💰 THEME & DEVELOPMENT
What is the theme of the story?
People learn from their experiences
From whose perspective is MOST of the story told?
Alexis
What is one purpose of the author?
to entertain
What is the main conflict in the story?
Alexis struggles between safety and taking a risk
What is Alexis’s relationship to her mother?
Daughter
Which event BEST develops the theme?
Alexis decides not to take the shortcut again
Which other character’s point of view is included?
The mother
What lesson does the author want readers to learn?
Make safe choices / learn from experiences
What is the climax of the story?
When Alexis sees the shadow / runs
What value does Alexis’s mother demonstrate?
Safety
How do Alexis’s actions at the beginning help develop the theme?
She ignores advice and takes a risk
Why does the author include the mother’s point of view?
To show her concern and develop the relationship
Which statement BEST describes the author’s purpose?
To entertain while teaching a lesson about choices and safety
How does the conflict develop throughout the story?
It becomes more intense as Alexis continues down the path
How does Alexis’s understanding of her mother change?
She begins to understand her concern
How do Alexis’s experiences throughout the story develop the theme?
Her fear leads her to learn a lesson
How does the shift in point of view affect the reader’s understanding?
It helps the reader understand both characters
How does the author use suspense to achieve their purpose?
Keeps readers engaged while showing consequences
How do the plot events (shoe → scratches → shadow) affect the reader?
They build suspense and tension
Which event BEST shows relationship development?
Alexis realizing her mom was right
Explain how Alexis’s experiences from beginning to end reveal the theme.
Choice → fear → learning
Explain how the shift in point of view contributes to the meaning of the story.
Reinforces theme and relationship
Explain how the author develops multiple purposes in the story.
Entertain (suspense) + teach lesson (theme)
Explain how plot structure and conflict work together to create suspense.
Events increase danger, leading to climax and resolution
Explain how the relationship between Alexis and her mother supports the theme.
Mother’s advice reinforces Alexis’s lesson