Opener
Read the sentence below and then choose the best option that is synonymous with the underlined word:
The ancient forest, with its towering trees and whispering leaves, held secrets that no one could uncover.
- A. Detained
- B. Carried
Correct Answer: B. Carried
Section 1 Turn and Talk
Read the following sentence and describe the author's voice:
The storm raged on, a ferocious beast that wouldn't be tamed.
- Look at the word choice: The words "raged," "ferocious," and "beast" suggest aggression and power, conveying a sense of violence and uncontrollability.
- Look at the sentence structure: The structure is vivid and dramatic, using a simile to emphasize the storm’s wild nature.
- Look for figurative language: The comparison of the storm to a "ferocious beast" personifies the storm, increasing its intensity and emotion.
- Look for point of view: The perspective appears to be third-person, providing an objective view of the storm rather than a subjective experience.
Voice: The author's voice is intense and vivid, filled with powerful imagery that evokes strong emotions from the reader.
Section 2 Turn and Talk #1
Read the following sentence and identify the author's tone:
She looked out at the city below, feeling a mix of hope and apprehension.
- Look at the subject: The subject is a woman who is reflecting on the city, indicating a moment of introspection.
- Look at the word choice: The terms "hope" and "apprehension" create a sense of duality, suggesting both optimism and fear.
- Look at the sentence structure: The sentence is straightforward, emphasizing the contrast in her feelings.
- Look at the setting, character, and/or events: The setting is a cityscape, which often represents opportunity, while the character's mixed emotions hint at uncertainty about the future.
Tone: The author's tone can be described as ambivalent, reflecting both optimism and anxiety.
Section 2 Turn and Talk #2 - Part 1
Read the following sentence and describe the author's voice:
Despite the chaos around him, he remained calm, a pillar of serenity in a storm of uncertainty.
- Look at the word choice: Phrases like "chaos," "calm," "pillar of serenity," and "storm of uncertainty" create a stark contrast and highlight inner strength.
- Look at the sentence structure: The structure contrasts two states (chaos vs. calm) effectively, accentuating the protagonist's composure.
- Look for figurative language: The metaphor of being a "pillar of serenity" illustrates steadfastness, emphasizing resilience amidst turmoil.
- Look for point of view: The point of view is likely third-person, focusing on the individual’s tranquility amidst external turmoil.
Voice: The author's voice is reassuring and strong, emphasizing themes of resilience and inner peace in the face of adversity.
Walk-Through Example ACT style
The author's overall tone can be described as ...
- A. Angry and resentful
- B. Nostalgic and reflective
- C. Indifferent and detached
- D. Hopeful and optimistic
Correct Answer: D. Hopeful and optimistic
(Note: The correct answer may vary based on the specific context of the passage being analyzed; this corresponding answer reflects positive themes.)