Question

The perfect attendance award hung in the school hallway, framed in gold and polished until it gleamed. Each year, another name was added to the list, celebrated as an example of dedication and responsibility. Teachers praised it. Parents admired it. Students noticed it, whether they wanted to or not.

To some students, the award represented commitment. Showing up every day meant pushing through illness, exhaustion, and bad weather. It symbolized grit. To others, it felt less admirable. It seemed to reward circumstances rather than effort, favoring those who could attend without obstacles.

When the principal announced the award at assemblies, applause echoed through the gym. “Attendance builds character,” she often said, her tone firm and confident. Students clapped on cue, though a few exchanged glances.

Alex watched from the back row, thinking about the days he had missed to care for his younger sister. He had wanted to be present, but responsibility had pulled him elsewhere. The award, he decided, was not unfair exactly. It was simply incomplete.

Later that day, a teacher overheard students debating the award and smiled. “It’s meant to inspire,” she said. The students nodded politely. Inspiration, Alex thought, depended on what the award chose to recognize — and what it quietly ignored.

8.RV.1.a

14. Which word best reflects the positive connotation associated with the award by adults?

(1 point)

noticed

polished

dedication

incomplete
8.RV.1.c

15. Which statement best describes the situational irony in the passage?

(1 point)

Students clap even when they disagree

The award is displayed publicly

The award praises attendance without considering responsibility outside school

The principal repeats the same speech
8.RV.1.b

16. Which word is the best synonym for incomplete as used in paragraph 4?

(1 point)

incorrect

unfair

unfinished

confusing
8.RV.1.a

17. Which phrase has the strongest negative connotation for Alex?


(1 point)

gleamed

praised it

rewarded circumstances

admired it
8.RV.1.c

18. How does Alex’s perspective affect the overall message of the passage?

(1 point)

It dismisses the value of attendance

It supports the principal’s view

It complicates the idea of what success means

It shifts focus to school policies
8.RV.1.b

19. Which analogy best fits Alex’s view of the award?

(1 point)

A trophy for finishing first

A rule with no exceptions

A picture missing part of the scene

A goal clearly defined
8.RV.1.a

20. Which word best describes the tone of the final paragraph?

(1 point)

bitter

celebratory

indifferent

reflective
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Answer 1

14. dedication

15. The award praises attendance without considering responsibility outside school

16. unfinished

17. rewarded circumstances

18. It complicates the idea of what success means

19. A picture missing part of the scene

20. reflective