Readers can tell Cora is a complex character because she has the most to lose if the story problem is not solved. This suggests that her emotional depth and stakes in the narrative go beyond surface-level actions, making her a multifaceted character whose decisions and circumstances impact her brother Ruky and their situation profoundly.
The Crow-Child
by Mary Mapes Dodge
Midway between a certain blue lake and a deep forest there once stood a cottage, called by its owner “The Rookery.”
The forest shut out the sunlight and scowled upon the ground, breaking with shadows every ray that fell, until only a few little pieces lay scattered about. But the broad lake invited all the rays to come and rest upon her, so that sometimes she shone from shore to shore, and the sun winked and blinked above her, as though dazzled by his own reflection. The cottage, which was very small, had sunny windows and dark windows. Only from the roof could you see the mountains beyond, where the light crept up in the morning and down in the evening, turning all the brooks into living silver as it passed.
But something brighter than sunshine used often to look from the cottage into the forest, and something even more gloomy than shadows often glowered from its windows upon the sunny lake. One was the face of little Ruky Lynn; and the other was his sister’s when she felt angry or ill-tempered.
They were orphans, Cora and Ruky, living alone in the cottage with an old uncle. Cora—or “Cor,” as Ruky called her—was nearly sixteen years old, but her brother had seen the forest turn yellow only four times. She was, therefore, almost mother and sister in one. The little fellow was her companion night and day. Together they ate and slept, and—when Cora was not at work in the cottage—together they rambled in the wood, or floated in their little skiff upon the lake.
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Question
Use the story to answer the question.
How can readers tell Cora is a complex character?
(1 point)
Responses
Her family is the focus of the plot.
Her family is the focus of the plot.
She has the most to lose if the story problem is not solved.
She has the most to lose if the story problem is not solved.
She has more dialogue than any other character in the story.
She has more dialogue than any other character in the story.
Her actions drive the plot forward by causing the main story problem.
9 answers
The Crow-Child
by Mary Mapes Dodge
Midway between a certain blue lake and a deep forest there once stood a cottage, called by its owner “The Rookery.”
The forest shut out the sunlight and scowled upon the ground, breaking with shadows every ray that fell, until only a few little pieces lay scattered about. But the broad lake invited all the rays to come and rest upon her, so that sometimes she shone from shore to shore, and the sun winked and blinked above her, as though dazzled by his own reflection. The cottage, which was very small, had sunny windows and dark windows. Only from the roof could you see the mountains beyond, where the light crept up in the morning and down in the evening, turning all the brooks into living silver as it passed.
But something brighter than sunshine used often to look from the cottage into the forest, and something even more gloomy than shadows often glowered from its windows upon the sunny lake. One was the face of little Ruky Lynn; and the other was his sister’s when she felt angry or ill-tempered.
They were orphans, Cora and Ruky, living alone in the cottage with an old uncle. Cora—or “Cor,” as Ruky called her—was nearly sixteen years old, but her brother had seen the forest turn yellow only four times. She was, therefore, almost mother and sister in one. The little fellow was her companion night and day. Together they ate and slept, and—when Cora was not at work in the cottage—together they rambled in the wood, or floated in their little skiff upon the lake.
1 of 16
Question
Use the story to answer the question.
Which details are essential to include in an objective summary of the story? Select the two correct answers.
(1 point)
Responses
a description of the cottage where the story happens
a description of the cottage where the story happens
the reason for Cora’s change of heart
the reason for Cora’s change of heart
basic descriptions of Cora and Roky
basic descriptions of Cora and Roky
a list of ways Cora tries to turn Ruky human again
a list of ways Cora tries to turn Ruky human again
details about Roky’s frustrating actions
details about Roky’s frustrating actions
by Mary Mapes Dodge
Midway between a certain blue lake and a deep forest there once stood a cottage, called by its owner “The Rookery.”
The forest shut out the sunlight and scowled upon the ground, breaking with shadows every ray that fell, until only a few little pieces lay scattered about. But the broad lake invited all the rays to come and rest upon her, so that sometimes she shone from shore to shore, and the sun winked and blinked above her, as though dazzled by his own reflection. The cottage, which was very small, had sunny windows and dark windows. Only from the roof could you see the mountains beyond, where the light crept up in the morning and down in the evening, turning all the brooks into living silver as it passed.
But something brighter than sunshine used often to look from the cottage into the forest, and something even more gloomy than shadows often glowered from its windows upon the sunny lake. One was the face of little Ruky Lynn; and the other was his sister’s when she felt angry or ill-tempered.
They were orphans, Cora and Ruky, living alone in the cottage with an old uncle. Cora—or “Cor,” as Ruky called her—was nearly sixteen years old, but her brother had seen the forest turn yellow only four times. She was, therefore, almost mother and sister in one. The little fellow was her companion night and day. Together they ate and slept, and—when Cora was not at work in the cottage—together they rambled in the wood, or floated in their little skiff upon the lake.
1 of 16
Question
Use the story to answer the question.
Which details are essential to include in an objective summary of the story? Select the two correct answers.
(1 point)
Responses
a description of the cottage where the story happens
a description of the cottage where the story happens
the reason for Cora’s change of heart
the reason for Cora’s change of heart
basic descriptions of Cora and Roky
basic descriptions of Cora and Roky
a list of ways Cora tries to turn Ruky human again
a list of ways Cora tries to turn Ruky human again
details about Roky’s frustrating actions
details about Roky’s frustrating actions
The two correct answers to include in an objective summary of the story are:
- a description of the cottage where the story happens
- basic descriptions of Cora and Ruky
These details provide essential context about the setting and the main characters, which are crucial for understanding the story as a whole.
Big Water
by Andrea Curtis
Today I feel only dread. I’m sweating again—my cheeks are flushed. I thought I would feel relieved to be back in civilization, to be rescued from certain death, but instead, seeing the town and the men rushing about on the dock, the boats and sails and horse-drawn wagons, I’m struck again by what we have just endured. I want to find Daniel, see his face, know that he remembers too, but he’s tunneled down beneath the blankets like a mole.
“Parry Sound,” Henry calls out, and I see the blankets covering Daniel begin to stir.
Along the shore, lumber is stacked in piles as high as a schooner. It looks like a pencil drawing done with a ruler—perfect, straight lines. Boats, most of them small, meant for fishing, dot the bay here and there. Some are tied up at dock; others are anchored in the water just past the river. The chimney stacks of houses and large wood-frame buildings whisper smoky murmurs into the sky.
I hear the hwah of a seagull and look up, hoping absurdly to see the bird from the other day. But there are many seagulls, all of them flying around like tugboats escorting a ship into harbor.
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Question
Use the excerpt from “Big Water” to answer the question.
It is possible to infer from this excerpt something about what Henry and Eva have done for Daniel and the narrator.
What inference can you make?
In 3–5 sentences, state your inference and provide strong and thorough textual evidence from the excerpt to support the inference.
(4 points)
by Andrea Curtis
Today I feel only dread. I’m sweating again—my cheeks are flushed. I thought I would feel relieved to be back in civilization, to be rescued from certain death, but instead, seeing the town and the men rushing about on the dock, the boats and sails and horse-drawn wagons, I’m struck again by what we have just endured. I want to find Daniel, see his face, know that he remembers too, but he’s tunneled down beneath the blankets like a mole.
“Parry Sound,” Henry calls out, and I see the blankets covering Daniel begin to stir.
Along the shore, lumber is stacked in piles as high as a schooner. It looks like a pencil drawing done with a ruler—perfect, straight lines. Boats, most of them small, meant for fishing, dot the bay here and there. Some are tied up at dock; others are anchored in the water just past the river. The chimney stacks of houses and large wood-frame buildings whisper smoky murmurs into the sky.
I hear the hwah of a seagull and look up, hoping absurdly to see the bird from the other day. But there are many seagulls, all of them flying around like tugboats escorting a ship into harbor.
1 of 3
Question
Use the excerpt from “Big Water” to answer the question.
It is possible to infer from this excerpt something about what Henry and Eva have done for Daniel and the narrator.
What inference can you make?
In 3–5 sentences, state your inference and provide strong and thorough textual evidence from the excerpt to support the inference.
(4 points)
From the excerpt, it can be inferred that Henry and Eva have played a significant role in helping the narrator and Daniel cope with a traumatic experience. The narrator expresses a sense of dread despite being back in civilization, indicating that the ordeal they faced has left deep emotional scars. The line "I thought I would feel relieved to be back in civilization, to be rescued from certain death," shows the weight of their experiences. Furthermore, the narrator's desire to find Daniel and confirm that "he remembers too" suggests a shared struggle that Henry and Eva have been supporting them through, indicating that their presence offers a sense of solidarity and comfort amidst the aftermath of their ordeal. Additionally, Daniel being "tunneled down beneath the blankets like a mole" implies that he may be retreating from reality, further highlighting the emotional impact of their experiences and the need for support from others like Henry and Eva.
The Crow-Child
by Mary Mapes Dodge
Midway between a certain blue lake and a deep forest there once stood a cottage, called by its owner “The Rookery.”
The forest shut out the sunlight and scowled upon the ground, breaking with shadows every ray that fell, until only a few little pieces lay scattered about. But the broad lake invited all the rays to come and rest upon her, so that sometimes she shone from shore to shore, and the sun winked and blinked above her, as though dazzled by his own reflection. The cottage, which was very small, had sunny windows and dark windows. Only from the roof could you see the mountains beyond, where the light crept up in the morning and down in the evening, turning all the brooks into living silver as it passed.
But something brighter than sunshine used often to look from the cottage into the forest, and something even more gloomy than shadows often glowered from its windows upon the sunny lake. One was the face of little Ruky Lynn; and the other was his sister’s when she felt angry or ill-tempered.
They were orphans, Cora and Ruky, living alone in the cottage with an old uncle. Cora—or “Cor,” as Ruky called her—was nearly sixteen years old, but her brother had seen the forest turn yellow only four times. She was, therefore, almost mother and sister in one. The little fellow was her companion night and day. Together they ate and slept, and—when Cora was not at work in the cottage—together they rambled in the wood, or floated in their little skiff upon the lake.
1 of 16
Question
Use the story to answer the question.
In 3–5 sentences, explain how the author of “The Crow-Child” used details, words, and actions to present and develop a theme.
(4 points)
by Mary Mapes Dodge
Midway between a certain blue lake and a deep forest there once stood a cottage, called by its owner “The Rookery.”
The forest shut out the sunlight and scowled upon the ground, breaking with shadows every ray that fell, until only a few little pieces lay scattered about. But the broad lake invited all the rays to come and rest upon her, so that sometimes she shone from shore to shore, and the sun winked and blinked above her, as though dazzled by his own reflection. The cottage, which was very small, had sunny windows and dark windows. Only from the roof could you see the mountains beyond, where the light crept up in the morning and down in the evening, turning all the brooks into living silver as it passed.
But something brighter than sunshine used often to look from the cottage into the forest, and something even more gloomy than shadows often glowered from its windows upon the sunny lake. One was the face of little Ruky Lynn; and the other was his sister’s when she felt angry or ill-tempered.
They were orphans, Cora and Ruky, living alone in the cottage with an old uncle. Cora—or “Cor,” as Ruky called her—was nearly sixteen years old, but her brother had seen the forest turn yellow only four times. She was, therefore, almost mother and sister in one. The little fellow was her companion night and day. Together they ate and slept, and—when Cora was not at work in the cottage—together they rambled in the wood, or floated in their little skiff upon the lake.
1 of 16
Question
Use the story to answer the question.
In 3–5 sentences, explain how the author of “The Crow-Child” used details, words, and actions to present and develop a theme.
(4 points)
In "The Crow-Child," the author uses vivid descriptions of the setting, such as the contrasting imagery of the bright lake and dark forest, to establish a theme of duality in life and emotions. The lake symbolizes hope and joy, while the forest represents sadness and gloom, reflecting the inner worlds of the characters, Cora and Ruky. The close bond between the siblings, highlighted by their shared experiences and roles, underscores themes of responsibility, love, and resilience in the face of adversity. Cora’s dual role as both sister and mother to Ruky emphasizes the themes of nurturing and sacrifice, as she navigates her responsibilities while dealing with their orphaned status. Through these details and character dynamics, the author develops a rich exploration of the complexities of family and the emotional landscape of childhood.
The Count of Monte Cristo
by Alexandre Dumas
This room was occupied by Dantès’ father. The news of the arrival of the _Pharaon_ had not yet reached the old man, who, mounted on a chair, was amusing himself by training with trembling hand the nasturtiums and sprays of clematis that clambered over the trellis at his window. Suddenly, he felt an arm thrown around his body, and a well-known voice behind him exclaimed, “Father—dear father!”
The old man uttered a cry, and turned round; then, seeing his son, he fell into his arms, pale and trembling.
“What ails you, my dearest father? Are you ill?” inquired the young man, much alarmed.
“No, no, my dear Edmond—my boy—my son!—no; but I did not expect you; and joy, the surprise of seeing you so suddenly—Ah, I feel as if I were going to die.”
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Question
Use the story excerpt to answer the question.
In 3–5 sentences, explain how Dantès contributes to the development of a theme. Provide samples from the text to support your answer.
(4 points)
by Alexandre Dumas
This room was occupied by Dantès’ father. The news of the arrival of the _Pharaon_ had not yet reached the old man, who, mounted on a chair, was amusing himself by training with trembling hand the nasturtiums and sprays of clematis that clambered over the trellis at his window. Suddenly, he felt an arm thrown around his body, and a well-known voice behind him exclaimed, “Father—dear father!”
The old man uttered a cry, and turned round; then, seeing his son, he fell into his arms, pale and trembling.
“What ails you, my dearest father? Are you ill?” inquired the young man, much alarmed.
“No, no, my dear Edmond—my boy—my son!—no; but I did not expect you; and joy, the surprise of seeing you so suddenly—Ah, I feel as if I were going to die.”
1 of 7
Question
Use the story excerpt to answer the question.
In 3–5 sentences, explain how Dantès contributes to the development of a theme. Provide samples from the text to support your answer.
(4 points)
In this excerpt from "The Count of Monte Cristo," Dantès contributes to the development of the theme of familial love and emotional bonds. His immediate concern for his father's well-being, as seen when he asks, “Are you ill?” demonstrates his deep affection and care. The old man's overwhelming joy and surprise at seeing his son, which makes him exclaim, “Ah, I feel as if I were going to die,” highlights the intensity of their emotional connection and the significance of their reunion. This moment captures the theme of love's power, illustrating how the presence of family can bring immense joy and relieve suffering, even in the face of life's uncertainties. Through Dantès’ actions and the tender exchange between father and son, the author effectively underscores the profound impact of familial relationships on the human experience.