Question

text - dependent questions
directions: for the following questions, choose the best answer or respond in complete sentences.

1. which of the following describes a theme of the short story?

a friendship can come from the most unlikely places.
b money can provide people with the foundation for happiness.
c once people are unhappy, it is difficult for them to achieve happiness again.
d sometimes, when people are unhappy, they can struggle to recognize other peoples thoughts and feelings.

1. reread paragraphs 99 - 103. what does the word \ashamed\ mean as it is used in the excerpt?

a sick
b upset
c furious
d intrigued

1. which of the following describes the main difference in how willie and his mother treat the beggar?

a willie wants to talk to the man, while his mother wishes to give the man money or food to survive.
b willie wants to give the man more cake, while his mother doesnt think there is enough for the two of them.
c willie wants to help cure the mans unhappiness, while his mother believes the man should see a doctor to get help.
d willie wants to know more about the mans unhappiness, while his mother does not want willie to have anything to do with the man.

1. which statement best explains the line \it was as if he were some spat - out piece of chewing gum on the pavement\ in paragraph 6?

a the man is ignored by others.
b the mans appearance is dirty.
c the man takes up very little space.
d the man used to be more than what he is now.

Explanation:

1. Analyze themes in literature by looking at overall story - arcs and character developments. Friendship emerging from unlikely places is a common and possible theme.
2. "Ashamed" typically means feeling bad about one's actions or self, which is closest to "upset" in the context of emotions.
3. Compare character actions and attitudes towards the beggar. Willie shows interest in the beggar's well - being and state of mind, while his mother wants to keep him away.
4. The metaphor of being a spat - out piece of chewing gum implies being ignored and discarded by others.

Answer:

1. A. Friendship can come from the most unlikely places.
2. B. upset
3. D. Willie wants to know more about the man's unhappiness, while his mother does not want Willie to have anything to do with the man.
4. A. The man is ignored by others.