Cite It Right
Main Idea/Theme
Figurative Fun
Word Power
Courage Connections
100

What does it mean to “cite text evidence”?

Using evidence or quotes from the text to support an answer.

100

What is the main idea of a nonfiction text?

What the text is mostly about.

100

What is a simile? Give an example.

Simile = comparison using “like” or “as.” Example: Brave as a lion.

100

What is a prefix? Give an example.

A prefix is a word part added to the beginning. Example: unhappy.

100

Who are the Wright Brothers, and why are they important?

They invented the first successful airplane.

200

When answering a question, where should your text evidence come from?

From the passage or story you are reading.

200

What is a theme in a story?

The message or lesson the author wants you to learn.

200

Identify the figurative language in this line from “Life Doesn’t Frighten Me”: “Shadows on the wall / Noises down the hall.”

Imagery — describes sights and sounds to create a mental picture.

200

What does the prefix re- mean? Use it in a word.

“Again.” Example: rewrite = write again.

200

How does Vinny show courage in “The Ravine”?

He chooses not to jump, showing real courage through self-control.

300

Read this quote: “Vinny’s palms were sweating as he looked down into the ravine.” What can you infer from this line?

Vinny is nervous or scared to jump.

300

What is the main idea of “Fears and Phobias”?

Fear helps people stay safe but can also control them.

300

What does the “magic charm” in “Life Doesn’t Frighten Me” symbolize?

It symbolizes inner strength or self-belief.

300

In the word biography, what does the root bio mean?

“Life.” Example: Biology = study of life.

300

In “Wired for Fear,” how does the author explain the body’s reaction to fear?

Fear is a survival response controlled by the brain.

400

Why is it important to use quotation marks when citing evidence?

To show which words come directly from the text.

400

Identify one theme from “The Ravine” and explain how the author develops it.

Theme: Courage means doing what’s right, even when afraid. Developed through Vinny’s decision not to jump.

400

Explain how repetition builds the poem’s theme in “Life Doesn’t Frighten Me.”

Repetition of “Life doesn’t frighten me” reinforces bravery and confidence.

400

Use context clues to determine the meaning of this sentence: “The student was diligent, finishing every task carefully.” What does diligent mean?

Diligent means hardworking or careful.

400

Compare how courage is shown in “The Ravine” and “Life Doesn’t Frighten Me.”

“The Ravine”—Vinny faces peer pressure; “Life Doesn’t Frighten Me”—speaker overcomes fear with confidence.

500

Write a sentence that correctly cites evidence from “Fears and Phobias” to support the idea that fear is a natural human response. 

Hint: Use a text talker.

According to the text, “the fear response helps keep people safe from danger.”

500

Both “Into the Air” and “From The Wright Brothers” explore courage. Compare how each text shows this theme using text evidence.

“Into the Air” focuses on courage through action (the first flight); “The Wright Brothers” shows courage through persistence.

500

Find a metaphor or example of imagery from one of our unit texts and explain how it connects to courage.

“Dragons breathing flame” (metaphor for imaginary fears).

500

Choose a challenging word from “Fears and Phobias” or “The Wright Brothers” and explain how you could use context or word parts to figure it out.

Answers will vary (students may describe breaking down a word like uncontrollable).

500

Across all texts in the unit, what do we learn about courage as a human trait? Use at least two examples to support your answer.

Courage means acting despite fear. Shown in the Wright brothers’ invention, Vinny’s decision, and Angelou’s poem.

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