Context Clues
The CEO’s speech was measured, avoiding extreme claims and carefully choosing each word.- Name the connotation
- Name the type of hint
- Guess the answer
Controlled/careful
Name the type of figurative language and it's deeper meaning:
“The city exhaled as the storm passed.”
Personification; relief/calm
Jamal failed his first two exams. Instead of giving up, he stayed after school, asked questions, and practiced daily. By the end of the semester, he passed with one of the highest grades in the class.
How is the theme developed in this excerpt?
The theme, persistence leads to success is developed though character action (his effort shows growth).
First, mix the dry ingredients. Next, add the eggs and milk. Finally, bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes.
What is the structure, and why is it effective here?
Sequence; provides clear instructions
How does the author develop the central idea in "Peter Pan"?
A: Craft Move
W: Author
W: develop
E: Con + Outcome
Though praised publicly, the plan was quietly described as untenable by analysts, who doubted it could succeed long-term.
- Name the connotation
- Name the type of hint
- Guess the answer
Not sustainable
Name the type of figurative language and it's deeper meaning:
“He carried the weight of the world on his shoulders.”
Hyperbolic metaphor; emphasizes emotional burden
“I don’t need help,” Maria snapped, even as she stared at the unfinished project. Later that night, she quietly searched for tutorials online.
How does the author develop the central idea?
The author uses dialogue and action to show Maria refused help but accepted the idea that she does need support and sought it out.
Because factories release harmful chemicals into rivers, aquatic life is often poisoned. As a result, ecosystems become unbalanced and species begin to disappear.
Identify the structure and explain how it shapes understanding.
Cause & Effect; clearly connects actions to consequences
How does the author organize the passage, "The Distracted Teenage Brain"?
A: Craft Move
W: Author
W: structure the passage
E: Structure
Her apology felt perfunctory, lacking genuine emotion and delivered out of obligation rather than remorse.
Done without real feeling
Name the type of figurative language and it's deeper meaning:
Creating AI/ ChatGPT is opening up Pandora’s box
idiom, Unleashing unforeseen consequences
The once vibrant garden was now overgrown with weeds. Flowers wilted, and the gate hung loosely on broken hinges.
How does the author develop the theme?
The theme, in life, neglect leads to the loss of something that was once beautiful is developed through the use of figurative language or imagery
Excerpt:
Unlike traditional classrooms, online learning allows students to work at their own pace. However, it often lacks face-to-face interaction.
👉 Question:
What structure is used, and how does it deepen the reader’s understanding?
Compare & Contrast; highlights advantages and disadvantages
Evaluate which argument is more effective
W: Both arguments
W: Effective
E: SHERPS
The author’s tone becomes caustic, shifting from mild critique to sharp, biting commentary.
- Name the connotation
- Name the type of hint
- Guess the answer
Harsh
Name the type of figurative language and it's deeper meaning:
The algorithm is a gatekeeper, deciding who is seen and who is invisible
Metaphor; control/power
“I’m fine,” he thought, even as his hands trembled and his chest tightened. You can’t let them see you fail.
How does the author develop the central message?
The author uses internal conflict to show the central message, that in life, you will experience fear and you have to push yourself.
Excerpt:
The city faced rising pollution levels. Initial attempts to reduce emissions failed. Eventually, stricter laws were passed, leading to cleaner air.
👉 Question:
What structure is used, and why include the failed attempts?
Problem & Solution; failures show complexity and strengthen credibility
How does Mulan change over the course of the folklore?
A: Explain
(NOTE: Craft move is only when the subject is about the author, line, paragraph, text)
W: Mulan
W: Change over the course of the folklore
E: Before trait and After trait
The policy was praised as pragmatic, prioritizing realistic solutions over idealistic goals.
- Name the connotation
- Name the type of hint
- Guess the answer
Practical
Name the type of figurative language and it's deeper meaning:
A recurring image of a cracked mirror appears whenever the protagonist questions identity.
Symbolism; fractured identity or weak self-perception
The clock on the wall had stopped years ago, yet no one bothered to fix it. Each day, the family moved around it, pretending time wasn’t passing.
How does symbolism develop the theme?
The clock symbolizes the lack of change developing the theme that, in life you can't ignore the uncomfortable or things will never change.
Excerpt:
In 1990, the company began as a small startup. Years later, after several setbacks, it expanded globally. However, flashbacks reveal early financial struggles that nearly ended the business.
👉 Question:
How does structure impact the reader?
Answer:
Historical account; provides context and depth; helps readers understand growth and challenges more fully
How does the tone in paragraph 3 contribute to the theme?
A: Craft move
W: The tone (feeling)
W: Paragraph 3
E: Feeling + Message of text