Question

face, know that he remembers too, but he’s tunneled down beneath the blankets like a mole.

“Parry Sound,” Henry calls out, and I see the blankets covering Daniel begin to stir.

Along the shore, lumber is stacked in piles as high as a schooner. It looks like a pencil drawing done with a ruler—perfect, straight lines. Boats, most of them small, meant for fishing, dot the bay here and there. Some are tied up at dock; others are anchored in the water just past the river. The chimney stacks of houses and large wood-frame buildings whisper smoky murmurs into the sky.

I hear the hwah of a seagull and look up, hoping absurdly to see the bird from the other day. But there are many seagulls, all of them flying around like tugboats escorting a ship into harbor.

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Question
Use the excerpt from “Big Water” to answer the question.

It is possible to infer from this excerpt something about what Henry and Eva have done for Daniel and the narrator.

What inference can you make?

In 3–5 sentences, state your inference and provide strong and thorough textual evidence from the excerpt to support the inference.


(4 points)


Inference: Henry and Eva have played a crucial role in helping Daniel and the narrator survive their ordeal, providing them with both physical support and emotional reassurance.

Textual evidence supports this inference as the narrator describes a sense of dread despite their return to civilization, indicating that they have experienced something traumatic. The phrase "I want to find Daniel, see his face, know that he remembers too" suggests a deep emotional connection and reliance on Daniel, implying that Henry and Eva are likely sources of strength for him and the narrator. Additionally, the mention of Daniel "tunneled down beneath the blankets like a mole" further emphasizes his need for comfort and security, suggesting that Henry and Eva have provided him a safe space during their distressing experience. Thus, it can be inferred that Henry and Eva's presence has been instrumental in the characters' emotional and physical journey back to safety.




Short Answer Rubric (4 points)
Points Awarded Criteria
4
The answer is very clear.

The answer is fully supported by details.

There may be a few errors in grammar, usage, or mechanics. Errors do not interfere with meaning.

3
The answer is mostly clear.

The answer is supported by mostly relevant details.

There are a few errors in grammar, usage, or mechanics. Errors do not interfere with meaning.

2
The answer is somewhat clear.

Details are weak or not related.

There are some errors in grammar, usage, and mechanics. Errors interfere with meaning.

1
The answer is not clear.

There are few or no supporting details.

There are many errors in grammar, usage, and mechanics. Errors interfere with meaning.

0 The question is not answered.

Answers

GPT-4o mini
Inference: Henry and Eva have provided Daniel and the narrator with both emotional comfort and a sense of safety after their traumatic experience.

Textual evidence supports this inference as the narrator expresses a desire to reconnect with Daniel, saying, "I want to find Daniel, see his face, know that he remembers too." This suggests a strong reliance on Daniel for emotional support during this difficult time. Additionally, the description of Daniel "tunneled down beneath the blankets like a mole" illustrates his need for safety and comfort, implying that Henry and Eva have created a nurturing environment for him. The overall atmosphere, with references to the hustle and bustle of the bay, highlights a contrast between the stability of their surroundings and the emotional turmoil Daniel and the narrator are experiencing, indicating that Henry and Eva's presence is crucial in their recovery. Thus, it's evident that Henry and Eva have been instrumental in helping both Daniel and the narrator navigate their feelings of trauma and find solace.