Question

Highlight clues that signal the reader should change tone.

Laura tried to calm her down. "Just remember how Mister Lincoln couldn't think of anything to say at the Gettysburg, but then, bang! Four score and once upon a time ago," she began reciting. "Something is going to come if you just relax. You'll see, like the Americans say, Necessity is the daughter of invention. I'll help you."

–"Daughter of Invention,"
Julia Alvarez

What is the tone of the first line of dialogue until “Gettysburg”?



Which type of clue helps the reader understand how to read the word “bang”?



Which tone is best for reading the word “bang”?



Which words should be read with a formal tone?

Answer 1

1) Tone of the first line up to “Gettysburg”: reassuring / calming / conversational — Laura is trying to soothe and encourage.

2) Type of clue for reading “bang”: sound clue (onomatopoeia) reinforced by punctuation — the word itself mimics a noise and the exclamation point signals force.

3) Best tone for “bang”: abrupt, loud, emphatic (an exclamatory, sudden burst).

4) Words to read with a formal tone: “Mister Lincoln,” “Gettysburg,” “Four score” and the proverb “Necessity is the daughter of invention.” These are respectful/archaic or proverb-like phrases that call for a more solemn/formal delivery.