Word Meaning
What is the meaning of astonished in paragraph 2?
greatly surprised or amazed
Infer Sparky’s favorite subject in school.
Art
Is the author of this story writing about a personal experience or someone else’s?
Someone else’s
The author organizes much of the passage by revealing what Sparky tried and failed. Which paragraphs support this statement?
Paragraphs 1-5
What is the meaning of promptly in paragraph 1?
quickly or immediately
From paragraph 2, what can the reader infer about Sparky’s friendships?
He didn’t have many (or any?).
Why did the author include the information in paragraphs 1-2?
To show how bad Sparky was at many things
What does the structure of paragraphs 1-5 emphasize for the reader?
How much Sparky tried to do and failed
What is the meaning of consolation in paragraph 1?
In sports, a round of competition for those who have already been eliminated from the main competition
From paragraphs 4-5, what can the reader infer about Sparky’s character?
He is determined. He perseveres despite obstacles.
The author uses paragraph 3 to show how Sparky developed a _______________ attitude about his struggles.
Laid-back or apathetic
The organization of the passage builds a pattern of behavior that is eventually broken or changed. What eventually changes for Sparky?
He finally has success with his “Peanuts” comic.
What is the meaning of chronic in paragraph 6?
something that lasts a long time and occurs again and again
How was Charles Schulz like his character Charlie Brown?
Both experienced failures.
What is the author’s attitude towards Sparky’s continued efforts despite repeated rejection?
He is impressed. He thinks the efforts were worthwhile.
What does the organization of paragraphs 3-4 help the reader understand?
Even though Sparky decided he didn’t care about failing, the thing he did care about was his art.
What is the meaning of content in paragraph 3?
in a state of satisfaction or calm happiness
Infer a theme of the selection.
You don’t have to be good at everything; you just have to work hard at what you’re passionate about. (multiple correct answers)
Most likely, why did the author wait until the end to reveal Sparky’s real identity?
It makes an impact on the reader to realize how much success this “loser” had.
What else have you read that was organized by explaining how a character repeatedly failed and eventually succeeded?
(Many correct answers.)