Text evidence
(Passage A)
What evidence shows how wetlands improve water quality?
Wetlands improve water quality by acting as natural filters that trap sediments, heavy metals, and pollutants before they reach rivers, lakes, and groundwater.
Passage A)
What is the central idea of the passage about wetlands?
The central idea is that wetlands are vital ecosystems that provide important environmental benefits, including water purification, flood control, and supporting biodiversity.
(Passage B)
Describe the setting and how it mirrors Clara’s mood.
The setting is a peaceful evening by the lake with a colorful sky and gentle breeze, reflecting Clara’s calm, thoughtful, and hopeful mood.
(Passage A)
What does the word “sequestration” mean in the context of the passage?
“Sequestration” means the process of capturing and storing something, in this case, carbon stored in wetland soils that helps reduce climate change.
(Passage B)
Which details reveal Clara’s emotional connection to her grandmother?
Clara’s emotional connection to her grandmother is shown through details like remembering Grandma’s sparkling eyes, storytelling about stars and heroes, shared adventures like fishing and sketching, and feeling Grandma’s love like a “warm blanket.”
Passage B)
Identify a possible theme in the passage about Clara’s evening by the lake.
A possible theme is how memories and love from family can give us strength and hope, even through difficult changes.
Passage B)
How does Clara demonstrate personal growth throughout the passage?
Clara shows personal growth by becoming more patient, curious, and brave—ready to take on new challenges—and this change is inspired by her grandmother’s stories and love.
(Passage B)
How does the phrase “wrapped around her like a warm blanket” affect the tone of the passage?
the phrase “wrapped around her like a warm blanket” creates a comforting and loving tone, showing how Clara feels safe and cared for through her memories.
(Passage A)
What information supports the role of wetlands in reducing flood damage?
Wetlands reduce flood damage by absorbing excess water during heavy rains, slowing floodwaters, and protecting nearby communities and farmland.
(Passage B)
Write a brief summary of Clara’s reflections and feelings in the passage.
Clara reflects on her summer memories with her grandmother and realizes she has grown braver and more curious. She feels comforted by those memories and hopeful about the future, like the stars shining in the night sky.
Passage B)
Analyze how Clara’s memories of her grandmother influence her thoughts and feelings in the passage. Use evidence to support your answer.
Clara’s memories of her grandmother influence her by providing comfort and courage. Evidence includes her recalling shared adventures, feeling wrapped in Grandma’s love, and using those memories to feel brave and hopeful.
(Passage A)
Explain the meaning of “buffer” as used in the passage and why it is important for wetlands.
: A “buffer” is something that reduces impact or protects from harm. Wetlands act as buffers by absorbing floodwaters and protecting areas downstream from flooding.