Question

In two to three sentences, explain a characteristic that Della and Jim have in common and what this characteristic shows about their relationship.

Both Della and Jim are selfless and willing to sacrifice their most prized possessions—Della sells her long hair and Jim sells his gold watch—to buy a gift for the other. This mutual willingness to give up what they value most shows their deep love and devotion, proving their relationship is built on self-giving care rather than material wealth.
Sample Response: Della and Jim are unselfish. They both sacrifice something important to make the other one happy. Della sacrifices her hair, and Jim sacrifices his watch. Their selflessness shows that they have a very loving, happy relationship.

What did you include in your response? Check all that apply.

an inference about Della and Jim based on text evidence
a characteristic they have in common
how the characteristic affects their relationship

Answer 1

All three apply:
- an inference about Della and Jim based on text evidence — yes
- a characteristic they have in common — yes (selfless)
- how the characteristic affects their relationship — yes (shows deep love/devotion)