Definitions
This word refers to meaningful objects from Paul's past that are missing from his room.
Relics
What word shows Paul's emotional state as he looks out into the twilight?
listless
Maria learned that her great-grandmother was an important ___ in her family's history.
Ancestor
Why does the author use listless instead of just saying “sad”?
More specific than “sad”
Shows lack of energy, not just emotion
Deepens tone of emptiness
Find a line that proves Paul is listless
Must reference him “gazing out” without energy
This word describes how Paul's mother communicates through short, minimal messages.
laconic
What word shows Paul is informed about his parents' absence rather than experiencing it directly?
apprised
After moving to a new city, she felt a deep sense of ___ and lonliness
isolation
Why does the author include missing relics in Paul’s room?
Shows lack of personal connection
Highlights unfamiliar space
Builds theme of isolation
Find evidence showing communication is laconic
Mentions telegrams/short messages
This word means being informed, like when Paul learns about his parents' trip
apprised
What word helps show why Paul feels uncomfortable and disconnected in his room?
Relics
The fireworks display was ____ as it lit up the night sky
How does the word laconic strengthen the idea of emotional distance?
Communication is minimal
Lacks warmth
Reinforces weak relationship
Find a detail showing lack of relics
No toys/books from his past
This word describes Paul having little energy while staring out the window in paragraph 1.
listless
What word reveals the distant relationship between Paul and his mother?
laconic
The royal banquet featured a ____ feast with gold-plated dishes and gourmet food.
sumptuous
What does the word vociferated reveal about the butler and the household environment?
Means loud/shouting
House is busy/loud
Contrasts Paul’s quiet isolation
Find a quote that shows the house is sumptuous but uncomfortable
Luxurious descriptions + his discomfort
This word describes how Paul carefully moves through the unfamiliar house
prudent
What word shows Paul's cautious movement through the house, and what does it reveal about him?
prudent
The coach began to ___ instructions to his players during the final minute of the game
vociferate
How does the sumptuousness of the house contrast Paul’s emotions?
House is luxurious
Paul feels uncomfortable/lonely
Contrast between wealth and emptiness
Find evidence that shows Paul’s isolation
Alone in house
No connection to people or space