Question

authors craft diction, syntax, and mood
authors use diction and syntax to create a specific mood in their work.
diction is a writers word - choice and vocabulary style. certain words can make a piece of writing sound informal (slangy, friendly, casual, imaginative, and so on) or formal (fun, archaic, scholarly, sophisticated, concrete, and so on).
syntax is the way words are organized into sentences and phrases. sentences can be short and simple or long and more complex. the type, length, and rhythm of sentences can affect mood.
mood is the overall atmosphere of a story. we usually describe mood using words related to emotions. the mood can be relaxed, sad, peaceful, lonely, tense, reflective, humorous, and so on.
directions: read the excerpt below, and insert the correct letter on each line. write out your answer to item 5.
(1) chandra should have known the answer. (2) but as the clock ticked loudly, as the audience held their breath, two of the answers looked correct to her. (3) she couldnt get assistance. (4) shed already asked the audience, phoned a friend, and eliminated two answers. (5) she should have quit back at the $10,000 question. (6) but, no. (7) she was greedy. (8) now it was all or nothing. (9) what was the capital of namibia? (10) windhoek or gabarone? (11) she had to choose. (12) she closed her eyes. (13) time was up.

1. ___ which of the following best describes the diction of the passage?

a. sophisticated b. scholarly c. realistic d. imaginative

1. ___ what is the effect of the fragment and short - sentence in 6 and 7?

a. they stand out as important.
b. they reflect chandras thoughts.
c. they distract us from the scene.
d. they add humor.

1. ___ which of the following best describes the mood of the passage?

a. humorous b. serious c. peaceful d. suspenseful

1. ___ which of the following events would change the mood of the passage?

a. the host waits to reveal the correct answer.
b. the host sends the show to a commercial break.
c. chandra answers the question correctly.

1. list at least four words or phrases that contribute to the mood of the passage.

Explanation:

1. The passage uses everyday - language and simple words, which is realistic. There are no overly complex or imaginative words.
2. Fragment and short sentences in 6 and 7 emphasize key moments and stand out as important, heightening the tension.
3. The passage creates a sense of anticipation as Chandra has to make a crucial decision, so it is suspenseful.
4. If Chandra answers the question correctly, the tension and suspense would be resolved, changing the mood.
5. Words/phrases like "the clock ticked loudly", "held their breath", "all or nothing", "Time was up" contribute to the suspenseful mood.

Answer:

1. c. realistic
2. a. They stand out as important.
3. d. suspenseful
4. c. Chandra answers the question correctly.
5. the clock ticked loudly, held their breath, all or nothing, Time was up