Vocabulary
What does the word "exploring" mean in the story?
(Answer: To travel through an unfamiliar area to learn about it.)
Why does Francisco feel bored on the new planet?
(Answer: He feels he doesn't get to explore and thinks field trips are for little kids.)
double
Why do you think Francisco's mom calls him "Frankie"? Why does he get mad?
(Answer: It's a common nickname for Francisco, showing affection.) He feels that he is too old for the nick name
Who is Francisco's mom?
Martina
Why is Francisco bored at the beginining of the story?
he never gets to go exploring
double
What is an "arteta"?
(Answer: A creature that looks like a cross between a bird and a butterfly.)
(Answer: She mentioned that needle dogs are getting more aggressive and that it's dangerous.)
What can you infer about Francisco's feelings towards the field trips?
(Answer: He feels they are not exciting and wants more freedom.)
double What does Francisco have to wear when he goes outside?
A shiny, all-weather suit
what is the setting of the story
Neokosmos
What does "aggressive" mean when describing the needle dogs?
(Answer: Being likely to attack or confront.)
double
What did Francisco think about the name "Neokosmos"?
(Answer: He thought it was a stupid name and not original.)
Why might the older kids want to sneak out?
(Answer: They want to explore and have adventures that are not allowed.)
double
What event does Francisco react to when he hears a growling noise?
(Answer: He hears the growling of a needle dog.)
How does Francisco feel when he decides to go outside the fence?
excited and adventurous
double
What does "tranquilize" mean?
(Answer: To calm or make someone or something inactive, often using medicine.)
How does Francisco feel about being on the new planet? Where does he really want to be?
Answer: He is frustrated and longs for Earth.)
double
What might happen if Francisco encounters a needle dog?
(Answer: He could be in danger or scared and might need to escape quickly.)
double
Why did Francisco have to move to Neokosmos?
Earth had serious climate problems
double
Why does the author end this story with a mysterious growling noise?
to build suspense
(Answer: Causing great damage or harm.)
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What does Francisco do when he gets to the fence?
(Answer: He finds a hole where older kids sneak out.)
double
Why do you think Francisco wants to explore outside the fence despite the dangers?
(Answer: He is curious and feels trapped inside the colony.)
What is the main conflict Francisco faces in the story?
(Answer: His desire to explore vs. the dangers outside the fence.)
double
What is one difference b/w Francisco's attitude towards living on Neokosmos and his mom's attitude
Francisco hates it and his mom appreciates it