Question

question 5 of 10
read this excerpt from the grapes of wrath:

and pulled behind the disks of the tractor, the harrows combing with iron teeth so that the little clods broke up and the earth lay smooth.
which word or words most creates a negative tone toward the tractor?

a. pulled behind
b. iron teeth
c. broke up
d. little clods

Explanation:

• "Pulled behind" is a neutral description of position.
• "Iron teeth" frames the tractor's attachment as a harsh, predatory, unnatural force, which carries a negative tone by comparing farm equipment to a threatening animal's mouth, contrasting with the gentle work of human farm labor.
• "Broke up" describes a neutral action of soil preparation.
• "Little clods" refers to the soil itself, not the tractor.

Answer:

B. Iron teeth