Author's Purpose and Craft (8A,-8D)
The author uses short, fragmented sentences during the storm scene.
What is the MOST LIKELY reason for this choice?
To create tension and urgency.
“The scientist’s theory was met with skepticism.”
What does skepticism MOST NEARLY mean?
Doubt.
Which evidence BEST supports the claim that the character feels isolated?
The line where the character eats lunch alone and avoids eye contact.
The turning point of a story is called the —
Climax.
What is the difference between topic and theme?
Topic is the subject; theme is the message about the subject.
An article includes statistics from three scientific studies and quotes two researchers.
What is the author MOST LIKELY trying to establish?
Credibility and authority.
“The coach’s reprimand was terse but effective.”
What does terse mean in this sentence?
Brief and direct.
The theme of resilience is developed MOST through —
The character continuing to train after repeated failures.
A story begins with the ending scene, then returns to earlier events.
This structure is —
Flashback / Nonlinear structure.
Which statement BEST expresses a theme about perseverance?
Success requires persistence despite obstacles.
The author describes the city as “a glittering cage of opportunity.”
What effect does this metaphor MOST LIKELY have?
It shows the city offers success but also traps or limits freedom.
“The abandoned house stood in stark contrast to the vibrant gardens surrounding it.”
What does stark MOST NEARLY mean?
Harsh or extreme.
Which quotation BEST supports the inference that the narrator regrets her decision?
“If only I had listened when the warning signs were clear.”
How does the setting influence the protagonist’s decisions in the story?
The harsh environment forces survival-based choices.
How does the author develop the central idea across the article?
By providing examples, statistics, and expert commentary.
The narrator repeatedly refers to time as “slipping through cracked fingers.”
How does this figurative language contribute to the text’s meaning?
It emphasizes the theme of lost opportunities and regret.
“The CEO’s decision was pragmatic rather than sentimental.”
What does pragmatic suggest?
Practical and realistic.
How does paragraph 6 contribute to the author’s argument?
It provides counterargument and refutes opposing claims.
What is the effect of dramatic irony in a story?
The audience knows something the character does not, creating suspense.
Why would an author include a counterclaim?
To strengthen the argument by addressing opposing views.
The author shifts from third-person limited to first-person reflection in the final paragraph.
Why would the author MOST LIKELY include this structural shift?
To create intimacy and emphasize the personal impact of events.
“The proposal was ambiguous, leaving investors uncertain.”
Which word BEST replaces ambiguous?
A. Detailed
B. Unclear
C. Passionate
D. Logical
B. Unclear
Which piece of evidence is MOST relevant to show the author’s bias?
The emotionally charged language describing one side as “reckless and irresponsible.”
How does the resolution reinforce the theme?
It shows the consequences of the character’s growth or failure.
Which statement BEST captures a universal theme from a coming-of-age story?
Growth often comes through difficult experiences.