Grammar
Vocabulary
Sirens
"Sirens" Comprehension
"Odds and Ends"
100

Choose the sentence that correctly uses possessive nouns.
A. The students’ notebooks were left on the teachers desk.
B. The student’s notebooks were left on the teacher’s desk.
C. The students notebooks were left on the teachers’ desk.
D. The students’ notebooks were left on the teacher’s desk.

Answer: D

Explanation: The notebooks belong to multiple students, and the desk belongs to one teacher.


100

Read the etymology of the word deluders.

Delude

Verb

from Latin deludere "to play false; to mock

from de- "down, to one's detriment"

Based on the etymology, what is the meaning of Deluder as used in line 32 of the poem? (V.1.2)

A. Jokester 

B. Deceiver

C. Musician 

D. Motivator

A-Incorrect- The word "deluder," based on its Latin root meaning "to deceive or play false," does not imply someone who plays harmless jokes but rather someone who deceives or misleads others with more serious intent.

B-Correct- This aligns with the root meaning of the word "delude," indicating someone who misleads or deceives others, which fits the context of the Sirens' song enticing Ulysses and his crew with false promises and allurements.

C-Incorrect- While the Sirens do sing a captivating song in the poem, the word "deluder" specifically relates to deceiving or misleading, not to the act of performing music itself.

D-Incorrect- The word "deluder," derived from "to play false; to mock," does not suggest motivating or encouraging others positively but rather misleading or deceiving them.

100

How does the plot add to the layers of meaning? (R.1.1)

Plot -the main events of a play, novel, film, or similar work, devised and presented by the writer as an interrelated sequence:

"the plot consists almost entirely of a man and woman falling in love"

"he outlined his idea for a movie plot"


A. It adds to the literal layer by giving background to what the Sirens want from Ulysses.

B. It adds to the tense mood by describing the steps the men take while approaching the Siren shores.

C. It adds to the author’s purpose by highlighting the reason why Ulysses wants to hear the Siren song.

D. It adds to the tone by using statements such as “struggle to be free” that cause tension between the sailors and Ulysses.

A- Incorrect- This option is incorrect because the plot primarily focuses on the actions and preparations of Ulysses and his men, rather than providing a detailed background of the Sirens' desires. The Sirens' intent to lure and endanger sailors is implied but not deeply explored in the given passage.

B- Correct- This option is correct. The plot contributes to the tense mood by detailing the careful and deliberate actions taken by Ulysses and his men as they approach the Siren shores. The descriptions of binding Ulysses, plugging the sailors' ears with wax, and rowing vigorously all build a sense of tension and anticipation.

C- Incorrect- This option is incorrect because while the plot does show Ulysses’s curiosity and determination to hear the Sirens' song, it does not explicitly highlight the reason for his desire. The focus is more on the actions taken to safely experience the song rather than the underlying motivation.

D- Incorrect- This option is incorrect because although phrases like “struggle to be free” contribute to the tension of the scene, the plot does not emphasize conflict or tension between the sailors and Ulysses.

100

What advice does the speaker give to his friends regarding the Sirens?

A. They should listen to the Sirens' song and enjoy it.

B. They should avoid the Sirens entirely by changing their course.

C. They should bind the speaker tightly if he asks for freedom.

D. They should attack the Sirens to ensure their safety.

A- Incorrect- This option is incorrect because the speaker warns of the dangers of the Sirens' song, suggesting that listening to it is perilous. The focus is on avoiding the temptation and danger, not enjoying it.

B- Incorrect- This option is incorrect because the passage does not mention changing course to avoid the Sirens.

C- Correct- This option is correct. The speaker specifically instructs his friends to bind him firmly and to add more restraints if he asks for freedom, highlighting the danger of succumbing to the Sirens' song.

D- Incorrect- This option is incorrect because there is no mention of attacking the Sirens in the passage. 

100

Who will be the new freshman dean?

Mr. Washington

200

Which sentence is correctly punctuated and maintains parallel structure?
A. The committee values honesty, being on time, and that people complete their work.
B. The committee values honesty, punctuality, and responsibility.
C. The committee values to be honest, being punctual, and responsibility.
D. The committee values honesty; punctuality, and responsibility.

Answer: B

Explanation: All items in the list are nouns and maintain grammatical parallelism.

200

When the Cyclops roared in pain, Odysseus’s men didn’t wait to see what would happen next. They scuttled back toward the shadows of the cave, their sandals scraping against the stone as they tried to stay out of sight.

Question:
In this passage, the word scuttled most nearly means:

A. stood proudly and refused to move
B. walked slowly and calmly
C. moved quickly and nervously
D. shouted loudly for help


 C. moved quickly and nervously 

200

Read the following section from the poem.


“While yet I speak the winged galley flies,

And lo! the Siren shores like mists arise.

Sunk were at once the winds; the air above,

And waves below, at once forgot to move;

Some demon calm’d the air and smooth’d the deep,

Hush’d the loud winds, and charm’d the waves to sleep.”


How does the author’s use of simile contribute to the mood? (R.3.1)

A. The comparison of the shores and mist creates a foreboding mood.

B. The comparison between the ship sailing and flying creates a fearless mood.

C. The comparison between the calm waters and sleep creates a relaxing mood.

D. The comparison between the Sirens and demons creates a threatening mood.

A-Correct- This option is correct. The simile comparing the Siren shores to mists contributes to a foreboding mood by evoking an atmosphere of uncertainty and danger. Mists can obscure vision and hide potential hazards, suggesting an ominous and mysterious environment that the sailors are approaching.

B-Incorrect- This option is incorrect because the simile comparing the winged galley to flying does not create a fearless mood. Instead, it emphasizes the speed and urgency of the ship's movement towards the Siren shores, adding to the tension and apprehension rather than fearlessness.

C-Incorrect- This option is incorrect because while the simile comparing the calm waters to sleep does convey a sense of tranquility, the overall context of the passage is more focused on the unnatural calmness and potential danger rather than relaxation.

D-Incorrect- This option is incorrect because the passage does not directly compare the Sirens to demons. It describes a demon-like force calming the air and smoothing the waves, which contributes to the eerie and unnatural calmness rather than directly suggesting a threatening mood from the Sirens themselves.

200

Based on the passage, what can be inferred about the environment and the sailors' response as they approach the Siren shores?

A. The sailors are enthusiastic and eager to listen to the Sirens' song.

B. The environment becomes eerily calm, prompting the sailors to take careful, deliberate actions.

C. The sailors decide to continue rowing vigorously because the winds are strong.

D. The sailors are confused and unsure about how to respond to the changing environment.

A- Incorrect- This option is incorrect because the passage describes the sailors taking measures to avoid hearing the Sirens' song, not seeking it out eagerly.

B- Correct- This option is correct. The passage describes a sudden calmness ("Sunk were at once the winds; the air above, / And waves below, at once forgot to move;") and the sailors taking specific actions to prepare for the dangers ahead (furling sails, plying oars, using wax to block their ears, and binding the speaker).

C- Incorrect- This option is incorrect because the passage mentions that the winds have ceased, and the sailors' vigorous rowing is in response to the calm, not strong winds.

D- Incorrect- This option is incorrect because the passage shows the sailors taking deliberate and coordinated actions to prepare for the Sirens, indicating they are not confused but rather well-prepared.

200

How many English Language Arts 1 teachers are there at Cypress Creek High School?

Answer: 4 actual contracted ELA 1 teachers.

300

Definition:
A predicate is the part of a sentence that tells what the subject does or is. It includes the verb and all the words that modify or complete its meaning (for example, objects, phrases, or clauses that describe the action).

Example:

  • The students studied for their exams in the library.

    • Predicate: studied for their exams in the library

Question:
Identify the complete predicate in the following sentence:

The bright display of constellations glittered brilliantly above the calm desert sky.





glittered brilliantly above the calm desert sky

Explanation: The complete predicate includes the verb “glittered” and all the words that describe or modify the action.

300

As dawn broke over the hill, a soft twitter filled the trees, signaling the first signs of life in the forest.
What does twitter most likely mean in this context?
A. Quiet laughter
B. Chirping or bird sounds
C. Rumors spreading
D. Gentle breeze


B. Chirping or bird sounds 

300

Read the following section from the poem.


“‘O friends, oh ever partners of my woes,

Attend while I what Heaven foredooms disclose.

Hear all! Fate hangs o’er all; on you it lies

To live or perish! to be safe, be wise!


How does Ulysses’ perspective affect the tone of the text? (R.1.1)

A. The focus on Ulysses’ leadership skills creates a confident tone.

B. The focus on the inevitable downfall of the sailors creates a regretful tone. 

C. The focus on the information Ulysses was given creates a cautionary tone.

D. The focus on the chaos the Gods have cursed them with creates an angry tone.

A-Incorrect- This option is incorrect because while Ulysses demonstrates leadership by addressing his crew and giving them instructions, the tone of the passage is not primarily confident. Instead, it reflects a sense of urgency and caution as Ulysses prepares his men for the encounter with the Sirens.

B-Incorrect- This option is incorrect because the passage does not focus on the inevitable downfall of the sailors. Instead, Ulysses is focused on warning his men of the dangers ahead and instructing them on how to avoid succumbing to the Sirens' song.

C-Correct- This option is correct. Ulysses’ perspective in the passage is centered on the information and warnings he has received about the dangers posed by the Sirens. He urges his crew to listen and heed his instructions, emphasizing the importance of being wise and cautious to avoid peril. 

D-Incorrect- This option is incorrect because there is no indication in the passage that Ulysses is angry at the gods or feels cursed by them.

300

How does the author’s style in lines 19-24 enhance the meaning of the text? (R.1.1

The ductile wax with busy hands I mould,

[20] And cleft in fragments, and the fragments roll’d;

The aerial region now grew warm with day,

The wax dissolved beneath the burning ray;

Then every ear I barr’d against the strain,

And from access of frenzy lock’d the brain.

A. by including Ulysses’s anger at the Sirens

B. by including the men’s reaction to the Sirens

C. by including the description of how the wax was used

D. by including the detailed description of Ulysses’s men

A- Incorrect- Ulysses is angry at the Sirens, but this excerpt is about his preparation.

B- Incorrect- This section does not include the men’s reaction to the Sirens.

C- Correct-  This option highlights the language that was used when the author was describing the molding and shaping of the wax.

D- Incorrect-  This section of text does not have a description of the men.

300

What is Ms. Doe's favorite baseball team?

LOS DOYERS!!!!

400

DOUBLE JEOPARDY

Definition:
A modifier is a word, phrase, or clause that describes or gives more detail about another word in a sentence.

  • Modifiers can be adjectives (describing nouns) or adverbs (describing verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs).

  • A misplaced modifier happens when the word or phrase it is meant to describe is too far away, making the sentence confusing or illogical.

Example:
❌ Running fast, the finish line was crossed by Maria.
✅ Running fast, Maria crossed the finish line.

Question:
Select the sentence that avoids a misplaced modifier.

A. Running down the hallway, the backpack slipped off Maria’s shoulder.
B. Running down the hallway, Maria’s backpack slipped off her shoulder.
C. Maria, running down the hallway, had her backpack slip off her shoulder.
D. The backpack, running down the hallway, slipped off Maria’s shoulder.





Answer: C

Explanation: Maria, not the backpack, was running, so “running down the hallway” must clearly modify “Maria.”

400

DOUBLE JEOPARDY

The word “enormous” comes from the Latin root meaning “out of the ordinary” or “irregular.”

What kinds of things in today’s world might be described as “enormous,” and how does that meaning connect to its Latin origin?

A. Abnormal

400

Greek culture places great emphasis on loyalty. How do the sailors embody this cultural value? (R.1.4) 

A. The sailors follow Ulysses’ directions and protect him from the Sirens.

B. The sailors listen to the Gods warnings and survive the Siren encounter.

C. The sailors confront the Sirens so that Ulysses does not become tempted.

D. The sailors refuse to listen to the Siren song to avoid becoming more wise than Ulysses.

A- Correct- This option is correct. The sailors embody the cultural value of loyalty by following Ulysses' instructions without hesitation. They obey his orders to plug their ears with wax, ignore his pleas for release, and ensure that he remains bound to the mast. Their loyalty to Ulysses is evident as they prioritize his safety and well-being, even at the risk of encountering the dangerous Sirens.

B- Incorrect- This option is incorrect because while the sailors do heed Ulysses' warnings and instructions, the poem does not specifically mention them listening to warnings from the gods in the context of surviving the Siren encounter. 

C- Incorrect- This option is incorrect because the sailors do not confront the Sirens directly. Instead, they follow Ulysses' orders to bind him and protect him from being tempted by the Sirens' song. 

D- Incorrect- This option is incorrect because the sailors do listen to Ulysses' instructions regarding the Siren song, but their motivation is not to avoid becoming wiser than Ulysses. Their loyalty is demonstrated through their obedience to Ulysses' orders and their commitment to protecting him from the dangers posed by the Sirens

400

Look at the illustration. Which statement best describes how Ulysses is represented in both the play and the illustration? (R.3.3)


A. Ulysses protects his sailors from the Sirens

B. Ulysses is arrogant and confronts the Sirens.

C. Ulysses is cautiously curious about the Sirens.

D. Ulysses gives into the temptation from the Sirens.

A- Incorrect- This option is incorrect because while Ulysses does take measures to protect his sailors by having them plug their ears with wax in the text, this is not the strongest description of Ulysses in the illustration or text. 

B- Incorrect- This option is incorrect because the text and the illustration do not portray Ulysses as arrogant or confrontational. 

C- Correct-  This option is correct. Ulysses exhibits cautious curiosity by taking specific precautions to hear the Sirens' song safely. He instructs his men to bind him and to ignore any pleas for freedom, indicating his desire to hear the song while being aware of its dangers. This can be seen in both the passage and the illustration. 

D- Incorrect- This option is incorrect because Ulysses does not give into the temptation. Although he is tempted and struggles to free himself, his men follow his instructions and bind him more tightly, ensuring he cannot act on his impulses. This is not the strongest description of Ulysses in the illustration or text. 

400

What's Mr. Corn's first name?

Frederick

500

Each of the students in the advanced English classes (A) were preparing their essays on The Odyssey when the teacher reminded them that the final draft (B) are due tomorrow.

Which choice correctly maintains subject-verb agreement throughout the sentence?

A. No change
B. (A) was preparing; (B) is due
C. (A) was preparing; (B) were due
D. (A) were preparing; (B) is due


Correct Answer: B. (A) was preparing; (B) is due

Explanation:

  • The subject Each is singular  - verb should be was preparing (not were).

  • The singular noun draft  - verb should be is due (not are).

500

Read the sentence from the poem.

“Then every ear I barr’d against the strain,

And from access of frenzy lock’d the brain.”


What is the meaning of frenzy as it is used in the passage? (V.1.3)

A. Wisdom

B. Madness

C. Happiness

D. Frustration

A- Incorrect- The passage does not suggest that Ulysses is locking his crew's brains to prevent them from gaining wisdom but rather to protect them from succumbing to the madness induced by the Sirens' song.

B-Correct- This interpretation is supported by the context where Ulysses takes measures to block the Sirens' song from reaching the ears of his crew and himself. The word "frenzy" here suggests a state of uncontrollable excitement or madness that the Sirens' song could induce, which Ulysses seeks to prevent by securing himself and his crew from its influence.

C- Incorrect- his option is incorrect because "happiness" refers to a state of being joyful or content, which is not related to the context of locking brains against frenzy. 

D- Incorrect- This option is incorrect because "frustration" refers to a feeling of dissatisfaction or annoyance arising from unresolved problems or obstacles, which is unrelated to the context of locking brains against frenzy. The passage does not indicate any frustration on Ulysses' part but rather a deliberate action to prevent the crew from falling into a state of frenzy induced by the Sirens' song.

500

DOUBLE JEOPARDY

How is the characteristic of epic poetry involving the hero being a great leader represented in the poem? (R.1.4)

A. Ulysses sacrifices himself to save his men from the Sirens.

B. Ulysses allows his men to share their opinions about his plans.

C. Ulysses does not expect his men to follow him blindly into conflict.

D. Ulysses takes the necessary steps to protect his men from incoming danger.

A-Incorrect- This option is incorrect because there is no indication in the poem that Ulysses sacrifices himself to save his men from the Sirens.

B-Incorrect- This option is incorrect because while Ulysses may be a thoughtful leader, the poem does not specifically highlight him allowing his men to share their opinions about his plans.

C-Incorrect- This option is incorrect because while Ulysses is cautious and protective of his men, the poem does not explicitly address whether he expects his men to follow him blindly into conflict or not. 

D-Correct- This option is correct. The characteristic of epic poetry involving the hero being a great leader is represented in the poem through Ulysses taking the necessary steps to protect his men from the incoming danger posed by the Sirens. He instructs his men to plug their ears with wax and to bind him to the mast to resist the temptation of the Sirens' song, demonstrating his strategic thinking and concern for their well-being

500

DOUBLE JEOPARDY

Read the following section from the poem.


“‘In flowery meads the sportive Sirens play,

Touch the soft lyre, and tine the vocal lay;

Me, me alone, with fetters firmly bound,

The gods allow to hear the dangerous sound.

Hear and obey; if freedom I demand,

Be every fetter strain’d, be added band to band.’”


Which of these events best describes how the sentences from The Sirens are expressed in the illustration? (R.3.3)

A. The men are ignoring Ulysses’ cries to be free

B. The Sirens are depicted as bird-like creatures who sing.

C. The men are allowing the Sirens to alter their course.

D. The Sirens are surrounding Ulysses while he is tied to the mast.

A-Incorrect- This option is incorrect because the illustration does not focus on the sailors' reaction to Ulysses’ cries. While the text mentions that Ulysses instructs his men to bind him tighter if he demands freedom, the illustration emphasizes the presence of the Sirens and Ulysses’s position on the ship rather than the men's actions in response to his pleas.

B-Incorrect- This option is partially correct but not the best choice. The Sirens are indeed depicted as bird-like creatures in the illustration, singing to Ulysses. However, this option does not fully capture the specific interaction between Ulysses and the Sirens as described in the text and illustrated in the painting.

C-Incorrect- This option is incorrect because the illustration and the poem do not depict the men allowing the Sirens to alter their course. In fact, the men are shown rowing diligently to keep the ship on course, away from the Sirens' influence.

D-Correct- This option is correct. The illustration shows the Sirens surrounding Ulysses, who is tied to the mast of his ship. This scene aligns with the text from the poem, where Ulysses describes being bound and hearing the Sirens' dangerous song, with the Sirens visually depicted as engaging with him closely.

500

DOUBLE JEOPARDY

What year was Cypress Creek High School established?

Answer - 1992

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