Text Evidence
What is one way to cite text evidence using a sentence stem?
"One way is using a stem like: According to the text... or The author states..."
What can you infer about a character who avoids others and doesn’t talk much?
He’s probably shy, anxious, or antisocial.
What does a metaphor compare without using "like" or "as"?
A metaphor compares two things without using “like” or “as.”
What signal word often shows a cause/effect structure?
Words like because, since, as a result show cause/effect.
What is the central idea of a paragraph that shows how someone overcomes hardship?
Central idea = overcoming obstacles can lead to growth.
Find a quote that shows the narrator is scared.
Accept answers with direct quotes showing fear, like: "I could barely breathe as I hid under the table."
If a character gives away their food, what can you infer about them?
He’s generous, selfless, or caring.
Why might an author repeat a phrase?
Repetition emphasizes a point or creates rhythm/urgency.
What structure compares two ideas?
Compare and contrast structure shows similarities and differences.
How do you figure out theme in a short story?
Look at the characters’ lessons or what the story shows about life/human nature.
What is the best evidence to support the idea that the main character changed?
Look for evidence that shows a clear before-and-after change in the character’s behavior.
What can you infer about the setting from the phrase “cold wind whipped through the cracks”?
It sets a cold, harsh mood and shows the environment is uncomfortable.
What is the effect of using figurative language?
Figurative language helps create imagery and deeper meaning.
What does chronological order mean?
Chronological order is time order—events listed in sequence.
How does the author develop the central idea in the first two paragraphs
Theme is revealed through characters, conflict, and resolution.
How can you tell if evidence is strong or weak?
Strong evidence is specific, clearly supports the claim, and is directly from the text. Weak evidence is vague or off-topic.
What can you infer about a boy who looks longingly at the soccer field but walks away?
He wishes he could play, so he may be injured, excluded, or hiding something.
What is the purpose of a rhetorical question?
A rhetorical question makes the reader think or reflect without expecting an answer.
Which structure is best for comparing pros and cons?
Problem/solution structure shows a problem, then presents one or more solutions
What’s a theme shown by characters helping each other survive?
A common theme might be: “Unity and kindness can help people survive difficult situations.”
Choose the BEST quote to prove the narrator is unreliable.
Best quotes show contradictions or bias, e.g., “I always tell the truth”—after lying earlier in the text.
What can you infer about a girl who always looks out for others before herself?
She’s compassionate, considerate, or has a strong sense of empathy.
How does the author’s tone affect the meaning?
Tone can influence how a reader feels; a sad tone can make the meaning more emotional, for example.
How does the author organize a problem-solution text?
Authors often start with the problem, then describe how it was resolved step by step.
How does the theme relate to real-world issues?
The theme may connect to ideas like social justice, friendship, or standing up for what’s right in the real world.