RL.10.2 - Mrs. Cate Mitchell - Home



Harlan County Public SchoolsCOVID Distance Learning (CDL)English 10, Mrs. Mitchell Spring 2020Days 11-15Introduction: Complete the following Study Island assignments (either online or paper packet) each day for CDL days 11-15. Standard:RL.10.2 Determine a theme or central idea of a text and analyze in detail its development over the course of the text, including how it emerges and is shaped and refined by specific details; provide an objective summary of the text.RL.10.3 Analyze how complex characters (e.g., those with multiple or conflicting motivations) develop over the course of a text, interact with other characters, and advance the plot or develop the theme.RI.10.1 Cite strong and thorough textual evidence to support analysis of what the text says explicitly as well as inferences drawn from the text.Activities: Thursday, 4/2— Textual EvidenceFriday, 4/3— Inferences **Monday, 4/6 – Friday, 4/10: SPRING BREAK**Monday, 4/13— Subject-Verb Agreement Tuesday, 4/14— Author’s Point of ViewWednesday, 4/15— Theme Thursday, 4/16— Verb TenseFriday, 4/17— CharactersCONTACTWebsite: catemitchell., CONTACT tab, (CDL tab contains assignments and resources for extended cancellation)Phone: 606-574-2020 ext 3575, between 8am and 3pm on MondaysEmail: andrea.mitchell@harlan.kyschools.usRemind: Sign up with Mrs. Mitchell ASAP Messenger: if we are not already connected, send me a request on Facebook. Facebook Group: Join “Mrs. Mitchell’s English 10” group on FacebookStudy IslandCopyright ? 2020 Edmentum - All rights reserved. Generation Date: 03/27/2020Generated By: Andrea Mitchell TEXTUAL EVIDENCE?????Video games have entertained since 1967 when the first console was created. It was called the Brown Box, which started with the game with two squares that chased each other. The creators followed up with 12 more games. Following this innovation, video games flourished. They could amuse children and adults for hours with their different stages that have varying levels of difficulty.?????Although video games are enjoyed by many, its critics see them as detrimental to children and society. The critics consider video games to be like television. They fail to see that video games have benefits. According to the Office of Naval Research, video games help adults understand information faster. Games also help with improving reasoning and problem solving skills. Like adults, teens see these improvements when they play video games. On top of that, teens use the games to socialize with other people their age. This allows them to practice their social skills.?????In addition, playing video games can benefit a person’s mental health. Researchers believe that video games can alleviate stress and worry. In one instance, playing games helped relieve depression because it made the person focus on the game instead of the sorrow that consumed him or her. Video games can distract a person with entertaining characters and levels. Games, like Tetris, require full concentration to solve high-level puzzles. Other times, role-playing games can engross a person with far-off adventures. In addition, video games also can improve attention spans of children who have difficulty concentrating on school and homework. 1. Which of the following sentences would support the claim that video games are good for a person's mental health? A.Researchers believe that video games can alleviate stress and worry.B.Games, like Tetris, require full concentration to solve high-level puzzles.C.Video games can distract a person with entertaining characters and levels.D.Other times, role-playing games can engross a person with far-off adventures.?????The Scarecrow, the Cowardly Lion, the Tin Man, and the lost girl named Dorothy are familiar images in popular culture. They have become icons because of one movie. In 1939, the story The Wizard of Oz was introduced to audiences in a film directed by Victor Fleming. This movie was adapted from the beloved book The Wonderful Wizard of Oz by L. Frank Baum. The story is of a girl named Dorothy and her adventures in the Land of Oz.?????The movie version of the story brought the book to life and altered it for cinematic purposes. Dorothy's famous ruby slippers were silver in the book, but to capitalize on Technicolor, they were changed to ruby. In addition, the role of the Wicked Witch of the West was expanded to the entire movie. She originally was in only one chapter.?????When The Wizard of Oz was first released, it was a minor hit. It only made a small profit. The movie received many award nominations for its cinematic work. It even received the Academy Award for Best Original Song for the song "Over the Rainbow." With subsequent showings on television, the movie became a classic. It has been rebroadcast on television almost every year. The movie has been shown on both network and cable channels, such as CBS and TBS. The American Film Institute's compiled list of the best movies ranked The Wizard of Oz as number 10 out of the top 100 movies. 2. Read the following sentence from the passage.It only made a small profit.Which argument does this sentence support? A.The movie actors wanted more money after the success.B.The movie was filmed and sent out with very little money.C.The movie had only mediocre success in the beginning.D.The movie's director had to budget for costumes and sets.?????Traveling from one place to another can be rewarding because you learn something new about places. Big cities as well as small towns have their own histories and their specialties. Some places are known for growing a particular fruit or vegetable. For example, Poteet, Texas is known for its strawberries. Some places boast that they are the birthplace of a famous person. At whatever spot you end up, there is likely something that makes it unique.?????Road trips can help you explore the places along your way. All it requires is a car, a few necessities, and a desire to see new things. These unexpected stops in between can often make the entire trip memorable. They might even be more fun than the original purpose of the trip. Side trips can happen anywhere, from large cities to very small towns. 3. Which detail from the passage supports the idea that spontaneous stops can be remarkable? A.All it requires is a car, a few necessities, and a desire to see new things.B.These unexpected stops in between can often make the entire trip memorable.C.Side trips can happen anywhere, from large cities to very small towns.D.Road trips can help you explore the places along your way.?????Predictably, the world's growing population has increased the demands for many resources. The most prominent of these are the roads that span a city. With so many people across the globe, it is no surprise that roads are frequented by more and more drivers. Therefore, this rise in use can cause many problems. Among these problems is the high level of traffic congestion.?????Many times, cities grow too fast and cannot accommodate the large number of drivers. As a result, during peak times, roads can be gridlocked for hours or even days. Traffic jams can cause further difficulty when car accidents happen and construction work occurs. These can make traffic come to a standstill because they can block multiple lanes, limiting the flow of traffic. Furthermore, these issues can cause the cars to run out of gas while waiting to move.?????This is especially a problem in China where the population has grown so much that traffic jams are an ordinary occurrence. Of China's 1.3 billion people, there are 199 million drivers. In addition, the country has developed into the leading buyer of cars in the world. The Chinese buy over 13 million vehicles each year. These cars range from motorcycles to small-sized passenger vehicles.?????On China's National Expressway 110, traffic jams can last over a month because of construction or road work. The expressway does not have the capacity for a large quantity of cars. In addition, minor accidents and stalled cars contribute to the lengthy delay. In August of 2010, one traffic jam leading into Beijing spanned 60 miles and lasted for days. To solve this problem, 400 police were sent out to conduct traffic. Because of the traffic jam, many vendors made a profit by selling overpriced food. 4. Why does the author include the detail about cars running out of gas? A.to explain that the drivers are irresponsibleB.to show that traffic jams lead to more problemsC.to show that cars run out of gas too quicklyD.to prove that gasoline is the main problem5. Read the following sentence from the passage.The expressway roads do not have the capacity for large quantity of cars.Which argument does this sentence support? A.Local vendors can gain a profit when there are traffic jams.B.Traffic jams occur on long stretches of road leading to Beijing.C.Automobiles tend to stall and run out of gas on roadways.D.The great number of drivers on the road leads to traffic jams.?????In theory, there is a distinct difference between each meal that you eat each and every day. Breakfast is clearly breakfast, lunch is lunch, and dinner is dinner. In reality, however, the line between each meal can be hazy. There are no laws about which meal is appropriate during which time. Therefore, there should be no restrictions in what you can eat from one part of the day to the next.?????Most often, breakfast foods include eggs, meat, pancakes, toast, cereal, and oatmeal. However, breakfast is only said to be the first meal of the day because you are breaking the fast from the previous day. It is considered the most important meal of the day. Breakfast is said to give the body nutrition and improve concentration. There are no known rules or guidelines about what the meal should consist of to be called breakfast. The same goes for lunch and dinner.?????The type of food that you eat is important because it should benefit you. Breakfast foods that are high in sugar can make you feel extremely hungry after eating them. They only satisfy you at that moment. As a result, it is best to eat breakfast foods with high fiber, such as vegetables and fruit, to help keep hunger in check. They also help keep you healthy because you're not eating all the time. Such foods are essential for lunch and dinner as well, so there cannot be a clear-cut choice for meals. Meals should be composed of foods that are good for you and should not be dismissed because they are not eaten at the "right" time. 6. Why does the author choose to use breakfast as the only example of a meal? A.to point out the importance of eating breakfast every dayB.to show the many techniques used to prepare breakfastC.to note how breakfast is more popular than other mealsD.to emphasize that all meals should be treated the same?????Chopsticks were created about 5,000 years ago. The philosopher Confucius encouraged their use because he did not like using knives. To him, knives represented violence. Because of the popularity of chopsticks, people began to cut their food smaller so that it could be picked up by chopsticks. Therefore, the knife was no longer needed. Chopsticks allowed food to be lifted up delicately instead of being pierced. With increased use, these utensils eventually spread to other parts of Asia.?????An ideal choice compared to other eating instruments, chopsticks have long been used as utensils in Asian countries. They are the foremost means of eating in China, Japan, Korea, and Vietnam. Chopsticks are usually made from bamboo, other types of woods, metal, or bone. The design is very simplistic but efficient because chopsticks are just comprised of two long tapered sticks. In contrast, forks are complicated with their pointed prongs.?????In China, the disposable wooden chopsticks are overly popular. The country makes about 45 billion pairs of chopsticks each year. The loss of trees is high because of the excessive amount being used for these utensils. Deforestation has become a serious problem in China. This means that 16 to 25 million trees are cut down for chopsticks.?????Disposable chopsticks are going to be a difficult habit to completely eliminate. This was made evident 10 years ago when a call was made to stop the use of these wooden chopsticks. Little has changed. In addition, the chopstick industry has created jobs for many people. Restaurants also contribute to the waste because disposable chopsticks are cheaper and more convenient than sterilizing reusable ones.?????However, people are leaning toward the movement of carrying personal chopsticks. It is called BYOC, which means "Bring Your Own Chopsticks." The program is catching on and is helping reduce the use of disposable chopsticks. When a person eats out, personal chopsticks can be carried from restaurant to restaurant, which will help cut down on waste. In addition, people can personalize their chopsticks to their preferences. Chopsticks can become the latest accessory. 7. Which detail from the passage supports the claim that chopsticks are better than other utensils in many cultures? A.Chopsticks are usually made from bamboo, other types of woods, metal, or bone.B.An ideal choice compared to other eating instruments, chopsticks have long been used as utensils in Asian countries.C.The philosopher Confucius encouraged their use because he did not like using knives.D.The design is very simplistic but efficient because chopsticks are just comprised of two long tapered sticks.8. Based on the details in the passage, which of these sentences supports the claim that the chopsticks are an integral part in Asia? A.Deforestation has become a serious problem in China.B.Disposable chopsticks are going to be a difficult habit to completely eliminate.C.They are the foremost means of eating in China, Japan, Korea, and Vietnam.D.The country makes about 45 billion pairs of chopsticks each year.adapted from Vehicle Data Privacy National Highway Traffic Safety Administration?????While advanced safety technologies have the potential to provide enormous safety, convenience and other important benefits to consumers, stakeholders frequently raise data privacy concerns. These concerns are a potential impediment to using data-tracking technology in new cars. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) takes consumer privacy seriously, diligently considers the privacy implications of our safety regulations and voluntary guidance. The NHTSA works closely with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to facilitate the protection of consumer information. The FTC is the primary Federal agency charged with protecting consumers' privacy and personal information.?????In the context of advanced and automated safety technologies, consumer acceptance is critical to effective and timely deployment. These technologies generate, use and may share a significant amount of vehicle data likely to be viewed by private citizens as sensitive and personal. For example, routes a person frequently travels and precise addresses visited can be collected by safety technology. Consumer avoidance of new technologies because of concerns about data privacy may slow deployment and may undermine promising safety benefits such as lives saved and injuries avoided. ?????Although NHTSA has broad regulatory authority over the safety of passenger vehicles, it is the FTC that is the primary Federal agency responsible for protecting consumer privacy. The FTC and NHTSA staff meet, coordinate, collaborate and communicate frequently on privacy issues related to motor vehicles. This includes new vehicles with connected and automated safety systems. Most recently, in June 2017, the FTC and NHTSA jointly held a well-attended workshop in Washington, DC. The workshop's purpose was to examine the consumer privacy and security issues posed by automated and connected motor vehicles.?????The FTC has authority to bring actions against companies or individuals that engage in unfair or deceptive acts or practices. This includes breeches of vehicle data privacy and security. The agency uses law enforcement, policy initiatives, and consumer and business education to accomplish its mission. In the motor vehicle context, the FTC could use its enforcement authority in appropriate circumstances to bring an action against an automaker that uses a consumer's data in a way that violates the manufacturer's stated privacy policies. 9. Which detail from the passage best supports the idea that the public has a direct impact on data-collecting safety systems being added to vehicles? A.Although NHTSA has broad regulatory authority over the safety of passenger vehicles, it is the FTC that is the primary Federal agency responsible for protecting consumer privacy.B.Consumer avoidance of new technologies because of concerns about data privacy may slow deployment and may undermine promising safety benefits such as lives saved and injuries avoided.C.The NHTSA works closely with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) -- the primary Federal agency charged with protecting consumers’ privacy and personal information -- to facilitate the protection of consumer information.D.While advanced safety technologies have the potential to provide enormous safety, convenience and other important benefits to consumers, stakeholders frequently raise data privacy concerns.?????Chopsticks were created about 5,000 years ago. The philosopher Confucius encouraged their use because he did not like using knives. To him, knives represented violence. Because of the popularity of chopsticks, people began to cut their food smaller so that it could be picked up by chopsticks. Therefore, the knife was no longer needed. Chopsticks allowed food to be lifted up delicately instead of being pierced. With increased use, these utensils eventually spread to other parts of Asia.?????An ideal choice compared to other eating instruments, chopsticks have long been used as utensils in Asian countries. They are the foremost means of eating in China, Japan, Korea, and Vietnam. Chopsticks are usually made from bamboo, other types of woods, metal, or bone. The design is very simplistic but efficient because chopsticks are just comprised of two long tapered sticks. In contrast, forks are complicated with their pointed prongs.?????In China, the disposable wooden chopsticks are overly popular. The country makes about 45 billion pairs of chopsticks each year. The loss of trees is high because of the excessive amount being used for these utensils. Deforestation has become a serious problem in China. This means that 16 to 25 million trees are cut down for chopsticks.?????Disposable chopsticks are going to be a difficult habit to completely eliminate. This was made evident 10 years ago when a call was made to stop the use of these wooden chopsticks. Little has changed. In addition, the chopstick industry has created jobs for many people. Restaurants also contribute to the waste because disposable chopsticks are cheaper and more convenient than sterilizing reusable ones.?????However, people are leaning toward the movement of carrying personal chopsticks. It is called BYOC, which means "Bring Your Own Chopsticks." The program is catching on and is helping reduce the use of disposable chopsticks. When a person eats out, personal chopsticks can be carried from restaurant to restaurant, which will help cut down on waste. In addition, people can personalize their chopsticks to their preferences. Chopsticks can become the latest accessory. 10. In the fourth paragraph, why does the author include the information about how chopsticks have created jobs? A.to explain how chopsticks are manufactured in ChinaB.to show how hard it is to get rid of disposable chopsticksC.to illustrate how tough it is to sterilize reusable chopsticksD.to demonstrate how little things have changed in 10 yearsStudy IslandCopyright ? 2020 Edmentum - All rights reserved. Generation Date: 03/27/2020Generated By: Andrea Mitchell INFERENCES?????Leading members of the U.S. Senate are considering new legislation to tax certain popular drinks. This federal tax would be added to the cost of sodas, sports drinks, and sugar-sweetened fruit drinks. Supporters claim that the few extra cents per beverage will decrease consumption of unhealthy processed sugar, improve the economy, and lower health-care costs. Approximately twelve states have already instituted taxes on sugary beverages, but beverage tax proposals in other states have met with serious opposition. Many opponents believe that taxing unhealthy products doesn’t teach people how to live healthy lives. The American Beverage Association, a lobbying group for the beverage industry, opposes the federal tax proposal, but it does support programs to remove sugary drinks from schools. U.S. lawmakers are also considering other proposals, including a bill to limit trans fat and sodium, both of which have been linked to health problems, in packaged and restaurant food. 1. Based on this passage, what can the reader infer about the federal soda tax? A.It will be increased yearly until people get healthy.B.It will face opposition before it becomes a law.C.It will cause many restaurants to lose business.D.It will apply only to beverages in schools.The Night Witchesby J. Robbins?????During World War II, the Soviet Union created three regiments of female combat pilots to fly dangerous night bombing missions against German forces. The pilots, mechanics, and bomb loaders of the 588th Night Bomber Regiment were all women, and they were nicknamed Nachthexen, or “Night Witches,” by German soldiers for their cunning and successful attacks. These Soviet pilots wore ill-fitting clothing and boots passed down from male soldiers, and they conducted their missions in wood and canvas Polikarpov PO-2 biplanes, which were originally intended for crop dusting and had to be adapted to carry bombs. Although these planes were slow and poorly suited for air combat, they were very maneuverable and could fly close to the ground for concealment.?????Throughout the war, the Night Witches primarily flew harassment bombing missions. When the sun went down, these pilots would take to the skies and bomb camps, supply depots, and enemy airplanes. One of the favorite tactics of the Soviet pilots was to fly near an enemy encampment, shut down the engines, and glide silently over their bombing site. The canvas and wood surfaces of their airplanes and their ability to fly close to the ground made the Night Witches difficult to detect on radar. The 588th Regiment conducted many bombing raids each night, and by the end of the war, they were credited with dropping 23,000 tons of bombs.?????Many of the Soviet women pilots and navigators lost their lives in battle or on official missions. The entire regiment distinguished itself as a model of courage and patriotism. Night Witches earned a total of 23 Gold Star of the Hero of the Soviet Union medals, and the 588th Regiment was the most highly decorated in the Soviet Air Force. After the war, many of the female pilots continued to fly as civilian test pilots. Other members of the 588th Regiment retired to family life or factory work. Today, the Night Witches are still remembered as skilled warriors who fought bravely for their country. 2. Which of the following inferences is supported by the text? A.The Soviet Union was unaware that the Night Witches were women.B.The Night Witches protested against unsafe working conditions.C.The Night Witches were the first Air Force pilots to earn medals.D.The Soviet Union disbanded the 588th Regiment after the war.3. Which of the following inferences can be supported by the information in this passage? A.The Night Witches earned more awards and honors than any other soldiers.B.The Polikarpov PO-2 biplanes are known today as the most dangerous planes.C.The Night Witches were not the only Soviet women to fly combat missions.D.The male Soviet soldiers resented giving their provisions to the Night Witches.Down in the Dumpsby J. Robbins?????"Does anyone want to trade lives with me?" asked Jasper as he sat down at the lunchroom table. Iolanthe and Trixie exchanged amused looks.????? "That's a pretty terrible attitude," Trixie replied as she patted Jasper on the shoulder. "Cheer up. Iolanthe has great news." Jasper barely glanced up from his plate.????? "What news?" he mumbled as he stuffed french fries in his mouth.????? "I made captain of the wheelchair rugby team!" exclaimed Iolanthe with a huge grin.????? "You play wheelchair rugby?" asked Jasper in surprise.????? "For the past five years," said Iolanthe. "You of all people should know that. Trixie and I are going to Frosty Palace after school to celebrate. Why don't you come with us?"????? "I don't have anything to celebrate," said Jasper glumly. "I can't figure out this poetry stuff to save my life. If I don't get a good grade on tomorrow's test, I'll fail the class."????? "Poor thing," Trixie cried compassionately. "It feels terrible to fail something. I should know! It took me twelve tries to get onto the cheerleading squad, after all. Even though I'm just an alternate, I still show up to every game. I know I'll get on the field one of these days."????? "Why don't we help you study, Jasper?" suggested Iolanthe. "We're both pretty good at poetry."????? "It won't help," he said. "I haven't bought the book yet."????? "How do you expect to pass if you don't have the book?" asked Trixie.????? "I thought I could bluff my way through the test," said Jasper. "The new World of War Skill video game came out, and I spent all my allowance on it. I didn't want to spend my money on some stupid book." Iolanthe shook her head in amazement.????? "That is the most irresponsible thing you've ever done," she told Jasper. "And I didn't think you could get any more irresponsible."????? "I agree completely," said Trixie. "I have helped you out of jams since you were a kid, Jasper, but this is just ridiculous. Iolanthe and I have better things to do than listen to you complain." Iolanthe rolled her wheelchair back from the table and joined Trixie in leaving the lunchroom. Jasper's head drooped as he contemplated his french fries.????? "My friends abandoned me for no reason," Jasper moaned out loud. "Why does everything always happen to me?" 4. Which sentence from the passage supports the inference that Jasper is overconfident? A."I thought I could bluff my way through the test?.?.?."B."I made captain of the wheelchair rugby team!"C."I know I'll get on the field one of these days."D."Iolanthe and I have better things to do than listen to you complain?.?.?."Marie Marvingtby J. Robbins?????Marie Marvingt was one of the most accomplished women in France’s history. She was born in Aurillac, France in 1875. When she was only five years old, her father encouraged her to start competing in sports. She became an athlete who participated in many sports, including mountain climbing, swimming, boxing, football, and rifle shooting.?????Even though Marie could compete and win awards in many sports, there were some sports that people thought were only for men. Marie tried to enter the Tour de France, a long distance bicycle race, in 1908. However, she was told that women were not allowed to race with men. She waited for the men to finish the race, and then she rode the entire course on her own. Two years after she rode the Tour de France course, Marie became the third woman in the world to earn her airplane pilot’s license.?????During World War I, Marie used her unique talents to serve her country. She volunteered to fly bombing missions and became one of the first women to fly an airplane in a combat mission. Marie also served as a nurse with the Red Cross. Her experiences during the war led Marie to campaign for the use of airplanes as air ambulances. As both a pilot and a nurse, Marie knew that many soldiers’ lives could be saved if they could be flown from the battlefield to the hospital. She worked for many years to develop programs and training for the use of air ambulances in France and other countries across the world.?????Marie was not a woman to let age slow her down. She continued to fly airplanes, and at the age of 80, she earned her helicopter pilot’s license. Over the course of her lifetime, Marie won over 30 awards and medals for her athletic ability, her aviation skills, her medical service, and her courageous acts during wartime. She also earned the nickname, "The Fiancée of Danger." Marie Marvingt died in 1963 at the age of 88. In the years since her death, her home country of France has celebrated this amazing woman by naming streets, schools, and apartment complexes after her. 5. The reader can infer from this passage that Marie Marvingt A.was strongly patriotic.B.won the Tour de France.C.drove the first ambulance.D.was the first woman pilot.Down in the Dumpsby J. Robbins?????"Does anyone want to trade lives with me?" asked Jasper as he sat down at the lunchroom table. Iolanthe and Trixie exchanged amused looks.????? "That's a pretty terrible attitude," Trixie replied as she patted Jasper on the shoulder. "Cheer up. Iolanthe has great news." Jasper barely glanced up from his plate.????? "What news?" he mumbled as he stuffed french fries in his mouth.????? "I made captain of the wheelchair rugby team!" exclaimed Iolanthe with a huge grin.????? "You play wheelchair rugby?" asked Jasper in surprise.????? "For the past five years," said Iolanthe. "You of all people should know that. Trixie and I are going to Frosty Palace after school to celebrate. Why don't you come with us?"????? "I don't have anything to celebrate," said Jasper glumly. "I can't figure out this poetry stuff to save my life. If I don't get a good grade on tomorrow's test, I'll fail the class."????? "Poor thing," Trixie cried compassionately. "It feels terrible to fail something. I should know! It took me twelve tries to get onto the cheerleading squad, after all. Even though I'm just an alternate, I still show up to every game. I know I'll get on the field one of these days."????? "Why don't we help you study, Jasper?" suggested Iolanthe. "We're both pretty good at poetry."????? "It won't help," he said. "I haven't bought the book yet."????? "How do you expect to pass if you don't have the book?" asked Trixie.????? "I thought I could bluff my way through the test," said Jasper. "The new World of War Skill video game came out, and I spent all my allowance on it. I didn't want to spend my money on some stupid book." Iolanthe shook her head in amazement.????? "That is the most irresponsible thing you've ever done," she told Jasper. "And I didn't think you could get any more irresponsible."????? "I agree completely," said Trixie. "I have helped you out of jams since you were a kid, Jasper, but this is just ridiculous. Iolanthe and I have better things to do than listen to you complain." Iolanthe rolled her wheelchair back from the table and joined Trixie in leaving the lunchroom. Jasper's head drooped as he contemplated his french fries.????? "My friends abandoned me for no reason," Jasper moaned out loud. "Why does everything always happen to me?" 6. What can the reader infer about Trixie based on the information in this passage? A.She is jealous of Iolanthe.B.She loves to play video games.C.She is stingy with her money.D.She does not give up easily.?????"The next presenter is...Katy Rios," Mr. Tucker announced. Gina watched her best friend move to the front of the room. Katy was presenting on Marie Antoinette. Gina would be next, presenting her research on Elizabeth I. Gina smiled as Katy started her speech.?????"One of the most impressive monarchs in England was Queen Elizabeth I," Katy began. Gina almost fell out of her chair. That was exactly how her speech was supposed to start, not Katy's! She sat at her desk with her mouth open, unable to believe what happened.?????The class applauded Katy's presentation. Mr. Tucker started to announce Gina's name, but before he could finish, the bell rang. Katy raced out of the door, but Gina sat rooted to her desk. She could not move, could not speak.?????Mr. Tucker walked down the aisle to Gina's desk. "Is something wrong, Ms. Lang?"?????Gina tried to speak several times. Finally, she mumbled, "That was my speech."?????"I'm sorry, I didn't hear you."?????Gina took a deep breath. "The speech that Katy gave was mine. She was supposed to present on Marie Antoinette. I spent weeks researching and even had pictures to show the class."?????Mr. Tucker asked to see Gina's speech. He looked at the two speeches. Katy's speech was identical to Gina's in every way except her source list. Gina's source list was detailed, full of sources and explanations for the sources. Katy's was a short list of five books with no explanation.?????"Thank you, Ms. Lang," Mr. Tucker said. "I will take care of this from here."?????Gina nodded and left the room. She did not know what she would say when she saw Katy next. 7. What conclusion can the reader draw about Gina? A.She is a very honest person.B.She does not like teachers.C.She is a not a very good friend.D.She did not write a good speech.?????Leading members of the U.S. Senate are considering new legislation to tax certain popular drinks. This federal tax would be added to the cost of sodas, sports drinks, and sugar-sweetened fruit drinks. Supporters claim that the few extra cents per beverage will decrease consumption of unhealthy processed sugar, improve the economy, and lower health-care costs. Approximately twelve states have already instituted taxes on sugary beverages, but beverage tax proposals in other states have met with serious opposition. Many opponents believe that taxing unhealthy products doesn’t teach people how to live healthy lives. The American Beverage Association, a lobbying group for the beverage industry, opposes the federal tax proposal, but it does support programs to remove sugary drinks from schools. U.S. lawmakers are also considering other proposals, including a bill to limit trans fat and sodium, both of which have been linked to health problems, in packaged and restaurant food. 8. Which of the following inferences is supported by the passage? A.Supporters of the soda tax believe that it will force soda companies to close.B.Opponents of the soda tax believe it will cause serious damage to the economy.C.Opponents of the soda tax believe it will cause children to be unhappy at school.D.Supporters of the soda tax believe that it will improve people's overall health.?????"The next presenter is...Katy Rios," Mr. Tucker announced. Gina watched her best friend move to the front of the room. Katy was presenting on Marie Antoinette. Gina would be next, presenting her research on Elizabeth I. Gina smiled as Katy started her speech.?????"One of the most impressive monarchs in England was Queen Elizabeth I," Katy began. Gina almost fell out of her chair. That was exactly how her speech was supposed to start, not Katy's! She sat at her desk with her mouth open, unable to believe what happened.?????The class applauded Katy's presentation. Mr. Tucker started to announce Gina's name, but before he could finish, the bell rang. Katy raced out of the door, but Gina sat rooted to her desk. She could not move, could not speak.?????Mr. Tucker walked down the aisle to Gina's desk. "Is something wrong, Ms. Lang?"?????Gina tried to speak several times. Finally, she mumbled, "That was my speech."?????"I'm sorry, I didn't hear you."?????Gina took a deep breath. "The speech that Katy gave was mine. She was supposed to present on Marie Antoinette. I spent weeks researching and even had pictures to show the class."?????Mr. Tucker asked to see Gina's speech. He looked at the two speeches. Katy's speech was identical to Gina's in every way except her source list. Gina's source list was detailed, full of sources and explanations for the sources. Katy's was a short list of five books with no explanation.?????"Thank you, Ms. Lang," Mr. Tucker said. "I will take care of this from here."?????Gina nodded and left the room. She did not know what she would say when she saw Katy next. 9. What prediction can the reader make about Katy? A.She will ask Gina her opinion of Katy's speech.B.She will get in trouble for copying Gina's speech.C.She will prove to Mr. Tucker that Gina copied her.D.She will decide to give a new, original speech.Marie Marvingtby J. Robbins?????Marie Marvingt was one of the most accomplished women in France’s history. She was born in Aurillac, France in 1875. When she was only five years old, her father encouraged her to start competing in sports. She became an athlete who participated in many sports, including mountain climbing, swimming, boxing, football, and rifle shooting.?????Even though Marie could compete and win awards in many sports, there were some sports that people thought were only for men. Marie tried to enter the Tour de France, a long distance bicycle race, in 1908. However, she was told that women were not allowed to race with men. She waited for the men to finish the race, and then she rode the entire course on her own. Two years after she rode the Tour de France course, Marie became the third woman in the world to earn her airplane pilot’s license.?????During World War I, Marie used her unique talents to serve her country. She volunteered to fly bombing missions and became one of the first women to fly an airplane in a combat mission. Marie also served as a nurse with the Red Cross. Her experiences during the war led Marie to campaign for the use of airplanes as air ambulances. As both a pilot and a nurse, Marie knew that many soldiers’ lives could be saved if they could be flown from the battlefield to the hospital. She worked for many years to develop programs and training for the use of air ambulances in France and other countries across the world.?????Marie was not a woman to let age slow her down. She continued to fly airplanes, and at the age of 80, she earned her helicopter pilot’s license. Over the course of her lifetime, Marie won over 30 awards and medals for her athletic ability, her aviation skills, her medical service, and her courageous acts during wartime. She also earned the nickname, "The Fiancée of Danger." Marie Marvingt died in 1963 at the age of 88. In the years since her death, her home country of France has celebrated this amazing woman by naming streets, schools, and apartment complexes after her. 10. This passage supports which of the following inferences? A.Women in France had fewer rights than women in other countries.B.The French people were proud of Marie Marvingt's accomplishments.C.The invention of the helicopter was influenced by Marie Marvingt.D.Piloting a helicopter was much simpler than piloting a fixed-wing airplane.Study IslandCopyright ? 2020 Edmentum - All rights reserved. Generation Date: 03/27/2020Generated By: Andrea Mitchell SUBJECT-VERB AGREEMENT1. Which sentence below demonstrates correct subject-verb agreement? A.Mindy and Wilma runs to catch the bus, but it left without them.B.Mindy and Wilma were running to catch the bus, but it left without them.C.Mindy and Wilma am running to catch the bus, but it left without them.D.Mindy and Wilma was running to catch the bus, but it left without them.?????(1) Clouds are great predictors of weather if one can recognize and distinguish between their different shapes and sizes. (2) For the most, all clouds consist of the same basic ingredient, which is moisture in the form of condensed water vapor that clings to microscopic airborne particles like dust. (3) Most varieties of clouds typically form and remains in either the lower, middle, or upper atmosphere. (4) The white and puffy cumulus clouds, what one might identify as a "standard cloud," are low altitude clouds that signal fair weather. (5) Stratus clouds, which tends to look more ominous and threatening, stretch horizontally covering the sky. (6) Serious precipitation, however, rarely?_______ from these clouds, but they do produce light rain and drizzle. (7) A nimbostratus cloud is a middle altitude cloud that appear as a huge dark gray cloud covering most of the sky. (8) Typically associated with these clouds are strong winds, steady rains, and heavy snowstorms. (9) Cirrus clouds?_______ in high altitudes and?_______ from tiny ice crystals, which appear as thin streaks across the sky. (10) These streaks of icy mist?_______ no noticeable precipitation but often?_______ bad weather to follow. (11) The most ominous clouds of all is the cumulonimbus, also known as a thunderhead, which forms in the lower altitude and then stretches to the upper atmosphere where it flattens out like an anvil. (12) Damage in the form of wind, hail, lightning, and tornadoes are common effects associated with these clouds. 2. Choose the correct verb for sentence 6. A.is developingB.developsC.developD.developing3. How should sentence 7 be revised for correct subject-verb agreement? A.A nimbostratus cloud is a middle altitude cloud that appears as a huge dark gray cloud covering most of the sky.B.A nimbostratus clouds is a middle altitude cloud that appear as huge dark gray clouds covering most of the sky.C.A nimbostratus cloud are middle altitude clouds that appears as huge dark gray clouds covering most of the sky.D.A nimbostratus cloud are a middle altitude cloud that appear as a huge dark gray cloud covering most of the sky.4. Which of the following sentences demonstrates correct subject-verb agreement? A.The group of visiting tourists examines the impressive structure of the Sydney Opera House.B.The pack of mules transport supplies for climbers embarking on an expedition to Mt. Everest.C.The swarm of bees sweep through the area to find a new location for its colony.D.During the trial, the jury listen carefully to the testimony of the main witness.5. Which sentence below demonstrates correct subject-verb agreement? A.Each one of the singers in the choir possess a beautiful voice.B.Each one of the singers in the choir has a beautiful voice.C.Each one of the singers in the choir have a beautiful voice.D.Each one of the singers in the choir do have a beautiful voice.6. What change should be made to correct the problem of subject-verb agreement? A.Damage in the form of wind, hail, lightning, and tornadoes is common effects associated with these clouds.B.Damage in the form of wind, hail, lightning, and tornadoes are a common effect associated with these clouds.C.Damage in the form of wind, hail, lightning, and tornadoes is a common effect associated with these clouds.D.Damages in the form of wind, hail, lightning, and tornadoes is a common effects associated with these clouds.7. What change should be made to correct the problem of subject-verb agreement in sentence 8? A.No change is necessary.B.Change clouds to cloud.C.Change snowstorms to snowstorm.D.Change are to is.8. Which sentence below demonstrates incorrect subject-verb agreement? A.Karen was the only person Dawn told about Maria's secret.B.Dawn didn't want to think that Karen could betray her trust that way.C.The thing that hurt the worst was the look on Maria's face when she approached Dawn and asked, "Why?"D.When rumors runs wild, Dawn doesn't know who to blame, but she feels awful.9. Which of the following correctly fills in the verbs in sentence 10? A.produces; signalB.produces; signalsC.produce; signalD.produce; signals10. Which sentence below demonstrates correct subject-verb agreement? A.A rank and fearsome odor common to the halls of Denmark fill the senses with distaste.B.A rather peculiar and distasteful smell emits from the foul air hovering above the state of Denmark.C.That there is something in the air of Denmark everyone seem to be in full agreement.D.The odors of Denmark in the darkness of night instills fear into even the bravest of daring souls.11. Choose the correct verb for the sentence below.The doctor on staff who has performed the most surgeries?_______ Dr. Watson.A.isB.areC.wereD.be12. Choose the correct verb for the sentence below.Whether or not you and your friend attend?_______ entirely up to you.A.isB.to beC.wereD.are13. Which sentence below demonstrates correct subject-verb agreement? A.Delores am sailing in a yacht race this weekend.B.Delores is sailing in a yacht race this weekend.C.Delores be sailing in a yacht race this weekend.D.Delores are sailing in a yacht race this weekend.14. Which of the following correctly fills in the verbs in sentence 9? A.exist; formsB.exist; formC.exists; formD.exists; forms15. In which of the following sentences do the subject and verb agree? A.The paintings on display at the art museum seems priceless.B.The paintings on display at the art museum are priceless.C.The paintings on display at the art museum was priceless.D.The paintings on display at the art museum is priceless.Study IslandCopyright ? 2020 Edmentum - All rights reserved. Generation Date: 03/27/2020Generated By: Andrea Mitchell AUTHOR’S POINT OF VIEW ?????Director Patricio Washington's 2012 film Dawn of Tumult, starring Jules Tyne and Mac Emerson does not disappoint. In my view, not since Night of Ice has a version of the Infantry of Space tale been so captivating and enthralling. The fireballs, explosions, and fight scenes are achieved with special effects designed to dazzle but not overwhelm. From the opening battle scenes, I was on the edge of my seat—and I stayed there.?????The old, familiar characters seem freshly realized, given new life by the writing as well as superb performances by the cast. Perhaps the only exception is Demidov, played by Sam Quarles, who seems to be tacked on as an afterthought. Demidov was a rather boring character even in the original series, and making him more interesting and integral is a challenge every Infantry of Space movie has faced. Jules Tyne as Dr. Waldo and Mac Emerson as the young Timothy Grace more than do the roles justice. Rafael Dias as Santos will have you howling with his one-liners. Adela Bevan as Natalia is electrifying—the camera loves her, and she gives the traditionally staid character a comic twist.?????To give the plot away would be a crime, so I will merely say that the writers have succeeded where others have failed. They have paid homage to the original TV series, while also throwing in a few surprises that even the most diehard fan will not see coming. Admittedly, the adventures of the crew have gotten a bit old and tired over the years, and I knew it would take a miracle to draw me back into the story. Patricio Washington managed to pull off exactly that. 1. This piece of writing would most likely appear in which of these places? A.a newspaper ad for local moviesB.a movie and entertainment websiteC.a biography of the film directorD.a syllabus for a film appreciation class?????If you're like me, you've never forgotten the first eclipse of the Moon you ever witnessed. Well, if you live in the western United States, you're in for a treat this Saturday, June 26. Beginning around 2:15 AM and lasting for 2.5 hours, a partial eclipse of the Moon will take place. Those who live the farthest west will have the best visibility. (No one east of the Mississippi will be able to observe the eclipse, as the Moon will have set by the time it occurs.) Hawaii will see the entire event, from start to finish. On the West Coast, just the final stages should be visible, but they could be spectacular. During an eclipse, the Earth and Moon are lined up in such a way that the Earth's shadow partially or fully obscures the Moon for a time. If you miss this one, a total eclipse will occur on December 21 and should be visible to the entire United States. 2. The author most likely wrote this article to A.express his or her strong opinion about eclipses.B.reminisce about eclipses he or she has seen.rm readers about the June 26 eclipse.D.explain exactly what a lunar eclipse entails.?????The latest play at the Westside Community Theater, Orin Hilyard's drama Crossing the River, starts out pleasantly enough. Josie, daughter of Ella and Josiah Jones, sits on the edge of the stage, reading aloud from her diary. When the reading goes on and on, the audience understandably begins to fidget. Here is a story, told mostly through these painfully long journal entries, of a pioneer family that endures terrible hardships as they make their way out West. Henrietta Hopkins as Josie does her best with the stilted words, but the playwright has not given her much to work with. Though Hilyard says he did years of research to make the language true to the times, he failed to choose the most compelling bits of the pioneer story to bring to life. Instead, we get humdrum tales of Josie's squabbles with her brothers. I, for one, would have much preferred to know what crossing the plains in a covered wagon was really like for a child of 12—what strange sights and formidable adversaries were met along the way. Even the mundane events described in her journal could have been dramatic in the hands of a more skilled playwright. Hilyard breaks the first rule of good storytelling, and certainly of good drama: He tells us rather than showing us.?????Ella Jones, played admirably by veteran actress Lana Barton, has no less daunting a challenge: to make something meaty out of the spare dialogue. Simply grunting under the weight of water pails she's hauling or agreeing to every harebrained idea her husband proposes is not exactly the stuff of great characterizations. Amazingly, even Barton's considerable talent is not enough to make her Ella memorable.?????Josiah (Rueben Knowles) has at least been given some moving dialogue, as he struggles to keep his family alive on the grueling journey, but the plot meanders like the rolling river the family tries countless times to cross. What we are left with is a sense that pioneer days were excruciating all right, but only because no one ever had anything interesting to say. 3. Where would this selection most likely be found? A.on the Web site for Westside Community TheaterB.in a collection of plays by Orin HilyardC.on the theater page in a local newspaperD.in a nonfiction book about pioneer days?????Director Patricio Washington's 2012 film Dawn of Tumult, starring Jules Tyne and Mac Emerson does not disappoint. In my view, not since Night of Ice has a version of the Infantry of Space tale been so captivating and enthralling. The fireballs, explosions, and fight scenes are achieved with special effects designed to dazzle but not overwhelm. From the opening battle scenes, I was on the edge of my seat—and I stayed there.?????The old, familiar characters seem freshly realized, given new life by the writing as well as superb performances by the cast. Perhaps the only exception is Demidov, played by Sam Quarles, who seems to be tacked on as an afterthought. Demidov was a rather boring character even in the original series, and making him more interesting and integral is a challenge every Infantry of Space movie has faced. Jules Tyne as Dr. Waldo and Mac Emerson as the young Timothy Grace more than do the roles justice. Rafael Dias as Santos will have you howling with his one-liners. Adela Bevan as Natalia is electrifying—the camera loves her, and she gives the traditionally staid character a comic twist.?????To give the plot away would be a crime, so I will merely say that the writers have succeeded where others have failed. They have paid homage to the original TV series, while also throwing in a few surprises that even the most diehard fan will not see coming. Admittedly, the adventures of the crew have gotten a bit old and tired over the years, and I knew it would take a miracle to draw me back into the story. Patricio Washington managed to pull off exactly that. 4. The author of this passage would most likely agree that A.remakes of classics should not deviate in any way from the original.B.once a story has been told too many times, nothing can revitalize it.C.in the hands of the right director, old stories can be made new again.D.movie sequels never achieve the same success as the original film.?????I think it's high time we start charging people for destroying the environment, and plastic bags are a good place to begin. Grocery stores should start charging 10 cents every time a customer requests a plastic bag. Maybe then, people will get on the bandwagon and start bringing their own bag. Everybody knows that plastic takes forever to degrade and gives off toxic byproducts in the process. We simply can't go on producing plastic bags in such quantity and dumping them in the landfill. "Convenience" has to start taking a backseat to caring for the planet.?????Sadly, the United States is miles behind in this regard. Ireland, for example, has charged people for plastic bags for nearly a decade. Paris, France, has also begun charging for non-biodegradable bags, and so have 50 other countries! But this brilliant idea has not caught hold here in the USA. Even liberal San Francisco couldn't get such a program off the ground. Everyone from grocers to dog owners to the plastics lobby shot the idea down.?????The fact is, the United States uses a huge percentage of the world's resources and is one of the biggest polluters. Worst of all, we're so addicted to convenience that we can't be bothered to even reuse paper or plastic bags. That addiction will cost us dearly in the form of a toxic environment for our kids and grandkids. When you think of it that way, is keeping a cloth bag in the car for grocery trips really too much to ask? 5. Based on the tone of the passage, the author is most likely a member of which group? A.An association of grocery store managersB.A company that produces plasticC.An environmental action groupD.An international spy organization?????What will those city planners think up next? Now I hear they want to spend millions of our taxpayer dollars to restore the ancient streetcar tracks and run a line from downtown out to a few of the local neighborhoods, including mine here in the Northeast section. What would be the point of that? I ask you. The way I see it, downtown is mighty congested and doesn't need some quaint little trolley inching along in the middle of rush hour. The only people who'll ride such a thing are tourists, anyway, and no silly streetcar is going to attract more of those. The planners need to wise up and realize that we're not San Francisco—no big hills to shout about, no fancy restaurants. We're just a town like any other, and it's pointless to pretend otherwise. As it stands, there are those who ride the bus to work and those who drive. Putting in a streetcar system isn't going to convert anybody. It'll just be months of obnoxious construction and disruption of our lives so we can brag about a trolley system that should've stayed where it was—on the pages of the history books. 6. What can readers tell about the author's attitude in this passage? A.He or she loves San Francisco.B.He or she is against change.C.He or she is very pro-bicycle.D.He or she dislikes tourists.Juan,?????Dude, did I tell you my grandparents are paying for me to take guitar lessons? It's every Wednesday at 7, so I can't watch videos with you that night, like we've always done. I'm disappointed, but it's not like I can turn them down. The lessons are a gift. Can't believe I'm gonna be hauling around some crazy big guitar case. So much for my cool image, huh? I wish they'd at least talked to me first and given me a choice. I'd probably have picked the drums. I'm thinking of telling my grandparents thanks, but no thanks, only it would crush them. E-mail me when you get this, would you? I could use your advice.Thanks man,Travis 7. What is Travis's main reason for writing this letter? A.to announce the fact that he would be starting guitarB.to inform Juan that he would be turning down the lessonsC.to ask Juan's help in deciding whether to refuse the lessonsD.to explain why he has never really liked the guitar?????The origins of ice cream date all the way back to the 4th century BC, when Persians developed a chilled pudding dish they served to royalty. But ice cream didn't acquire its name until the American colonists dubbed it so. Actually, they called it "iced cream" because it sounded like the familiar phrase "iced tea." It was later shortened to simply "ice cream." New York City opened the first ice cream parlor in America in the year 1776, the same year the United States became a nation. 8. The author intended this passage to do which of the following? rm the audience about the history of ice creamB.entertain readers with a humorous story about ice creamC.persuade readers that they should eat more ice creamD.teach the audience about the history of ancient Persia?????Marietta, Ohio, may not be on your short list for a vacation destination, but I encourage you to consider visiting this historic town. Located right on the Ohio River, on the National Scenic Waterway, this Old World city boasts a string of picturesque covered bridges. You could easily lose yourself in an afternoon of strolling back and forth across them, as well as exploring the town's myriad other treasures.?????Summers here are blistering hot and the winters mighty chilly, so spring or fall might be best for a first-time look-see. The locals don't mind the extreme temperatures, though. In fact, you'll find it hard to upset the warm and happy folks who call Marietta their home. They welcome visitors, too and are glad to show off their little piece of paradise.?????The town glitters with quaint, Appalachian charm, yet it doesn't lack the modern conveniences. You might say it's the best of both worlds—a step back in time with all the comforts of today. The downtown streets are like a walk back into history. You'll enjoy the candy stores, pubs, and cafes, and don't forget to take a riverboat tour! The view from the river really shows off this entrancing town. Stay for a week, and, if you're like me, you'll wonder why on earth you didn't visit sooner! 9. This piece of writing would most likely appear A.on a news Web site.B.in a travel magazine.C.in a government report.D.in the preface to a novel.?????If you're like me, you've never forgotten the first eclipse of the Moon you ever witnessed. Well, if you live in the western United States, you're in for a treat this Saturday, June 26. Beginning around 2:15 AM and lasting for 2.5 hours, a partial eclipse of the Moon will take place. Those who live the farthest west will have the best visibility. (No one east of the Mississippi will be able to observe the eclipse, as the Moon will have set by the time it occurs.) Hawaii will see the entire event, from start to finish. On the West Coast, just the final stages should be visible, but they could be spectacular. During an eclipse, the Earth and Moon are lined up in such a way that the Earth's shadow partially or fully obscures the Moon for a time. If you miss this one, a total eclipse will occur on December 21 and should be visible to the entire United States. 10. What can you tell about the author's attitude toward lunar eclipses? A.The author feels neutral about them.B.The author only enjoyed them as a child.C.The author finds them to be exciting.D.The author's feelings about them are unclear.Study IslandCopyright ? 2020 Edmentum - All rights reserved. Generation Date: 03/27/2020Generated By: Andrea Mitchell THEME?????"This is the last box," said Keeley to her best friend Leif. She dropped the box on the floor of the homeless shelter, and they surveyed the mess around them.?????"It is going to take us all day to get this place organized," Leif groaned as he checked his watch for the hundredth time. "I was really hoping we'd be done by noon."?????"Why?" Keeley asked as she began filling shelves with canned goods and clean blankets.?????"My favorite author is speaking today at the community college," he told her. "I've always wanted to meet Dr. Betty Kinkade and tell her how much I enjoyed Zofar Farilygood and the Shrimp Wars."?????"You always were a science fiction fan," laughed Keeley. "Why don't you leave right now? I can finish by myself." Leif looked around dubiously.?????"This is too much work for one person," he said. "I'm sure I'll have another opportunity to meet my hero."?????"Are you sure?" his friend asked. "I don't want you to regret your decision." Leif struggled with his emotions for a few minutes. He loved working with his best friend at the homeless shelter. Volunteering made his life feel meaningful. However, he also wanted to fulfill his dream of meeting Dr. Kinkade.?????"I'm sure," Leif said finally. "I'd rather be here helping you than anywhere else in the world." Keeley laughed and rubbed her face tiredly. She was covered with dirt from head to foot, and her hair was sticking out in every direction. Leif watched her unpack boxes and fold blankets with her usual positive attitude, and he couldn't help but think she was gorgeous—frizzy hair, dirt, and all.?????"While we're working, why don't you tell me more about the Zofar books?" suggested Keeley. "I've never been a huge science fiction fan, but maybe Dr. Kinkade will change my mind." She had barely finished speaking when Leif launched into a long, detailed description of his favorite series. The afternoon passed in a blur of dust and sweat, but the two friends had never been happier. 1. Leif's experience in this passage represents which of the following themes? A.Friendship is more important than romantic love.B.A person grows stronger by facing obstacles.C.Life is fleeting, so enjoy it while it lasts.D.Helping others often leads to fulfillment.?????"This just isn't working," Ytar groaned. He stared hopelessly at the pile of wood and strings on his workstation. All around him, students at the Barrett School of Music were busily constructing their violins and violas. I am such a loser, he thought. My parents scrimped and saved for years so that I could attend this school, and it was all for nothing.?????"Is everything okay, Ytar?" asked Mrs. Gretskaya. Her face was sympathetic as she looked at her newest student.?????"No," replied Ytar. "Everything is awful. All my life I've dreamed of making violins, and now that I'm finally here, I can't do it. Every time I start cutting into the wood, I make a huge mess. I'm a failure."?????"I disagree," Mrs. Gretskaya said. "You may not have succeeded at making a violin, but you have developed perseverance because of all your hard work. Anyone can learn a skill like woodcarving, but very few people have the ability to keep trying even in the face of discouragement. Which skill do you think will prove to be more valuable in the future?"?????"Perseverance, I suppose," said Ytar. "But my grades will suffer if I can't pass this course. I am afraid of disappointing my family."?????"A good education involves more than just grades," Mrs. Gretskaya told him. "However, I can promise you that your grade for this course will reflect your hard work and dedication."?????"Thank you," Ytar said with a sigh of relief. "I promise not to give up on this violin. Even if it takes me until the last day of class, I will not quit." Mrs. Gretskaya smiled proudly at her student as he returned to work. 2. Which of the following best communicates one of the passage's themes? A."Anyone can learn a skill like woodcarving"B."All my life I've dreamed of making violins"C."Every time I start cutting into the wood, I make a huge mess"D."A good education involves more than just grades"?????Jackie and I became friends about three years ago, in the middle of the 7th grade. Having just moved to Houston from Oklahoma City, she was introduced to our class that morning. ?????At lunch, I was sitting with the rest of the drama club when I noticed her standing awkwardly with her tray. I could see she was debating on where she should sit. Having just moved to the area a couple of years ago, I knew exactly how she felt.?????Feeling kind, I called out, "Hey! Wanna sit with us?" ?????With a hopeful smile, Jackie looked toward the table where Mindy, the "coolest" girl in school, and her followers sat, but seeing no one looking at her, she turned, puzzled, and saw me waving at her. What happened next surprised me. She gave me a haughty look and turned back around. ?????"A 'no, thank you' would have been a bit kinder," I muttered. ?????My friend Lindsey patted me on the back. "Look at how she's dressed—designer jeans and a trendy top. You can tell she's one of those." With a shrug, she said, "Some girls just care about being 'popular.'?" ?????The new girl straightened her shoulders. She approached Mindy, and although I couldn't hear what was being said, I did see Mindy laugh and give her the wave to go away. The poor girl got rejected. Mindy must have made a cruel comment at Jackie's expense because eruptive laughs and spiteful looks were aimed her way. I watched as Jackie walked to an empty table across the room. She looked like she was about to cry.?????I shook my head at the irony. What goes around comes around fast, I thought to myself.?????After lunch, I stopped by the bathroom. As I washed my hands, I heard sniffling coming from one of the stalls. "Are you okay?" I called out. No answer came. Not knowing what else to do, I just said, "The bell's going to ring soon."?????With that, I heard the click of the lock, and out stepped the new girl.?????"Hi," I said, startled. I stuck out my hand. "I'm Steph." ?????"I'm Jackie," she said, shaking my hand. Her damp eyes and pink nose proved that she had been crying. "Sorry about earlier. I was pretty rude." ?????"Not as rude as Mindy was," I answered with a sympathetic smile. "Come on. We better get to class." 3. Which statement best describes the theme of the passage? A.Don't wait for people to be friendly, show them how.B.Every new idea appears crazy to people at first.C.Only tell your friend what you would tell your enemy.D.If you work hard in life, good things will happen.?????“I can’t believe we got stuck with Dietrich as a lab partner,” groaned Grable. ?????“What rotten luck,” Bacall agreed. “Maybe Dr. Hayworth will let us switch groups.”?????“Here he comes, you guys,” warned Monroe. “Try to be nice to him. How would you feel if you were the new student in school?”?????“He isn’t just a new student,” Grable said. “He was kicked out of his last school for cheating on an exam. Do you want your grade to depend on a cheater?”?????“I want to be a nice person more than I want to get an A,” Monroe said with a stubborn look on her face.?????“What do you guys think about this project?” asked Dietrich as he approached the girls. “It looks pretty tough to me, but I think we’re up to the challenge.”?????“As long as we keep everything nice and ethical, we should be fine,” Bacall replied with an insincere smile. Dietrich’s face turned bright red, and he cleared his throat.?????“I guess you’ve heard about my past,” he said with a sigh. “I was hoping that I could make a fresh start at this school.”?????“Why don’t you tell us your side of the story?” suggested Monroe.?????“I made a wrong decision last year and cheated on a math exam,” Dietrich admitted. “My teacher caught me, and I was kicked out of school. I’ll never do anything like that again, I swear. In fact, I spent all summer volunteering with the Inner City Tutoring Program. I’ve changed my ways, and I hope that people can start to forget about the past. Everyone has been saying nasty things about me behind my back, and I don't have a single friend here. It's been a lonely few weeks.”?????“Everyone else at this school may think of you as a cheater, but from now on, we’ll consider you a friend,” promised Monroe.?????“We can do even better than that,” Grable said. “We can start spreading the truth around school instead of lies. By this time next week, everyone will know what kind of person you really are, Dietrich.”?????“Thanks, guys,” replied Dietrich with a grateful smile. 4. Which of the following statements best describes the overall theme of this passage? A.The habit of cheating on tests is impossible to overcome.B.A bad reputation is easy to earn, but it is hard to lose.C.A person who gossips often becomes the target of gossip.D.Female students are more open-minded than male students.?????"Only five minutes until showtime, people!" called Mrs. Kseniya to the crowd of students rushing around backstage.?????"Great," Nancee muttered under her breath. "I only have a million things to do before then." Her friend Tremina patted her shoulder reassuringly.?????"The costumes look great, Nan," Tremina told her. "After you finish hemming my skirt, everything will be perfect."?????"Perfect? Hardly!" exclaimed Nancee. "It takes at least ten minutes for me to hem a skirt, and you are expected on the stage in five minutes."?????"Three minutes," Sandomir corrected her as he raced past. He and Dmitry were attempting to assemble the backdrop before the curtain rose, and they both looked as stressed as Nancee felt.?????"Forget it," Nancee said. "I'll just tape the hem on your skirt, and it will have to be good enough. I never should have agreed to design the costumes for this production."?????"I'm worried about the show, too, but you don't hear me complaining," said Tremina. "It seems to me that your pessimism is more of a problem than our tight deadline." Nancee quickly taped the hem of the costume and thrust it at Tremina, who hurried to get dressed.?????"Places, everyone," announced Mrs. Kseniya. Tremina began walking toward the stage when the heel of her shoe caught on the taped hem. She tripped and knocked over several of her fellow actors. One of the students fell forward into the backdrop, which then crashed to the floor. The curtain lifted at that moment, and the audience roared with laughter at the disastrous scene.?????"Maybe I should change careers from actor to comedian," said Tremina as she enjoyed the sound of the audience's laughter.?????"What a mess," Nancee moaned. "My career in show business is officially over." 5. Read this excerpt from the passage."I'm worried about the show, too, but you don't hear me complaining," said Tremina. "It seems to me that your pessimism is more of a problem than our tight deadline."How does this excerpt contribute to the theme of the passage? A.It shows that tight deadlines prevent people from expressing their creativity.B.It shows that actors are better at handling stressful circumstances than others.C.It suggests that a person's attitude can rise above difficult circumstances.D.It expresses the idea that a person's hard work will eventually be rewarded.?????"I don't think I can study anymore," complained Geiger. His friends ignored him as they continued to pore over their textbooks.?????"The test is tomorrow, G," Roentgen finally replied. "You should be grateful that Dr. Tesla gave us an extra day to study."?????"We should reward ourselves for our hard work with a trip to the Cupcake Factory," suggested Curie. Before her friends could reply, the fire alarm began to blare and the lights began flickering on and off.?????"Fire!" shouted Roentgen. "Let's all line up and get to the fire exit." He watched closely to make sure all of his friends were following him to safety.?????"It's every man for himself!" Geiger said, with panic in his voice. He shoved his friends aside and slammed the door in their faces.?????"What a hero," said Sievert sarcastically as she held the fire door open for Roentgen and Curie. "He didn't even wait to see if there is a real fire. For all we know, this could just be a fire drill."?????"Either way, we need to follow safety procedures," Roentgen said. "I hope Geiger makes it to the parking lot safely."?????"I can see why Principal Hertz made you safety officer," Sievert said. The three friends arrived at the parking lot and looked around expectantly, but Geiger was nowhere to be found.?????"Well, kids, the fire alarms are malfunctioning," Principal Hertz told the group a few moments later. "I'm afraid you'll have to stay out of the building for a while."?????"I think we should take Curie's suggestion and study at the Cupcake Factory," said Roentgen.?????"Sure," Sievert agreed with a smile. "We deserve a treat for staying calm in a serious situation."?????"Maybe Geiger will find us there," said Curie. "Although, he probably won't want to face us after he abandoned us in the middle of a fire alarm."?????"If he does show up, we are definitely making him pay for our cupcakes," Roentgen said with a grin. "It's the least he can do." 6. The character of Roentgen best demonstrates which of the following themes? A.Being honest, even when it's difficult, is the best option.B.True friends look out for each other's best interests.C.Hard work and determination are the keys to success.D.Strong leaders often have to make unpopular decisions.?????“I can’t believe we got stuck with Dietrich as a lab partner,” groaned Grable. ?????“What rotten luck,” Bacall agreed. “Maybe Dr. Hayworth will let us switch groups.”?????“Here he comes, you guys,” warned Monroe. “Try to be nice to him. How would you feel if you were the new student in school?”?????“He isn’t just a new student,” Grable said. “He was kicked out of his last school for cheating on an exam. Do you want your grade to depend on a cheater?”?????“I want to be a nice person more than I want to get an A,” Monroe said with a stubborn look on her face.?????“What do you guys think about this project?” asked Dietrich as he approached the girls. “It looks pretty tough to me, but I think we’re up to the challenge.”?????“As long as we keep everything nice and ethical, we should be fine,” Bacall replied with an insincere smile. Dietrich’s face turned bright red, and he cleared his throat.?????“I guess you’ve heard about my past,” he said with a sigh. “I was hoping that I could make a fresh start at this school.”?????“Why don’t you tell us your side of the story?” suggested Monroe.?????“I made a wrong decision last year and cheated on a math exam,” Dietrich admitted. “My teacher caught me, and I was kicked out of school. I’ll never do anything like that again, I swear. In fact, I spent all summer volunteering with the Inner City Tutoring Program. I’ve changed my ways, and I hope that people can start to forget about the past. Everyone has been saying nasty things about me behind my back, and I don't have a single friend here. It's been a lonely few weeks.”?????“Everyone else at this school may think of you as a cheater, but from now on, we’ll consider you a friend,” promised Monroe.?????“We can do even better than that,” Grable said. “We can start spreading the truth around school instead of lies. By this time next week, everyone will know what kind of person you really are, Dietrich.”?????“Thanks, guys,” replied Dietrich with a grateful smile. 7. Dietrich's experience in this passage demonstrates which of the following themes? A.Gossip can have a negative impact on people.B.People are always willing to believe the best.C.Peer pressure often results in bad choices.D.A new school is the best place to start over.?????"What are you guys doing?" asked Delano as he walked into the computer lab. His friends were whispering excitedly to each other, and they barely glanced up at him.?????"Wooster just found a wallet in the parking lot," Kim exclaimed. "The wallet has $200 in it, and we are talking about the best way to spend all this money."?????"You can't spend the money!" replied Delano. "You have to try to find the owner. Someone might need that money."?????"Yeah, someone like me," Wooster said. "I want to buy the new World of Fighting Skill upgrade for my computer. Plus, I think we should all treat ourselves to ice cream cones at Jenn & Berry's."?????"You're always right, Wooster," said Lystra. "We should definitely keep the money."?????"This is wrong," Delano told his friends resolutely. "You wouldn't like it if someone stole your money."?????"It's not stealing," said Kim. "Wooster says it's finders-keepers." Delano couldn't believe his ears. The four of them had been friends for years, and he had always gone along with Wooster's crazy schemes. Stealing a person's wallet, however, was another matter entirely.?????"Listen, Del," Wooster said, standing in front of his friend. "If you don't go along with the group, then we can't hang out. No one wants to be around a goody two-shoes." Delano felt his stomach ache with the pain of losing his closest friends.?????"My father always taught me that an honest life is the only one worth living," Delano told his friends. He walked out of the computer lab with a heavy heart. He had never disagreed openly with Wooster before, and he was surprised to find that he had the courage to follow his convictions.?????"What luck!" laughed Wooster as he eagerly counted the cash one more time. "Let's go spend this money before someone comes looking for the wallet."?????"That wallet looks familiar," Principal Jimenez said as she walked through the door of the lab. "I dropped my wallet this morning, and I've been looking for it all day. Would anyone like to explain why it wasn't returned to me as soon as it was found?" Wooster turned pale and looked to his friends for help. Kim and Lystra were staring at the ground and refused to answer.?????"Let's have a talk in my office," the principal said grimly. "I hope you all realize that this school has a zero tolerance policy against theft. You will most likely be suspended for your actions."?????"I only wanted to have a little fun," Wooster muttered to himself. "I never thought when I picked up the wallet that I'd wind up getting suspended." Delano watched sadly from the hallway as his former friends entered the principal's office. For once, he was glad that he wasn't a part of their group. 8. Which excerpt from the passage best expresses a theme of self-discovery? A."The wallet has $200 in it, and we are talking about the best way to spend all this money."B."You wouldn't like it if someone stole your money."C..?.?.?he was surprised to find that he had the courage to follow his convictions.D..?.?.?he had always gone along with Wooster's crazy schemes.?????"What are you reading?" asked Niamh as she walked into the living room. Her younger brother Palvit hurried to close his book before she could see the cover.?????"Uh, nothing," Palvit stuttered. His sister grabbed the book out of his hands and began laughing.?????"You are studying geometry for next semester? That is dorky!" Niamh laughed.?????"I am not a dork," her brother replied, his face bright red. "I have a difficult time with math, and I want to get a head start on next semester. Aren't there any subjects in school that you struggle with?"?????"I am the smartest person in my school," scoffed Niamh. She frowned as she tried to boot up her laptop computer. "Why won't this stupid computer work?" Palvit laughed as his sister turned her laptop upside down and began shaking it violently.?????"That will never work," he said. "It's not an Etch-a-Sketch; it's a complicated piece of machinery. Would you like me to fix your problem?"?????"You? What do you know about computers?" asked Niamh. Palvit ignored her taunt as he reached behind the couch and plugged the laptop computer into the electrical socket.?????"You've let the battery run down," Palvit told his sister, whose mouth was hanging open in surprise. "If you'll let it charge for a few hours, it should run perfectly fine."?????"How did you learn so much about computers?" Niamh asked.?????"I may struggle in math, but I get excellent grades in computer science," said Palvit. "I can tutor you sometime, if you'd like."?????"I would appreciate that," Niamh replied. "I guess I'm not the genius I thought I was. Maybe I should spend less time bragging and more time listening."?????"That is the smartest thing you've said all day, sis," laughed Palvit. 9. One theme of this passage is "A humble attitude is the first step in acquiring knowledge." How does the character of Niamh support this theme? A.She discovers that she can learn from her brother.B.She begs her brother Palvit to tutor her in math.C.She forgives her brother for ruining her computer.D.She admits that she does not understand math either.?????"What are you guys doing?" asked Delano as he walked into the computer lab. His friends were whispering excitedly to each other, and they barely glanced up at him.?????"Wooster just found a wallet in the parking lot," Kim exclaimed. "The wallet has $200 in it, and we are talking about the best way to spend all this money."?????"You can't spend the money!" replied Delano. "You have to try to find the owner. Someone might need that money."?????"Yeah, someone like me," Wooster said. "I want to buy the new World of Fighting Skill upgrade for my computer. Plus, I think we should all treat ourselves to ice cream cones at Jenn & Berry's."?????"You're always right, Wooster," said Lystra. "We should definitely keep the money."?????"This is wrong," Delano told his friends resolutely. "You wouldn't like it if someone stole your money."?????"It's not stealing," said Kim. "Wooster says it's finders-keepers." Delano couldn't believe his ears. The four of them had been friends for years, and he had always gone along with Wooster's crazy schemes. Stealing a person's wallet, however, was another matter entirely.?????"Listen, Del," Wooster said, standing in front of his friend. "If you don't go along with the group, then we can't hang out. No one wants to be around a goody two-shoes." Delano felt his stomach ache with the pain of losing his closest friends.?????"My father always taught me that an honest life is the only one worth living," Delano told his friends. He walked out of the computer lab with a heavy heart. He had never disagreed openly with Wooster before, and he was surprised to find that he had the courage to follow his convictions.?????"What luck!" laughed Wooster as he eagerly counted the cash one more time. "Let's go spend this money before someone comes looking for the wallet."?????"That wallet looks familiar," Principal Jimenez said as she walked through the door of the lab. "I dropped my wallet this morning, and I've been looking for it all day. Would anyone like to explain why it wasn't returned to me as soon as it was found?" Wooster turned pale and looked to his friends for help. Kim and Lystra were staring at the ground and refused to answer.?????"Let's have a talk in my office," the principal said grimly. "I hope you all realize that this school has a zero tolerance policy against theft. You will most likely be suspended for your actions."?????"I only wanted to have a little fun," Wooster muttered to himself. "I never thought when I picked up the wallet that I'd wind up getting suspended." Delano watched sadly from the hallway as his former friends entered the principal's office. For once, he was glad that he wasn't a part of their group. 10. Which of the following themes is communicated in the passage? A.Friends should not let foolish disagreements damage their friendship.B.Authority figures often place unreasonable expectations on young people.C.People don't realize how important money is until it is taken away from them.D.People can control their actions but not the consequences of their actions.Study IslandCopyright ? 2020 Edmentum - All rights reserved. Generation Date: 03/27/2020Generated By: Andrea Mitchell VERB TENSE 1. Choose the correct verb for the sentence below.Right now Robbie and I?_______?the football game on television.A.are watchingB.is watchingC.am watchingD.watched2. Choose the correct verb for the sentence below.Every day after he gets home from school, Charlie?_______?dinner for his family.A.makeB.preparedC.cookD.cooks3. Which sentence below contains an incorrect verb form? A.Even today, some people believe that stars have something to say.B.The idea that the future can be predicted in the stars stem from ancient beliefs.C.In fact, on a scientific level, stars are actually the light that remains from millions of years ago.D.The stars have burned out millions of years ago, but it takes their light that long to reach Earth.4. Write the first person, singular, past tense of the word fly in the following sentence.I?_______?from San Antonio to New York for the first time when I was 12.A.flewB.fliedC.flyingD.flies5. Which sentence below contains an incorrect verb form? A.Jack had been seriously injured by mortar fire during WWII, and his heroics were considered inspiring.B.The runner holding the torch was a retired Colonel from the United States Army named Jack Francis.C.The person Jack was handing the torch to was Wendy Gorman, a student at the school who is also the school's star tennis player.D.The class was waiting to see the passing of the Olympic torch whose route run along the outside of the classroom windows.6. Which sentence below contains an incorrect verb form? A.At first glance, the coral snake and the milksnake may look alike; however, they be quite different.B.The coral snake is the most venomous of the two and can be distinguished by its red on yellow markings.C.Both snakes are docile and rarely attack humans, but it's still important to be able to tell the difference.D.The milksnake is nonvenomous and can be characterized by its red on black color bands.7. Choose the correct verb for the sentence below.By the time Ramona finishes training for the marathon, she?_______?over one thousand miles.A.had runB.ranC.runsD.will have run8. What tense is the following sentence written in?I am having a bad day.A.present progressiveB.futureC.present perfectD.present9. Choose the correct verb for the sentence below.I?_______?you to school tomorrow morning.A.will driveB.had drivenC.drivesD.drove10. Choose the correct verb for the sentence below.In 1938 the airline?_______?the first return trip across the Atlantic with a payload-carrying aircraft.pleteB.achievingC.pletingStudy IslandCopyright ? 2020 Edmentum - All rights reserved. Generation Date: 03/27/2020Generated By: Andrea Mitchell CHARACTERS Overcomingby J. Robbins?????"What happens next?" asked Onegin as he stared up at the ceiling of the computer lab. His friends Tatiana and Lensky groaned and shook their heads.?????"This is too hard," Lensky complained. "Whose dumb idea was it to write a children's play anyway? Our writing skills won't exactly earn us the Nobel Prize in literature. We don't even know how to write a decent ending!"?????"It was my dumb idea to write a play," admitted Tatiana nervously. "I'm sorry it is so difficult—I didn't mean to cause all this trouble. The children at the hospital love to see plays and skits, and I just want to help them feel better."?????"We can do anything we put our minds to. The main point of our plot is that the characters have to work together to find the magic sword," mused Onegin. "Maybe we should include some danger and excitement? Nothing too scary, of course, but a little excitement should be okay." Tatiana started to speak but sat back in her chair instead.?????"Something exciting but not too scary? That sounds impossible," Lensky said with a frustrated frown.?????"Maybe this is too hard for us after all," sighed Tatiana. Suddenly, the door to the computer lab opened, and a loud group of students entered.?????"What are you three doing in here?" demanded Vlad, whose voice was even louder and more piercing than usual. "I hope you don't mind that we're going to be spending the afternoon in here. I just found a great new computer game, and my friends want to test it out."?????"Couldn't you please find somewhere else to play?" Tatiana requested. "We are working on a special project for the children's hospital, and we really need to concentrate."?????"Oh, please," smirked Vlad. "Even I get better grades in English class than the three of you. What makes you think you can write a whole play?" Lensky and Tatiana drooped visibly at Vlad's harsh words, and Onegin felt his face turn red with anger.?????"Some of us believe that kindness is more important than good grades," Onegin replied hotly. "We are not going to give up on this play, and we're not going to leave. Every student in this school has a right to use the computer lab." Vlad shook his head and turned away from the three of them. He and his friends began playing games and pointedly ignoring Onegin and his friends.?????"I think I might have a good idea for the ending of our play," said Tatiana. "No, it's a great idea! The main characters in our play are confronted with an evil dragon while searching for the magic sword. They work together to overcome the dragon, and they earn the gratitude of the entire village." Onegin grinned and gave Tatiana a high-five.?????"That's the best idea I've heard all day," he told her. "In fact, I think we should name the evil dragon 'Vlad.' What do you guys think?"?????"It's perfect," agreed Tatiana. "Why don't you type as I tell you how the ending of the play should go?"?????Onegin typed quickly, and the play, complete with an exciting ending, was finished an hour later. Lensky, in spite of his natural pessimism, felt his spirits lift. Vlad watched with a scowl as the three friends laughed and talked together. He quietly grabbed his backpack and slunk out of the room, leaving everyone behind him. 1. Based on the information in this passage, Onegin can best be described as A.unsympathetic.B.bored.C.irritated.D.determined.?????"I wish I had my ten dollars back," muttered Thackeray as he followed his friends out of the dark movie theater into the dazzling sunshine. They walked slowly across the parking lot as they tried to adjust to the warm summer day.?????"Oh, don't be so negative," Braddon replied. "The movie wasn't that bad."?????"Why was it called Zoltan's Revenge?" asked Wilkie. "The main character just flew around the galaxy exploring new planets. He didn't take revenge on anyone."?????"I'm still confused about the plot," Bront? said. "How did he escape from the planet that was full of shrimp? They never explained that part."?????"I liked it," said Braddon. "You could tell that the actors were trying their best. Plus, it was the shortest movie I've seen this summer."?????"You like every movie, no matter how terrible it is, Braddon," Wilkie remarked to his brother. "I bet you've seen more movies than Roger Ebert has."?????"I hate the movies," Thackeray said. "They rob you blind at the ticket counter and at the concession stand. Then, they make you sit through commercials and previews for movies you don't even want to see. It's a rip-off."????? "You'll come to see my movies when I'm a famous director, won't you?" Braddon asked Thackeray with a smile. Thackeray was about to reply when Bront? gasped in surprise.?????"Where is my car?" she asked, looking around desperately. "It was parked right here!"?????"I knew something like this would happen," groaned Thackeray.?????"Are you sure this is the section we parked in?" Wilkie asked. "Maybe we're just looking in the wrong place."?????"No, it was definitely section B-3," replied Bront?. "Look, I wrote down the number on the back of my movie ticket. Someone must have stolen my car!"?????"I'm going back inside the movie theater to call the police," Braddon said. He patted Bront? on the shoulder reassuringly and hurried across the parking lot.????? "Don't worry," Wilkie told his friends proudly. "My brother may be a sucker when it comes to bad movies, but he's great in an emergency."?????"I hope the police can find my car quickly," worried Bront?. "I don't know what I'll do otherwise." She looked back across the parking lot to see Braddon running toward them.?????"There's nothing to worry about," he told the group with a scowl. They stared at him in disbelief.?????"The police found the car already?" asked Wilkie in amazement.?????"No, I never called the police," Braddon replied. "I didn't have to. I saw Bront?'s brother Chaucer and his buddies inside the movie theater. They were laughing about how they took her car and parked it behind the movie theater. They thought it was a hilarious prank."?????"I have had just about enough of him!" exclaimed Bront?. "My brother needs to learn a lesson about these ridiculous pranks of his."?????"We'll help you come up with a great way to get back at him," Wilkie offered. "Who knows? Maybe Braddon can film it and make a blockbuster movie called Bront?'s Revenge." 2. Based on the dialogue in this passage, Wilkie considers his brother Braddon to be a A.cruel prankster.B.discerning movie critic.C.pessimistic person.D.strong leader.Costume Drama?????"Am I in the right place for the drama club rehearsal?" asked Lionel as he walked through the door of the school theater. Several students hurried past without hearing him, and he began to feel self-conscious and awkward.?????"Lionel!" called his best friend Herlise from across the room. "Come meet the drama club president, Guilliana Hicks." Lionel carefully made his way through the maze of power cords and set pieces. He formally shook Guilliana's hand and introduced himself.?????"Principal Smythe thought I might be useful in your upcoming production," said Lionel with a shy smile. "I don't really see how I can help, though. I'm liable to have a panic attack if I try to perform in front of an audience." Guilliana and Herlise exchanged amused glances.?????"Herlise told me that you have a quiet personality," Guilliana replied. "I certainly don't want to cause anyone to have a panic attack. Do you have any experience with construction? We have several sets that need to be built." Lionel shook his head in embarrassment.?????"Don't worry about it, L," said Herlise kindly. "I'll find something for you to do after I locate a needle and thread. My costume keeps falling apart at the seams." Lionel peered at her sparkly ball gown in disapproval.?????"Who sewed this thing?" he asked. "They never should have used this stitching. A thick fabric like this needs stronger stitching and reinforcement, or it will never hold its shape."?????"You sound like an expert on costumes," Guilliana said, her eyes lighting up with excitement.?????"Not really," stammered Lionel. "I help my dad at his alteration shop. He's been a tailor for twenty years, and I guess I picked up more sewing tips than I'd realized."?????"Don't you dare apologize!" laughed Guilliana. "We are in desperate need of a costumer. Are you interested?" Lionel nodded enthusiastically, and he offered several suggestions on improving the drama club's poorly-constructed costumes.?????"Who is this guy?" demanded Rodhrim, who was dressed in an elaborately decorated knight costume. "I hope you're not auditioning anyone else for my role, Guilliana. I may have stormed out of the last three rehearsals, but I'm not going to stand for anyone else taking my place—especially since I'm the most talented person in this school." Herlise rolled her eyes behind the back of the dashingly handsome—but extremely arrogant—leading man.?????"This is our new costumer," Guilliana explained patiently. "Lionel has already offered great suggestions for our production. I love new ideas, especially when they benefit the drama club." Rodhrim stared openmouthed at Lionel.?????"You'll need to talk to him about repairing your costume, Rodhrim," said Herlise with a smirk. "It would be a disaster if you went onstage in that thing."?????"This is ridiculous!" blustered Rodhrim. "Guys can't sew! This must be a practical joke. We can't change the costumes two months before opening curtain! Everything has to stay the same, or I won't be able to perform at my best." Lionel almost felt sorry for the flustered prima donna.?????"Both males and females can sew, Rodhrim," he explained patiently. "Sometimes change is a positive thing."?????"I quit this lousy production—again!" Rodhrim responded angrily. He turned around to storm out of the room. The three drama club members burst into laughter at the sight of the back of his costume, which was tattered and flying in every direction.?????"His attitude isn't very chivalrous," Guilliana said. "I think I need to find someone else to play the gallant knight."?????"Appearances can certainly be deceiving," agreed Lionel.?????"Come on, L," said Herlise cheerfully. "I'll introduce you to the cast. They're a great group, and you'll soon feel right at home." 3. How are the characters of Rodhrim and Guilliana different? A.He is uncertain about his abilities, but she is self-confident and assertive.B.He wants to make the play better, but she thinks it is a waste of time.C.He is resistant to new ideas, but she is open to other people's opinions.D.He cannot afford to repair his costume, but she hires Lionel to sew for her.Confrontation at Thomas High?????"What are you guys working on today?" Betty asked as she walked into the drama club lounge.?????"I sent you a text message earlier today about our plans," replied Jonathan, who was busy reading his notes and typing on a laptop. "We're supposed to be finishing our new play, but someone is having a hard time concentrating."?????"I'm not having a hard time concentrating," Chris told his brother. "I just think your ideas are unoriginal, and I'm worried that the audience might fall asleep halfway through the play."?????"I think your plays are the best," said Betty. "Your achievements are especially impressive considering the fact that our school doesn't offer any creative writing classes. Thomas High School Theater is hardly the best starting point for two aspiring Broadway playwrights."????? "I enjoy writing so much that it doesn't feel like hard work," said Jonathan. "I'm not going to give up even if I never make it big as a playwright." He stopped working long enough to hand Betty a copy of his notes for the new play.?????"This is great!" she exclaimed. "The drama club will be thrilled to perform a space opera. I can't wait to get started on the costume design. I've never sewn alien costumes before."?????"There is a slight problem," Chris replied with a scowl. "Loretta told us yesterday that the drama club is no longer interested in accepting our scripts. They are only going to perform plays written by Steve Holt."?????"Steve Holt?" asked Betty in amazement. "He's not even a writer! I can't believe Loretta would choose her boyfriend's scripts over yours. She doesn't deserve to be president of the drama club. I am still upset that I lost the election to her." Jonathan resumed typing on the computer, and Chris doodled on his notepad while Betty fumed in silent anger. Suddenly, she sat up in her chair.?????"I have a great idea!" Betty announced. "We can talk to the drama club's faculty advisor. I'm sure that Dr. Teague will be much more reasonable than Loretta when it comes to script quality."?????"There's no use in trying," moaned Chris. "Dr. Teague hates my writing. When he returns my research papers after grading them, it looks like an army of red ants has marched across every page."?????"Nice description, Chris," Jonathan laughed. "I'm willing to give it a try. We shouldn't let a little thing like pride stand in the way of our success as writers."?????"Speak for yourself," muttered Chris. "I'd rather be abducted by the aliens in our script than talk to Dr. Teague."?????"Who's going to talk to Dr. Teague?" Loretta demanded as she strode into the lounge. "I hope you three aren't going to complain about my leadership as president of the drama club. I'd hate for Dr. Teague to be bothered with something this inconsequential."?????"We'll just see who Dr. Teague sides with," seethed Betty. "If I have to, I'll take this issue up with Principal Moss. You and I have been going to school together for eight years, and you know that I never give up when I'm right."?????"Dr. Teague will make the right decision and side with me!" Loretta shouted as she followed Betty out of the room. Chris and Jonathan stared at each other for a few minutes before bursting into laughter.?????"We should definitely write a play about this situation," suggested Jonathan. "We can call it Confrontation at Thomas High."?????"Absolutely," Chris agreed. "Although, I'm going to have to come up with a more original title than that. Your titles are always the worst."?????"Let's just get to work, bro," said Jonathan with a sigh. 4. At what point in the story does Betty's attitude change? A.when she learns that Loretta is abusing her power as drama club presidentB.when she realizes that she has been replaced as the school costume designerC.when she finds out that Steve Holt broke up with her to start dating LorettaD.when she discovers that Dr. Teague has been unfairly harsh in grading Chris' papers?????"What time is the train supposed to arrive?" asked Byrd as she sat down on an empty bench. Her friends tossed their backpacks on the ground and joined her.?????"My ticket says the train leaves at 7?AM," Amundsen replied. He checked his wristwatch and then pulled a pocket watch out of his backpack to reassure himself that both clocks were accurate. "We have twenty minutes until it arrives."?????"Twenty minutes is just enough time to take a nap," yawned Peary. "I can't believe I let you guys talk me into an early morning trip to an art museum."?????"Please tell me you're not going to ruin another one of our trips with your complaining," his sister Hilary snapped. "No one forced you to come on this trip. The rest of us are looking forward to enriching our academic lives."?????"Snooze," muttered Peary.?????"I love seeing old paintings, and I have a lot of respect for the artists," Byrd said in an attempt to alleviate the growing tension. "Can you imagine how hard it must have been to grind and create your own paints? I mean, they were creating these beautiful masterpieces before they even had electricity!"?????"That sounds like a lot of work," Peary said with a smirk. "I would have walked down to the local art supply store and bought a paint-by-numbers kit."?????"Stop fooling around," Hilary remonstrated. "I agree with Byrd. It's a good reminder that most people throughout history haven't had access to the advantages of technology."?????"I hope the train is running on schedule," worried Amundsen. "I want to arrive at the museum precisely at 8?AM." Byrd patted him on the arm reassuringly.?????"Don't worry, Amie," she told him. "The museum stays open until midnight. I think we'll have plenty of time to see all of the exhibits."?????"Our reports are due on Mr. Shackleton's desk on Monday," Amundsen mused. "That only gives me three days to analyze what I see at the museum, write the report, and proofread it for any possible grammar mistakes. I had better get started this afternoon." Peary opened his bleary eyes and stared at Amundsen in disbelief.?????"Are you nuts?" he asked his friend. "Why are you working so hard on this report when Mr. Shackleton is only offering partial credit?" Amundsen nervously checked his pocket watch before replying.?????"My dad has always taught me to take education seriously," Amundsen told Peary. "Working hard in school is my way of showing him respect." The four friends sat quietly as Amundsen's words echoed across the empty station. A rush of cool air and a muffled roar announced the arrival of the train.?????"Ticket check, everyone," announced Amundsen. His friends held up their tickets for his inspection, and he carefully checked their train and museum tickets.?????"At least I'll be able to sleep during the trip," Peary said as he boarded the train. "You guys are wearing me out with all this talk about art."?????"The sooner you get to sleep, the better," remarked his sister with an irritable sigh. "The three of us grown-ups are planning to have important discussions about art." Amundsen and Byrd tried to hide their laughter as the two siblings continued to argue. 5. Amundsen's anxious behavior in this passage is most likely caused by A.his fear of Mr. Shackleton.B.his need to be accepted by his friends.C.his insecurity around Byrd.D.his desire to please his father.?????"How much longer do you think we should wait?" Tesla asked her friends Karpathy and Frewin. They checked their watches for the hundredth time and sighed.?????"I think we should just go," replied Karpathy. "We've been waiting for over an hour. Clearly, Zenda is not going to show up." The intolerable heat rising up from the school parking lot was causing him to be unusually cranky.?????"Have a little faith, K," Frewin told him cheerfully. "Zenda may be a little thoughtless sometimes, but she has a good heart. She would never cause us to miss the opera on purpose. I hope nothing bad has happened to her."?????"Let's leave now, or we really will miss the opera," said Tesla. Just as she finished speaking, a car sped into the parking lot and squealed to a stop right in front of the three friends. Zenda emerged from her car with a smile and a wave.?????"Boy, you guys are always early," she commented. "I would have been here early too, but I just couldn't miss the latest episode of NTV's 'The Valleys.'" Her friends stared at her in disbelief.?????"You are over an hour late, Zenda," said Frewin. "We were just about to leave you behind."?????"How could you make us late to the opera because of a stupid television show?" Karpathy demanded. His face, normally kind and genial, turned stormy with emotion.?????"Sorry!" Zenda said breezily. "I don't know why you're getting angry with me. It's not my fault NTV only plays my favorite show once a week."?????"Everyone just get on the bus," sighed Tesla. "We don't want to miss the overture."?????"Ew!" exclaimed Zenda. "We don't have to ride in that gross thing, do we?"?????"Tesla was nice enough to rent a bus for us because this is an important event, Z," Frewin told her. "The majority of our grade in Introduction to Performing Arts depends on our attendance at this opera." Zenda turned pale and gulped loudly. As the four students filed onto the rented bus, she was unusually quiet. Tesla made sure that her friends were seated and comfortable before she drove the bus out of the parking lot.?????"What is that, Karpathy?" asked Frewin as he noticed his friend reading a small stack of papers.?????"It's a study guide for the opera," Karpathy replied. "I want to understand as much as possible about the story before I see it onstage."?????"Would you mind reading it out loud for the rest of us?" asked Zenda meekly. "I think we all want to make a good grade on this project." Karpathy, whose bad mood had disappeared, smiled and began reading out loud. He had just finished when the bus pulled into the parking lot of the Bunyan Opera House.?????"We're not too late, are we?" Tesla asked the usher at the door as she carefully handed him four tickets. The usher's solemn face barely hinted at a grin as he saw the anxiety on the faces of the students.?????"You are just in time," he told them, and the four friends sighed in relief.?????"Thank goodness we made it," Zenda whispered as Tesla helped her find her seat. "No television show—not even 'The Valleys'—is worth failing a class!" 6. How are the characters of Zenda and Karpathy similar? A.Both characters feel hurt when their friends point out their selfish behavior.B.Both characters are more interested in entertainment than in their education.C.Both characters experience a change in attitude over the course of the passage.D.Both characters test their friends' patience at the beginning of the passage.One Swing?????Brenden saw the hockey stick swinging up, but it was too late to react. The hockey stick crashed into his upper chest, knocking Brenden backwards onto the ice. Looking up, he saw a flash of a white jersey speeding away. He knew who had hit him. It was Jackson.?????The team trainers and Coach Kyle skated quickly to Brenden. He had not gotten up, and they were afraid he was hurt. They found that Brenden was fine physically, but emotionally, he was a storm.?????“I saw what that bully did,” Coach Kyle said. “I know how you feel, but you have to forget about it. Focus on the game, not Jackson.”?????Brenden calmed down once he got up and began playing again. Brenden ignored Jackson and played a clean game. With the incident forgotten, Brenden scored two extra goals for his team.?????At halftime, the players began skating toward the benches for a break. Brenden saw a familiar flash of white heading toward Timothy, a small freshman that played on his team. Timothy suddenly crashed onto the ice as Jackson slipped away.?????“Hey,” Brenden shouted. “I saw what you did.” He pointed at the culprit.?????Jackson put his hands up and looked at everyone like he didn’t know what happened. Then, he smirked at Brenden and rolled his eyes.?????A fire in Brenden began burning hot. He streaked across the ice and grabbed that white jersey. Jackson didn’t have his helmet on, and Brenden slammed his fist into Jackson’s cheek.?????Brenden was about to land another punch, when he felt strong arms pulling him away. It was Coach Kyle.?????Brenden’s heart stopped when he looked in the coach’s eyes. Disappointment poured out of the coach.?????“I taught you better than that,” Coach Kyle grumbled. “I’m benching you until you can behave like the kind of player I want on my team.” 7. Which excerpt shows how the author supports the theme of sportsmanship through Brenden's characterization? A."At halftime, the players began skating toward the benches for a break."B."He streaked across the ice and grabbed that white jersey."C."Brenden ignored Jackson and played a clean game."D."Then, he smirked at Brenden and rolled his eyes."?????"Hurry up!" called Tyndale to his friends as they entered the computer lab. "We only have twelve hours until our test! Nehemiah, I hope you have a study plan for us today like you did the last time we studied together." Essex rolled his eyes and tossed his backpack onto a table.?????"Who cares, T?" Essex asked. "The time will pass whether we study or not. We should relax with some popcorn and a movie instead of stressing ourselves out."?????"We're here to study, Essex, not goof off," Nehemiah stated firmly. "Valancy and Perpetua will write down three practice essay questions for the rest of us, and Tyndale will print five copies of the study guide. Essex, you should read all four chapters in the textbook to catch up with the rest of us." The four friends jumped into action at Nehemiah's words.?????"Oh, no!" Tyndale exclaimed as he sat down in front of the computer. "Something is wrong with this stupid machine. I just knew we were all going to fail this test."?????"The computer isn't broken, Tyndale," Valancy snapped at him irritably. "You forgot to turn the monitor on. Now calm down and get busy before you give yourself—and the rest of us—an ulcer."?????"These essay questions are too hard," complained Essex as Perpetua handed him a sheet of paper. "It's already getting dark outside. We'll be stuck here all night at this rate."?????"You're right, Essex," Nehemiah agreed to his friends' surprise. "We should order food to keep our strength up. Perpetua, please call Pizza Qwik and ask my brother Yelchin to bring us some food." Perpetua grabbed her cell phone and left to place the order while the other four students studied in silence.?????"We have a problem, guys," she said as she rushed back into the computer lab. "Someone forgot to tell the janitorial staff that we are staying late. They locked the front doors, and there's no way for us to leave the building. Thank goodness the lights are left on automatically, or we'd be sitting here in the dark all night!" Nehemiah, Tyndale, and Valancy stared at her in disbelief. Essex winced and pulled his baseball cap down to shield his face.?????"Wasn't Essex in charge of talking to the head janitor?" demanded Valancy. She slammed her textbook closed and stared at Essex with undisguised anger. Essex glared back at her despite his evident embarrassment.?????"I asked you to talk to Mr. Petersmith about leaving the front doors open," Nehemiah said to a red-faced Essex. "Now we're stuck here until morning. I hope you're happy."?????"I'm really sorry, guys," Essex said with an apologetic smile. Everyone smiled back at him kindly except for Valancy, who turned back to her textbook without a glance in his direction.?????"At least we'll have plenty of time to study, and I have enough protein bars in my backpack to keep us from starving to death," said Perpetua. "See? There is a bright side to every situation."?????"Twelve straight hours of studying? Excellent!" Tyndale cheered as he gave Perpetua a high-five. The worry lines on Tyndale's face began to disappear as he happily worked on his essay questions.?????"Let's get busy then!" said Nehemiah with a smile. "If I have to be stuck at school all night, then I'm glad to have my friends with me." 8. At what point in the story does Essex's attitude change? A.when he realizes that his friends want him to succeed and get an A on his testB.when he finds out that his friends will not forgive him for his practical jokeC.when he realizes that he is to blame for the group being locked inside the schoolD.when he discovers that Mr. Petersmith lied to him about leaving the doors unlockedOne Swing?????Brenden saw the hockey stick swinging up, but it was too late to react. The hockey stick crashed into his upper chest, knocking Brenden backwards onto the ice. Looking up, he saw a flash of a white jersey speeding away. He knew who had hit him. It was Jackson.?????The team trainers and Coach Kyle skated quickly to Brenden. He had not gotten up, and they were afraid he was hurt. They found that Brenden was fine physically, but emotionally, he was a storm.?????“I saw what that bully did,” Coach Kyle said. “I know how you feel, but you have to forget about it. Focus on the game, not Jackson.”?????Brenden calmed down once he got up and began playing again. Brenden ignored Jackson and played a clean game. With the incident forgotten, Brenden scored two extra goals for his team.?????At halftime, the players began skating toward the benches for a break. Brenden saw a familiar flash of white heading toward Timothy, a small freshman that played on his team. Timothy suddenly crashed onto the ice as Jackson slipped away.?????“Hey,” Brenden shouted. “I saw what you did.” He pointed at the culprit.?????Jackson put his hands up and looked at everyone like he didn’t know what happened. Then, he smirked at Brenden and rolled his eyes.?????A fire in Brenden began burning hot. He streaked across the ice and grabbed that white jersey. Jackson didn’t have his helmet on, and Brenden slammed his fist into Jackson’s cheek.?????Brenden was about to land another punch, when he felt strong arms pulling him away. It was Coach Kyle.?????Brenden’s heart stopped when he looked in the coach’s eyes. Disappointment poured out of the coach.?????“I taught you better than that,” Coach Kyle grumbled. “I’m benching you until you can behave like the kind of player I want on my team.” 9. At what point in the story does Brenden's attitude toward Jackson change? A.when Brenden scores a goalB.when Coach Kyle hits JacksonC.when Jackson picks on TimothyD.when Timothy trips on the ice?????"How are you feeling, Ruston?" Thorold asked as he walked into the school auditorium. His friend gulped and turned even paler than usual while Thorold smiled and shook hands with each student he passed.?????"I'm not feeling too well, actually," admitted Ruston. "Why did I sign up to perform my comedy routine at the talent show? The entire senior class will be watching and waiting for me to make a fool out of myself." Billiana waved from across the room and hurried to join them.????? "This looks like a tough crowd," Billiana told her friends. "Everyone is nervous about final exams, and they don't seem to be in the mood for a talent show. We support you all the way, though!" Ruston groaned out loud, and Thorold patted him on the shoulder sympathetically.????? "Hang in there, buddy," said Thorold. "Performing in front of a crowd is the best feeling there is! Billiana and I are going to find our seats. Don't worry—at least two members of the audience will be laughing at your jokes!" Ruston smiled weakly and pulled his notes out of his pocket. He tried to rehearse his comedy routine, but he was distracted by the students milling around him. Suddenly, a familiar face emerged in the crowd, and he felt his heart stop.?????"If it isn't Avery High's very own comedian," Mariliste said with a sneer. "Please tell me you aren't planning to bore us with your lame jokes."?????"You should be worried about your own performance," replied Ruston. "Someone told me that you were nearly booed off the stage last year."?????"Well?.?.?.?I'd rather not talk about that," she muttered, her face bright red. The student body president stepped up to the podium and announced that Mariliste would perform first in the talent show. She looked around nervously before walking onstage. As she began her flashy gymnastics moves, an unfriendly silence filled the auditorium.?????"This is not a good sign," Thorold whispered to Billiana?????"The other students don't look happy," she agreed. "I know Mariliste isn't the nicest person in school, but I hate for anyone to feel humiliated. The least we can do is cheer for her when she's finished."?????As Mariliste completed her last backflip and took a bow, Billiana and Thorold jumped to their feet and began cheering with as much enthusiasm as they could muster. The other students followed their lead and began clapping and stomping their feet on the bleachers.?????"It looks like you were a big hit," Ruston said as Mariliste joined him behind the stage. She blushed and shook her head.?????"Please thank your friends for me," Mariliste told him. "I know they are the only reason anyone cheered for me. I'm looking forward to watching your routine, Ruston. I know you'll do a great job." Ruston smiled at her and slipped his notecards into this pocket as he approached the microphone.?????"So what's the deal with the principal scheduling our lunch breaks right after biology lab?" he asked, launching into his routine with a newfound confidence. His heart nearly burst with pride as the audience cheered and laughed after every punch line. Even Mariliste, standing backstage where no one could see her, managed a small smile. 10. Ruston's "newfound confidence" at the end of the passage is most likely caused by A.the compassionate actions of Thorold and Billiana.B.the hope that he will soon become a professional comedian.C.the award given to him by the student body president.D.the realization that Mariliste has become unpopular. ................
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