School was almost out for the summer and Jennifer was excited that her cousin Marlene was coming to stay with her family for two months. Summer was the one time of year she felt as though she had a sister. The girls were similar in that they were both thirteen years old and were the only girls in their families. Jennifer lived in a small town outside of Dallas, Texas and Marlene lived in San Diego, California. Whereas Jennifer was outgoing, Marlene was more on the quiet side.

Question

For pretty much the whole first month of summer vacation last year, it seemed like their only topic of awkward conversation was about how their two home towns were different. By halfway through the summer, the girls discovered something they had in common that would bring them closer together and bring Marlene out of her shell. Thinking back on the memories of last summer, Jennifer got excited thinking about the summer to come.

Last summer was the first time Marlene had come to stay with Jennifer's family—Marlene's aunt, uncle, and cousins. At first, Marlene pretty much kept to herself in the guest room. She was almost unapproachable. Jennifer did not give up so easily. Jennifer enjoyed interacting with people, so she knocked on Marlene's door often and tried to spark conversation. That is when Jennifer sensed sadness in Marlene's voice. It was as if something were bothering her. Jennifer wondered what had been going on at Marlene's home and if maybe her parents were having troubles. Whatever it was, Marlene did not want to talk about it.

During Marlene's visit last summer, Jennifer's parents agreed the family could get a dog (due mostly to Jennifer's begging). Jennifer was quickly motivated to put all her research skills to use finding out which breeds of dog were hypoallergenic, the kind that do not cause allergies. Whenever she would see a particularly adorable picture of a dog, she headed to Marlene's room to show it to her. It confused Jennifer how Marlene turned away when she saw the pictures and seemed uninterested in Jennifer's research. Then, one day, Marlene broke down in tears and told Jennifer about how much she missed her dog that recently got lost and was never found. Jennifer felt terrible and did not bother her with dog photos anymore. After a few days, Marlene approached Jennifer and told her she wanted to help her find a dog to adopt. "And I've adopted a new attitude," said Marlene.

From that day on, Marlene joined Jennifer in her internet searches to find a hypoallergenic dog in a nearby animal shelter. They discovered that the animal shelters had very informative websites complete with pictures and information about each dog they currently had up for adoption. The girls sorted through many dog profiles before finding a few possibilities. Once the girls narrowed down their choices to a few dogs, they headed for the nearby animal shelter to meet them. It seemed like it was only minutes before the two felt they had found the perfect dog. Just to make sure, they took him for a walk and played with him. No one was sneezing, not even Jennifer. Jennifer's mom signed the paperwork and they took their new dog home.

After that, Marlene was out and about in the house often. She was especially happy to see the new dog, now going by the name of Pepper. Marlene helped feed, bathe, and walk Pepper. Every evening, Jennifer and Marlene took Pepper for a long walk. On those walks, Marlene opened up more and more to Jennifer and told her all about the things that were bothering her way back home.

Summer became even more fun when the girls decided to volunteer at the local animal shelter together. The girls had learned of the animal shelter's need for volunteers the day that they adopted Pepper. Jennifer and Marlene volunteered at the animal shelter three days a week—walking dogs. They had the time of their lives. Jennifer had never seen Marlene so happy. It was great!

After that summer, Jennifer and Marlene kept in touch during the school year working on a project together. They set up and maintained a website that helped showcase dogs up for adoption at their nearby animal shelters. The girls put their heart and soul into helping dogs in nearby shelters find homes.

So, with another summer once again approaching, Jennifer was so excited that Marlene was coming back to stay with her family for two months. They would get started volunteering at the shelter right away.

Constructed Response Question
What is the central idea of the text? Use key details from the text to support your answer.

Answer 1

The central idea of the text is the development of a close bond between two cousins, Jennifer and Marlene, through shared experiences and their mutual love for animals, particularly dogs. The story highlights how their relationship evolves from initial awkwardness to deep friendship by working together on a meaningful project.

Key details supporting this central idea include:

1. Initial Differences: At the beginning of the summer, Marlene is portrayed as quiet and unapproachable, contrasting Jennifer's outgoing nature. This sets the stage for their relationship and establishes the initial challenges they face in connecting.

2. Mutual Interest in Dogs: The breakthrough in their relationship comes when they both become invested in finding a hypoallergenic dog to adopt. Jennifer's initial struggle with Marlene's sadness leads to a shared goal, making it easier for Marlene to open up.

3. Collaboration and Emotional Growth: The girls work together to research and adopt a dog named Pepper. Jennifer recalls how Marlene helps transition from sadness to happiness, as she takes on an active role in caring for Pepper. This collaboration fosters a stronger emotional connection between them.

4. Volunteering Together: Their decision to volunteer at the animal shelter solidifies their bond further. The experience brings them joy, illustrating how shared activities can enhance friendships.

5. Ongoing Connection: The text concludes with Jennifer feeling excited about Marlene's visit again, indicating that their bond has grown strong enough to maintain their friendship through the school year and continue with shared goals during the summers.

Overall, the story emphasizes the power of shared interests and experiences in developing relationships, especially during formative years.