I feel haunted. I am too afraid to go on." Enkidu answered, "Why, dear friend, do you speak like a coward? What you just said is unworthy of you. It grieves my heart. We must not hesitate or retreat. Two intimate friends cannot be defeated. Be courageous. Remember how strong you are. I will stand by you. Now let us attack." Gilgamesh felt his courage return. They charged at Humbaba like two wild bulls. Which statement best paraphrases evidence to support the conclusion that Gilgamesh is courageous? a. Humbaba's face is so terrifyingly hideous that it must have taken great courage for the men to even look at him in the first place. b. Encouraged by Enkidu's bravery, Gilgamesh pretends to be brave and follows Enkidu's lead in attacking Humbaba. c. Enkidu, Gilgamesh's closest friend, reminds him that he must be courageous so they can defeat Humbaba together. d. Despite his momentary horror at seeing Humbaba's dreadful face, Gilgamesh overcomes his fear with encouragement from his companion.

d. Despite his momentary horror at seeing Humbaba's dreadful face, Gilgamesh overcomes his fear with encouragement from his companion.

Read the excerpt from Gilgamesh: A New English Version. Gilgamesh dropped his axe, appalled. Enkidu said, "Courage, dear friend, Close your ears to Humbaba's curses. Don't listen to a word. Slaughter him! Now!" Gilgamesh, hearing his beloved friend, came to himself. What is the theme of the excerpt? a. One should ignore other people's opinions. b. Battle requires tremendous courage. c. Soldiers must destroy their enemies. d. Encouragement offers powerful motivation.

d. Encouragement offer powerful motivation.

Consider the excerpt and theme from Gilgamesh: A New English Version. Gilgamesh climbed to the mountaintop, he poured out flour as an offering and said, "Mountain, bring me a favorable dream." Enkidu did the ritual for dreams, praying for a sign. A gust of wind passed. He built a shelter for the night, placed Gilgamesh on the floor and spread a magic circle of flour around him, then sprawled like a net across the doorway. Theme One: Great leaders seek supernatural help. What other theme is addressed in the excerpt? a. Dreams recount pleasant memories. b. Shelter is essential for providing warmth. c. It is important to get a good night's sleep before a big day. d. Friendships are supportive relationships.

d. Friendships are supportive relationship.

Which detail from Gilgamesh: A New English Version best illustrates a courageous hero? a. Gilgamesh standing at the top of the mountain and asking for favorable dreams b. Gilgamesh dreaming of an eagle with a lion's head and a flaming mouth c. Gilgamesh asking Enkidu to explain the meaning of his dream to him d. Gilgamesh standing at edge of the Cedar Forest, ready to battle Humbaba

d. Gilgamesh standing at edge of the Cedar Forest, ready to battle Humbaba

Harrison is going to write a personal narrative about his uncle and the reasons he admires him. Which sentence most effectively uses description to show the reader what kind of person Harrison's uncle is? a. Uncle Ted's office is far from his house, so he spends a lot of time commuting to and from work. b. Uncle Ted is the oldest of my father's siblings, and he is the only relative who lives close to my family. c. After spending time with Uncle Ted at his dental office, I thought a lot about attending dental school to become a dentist myself. d. In addition to working full time in his thriving pediatric dental practice, Uncle Ted regularly provides free dental care to those in need.

d. In addition to working full time in his thriving pediatric dental practice, Uncle Ted regularly provides free dental care to those in need.

Read the excerpt from Gilgamesh: A New English Version. Gilgamesh climbed to the mountaintop, he poured out flour as an offering and said, "Mountain, bring me a favorable dream." Enkidu did the ritual for dreams, praying for a sign. A gust of wind passed. This excerpt is repeated several times. What effect does this repetition have on the epic? a. It shows that Gilgamesh is a courageous hero who seeks adventure. b. It shows that Gilgamesh's journey is both very long and very difficult. c. It shows that the landscape Gilgamesh is traveling is distant and vast. d. It shows that the supernatural are leading Gilgamesh during his quest.

d. It shows that the supernatural are leading Gilgamesh during his quest.

Read the excerpt from Spencer's narrative. I could not have been more stunned. "He" was a "she"! Our new football coach was a female. My mind drifted to that day last week. We had all been waiting in the locker room to meet our new coach, secretly wondering what he would be like. Would he be tough but fair? Would he be demanding but understanding? Would he motivate us before each game with a rousing speech the way Coach Jackson always had? These thoughts were abruptly interrupted when our new coach entered the locker room, stood before us, and commanded our attention. Spencer decided to structure his narrative to start at the end. How did this affect his arrangement of the plot? a. Spencer had to include the most exciting and engaging parts of the narrative. b. Spencer had to include a conclusion since the reader already knew what happened. c. Spencer had to provide detailed background information about his new football coach. d. Spencer had to go back and recount the events that led to that moment.

d. Spencer had to go back and recount the events that led to that moment.

Which statement best describes how Gilgamesh's dreams affect the plot of Gilgamesh: A New English Version? a. The dreams lessen any tension in the plot. b. The dreams introduce the main idea. c. The dreams shift the focus from Gilgamesh. d. The dreams create conflict and suspense.

d. The dreams create conflict and suspense.

Which lines from Gilgamesh: A New English Version best establish Gilgamesh as triumphant in battle? a. "I will stand by you. Now let us attack." Gilgamesh felt his courage return. They charged at Humbaba like two wild bulls. b. Gilgamesh, hearing his beloved friend, came to himself. He yelled, he lifted his massive axe c. They took their axes and penetrated deeper into the forest, they went chopping down cedars, the woods chips flew d. They bound logs together and built a raft. Enkidu steered it down the great river. Gilgamesh carried Humbaba's head.

d. They bound logs together and built a raft. Enkidu steered it down the great river. Gilgamesh carried Humbaba's head.

Which statement is a theme? a. The story teaches the importance of devoted friends. b. Gilgamesh delivers an encouraging speech to Enkidu. c. When Humbaba is defeated, the friends rejoice. d. True friends remain loyal despite hardship.

d. True friends remain loyal despite hardship.

Read the sentence from a personal narrative. My grandfather used to spend hours telling me stories I loved to hear. Which best revises the sentence above to make the writing more precise? a. My grandfather always had a lot of stories to tell, and I would always beg to hear them. He would talk for hours, and I did not even notice. I loved these stories, and I loved that my grandfather was willing to spend hours sharing them with me. b. I used to love spending summers with my grandparents on their ranch. We did all sorts of fun things. One of my very favorite parts of those summers was listening to my grandfather tell me the cool stories that I always loved and begged to hear. c. Years ago, my grandfather would spend hours telling me all kinds of stories. I always loved his stories because they were funny and he did a great job telling them. They were about all sorts of subjects, and I thought he was the best and coolest storyteller who had ever lived. d. When I was younger, I would spend entire summers on my grandparents' ranch. Every evening after dinner, Grandpa would tell me stories about what life on the ranch had been like for him when he was my age. I appreciated his stories because they let me get to know Grandpa better.

d. When I was younger, I would spend entire summers on my grandparents' ranch. Every evening after dinner, Grandpa would tell me stories about what life on the ranch had been like for him when he was my age. I appreciated his stories because they let me get to know Grandpa better.

chron = "time" The definition of chron is useful to know because it functions as a. a homonym. b. a prefix. c. an adverbial suffix. d. a word root.

d. a word root.

Read the excerpt from Gilgamesh: A New English Version. The man who pulled you up from the ground and gave you fresh water from his waterskin is Lugalbanda, your personal god. With his help, we will achieve a triumph greater than any man has achieved. Which feature of epic poetry does this excerpt most clearly show? a. a courageous hero who answers a call to adventure b. a journey filled with many challenges c. a vast setting of distant landscapes d. supernatural forces, such as gods or monsters, that intervene

d. supernatural forces, such as gods or monsters, that intervene.

Which word best completes the comparison of Beowulf and Grendel? Readers of Beowulf will likely view Grendel as a villain. Readers of Grendel, however, will likely view the character as more ________. a. arrogant b. helpful c. unlikable d. sympathetic

d. sympathetic

Both Old English and modern English poetry use alliteration, which is a. a long pause. b. the use of two stressed syllables. c. a type of rhyme. d. the repetition of consonant sounds.

d. the repetition of consonant sounds.

Which excerpt from the modern translation of Beowulf most strongly reflects the half-line style of Old English poetry? a. May the Almighty Father keep you and in His kindness b. I'm away to the sea, back on alert against enemy raiders c. Then a proud warrior questioned the men concerning their origins d. will go and ask him about your coming here, then hurry back

d. will go and ask him about your coming here, then hurry back

Read the concluding reflection from Kyle's essay. My infatuation with reading, ignited in the sixth grade, significantly changed my life. Ultimately, it was from my sixth-grade teacher that I learned the true power that lies between the covers of a book. It wasn't because she demanded we read or because she encouraged us to read or because she explained why we should read. It was because she opened the doors to reading and invited us into fantastic worlds we had never before experienced. Using books as her compass, she led the way, and all we had to do was follow. To revise his reflection and make a stronger statement, Kyle should more clearly explain ____________.

what effect reading had on his life