Language Network
Interactive Reader
Grade 9
Grade 10
Grade 9
Grade 10
FCAT Connection
Teacher Authors
Tanya Fuss, Land O'Lakes High School, Land O' Lakes, Florida
Carol A. Jones, River Ridge High School, New Port Richey, Florida
Katherine Sims, Land O'Lakes High School, Land O' Lakes, Florida
Cathern Wildey, Ed.D., Gulf High School, New Port Richey, Florida
McDougal Littell
A HOUGHTON MIFFLIN COMPANY
1
Contents
FCAT
Benchmark(s)
Introduction
Introduction
The FCAT Connection
Creating Learning Opportunities
Using Graphic Organizers
Understanding the FCAT
Benchmarks Matrix
4
5
6
7
8
9
Language Network
Grade Nine
FCAT Connections
The Sound of My Name
10
Sadie Delany, Witness to a Century
14
Within Reach: My Everest Story
18
Discover Your Family Tree
22
Overshadowed Sosa Equally Worthy of Acclaim
26
Is Computer Gap Bad for Girls?
30
Writing for History
34
Writing for Science
38
Fighting Fire
42
Africa's Wild Dogs
46
One Man's Search for Light Amid the Darkness
50
Remember El Nino? His Sister Has Shown Up,
and She's Angry
54
Limit Use of Car Phones
58
Safer Air Bags are Needed Now
62
Writing for History
66
Writing for Science
70
The Most Dangerous Game
74
The Cask of Amontillado
77
A Christmas Memory
80
Language Network
Grade Ten
FCAT Connections
Interactive Reader
Grade Nine
FCAT Connections
2
LA.A.1.4.2;
2.2.7
LA.A.1.4.2;
2.2.7;L.A.E.2.2.1
LA.A.1.4.2;
2.4.2;LA.E.2.2.1
LA.A.1.4.2;
2.4.2; 2.4.4;
LA.E. 2.2.1
LA.A.1.4.2;
2.4.2
LA.A.1.4.2;
2.4.1; 2.4.2; 2.2.7
LA.A.2.4.1;
2.4.2;LA.E.2.2.1
LA.A.1.4.2;
2.4.1;LA.E.2.2.1
LA.A.1.4.2;
2.4.2; 2.4.2; 2.4.8
LA.A. 1.4.2;
2.2.7; 2.4.1; 2.4.7
LA.A. 1.4.2;
2.2.7; 2.4.1; 2.4.8
LA.A. 1.4.2;
LA.E. 2.2.1
LA.A. 2.4.1;
2.4.2; 2.4.5
LA.A. 1.4.2;
2.4.1; 2.4.2; 2.4.8
LA.A. 2.4.1;
2.4.4; 2.4.8
LA.A. 1.4.2;
2.4.1; 2.4.4; 2.4.8
LA.A. 1.4.2;
2.4.1; 2.4.2
LA.A. 1.4.2;
LA.A. 1.4.2;
2.4.1
FCAT
Benchmark(s)
Interactive Reader
Grade Ten
FCAT Connections
"Song of the Open Road" and
"The Road Not Taken"
83
LA.A. 1.4.2;
2.4.1; 2.4.4; 2.4.8
The Scarlet Ibis
86
The House on Mango Street
89
LA.A. 1.4.2;
2.4.1; 2.2.7
LA.A. 1.4.2;
2.4.1; 2.2.1
Harrison Bergeron
92
Dial Versus Digital
95
"Piano" and "Those Winter Sundays"
98
Night
101
Julius Caesar
104
A White Heron
107
3
LA.A. 1.4.2;
2.4.1; 2.4.2
LA.A. 1.4.2;
2.4.1; 2.4.2
LA.A. 1.4.2;
2.4.1; 2.4.8
LA.A. 1.4.2;
2.4.1
LA.A. 1.4.2;
2.4.1
LA.A. 1.4.2;
2.4.1; 2.4.2
Introduction
As educators in this age of accountability, we need to be ready, willing, and able
to prepare our students for mandated assessment tests. In Florida, one such test is the
FCAT (Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test). The FCAT was developed to judge
whether our students are meeting the Sunshine State Standards, which were adopted by
the State Board of Education in 1996.
The FCAT Connection from McDougal Littell, when used in conjunction with
Language Network and The InterActive Reader, provides a natural correlation between
reading and writing. FCAT practice questions are based on the model bank selections at
the back of Language Network and on several selections from The InterActive Reader.
Strategies to enhance student comprehension and to illustrate writing techniques from
Language Network are included with the rubrics that follow each set of FCAT questions.
As students experience the writing process, they discover the importance of
identifying the FCAT reading assessment benchmarks of main idea, author's purpose,
important details, inferences, and word meaning. The connections between the FCAT
reading and writing assessment areas are as follows:
FCAT Reading
FCAT Writing
Purpose
Topic
Prewriting
Organization
Details
Transitions
Drafting
Inferences
Word Meaning
Revising
Our goal in creating The FCAT Connection is to provide enjoyable, productive
reading and writing instruction for both teacher and student. As Florida State professor
Cynthia Ann Bowman so succinctly states in "Creating Connections: Challenging the
Text and Student Writers" in the March, 2000, English Journal, "Through reading and
writing, students are collecting and connecting, for writing is a bridge to understanding"
(80).
4
The FCAT Connection
The FCAT Connection provides an opportunity to implement a literature-based
writing program in the language arts classroom. There are several different ways to
integrate the FCAT lessons in this workbook into your daily lesson plans. The following
are suggested examples of how you could create a writing workshop using The FCAT
Connection.
Define Skill - Identify the writing skill(s) to be taught -- for example, elaboration.
Students will learn that they can improve almost any type of writing with anecdotes,
details and dialogue.
Read/Discuss - In either a whole-class or small-group setting, students will read and
discuss a passage. One such passage might be a personal narrative from Language
Network or The InterActive Reader ,chosen specifically to model elaboration skills.
Six Traits Workshop - Students will consider the evaluation model of the Six Traits of
Effective Writing in the "Writing Process" section of Language Network. For example,
students will determine that the first trait, "Ideas," should be collected during the
prewriting stage.
Writing Workshop - Students will work through the "Writing Workshop for Personal
Narrative" section of Language Network. Students will begin the lesson by examining
the "Basics in a Box” section and continue the lesson by reading the student model of a
personal narrative.
FCAT Practice - Use the FCAT mini-test as a diagnosis of the students' skill levels. The
Language Network connection section in the rubric portion of the FCAT mini-test could
then be used to remediate or reinforce students' weak reading/writing skill areas.
Whatever approach you select to meet the needs of your students, the intent of The FCAT
Connection is to ensure that students develop confidence and competence as readers and
writers.
5
Creating Learning Opportunities
Teaching the Sunshine State Standards in reading and writing is an ongoing
process that includes preparing students to take the FCAT to assess academic
achievement. Useful strategies that will foster the higher-order thinking skills your
students will need in order to master the Sunshine State Standards are as follows:
Writing for an Audience - Students need to connect their work to audiences. Whenever
possible, students should be given the opportunity to take part in writing contests, to
submit their work to school and national newspapers, and to display their writing.
Cooperative Learning - Most writers have connections with other writers and/or
professionals. In the same respect, students need to work within a community of writers.
By working in small groups, students are able to discuss their writing with other students,
giving one another responses along the way.
Diversity - Not all writing has to be in the form of a five-paragraph essay. Writers need
to experiment with and develop skills in various kinds of writing, including forms such as
journals, storyboards, and quick responses to prompts. If students are to develop into
writers, they should be allowed to take risks in their writing -- to have a little fun
sometimes.
Real Life Applications - Students learn better when they can relate what they are
learning to their own world. Whenever possible, students should be encouraged to work
with and experiment with real materials. For example, students could look for the main
idea in a newspaper article; or they could read a problem-solution article in a favorite
magazine.
Reflection - Writers learn from what they write. When they reflect upon their writing,
they gain insight into themselves and the writing choices they have made. Writers need
to understand not only what they write but also how they write.
Teacher/Co-writer - One of the best ways to teach students to write is to model
successful writing. When the teacher writes along with the students, they are able to
share a work in progress. If the teacher is directly involved in the writing assignment, he
or she is better able to interact with the students through direct participation.
6
Using Graphic Organizers
One way to prepare students for the FCAT is to foster the ability to analyze
abstract concepts. Graphic organizers are particularly useful in accomplishing this task
and are an integral part of CRISS strategies. Graphic organizers can provide visual and
specific formats for organizing ideas so that students can see the analytical process. Two
such graphic organizers are shown here. Other organizers can be found in the Language
Network transparency pack.
Cluster Diagram - Use to find ideas and describe events
Basic Category Chart - Use to elicit information and analyze text
7
Understanding the FCAT
Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test - The FCAT is the major tool for
assessment in Florida. It is currently administered in grades 4, 5, 8, and 10. The FCAT
was expanded in 1999 legislation to assess students in grades 3-10 in reading and
mathematics. Writing will continue to be assessed in grades 4, 8, and 10. The FCAT is a
state-designed, criterion-referenced test, which measures achievement of the Sunshine
State Standards in reading, writing, and mathematics. Students entering the 9th grade in
1999-2000 must pass the 10th grade FCAT in reading and mathematics to graduate.
FCAT Reading Test - The FCAT Reading test consists of passages from literary
works and informational articles in different content areas. The length of the passages
varies from 400 words at grade 4 level to over 1800 words at grade 10.
The FCAT reading test consists of multiple choice questions as well as short response
and extended response questions, referred to as performance tasks. The performance
tasks give the student the chance to demonstrate how well he/she can read and understand
a passage. The tasks require the student to answer the question by re-reading and
thinking about the information in the passage. Then the student plans and writes the
answer in his/her own words.
A typical reading test will have
• 6-7 reading passages.
• 40-45 multiple choice questions.
• 6-8 short response performance tasks.
• 2-3 extended response performance tasks.
Writing Test - The FCAT writing test replaces the Florida Writes test. The student is
given a writing booklet and writing prompt. The student must write an essay that
answers the prompt in such a way as to demonstrate the student's writing ability. The
essay is graded using a rubric of 1 to 6, with 6 being the highest possible score. The test
assesses competencies in the following areas:
•
•
•
•
Focus - how clearly the paper presents a main idea
Organization - the structure or plan of development (beginning, middle, and end)
Support - the quality of details used to explain, clarify, and define
Conventions - usage, punctuation, capitalization, spelling, and sentence structure
8
Benchmarks Assessed by FCAT Grades Nine and Ten
LA.A.1.4.2
Selects and uses strategies to understand words and text, and to
make and confirm inferences from what is read, including
interpreting diagrams, graphs, and statistical illustrations.
LA.A.2.2.7
Recognizes the use of comparison and contrast in a text.
LA.A.2.4.1
Determines the main idea and identifies relevant details, methods
of development, and their effectiveness in a variety of types of
written material.
LA.A.2.4.2
Determines the author's purpose and point of view and their effects
on the text. (Includes LA.A.2.4.5 Identifies devices of persuasion
and methods of appeal and their effectiveness.)
LA.A.2.4.4
Locates, gathers, analyzes, and evaluates written information for a
variety of purposes, including research projects, real-world tasks,
and self-improvement. (Includes LA.A.2.4.6 Selects and uses
appropriate study and research skills and tools according to the
type of information being gathered or organized, including
almanacs, government publications, microfiche, news sources, and
information services.)
LA.A.2.4.7
Analyzes the validity and reliability of primary source information
and uses the information appropriately.
LA.A.2.4.8
Synthesizes information from multiple sources to draw
conclusions.
LA.E.2.2.1
Recognizes cause-and-effect relationships in literary text. (Applies
to fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and drama.)
LA.E.2.4.1
Analyzes the effectiveness of complex elements of plot such as
setting, major events, problems, conflicts, and resolutions.
9
Name
Date
Selection: The Sound of My Name
Answer numbers 1 through 5. Base your answers on the personal narrative “The Sound of My
Name” on pages 622-623 in Language Network.
How did the author react after her friend in Austin kept repeating her name?
A.
B.
C.
D.
Why was the author concerned when she was called a generic name?
A.
B.
C.
D.
Classmates would laugh when she called them “Singlet.”
The author felt like a freak when called “Twin.”
Classmates did not recognize her as an individual.
It took too much energy to explain who she really was.
Why did the author respond, “Yes, Singlet” after being called, “Hey, Twin”?
A.
B.
C.
D.
Frightened. She knew people used to call her by the wrong name.
Pleased. She realized how pleasant her name actually sounded.
Surprised. She thought only college friends called her by the wrong name.
Relieved. She had always wanted her old friends to talk to her.
READ
THINK
EXPLAIN
She used humor to cover her hurt.
She was upset that she was a twin.
She wanted to hurt others’ feelings.
She knew they would stop calling her “Twin.”
How does the author’s relationship with her friends compare with the
relationship with her sister? Use details and information from the narrative to
explain your answer.
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
10
Language Network - Grade Nine
The Sound of My Name, cont.
READ
THINK
EXPLAIN
________
________
________
________
What is one of the author’s outstanding character traits? Support your answer
with examples, details, and information from the narrative.
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
FCAT WRITING PROMPT
T.V. talk shows and books that reveal personal experiences of a famous person’s life have become very
popular. Before you write, think about a significant event in your life. Write an account of that event for
your school literary magazine, focusing on why the event is important to you.
11
Language Network - Grade Nine
Answer Key: The Sound of My Name
The correct answer is B.
Type of Passage: Literary
Benchmark: LA.A.1.4.2 Selects and uses strategies to understand words and text, and to make
and confirm inferences from what is read.
The correct answer is B. The author describes her reaction as “touched” and “I felt I was hearing my name
for the first time.”
Language Network Connection: Elaborating with Incidents, p. 356. Reading Strategies, p. 576.
The correct answer is C.
Type of Passage: Literary
Benchmark: LA.A.1.4.2 Selects and uses strategies to understand words and text, and to make
and confirm inferences from what is read.
The correct answer is C. The author talks of ways she would try to be recognized as an individual in high
school.
Language Network Connection: Adding Supporting Details, p. 294. Using Context Clues, p. 558.
.
The correct answer is A.
Type of Passage: Literary
Benchmark: LA.A.1.4.2 Selects and uses strategies to understand words and text, and to make
and confirm inferences from what is read.
The correct answer is A because the author explains that being called “Twin” tore at her.
Language Network Connection: Elaborating with Dialogue, p. 400. Multiple-Choice Questions, p. 572.
Scoring Rubric
Type of Passage: Literary
Benchmark: LA.A.2.2.7
Recognizes the use of comparison and contrast in a text.
(Two-point scoring rubric)
Top-score response
A top-score response will give examples of the relationship with the author’s sister as understanding,
trusting, and close. Childhood friends – with the exception of one boy, who insisted on correctly naming
the twins – rarely saw her as an individual. In college, without her twin , the author met friends who
recognized her as an individual.
Language Network Connection: Comparison and Contrast, p. 330.
12
Language Network - Grade Nine
Answer Key: The Sound of My Name, cont.
Scoring Rubric
Type of Passage: Literature
Benchmark: LA.A.1.4.2 Selects and uses strategies to understand words and text, and to make
and confirm inferences from what is read.
(Four-point scoring rubric)
Top-score response
A top-score response may identify outstanding character traits as sensitive (touched – someone saying her
name, torn - someone calling her “Twin,” hurt -- felt like a traveling freak show), brave or humorous
(summoned laughter by calling others “Singlet,” felt like a traveling freak show, spoke with Swedish accent
in seventh grade, gave off-the-wall phrases to Spanish teacher in high school), friendly or outgoing
(classmates laughed when she called them “Singlet”; second-grade boy defended her; she bonded with her
sister, college friends, and friend in Austin).
Language Network Connection: List of personality traits, p. 410. Details that contribute to main
impression, p. 407.
FCAT Writing Language Network Connection: "Personal Narratives,” pp. 396-403. "Why Elaborate,"
p. 352 "Tone and Voice,” p. 390
13
Language Network - Grade Nine
Name
Date
Selection: Sadie Delany, Witness to a Century
Answer numbers 1 through 5. Base your answers on the article “Sadie Delany, Witness to a
Century” on pages 624-625 in Language Network.
Why was Dr. Bessie the acerbic one?
A.
B.
C.
D.
What can you conclude about Sarah Delany’s personality from the statement that she does what
she wants?
A.
B.
C.
D.
Sarah was not cooperative.
Sarah had to have her way.
Sarah was an independent thinker.
Sarah tried hard to please others.
According to the Delany sisters, what was the reason for their longevity?
A.
B.
C.
D.
She took multiple vitamins.
She told people the truth.
She acted foolishly.
She did not listen to the truth.
READ
THINK
EXPLAIN
They wanted to see the 21st Century.
They exercised everyday.
They had few worries.
They lived simply and ate well.
How was Sadie different from Bessie? Use details and information from the
article to explain your answer.
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
14
Language Network - Grade Nine
Sadie Delany, Witness to a Century, cont.
READ
THINK
EXPLAIN
________
________
________
________
What accounts for the remarkable accomplishments of the Delany family?
Support your answer with examples, details, and information from the article.
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
FCAT WRITING PROMPT
As people grow up, many different people influence them. Before you write, think about someone you
know or admire. Write a letter to a friend explaining why that particular person was such a strong
influence in your life.
15
Language Network - Grade Nine
Answer Key: Sadie Delaney, Witness to a Century
The correct answer is B.
Type of Passage: Informational
Benchmark: LA.A.1.4.2 Selects and uses strategies to understand words and text, and to make
and confirm inferences from what is read.
The correct answer is B. The passage states that Bessie was the acerbic one, who was convinced it was her
duty to tell people the truth.
Language Network Connection: Adding Supporting Details, p. 294. Use Context Clues, p. 558.
The correct answer is C.
Type of Passage: Informational
Benchmark: LA.A.1.4.2 Selects and uses strategies to understand words and text, and to make
and confirm inferences from what is read.
The correct answer is C. A college professor remarked that Sadie would smile then turn around and do
what she wanted.
Language Network Connection: Elaborating with Incidents , p. 356. Reading Strategies, p. 576.
Drawing Conclusions, pp. 496 – 497
The correct answer is D.
Type of Passage: Informational
Benchmark: LA.E. 2.2.1 Recognizes cause and effect relationships in literary text.
The correct answer is D because the author explains that the sisters believed their simple lives and good
food contributed to their longevity.
Language Network Connection: Cause and Effect, p. 329. Multiple-Choice Questions, p. 572.
Scoring Rubric
Type of Passage: Informational
Benchmark: LA.A.2.2.7 Recognizes the use of comparison and contrast in a text.
(Two-point scoring rubric)
Top-score response
A top-score response will give examples of Sadie as a teacher who was sweet as molasses, smiled and
then did what she wanted, and woke up in the morning saying, “Thank you, Lord, for another day.” Bessie
was a dentist, who told the bitter truth, never raised her rates in 27 years, and woke up in the morning
saying, “Oh, Lord, another day.”
Language Network Connection: Comparison and Contrast, p. 330.
16
Language Network - Grade Nine
Answer Key: Sadie Delany, Witness to a Century, cont.
Scoring Rubric
Type of Passage: Literary
Benchmark: LA.E.2.2.1 Recognizes cause-and-effect relationships in literary text.
(Four-point scoring rubric)
Top-score response
A top-score response may identify the sisters as one of the first black women to teach in white New York
City schools (Sadie) or practice dentistry in New York State (Bessie). The family was a mix of hardworking African, white, and American Indian stock, who moved from the Jim Crow South to Harlem
Renaissance New York. They were rich in traits of being reserved, aristocratic, and irrepressible even
though they suffered through segregation.
Language Network Connection: Cause and Effect, p. 329.
FCAT Writing Language Network Connection: Character Sketch, pp. 410-411.
17
Language Network - Grade Nine
Name
Date
Selection: Within Reach: My Everest Story
Answer numbers 1 through 5. Base your answers on the article “Within Reach: My Everest Story”
on page 626 in Language Network .
A person who is interested in rappelling would
A.
B.
C.
D.
What was Mark Pfetzer’s great accomplishment?
A.
B.
C.
D.
He reached the summit of Mt. Everest.
He survived a fatal expedition.
He answered an advertisement for a trip to Nepal.
He was the youngest person to reach 26,000 feet.
What could a reader conclude is the most dangerous part of mountaineering?
A.
B.
C.
D.
enjoy mountain climbing.
like white-water rafting.
look forward to canoeing.
have fun crossing bridges.
READ
THINK
EXPLAIN
Climbers can break a rib by coughing.
Climbers can fail to reach their goals.
Climbers could fall to their deaths.
Climbers could be frightened by the height.
What makes Mark Pfetzer a good storyteller? Use details and information from
the article to explain your answer.
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
18
Language Network - Grade Nine
Within Reach: My Everest Story, cont.
READ
THINK
EXPLAIN
________
________
________
________
In what ways could Mark Pfetzer’s story encourage others to go for their
dreams? Support your answer with examples, details, and information from the
article.
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
FCAT WRITING PROMPT
Recall some of the stories, poems, and plays that you have read in school. Select one that you know well
and have strong feelings about. Think about why the work may have affected you so powerfully. Write a
response essay in which you identify and summarize the work of literature, state your overall reaction to it,
and use supporting details from the work to explain your reaction.
19
Language Network - Grade Nine
Answer Key: Within Reach: My Everest Story
The correct answer is A.
Type of Passage: Informational
Benchmark: LA.A.1.4.2 Selects and uses strategies to understand words and text, and to make
and confirm inferences from what is read.
The correct answer is A. The author summarizes the mountain climbing adventures by referring to an
interest in rappelling.
Language Network Connection: Adding Supporting Details, p. 294. Use Context Clues, p. 558.
The correct answer is D.
Type of Passage: Informational
Benchmark: LA.A.1.4.2 Selects and uses strategies to understand words and text, and to make
and confirm inferences from what is read.
The correct answer is D. The opening sentence states that Mark was the youngest climber on Mt. Everest
to reach 26,000 feet.
Language Network Connection: Elaborating with Facts and Statistics, p. 355. Reading Strategies,
p. 576.
.
The correct answer is C.
Type of Passage: Informational
Benchmark: LA.E.2.2.1 Recognizes cause and effect relationships in literary text.
The correct answer is C because the author states the 1996 expedition is fatality filled. C is the most
dangerous of the answer choices.
Language Network Connection: Cause and Effect, p. 329. Multiple-Choice Questions, p. 572.
Scoring Rubric
Type of Passage: Informational
Benchmark: LA.E.2.2.1 Recognizes cause and effect relationships in literary text.
(Two-point scoring rubric)
Top-score response
A top-score response will give examples of Pfetzer’s using a diary format, suspenseful storytelling, and a
wealth of insider information, such as, breaking a rib by coughing and urinating on the peak.
Language Network Connection: Patterns of Organization, p. 333.
20
Language Network - Grade Nine
Answer Key: Within Reach: My Everest Story, cont.
Scoring Rubric
Type of Passage: Informational
Benchmark: LA.A.2.4.2. Identifies the author’s purpose and point of view and their effects on the
text.
(Four-point scoring rubric)
Top-score response
A top-score response may include examples of Mark’s responding to an ad, raising $5,000 for the trip to
Nepal, setting a record as the youngest to reach 26,000 feet, and writing a gripping autobiography about his
accomplishments.
Language Network Connection: Opinion Statement at a Glance, p. 436.
FCAT Writing Language Network Connection: Response to Literature, pp. 412-419.
21
Language Network - Grade Nine
Name
Date
Selection: Discover Your Family Tree
Answer numbers 1 through 5. Base your answers on the article “Discover Your Family” on pages
627-628 in Language Network.
A reader of this article could conclude that genealogy is
A.
B.
C.
D.
According to this article, which source would help a person organize genealogical information?
A.
B.
C.
D.
census records
national archives
Cyndi’s List of Genealogy Sites
National Genealogical Society
Which statement best describes the author’s point of view?
A.
B.
C.
D.
a society that studies genes.
a written record of your ancestors.
a method for planting trees.
a way to search web sites.
READ
THINK
EXPLAIN
Technology makes it easy to trace family roots.
It is important to join a genealogical society.
Everyone should interview older relatives.
Try to visit the Family History Center in Utah.
Why is it important to write down names of the relatives that one interviews as
well as other details when interviewing? Use details and information from the
article to explain your answer.
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
22
Language Network - Grade Nine
Discover Your Family Tree, cont.
READ
THINK
EXPLAIN
________
________
________
________
Explain the process of writing a genealogy. Use examples, details, and
information from the article in your response,
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
FCAT WRITING PROMPT
A friend of yours complains about being bored during summer vacation. Think of one of your favorite
hobbies, sports, or skills. Explain the steps your friend would need to follow to learn that hobby, sport, or
skill.
23
Language Network - Grade Nine
Answer Key: Discover Your Family Tree
The correct answer is B.
Type of Passage: Informational
Benchmark: LA.A.1.4.2 Selects and uses strategies to understand words and text, and to make
and confirm inferences from what is read.
The correct answer is B. The author talks of finding the roots of your family, writing down family stories,
and keeping the information orderly.
Language Network Connection: Elaborating with Facts and Statistics, p. 355.
The correct answer is C.
Type of Passage: Informational
Benchmark: LA.A.2.4.4 Locates, gathers, analyzes, and evaluates written information for a
variety of purposes, including research projects, real-world tasks, and self-improvement.
The correct answer is C. Cyndi’s List is under the heading “Organize research materials,” where it
indicates that software available from this site can keep information orderly.
Language Network Connection: Elaborating with Facts and Statistics, p. 355. Reading Strategies,
p. 576.
.
The correct answer is A.
Type of Passage: Informational
Benchmark: LA.A.2.4.2 Determines the author’s purpose and point of view and their effects on
the text.
The correct answer is A because the author states in the first sentence, “Finding the roots of your family
tree has never been easier than with today’s technological tools…”
Language Network Connection: Elaborating with Facts and Statistics, p. 355. Multiple-Choice
Questions, p. 572.
Scoring Rubric
Type of Passage: Informational
Benchmark: LA.E.2.2.1 Recognizes cause-and-effect relationships in literary text.
(Two-point scoring rubric)
Top-score response
A top-score response will cite examples from the section “Talk with relatives” (note the source, “…I’d just
scribble down bits of information…I could kick myself for that.”)
Language Network Connection: Cause and Effect, p. 329.
24
Language Network - Grade Nine
Answer Key: Discover Your Family Tree, cont.
Scoring Rubric
Type of Passage: Informational
Benchmark: LA.A.2.4.4. Locates, gathers, analyzes, and evaluates written information for a
variety of purposes, including research projects, real-world tasks, and self-improvement.
(Four-point scoring rubric)
Top-score response
A top-score response will include the steps from the headings in the article: talk with relatives, collect data,
and organize research materials using technological resources.
Language Network Connection: Process Explanation at a Glance, p. 426.
FCAT Writing Language Network Connection: Process Explanation, pp. 420-427. Elaboration,
pp.351– 357.
25
Language Network - Grade Nine
Name
Date
Selection: Overshadowed Sosa Equally Worthy of Acclaim
Answer numbers 1 through 5. Base your answers on the article “Overshadowed Sosa Equally
Worthy of Acclaim” on pages 629-630 in Language Network.
The author’s purpose for writing this article is
A.
B.
C.
D.
Which statement best explains why Sosa is more than a one-dimensional player?
A.
B.
C.
D.
He plays outfield.
He drives in runs.
He’s hitting .300.
He hit 66 home runs.
According to the article, what is Sosa’s attitude about baseball?
A.
B.
C.
D.
to convince the reader that McGwire is the best all-round baseball player.
to convince the reader that Sosa is the best all-round baseball player.
to explain why the St. Louis Cardinals were out of the pennant race.
to explain why the Chicago Cubs were contenders for the pennant race.
READ
THINK
EXPLAIN
He thinks it is a burden.
He thinks it is competitive.
He thinks it is too easy.
He thinks it is enjoyable.
How has Sosa demonstrated that baseball is fun? Use details and information
from the article to explain your answer.
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
26
Language Network - Grade Nine
Overshadowed Sosa Equally Worthy of Acclaim, cont.
READ
THINK
EXPLAIN
________
________
________
________
Does the author feel that Sosa deserved the National League’s MVP Award?
Use examples, details, and information from the article in your response,
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
FCAT WRITING PROMPT
Some of life’s most memorable events are ones that were never supposed to happen in the first place -things that “went wrong” or things that turned out surprisingly well. Take a moment to recall some of your
mishaps and successes. Choose two of these events to share with a friend. Write the story of your
experiences comparing what you learned from both.
27
Language Network - Grade Nine
Answer Key: Overshadowed Sosa Equally Worthy of Acclaim
The correct answer is B.
Type of Passage: Informational
Benchmark: LA.A.2.4.2
the text.
Determines the author’s purpose and point of view and their effects on
The correct answer is B. The author gives examples of how Sosa is more than a one-dimensional player.
Language Network Connection: Elaborating with Facts and Statistics, p. 355. Multiple-Choice
Questions, p. 572.
The correct answer is A.
Type of Passage: Informational
Benchmark: LA.A.1.4.2 Selects and uses strategies to understand words and text, and to make
and confirm inferences from what is read, including interpreting diagrams, graphs, and statistical
information.
The correct answer is A. The author gives examples of how Sosa is not only a hitter, but an outfielder, too.
Language Network Connection: Elaborating with Facts and Statistics, p. 355. Reading Strategies, p.
576.
.
The correct answer is D.
Type of Passage: Informational
Benchmark: LA.A.1.4.2 Selects and uses strategies to understand words and text, and to make
and confirm inferences from what is read.
The correct answer is D because the author states that Sosa has consistently approached the game with
unadulterated joy.
Language Network Connection: Ways to Support Your Arguments, p. 440. Multiple-Choice Questions,
p. 572.
Scoring Rubric
Type of Passage: Informational
Benchmark: LA.A.1.4.2 Selects and uses strategies to understand words and text, and to make
and confirm inferences.
(Two-point scoring rubric)
Top-score response
A top-score response will cite the examples that Sosa has consistently approached the game with
unadulterated joy and Sosa has given us a reminder that baseball is supposed to be fun.
Language Network Connection: Supporting Details, p. 361.
28
Language Network - Grade Nine
Answer Key: Overshadowed Sosa Equally Worthy of Acclaim, cont.
Scoring Rubric
Type of Passage: Informational
Benchmark: LA.A.2.4.2 Determines the author’s purpose and point of view and their effects on
the text.
(Four-point scoring rubric)
Top-score response
A top-score response will state that Sosa deserved the MVP Award for many of the following reasons: he
hits over .300, drives in both runs and singles, steals bases, win games with his homeruns. Sosa also
demonstrates grace under pressure with statements like “Mark McGwire is the man” and “Isn’t this a great
country?” In addition, the author states that Sosa has become baseball royalty.
Language Network Connection: Persuasive Paragraphs, p. 325.
FCAT Writing Language Network Connection: Comparison-Contrast Essay, pp. 428-435.
29
Language Network - Grade Nine
Name
Date
Selection: Is Computer Gap Bad for Girls?
Answer numbers 1 through 5. Base your answers on the letter to the editor “Is Computer Gap Bad
for Girls?” on page 631 in Language Network.
The author’s purpose for writing this letter is
A.
B.
C.
D.
A person who is proficient in computer skills would be
A.
B.
C.
D.
pretentious
competent
careful
perfect
What can you infer about the author’s viewpoint on computer literacy?
A.
B.
C.
D.
to persuade people to provide more computer training for girls.
to convince teachers to concentrate on reading skills for boys.
to persuade people to take away boys’ computer video games.
to convince teachers to help boys learn important lifeskills.
READ
THINK
EXPLAIN
She thinks computer literacy is more important than reading.
She thinks boys are ahead of the girls in computer literacy.
She thinks schools should balance computer literacy, reading, and writing.
She thinks girls should become more computer literate.
How does the author address the opposing point of view? Support your answer
with details and information from the passage.
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
30
Language Network - Grade Nine
Is Computer Gap Bad for Girls? cont.
READ
THINK
EXPLAIN
infor
________
________
________
________
Compare the educational skills of girls and boys. Use examples, details, and
information from the article in your response.
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
FCAT WRITING PROMPT
Your cousin has won an all-expense-paid trip for two to Mexico and gets to choose another person to go
along. You want to be that person. Think about how you might convince your cousin to take you along on
the trip. Write a persuasive letter to your cousin, stating your case.
31
Language Network - Grade Nine
Answer Key: Is Computer Gap Bad for Girls?
The correct answer is D.
Type of Passage: Informational
Benchmark: LA.A.2.4.2
the text.
Determines the author’s purpose and point of view and their effects on
The correct answer is D. The author states that teachers should be helping students decide on the types of
skills that should be valued in life.
Language Network Connection: Elaborating with Facts and Statistics, p. 355. Multiple-Choice
Questions, p. 572.
The correct answer is B.
Type of Passage: Informational
Benchmark: LA.A.1.4.2 Selects and uses strategies to understand words and text, and to make
and confirm inferences from what is read.
The correct answer is B . The author states that girls are less proficient than boys, then states that girls are
the disadvantaged ones and have technical shortcomings.
Language Network Connection: Contrast Clues, p. 559. Reading Strategies, p. 576.
.
The correct answer is C.
Type of Passage: Informational
Benchmark: LA.A.2.4.2 Determines the author’s purpose and point of view and their effects on
the text.
The correct answer is C because the author asks who decided that computer literacy is valued above the
ability to read and write, then says we should pull boys away from computers and help them decide on the
types of skills that should be valued in life.
Language Network Connection: Elaborating with Specific Examples, p. 356. Multiple-Choice Questions,
p. 572.
Scoring Rubric
Type of Passage: Informational
Benchmark: LA.A.2.4.1 Determines the main idea and identifies relevant details, methods of
development, and their effectiveness in a variety of types of written material.
(Two-point scoring rubric)
Top-score response
A top-score response will cite examples, such as girls are less proficient, the gender gap is a danger to the
future success of girls, girls are the disadvantaged ones, girls’ technical shortcomings are a problem.
Language Network Connection: Supporting Details, p. 361.
32
Language Network - Grade Nine
Answer Key: Is Computer Gap Bad for Girls? cont.
Scoring Rubric
Type of Passage: Informational
Benchmark: LA.A.2.2.7 Recognizes the use of comparison and contrast in a text.
(Four-point scoring rubric)
Top-score response
A top-score response might state that girls are less proficient in computer skills but more proficient in their
ability to read and write. The boys are more proficient than the girls in computer skills, but less proficient
in school. Boys are taking fewer English classes and are dropping out of school and the article suggests
that boys should be pulled from computers and video games and taught valuable life skills.
Language Network Connection: Persuasive Paragraphs, p. 325.
FCAT Writing Language Network Connection: Opinion Statement, pp. 436-445.
33
Language Network - Grade Nine
Name
Date
Selection: Writing for History
Answer numbers 1 through 5. Base your answers on the essay “Writing for History” on page 632 in
Language Network.
What is the method of organization in this essay?
A.
B.
C.
D.
Which statement best expresses the main idea of the essay?
A.
B.
C.
D.
Printing became popular all over Europe.
Printing led to demands for religious reform.
Printing increased literacy and world knowledge.
Printers published books on a wide range of subjects.
What can you infer from the high price of books before the invention of the printing press?
A.
B.
C.
D.
Cause and effect
Comparison
Spatial order
Time order
READ
THINK
EXPLAIN
The cost of paper for the books was expensive.
Bookmakers charged by the hour.
Books were copied by hand, so few were made.
The demand for books was low.
What is a possible title for this essay? Support your answer with details and
information from the passage.
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
34
Language Network - Grade Nine
Writing for History, cont.
READ
THINK
EXPLAIN
________
________
________
________
Explain how the printing press increased literacy worldwide. Use examples,
details, and information from the article in your response.
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
FCAT WRITING PROMPT
Your social studies teacher would like you to explore some of the effects that the growing concern for the
environment has had on society. Consider some of the environmentally responsible things people and
businesses do in your town. Write a cause-and-effect analysis for your teacher.
35
Language Network - Grade Nine
Answer Key: Writing for History
The correct answer is A.
Type of Passage: Informational
Benchmark: LA.A.2.4.1 Determines the main idea and identifies relevant details, methods of
development, and their effectiveness in a variety of types of written material.
The correct answer is A. The author responds to the prompt by stating examples of the effects of the
printing press.
Language Network Connection: Cause and Effect, p. 329.
Reading Strategies, p. 576.
The correct answer is C.
Type of Passage: Informational
Benchmark: LA.A.2.4.1 Determines the main idea and identifies relevant details, methods of
development, and their effectiveness in a variety of written material.
The correct answer is C. The author states the main idea of the increase in literacy and knowledge of the
world in the introduction and conclusion.
Language Network Connection: Elaborating with facts and statistics, p. 355. Reading Strategies,
p. 576.
.
The correct answer is D.
Type of Passage: Informational
Benchmark: LA.E.2.2.1 Recognizes cause-and-effect relationships in literary text.
The correct answer is D because the author states that books were made by hand but after the printing press
were produced by the hundreds with a decrease in price.
Language Network Connection: Ways to Support Your Arguments, p. 440. Multiple-Choice Questions,
p. 572. Making Inferences, p. 495.
Scoring Rubric
Type of Passage: Informational
Benchmark: LA.A.2.4.1 Determines the main idea and identifies relevant details, methods of
development, and their effectiveness in a variety of types of written material.
(Two-point scoring rubric)
Top-score response
Possible titles could be Books Promote Literacy, Have Book-Will Travel, Hot off the Press. Supporting
details might include printed by the hundreds, became popular because of the low prices, printed in many
languages, published on a wide range of subjects.
Language Network Connection: Supporting Details, p. 361.
36
Language Network - Grade Nine
Answer Key: Writing for History, cont.
Scoring Rubric
Type of Passage: Informational
Benchmark: LA.E.2.2.1 Recognizes cause-and-effect relationships in literary texts.
(Four-point scoring rubric)
Top-score response
A top-score response may include examples of books being printed in many languages and published on a
wide range of subjects, such as travel guides, medical manuals, and religious publications.
Language Network Connection: Patterns of Organization, p. 333.
FCAT Writing Language Network Connection: Cause and Effect, p. 492.
37
Language Network - Grade Nine
Name
Date
Selection: Writing for Science
Answer numbers 1 through 5. Base your answers on the essay “Writing for Science” on page 633 in
Language Network.
What is the method of organization in this essay?
A.
B.
C.
D.
Which statement best expresses the main idea of the essay?
A.
B.
C.
D.
The Earth’s seasons relate to distance from the sun.
The Earth’s seasons are the result of a circular orbit.
The earth’s seasons change dramatically every year.
The Earth’s seasons are the result of a constant axis.
What is the best definition of orbit of the Earth?
A.
B.
C.
D.
Cause and effect
Comparison
Spatial order
Time order
READ
THINK
EXPLAIN
A circular path.
An oval path.
A circular tilt.
An oval tilt.
What is a possible title for this essay? Support your answer with details and
information from the passage.
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
38
Language Network - Grade Nine
Writing for Science, cont.
READ
THINK
EXPLAIN
________
________
________
________
Explain how our seasons might be different if the Earth’s orbit were a perfect
circle and the Earth were not tilted on its axis. Use examples, details, and
information from the article in your response,
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
FCAT WRITING PROMPT
You and your classmates have decided to put objects that are important in your lives into a time capsule.
Students like you will open the capsule a hundred years from now. Choose some objects that you think are
worthy of preserving in the capsule. Write an explanation to accompany these items for readers who may
not be familiar with your present way of life.
39
Language Network - Grade Nine
Answer Key: Writing for Science.
The correct answer is D.
Type of Passage: Informational
Benchmark: LA.A.2.4.1 Determines the main idea and identifies relevant details, methods of
development, and their effectiveness in a variety of types of written material.
The correct answer is D. The author records the time sequence of the Earth’s orbit around the sun.
Language Network Connection: Cause and Effect, p. 329.
Reading Strategies, p. 576.
The correct answer is A.
Type of Passage: Informational
Benchmark: LA.A.2.4.1 Determines the main idea and identifies relevant details, methods of
development, and their effectiveness in a variety of written material.
The correct answer is A. The author states that the main idea is that the different distances between the
Earth and the sun create the Earth's seasons.
Language Network Connection: Elaborating with Facts and Statistics, p. 355. Reading Strategies,
p. 576.
.
The correct answer is B.
Type of Passage: Informational
Benchmark: LA.A.1.4.2 Selects and uses strategies to understand words and text, and to make
and confirm inferences from what is read.
The correct answer is B because the author states that the Earth’s orbit is oval shaped, not round.
Language Network Connection: Using Context Clues, p. 558. Multiple-Choice Questions, p. 572.
Scoring Rubric
Type of Passage: Informational
Benchmark: LA.A.2.4.2 Determines the main idea and identifies relevant details, methods of
development, and their effectiveness in a variety of types of written material.
(Two-point scoring rubric)
Top-score response
Possible titles could be “The Seasons of the Earth,” “Third Rock from the Sun,” and “The Earth on the
Move.” Supporting examples might be that Earth is closest to the sun in January and farthest away in July
and that the Northern Hemisphere has winter when the Earth is tilted away from the sun and summer when
tilted towards the sun.
Language Network Connection: Supporting Details, p. 361.
40
Language Network - Grade Nine
Answer Key: Writing for Science, cont.
Scoring Rubric
Type of Passage: Informational
Benchmark: LA.E.2.2.1 Recognizes cause-and-effect relationships in literary texts.
(Four-point scoring rubric)
Top-score response
A top-score response may include examples of how we would have only one season, using examples of the
orbit and distance from the sun to explain possible types of seasons.
Language Network Connection: Reading in the Content Areas, p. 580.
FCAT Writing Language Network Connection: Patterns of Organization, p. 333.
41
Language Network - Grade Nine
Name
Date
Selection: Fighting Fire
Answer numbers 1 through 5. Base your answers on the essay “Fighting Fire” on pages 634 – 635` in
Language Network.
What is the author's purpose in writing this article?
A.
B.
C.
D.
Which statement best reflects the author's opinion of heavy fire?
A. Heavy fire produces overwhelming heat.
B. Heavy fire must be fought with a stream of water.
C. Heavy fire creates a very dangerous situation.
D. Heavy fire has an appearance different from regular flames.
Choose the most logical explanation for the author's statement that "The fire belongs to the person
at the nozzle, the person who is First In."
A.
B.
C.
D.
To explain how a firefighter is trained
To show how dangerous a fire can be
To describe how a heavy fire looks
To demonstrate how important firefighters are
READ
THINK
EXPLAIN
Trainees always enter the fire first.
Only lieutenants hold the nozzle of the hose.
The firefighter that goes in first is in the most danger.
The firefighter holding the nozzle has to be strong.
Rename the selection, using a title that reflects the main idea. Use details and
information from the article to explain your answer.
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
42
Language Network - Grade Ten
Fighting Fire, cont.
READ
THINK
EXPLAIN
________
________
________
________
Two firefighters battle this fire. What characteristics or abilities does a
firefighter need to possess? Support your response with details and information
from the article.
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
FCAT WRITING PROMPT
Some careers are more dangerous than others. Before you write, think about an occupation with which you
are familiar and which you consider to be dangerous. Write an essay that discusses why people are willing
to enter this risky occupation. Be sure to include specific examples and details to make the dangerous
aspects of the profession clear to your readers.
43
Language Network - Grade Ten
Answer Key: Fighting Fire
The correct answer is B.
Type of Passage: Informational
Benchmark: LA.A.2.4.2
the text.
Determines the author's purpose and point of view and their effects on
The correct answer is B. The author shows how many dangers firefighters face when fighting a fire.
Language Network Connection: Autobiographical Incident at a Glance, p. 410. Purpose and Audience,
p. 411.
The correct answer is C.
Type of Passage: Informational
Benchmark: LA.A.1.4.2 Selects and uses strategies to understand words and text, and to make
and confirm inferences from what is read.
The correct answer is C because it is the most accurate statement.
Language Network Connection: Imagery and Figurative Language, pp. 394-395.
The correct answer is C.
Type of Passage: Informational
Benchmark: LA.A.2.4.1 Determines the main idea and identifies relevant details, methods of
development, and their effectiveness in a variety of types of written material.
The correct answer is C because it is the most accurate statement.
Language Network Connection: Organization and Coherence, pp. 330-333.
Scoring Rubric
Type of Passage: Informational
Benchmark: LA.A.2.4.8
Synthesizes information from multiple sources to draw conclusions.
(Two-point scoring rubric)
Top-score response
A top-score response will offer an appropriate title and will point out the reasons that the title was chosen.
Example: Another name for this article might be, "First In.” The reason this would be a good title is that
the author writes about how she was the first one to enter the fire and about how the first one in is the one
who faces the greatest danger.
Language Network Connection: Interpreting Information, pp. 505-507.
44
Language Network - Grade Ten
Answer Key: Fighting Fire, cont.
Scoring Rubric
Type of Passage: Informational
Benchmark: LA.A.2.4.1 Determines the main idea and identifies relevant details, methods of
development, and their effectiveness in a variety of types of written material.
(Four-point scoring rubric)
Top-score response
A top-score response will completely and accurately identify and give examples of the characteristics
and/or abilities that a firefighter needs to possess. Firefighters face danger and peril every day. A
firefighter must at times risk his life to ensure the safety of others. To face this sort of danger every day, a
firefighter must be courageous. He must be willing to put the safety of others above his own safety. In the
case of a heavy fire situation, it is often difficult to breathe, and the firefighter becomes overcome by
smoke. Firefighters are not only valiant individuals but they are, in many cases, heroes.
Language Network Connection: Structure of a Composition, pp. 338-339.
FCAT Writing Language Network Connection: Autobiographical Incident, pp. 404-411. Focused
Description, pp. 412-419. Six Traits of Effective Writing, p. 314.
45
Language Network - Grade Ten
Name
Date
Selection: Africa's Wild Dogs
Answer numbers 1 through 5. Base your answers on the essay “Africa's Wild Dogs” on pages
636 - 637 in Language Network.
Which statement best represents the main idea of the article?
A.
B.
C.
D.
Read the following sentence: "Wild dogs once roamed throughout sub-Saharan Africa in every
habitat except jungle or desert." What does the word habitat mean?
A.
B.
C.
D.
Territory
Behavior
Nomad
Union
The author expresses concern about
A.
B.
C.
D.
African wild dogs are dangerous animals.
African wild dogs make good hunting dogs.
African wild dogs resemble wolves.
African wild dogs are an endangered species.
READ
THINK
EXPLAIN
the deforestation of the Botswana Okavango Delta.
the danger of hunting wild dogs.
the African wild dogs facing extinction.
the black rhino facing extinction.
Compare and contrast the African wild dog with a domestic house pet dog.
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
46
Language Network - Grade Ten
Africa's Wild Dogs, cont.
READ
THINK
EXPLAIN
________
________
________
________
Speculate as to how a wildlife conservationist (someone who studies endangered
species) could use the information in this article to determine the hunting habits
of African wild dogs. Support your answer with details and information from
the article.
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
FCAT WRITING PROMPT
What do you think it would be like to live in the jungles of Africa? Before you write, visualize yourself in
that setting. Write a story for a wildlife magazine in which you describe your environment. Be sure to
include a focused description of the area to help your readers experience the sights, sounds, and smells of
the surroundings you describe.
47
Language Network - Grade Ten
Answer Key: Africa's Wild Dogs
The correct answer is D.
Type of Passage: Informational
Benchmark: LA.A.2.4.1 Determines the main idea and identifies relevant details, methods of
development, and their effectiveness in a variety of types of written material.
The correct answer is D because the author states in the last sentence that they are "…as endangered as the
black rhino, but less celebrated."
Language Network Connection: Focused Description - Rubric, p. 412.
The correct answer is A.
Type of Passage: Informational
Benchmark: LA.A.1.4.2 Selects and uses strategies to understand words and text, and to make
and confirm inferences from what is read.
The correct answer is A (territory).
Language Network Connection: Developing Your Word Power, p. 566.
The correct answer is C.
Type of Passage: Informational
Benchmark: LA.A.2.4.1 Determines the main idea and identifies relevant details, methods of
development, and their effectiveness in a variety of types of written material.
The correct answer is C because it is the most accurate statement.
Language Network Connection: Inferences, p. 505.
Scoring Rubric
Type of Passage: Informational
Benchmark: LA.A.2.2.7
Recognizes the use of comparison and contrast in a text.
(Two-point scoring rubric)
Top-score response
A top-score response will indicate that the African wild dog most closely resembles a wolf rather than a
house pet. They are more gentle than wolves, but more aggressive than the domestic house pet dog. The
African wild dog, unlike the domestic house pet dog, has been persecuted into extinction over most of their
native habitat.
Language Network Connection: Comparison and Contrast, p. 503.
48
Language Network - Grade Ten
Answer Key: Africa's Wild Dogs, cont.
Scoring Rubric
Type of Passage: Informational
Benchmark: LA.A.2.4.7 Analyzes the validity and reliability of primary source information and
uses the information appropriately.
(Four-point scoring rubric)
Top-score response
A top-score response will completely and accurately identify and give examples of the hunting habits of the
African wild dogs. A complete and correct response will include some or all of the following elements:
the wild dogs hunt in packs, the wild dogs are long-legged and light footed and barely skim the ground
when they run, the dogs move quickly in the night, and they exist (and therefore hunt) in only a few
isolated pockets of Africa.
Language Network Connection: Evaluating Sources, p. 468.
FCAT Writing Language Network Connection: Focused Description, pp. 412-419. Evaluating
Information at a Glance, pp. 514-515. Sensory Details, p. 358.
49
Language Network - Grade Ten
Name
Date
Selection: One Man's Search for Light Amid the Darkness
Answer numbers 1 through 5. Base your answers on the essay “One Man's Search for Light Amid
the Darkness” on pages 638 - 639 in Language Network.
What is the author's purpose in writing the essay?
A.
B.
C.
D.
Read the following sentence: "It's at this moment that Sanders' lecturing tone falls away, and,
instead of being weighed down by guilt, the reader gets a glimpse of the wonder of life -- of
Sanders' awe at the overwhelming pulchritude of existence." What does the word pulchritude
mean?
A.
B.
C.
D.
Futility
Lastingness
Ugliness
Beauty
According to the essay, what happened as a result of the argument between Sanders and his son
Jesse?
A.
B.
C.
D.
To inform readers about the value of the new book written by Sanders
To persuade readers to purchase the new book written by Sanders
To entertain readers with anecdotes from the new book written by Sanders
To criticize the writing style of Sanders
READ
THINK
EXPLAIN
Sanders and his son built a stronger relationship.
Sanders began writing the book.
Sanders stopped being a nag, a pain and a burr under the saddle.
Sanders began spending more time with his family.
How does the author organize, or present, this essay? Support your answer with
details and information from the essay.
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
50
Language Network - Grade Ten
Selection: One Man's Search for Light Amid the Darkness, cont.
READ
THINK
EXPLAIN
________
________
________
________
What can you infer about Sanders' and Jesse's feelings about each other?
Support your answer with details and information from the essay.
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
FCAT WRITING PROMPT
Recall a book about which you had strong feelings. Before you write, think about what you liked or did not
like about the book. Write a book review for your school newspaper expressing your opinion of the book.
Be sure to include statements about what you found most interesting in the book and include evidence from
the book to support your interpretation.
51
Language Network - Grade Ten
Answer Key: One Man's Search for Light Amid the Darkness.
The correct answer is A.
Type of Passage: Literature
Benchmark: LA.A.2.4.8
Synthesizes information from multiple sources to draw conclusions.
The correct answer is A because the author concludes with an overall statement of value about the work.
Language Network Connection: Literary Interpretation at a Glance, p. 420.
The correct answer is D.
Type of Passage: Literature
Benchmark: LA.A.1.4.2 Selects and uses strategies to understand words and text, and to make
and confirm inferences from what is read.
The correct answer is D (beauty).
Language Network Connection: Developing Your Word Power, p. 566.
.
The correct answer is B
Type of Passage: Literature
Benchmark: LA.A.1.4.2 Selects and uses strategies to understand words and text, and to make
and confirm inferences from what is read.
The correct answer is B because it is the most accurate statement.
Language Network Connection: Reasons, p. 362. Inferences, p. 505. Conclusions, p. 506.
Scoring Rubric
Type of Passage: Literature
Benchmark: LA.A.2.4.1 Determines the main idea and identifies relevant details, methods of
development, and their effectiveness in a variety of written material.
(Two-point scoring rubric)
Top-score response
A top-score response will indicate that the author uses the time order method of organization. The events
leading up to the writing of the book are discussed chronologically. First, Sanders and Jesse go on a
camping trip. They have an argument, and this leads to Sanders' decision to write the book. While Sanders
is writing the book, his daughter marries. This event changes the direction of Sanders' work.
Language Network Connection: Patterns of Organization, p. 348.
52
Language Network - Grade Ten
Answer Key: One Man's Search for Light Amid the Darkness, cont.
Scoring Rubric
Type of Passage: Literature
Benchmark: LA.A.2.2.7 Recognizes the use of comparison and contrast in a text.
(Four-point scoring rubric)
Top-score response
A top-score response will use details from the essay to compare Sanders' and Jesse's likes and dislikes
and/or passions. A complete and correct response will include some or all of the following elements: Jesse
likes activities that his father, Sanders, does not, such as watching television and movies and playing video
games. Jesse also likes malls, fashions, and cars. Sanders is interested in protecting the environment and
saving the world.
Language Network Connection: Comparison and Contrast, p. 503. Types of Logical Relationships,
p. 514.
FCAT Writing Language Network Connection: Patterns of Organization, pp. 348-349. Reasons, p.
362. Literary Interpretation at a Glance, pp. 420-427.
53
Language Network - Grade Ten
Name
Date
Selection: Remember El Niño? His Sister Has Shown Up, and She's Angry.
Answer numbers 1 through 5. Base your answers on the essay “Remember El Niño? His Sister Has
Shown Up, and She's Angry” on pages 640 - 641 in Language Network.
What does the author mean by the title, "Remember El Niño? His Sister Has Shown Up, and She's
Angry”?
A.
B.
C.
D.
What do scientists believe caused more than 100 tornadoes to occur in January 1999?
A.
B.
C.
D.
The appearance of El Niño warming the Pacific
The appearance of La Niña cooling the Pacific
The clash of two big air masses of either side of the jet stream flow
The rise in temperature of 1 degree Fahrenheit over the last century
Read the following sentence: "A warmer atmosphere stimulates more precipitation, for instance."
What does the word stimulates mean?
A.
B.
C.
D.
El Niño is not as destructive as La Niña.
La Niña is usually not as aggressive as she is this year.
La Niña, instead of El Niño, is causing unusual weather this year.
El Niño is gone and La Niña is here.
READ
THINK
EXPLAIN
Maintains
Dampens
Encourages
Eliminates
What effect did global warming have on the extreme weather changes noted in
this article? Support your answer with details and information from the article.
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
54
Language Network - Grade Ten
Remember El Niño? His Sister Has Shown Up, and She's Angry, cont.
READ
THINK
EXPLAIN
________
________
________
________
What effects did La Niña have on the weather in North America in the winter of
1999? Support your answer with details and information from the article.
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
FCAT WRITING PROMPT
The incidences of violent acts in high schools continue to increase. Before you write, think about what
causes young people to turn to violence to solve their problems. Write a letter to a local school board
member and suggest measures that could be taken to reduce violence in our schools.
55
Language Network - Grade Ten
Answer Key: Remember El Niño? His Sister Has Shown Up, and She's Angry.
The correct answer is C.
Type of Passage: Informational
Benchmark: LA.A.1.4.2 Selects and uses strategies to understand words and text, and to make
and confirm inferences from what is read.
The correct answer is C because the author states that La Niña has produced an unusual run of weather in
North America this year.
Language Network Connection: Inferences, p. 505.
The correct answer is C.
Type of Passage: Informational
Benchmark: LA.E. 2.2.1 Recognizes cause-and-effect relationships in text.
The correct answer is C because this theory is affirmed in the article.
Language Network Connection: Cause and Effect -- Learn What It Is, p. 428.
The correct answer is C.
Type of Passage: Informational
Benchmark: LA.A.1.4.2 Selects and uses strategies to understand words and text, and to make
and confirm inferences from what is read.
The correct answer is C (encourages).
Language Network Connection: Developing Your Word Power, p. 566.
Scoring Rubric
Type of Passage: Informational
Benchmark: LA.E. 2.2.1 Recognizes cause-and-effect relationships in text.
(Two-point scoring rubric)
Top-score response
A top-score response will indicate that because of an observed rise in the average global surface
temperature of 1-degree Fahrenheit over the last century, the world has experienced more precipitation.
Language Network Connection: Real World Cause-and-Effect Writing, p. 433.
56
Language Network - Grade Ten
Answer Key: Remember El Niño? His Sister Has Shown Up, and She's Angry. cont.
Scoring Rubric
Type of Passage: Informational
Benchmark: LA.E.2.2.1 Recognizes cause-and-effect relationships in text.
(Four-point scoring rubric)
Top-score response
A top-score response will indicate that because of La Niña, the jet stream was altered in 1999. These two
air masses on either side of the jet stream clashed and this caused more than 100 tornadoes to occur in
January 1999. La Niña also caused the rainfall in the eastern tropical Pacific to "completely shut down.”
Language Network Connection: Real World Cause-and-Effect Writing, p. 433.
FCAT Writing Language Network Connection: Patterns of Organization, pp. 348-349. Cause-andEffect Essay, pp. 428-435. Media as News Source, pp. 536-538.
57
Language Network - Grade Ten
Name
Date
Selection: Limit Use of Car Phones
Answer numbers 1 through 5. Base your answers on the essay “Limit Use of Car Phones” on pages
642 - 643 in Language Network.
What is the main idea of this article?
A.
B.
C.
D.
Choose the statement that best expresses the author's point of view.
A.
B.
C.
D.
Cellular phones offer a wonderful safety feature for motorists.
A ban should not be placed on cellular phones until more data is collected.
Cellular phones are unsafe in the hands of drivers.
The government should conduct research into cellular phone, driver safety issues.
What would be another good title for the "Limit Use of Car Phones" article?
A.
B.
C.
D.
Cellular phones are mostly used for business and pleasure calls.
Cellular phones in cars present a safety hazard for drivers.
The federal government wants to ban the use of cellular phones in cars.
Talking on cellular phones is distracting.
READ
THINK
EXPLAIN
"Car Phones Are Everywhere"
"Car Phones -- An Accident Waiting to Happen"
"Speak Now or Forever Hold Your Car Phone"
"Car Phone Distractions -- Are They a Problem?"
How does the author address the opposing point of view? Support your answer
with details and information from the article.
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
58
Language Network - Grade Ten
Limit Use of Car Phones, cont.
READ
THINK
EXPLAIN
________
________
________
________
What is the effect of using accident statistics in the fourth paragraph? Support
your answer with details and information from the article.
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
FCAT WRITING PROMPT
Educational researchers state that high school students would perform better in school if they were able to
sleep longer in the morning. Should high school classes begin at 10 a.m. instead of 8 a.m.? Before you
write, think about how you perform in school in the morning. Write an essay for your local newspaper
taking a stand on this issue.
59
Language Network - Grade Ten
Answer Key: Limit Use of Car Phones
The correct answer is B.
Type of Passage: Informational
Benchmark: LA.A.2.4.1 Determines the main idea and identifies relevant details, methods of
development, and their effectiveness in a variety of types of written material.
The correct answer is B because the author states his belief that cellular phone use in cars should be limited
to hands-free models only.
Language Network Connection: Supporting the Main Idea, p. 327.
The correct answer is C.
Type of Passage: Informational
Benchmark: LA.A.2.4.2 Determines the author's purpose and point of view and their effects on
the text. (Includes L.A.A.2.4.5 Identifies devices of persuasion and methods of appeal and their
effectiveness.)
The correct answer is C. The article offers the results of several studies to support the author's position that
cellular phones are unsafe in the hands of drivers.
Language Network Connection: Prewriting, pp. 439-440.
The correct answer is B.
Type of Passage: Informational
Benchmark: LA.A.2.4.1 Determines the main idea and identifies relevant details, methods of
development, and their effectiveness in a variety of types of written material.
The correct answer is B ("Car Phones -- An Accident Waiting to Happen").
Language Network Connection: Specific Words, p. 392.
Scoring Rubric
Type of Passage: Informational
Benchmark: LA.A. 2.4.2 Determines the author's purpose and point of view and their effects on
the text. Includes L.A.A. 2.4.5 Identifies devices of persuasion and methods of appeal and their
effectiveness.
(Two-point scoring rubric)
Top-score response
A top-score response will indicate that the author of the article offers up the opposing view of the cellular
phone industry. That view says that more information is needed before action is taken. The author also
mentions that the federal government says that more data is needed before it calls for a ban of cellular
phones in cars.
Language Network Connection: Real World Persuasive Essay, p. 443.
60
Language Network - Grade Ten
Answer Key: Limit Use of Car Phones, cont.
Scoring Rubric
Type of Passage: Informational
Benchmark: L.A.A. 2.4.2 Determines the author's purpose and point of view and their effects on
the text. Includes L.A.A. 2.4.5 Identifies devices of persuasion and methods of appeal and their
effectiveness.
(Four-point scoring rubric)
Top-score response
A top-score response will mention that knowing the facts adds to the validity of the author's point of view.
A complete and correct response will include some or all of the following elements: the risk of getting in an
accident increases by four times when a driver is using a cellular phone, and talking on the phone can be
just as distracting as dialing or answering a call.
Language Network Connection: Real World Persuasive Essay, p. 443.
FCAT Writing Language Network Connection: Six Traits of Effective Writing, pp. 314-316.
Persuasive Paragraphs, p. 325. Reasons, p. 362. Persuasive Essay Writing Workshop, pp. 436-445.
61
Language Network - Grade Ten
Name
Date
Selection: Safer Air Bags Are Needed Now
Answer numbers 1 through 5. Base your answers on the essay “Safer Air Bags Are Needed Now” on
pages 644 – 645 in Language Network.
What is the author's purpose in writing the article?
A.
B.
C.
D.
According to the passage, who are the usual victims of serious injury from air bags?
A.
B.
C.
D.
Passengers who do not wear seat belts
Small children
Back seat passengers
Drivers
What does the author mean by the term advocacy group?
A.
B.
C.
D.
To inform readers about new technology being developed for air bags
To persuade readers to join advocacy groups to ban air bag use
To educate readers as to availability of a sensing mechanism for air bags
To warn readers that delays in the manufacture of safe air bags is unacceptable
READ
THINK
EXPLAIN
Union group
Political group
Support group
Opposition group
How does the author organize or present the details in this article? Support your
answer with details and information from the article.
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
62
Language Network - Grade Ten
Safer Air Bags Are Needed Now, cont.
READ
THINK
EXPLAIN
________
________
________
________
Summarize the details in the text that provide solutions to the problem. Support
your answer with details and information from the article.
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
FCAT WRITING PROMPT
Although we now have vaccinations that can prevent diseases such as measles, small pox and the mumps,
thousands of parents neglect to have their children vaccinated. Before you write, think about the
consequences of these children going unvaccinated and think about how the problem can be solved. Write
an article for your local newspaper, presenting your ideas about the best way to attack this problem.
63
Language Network - Grade Ten
Answer Key: Safer Air Bags Are Needed Now
The correct answer is D.
Type of Passage: Informational
Benchmark: LA.A.2.4.2
the text.
Determines the author's purpose and point of view and their effects on
The correct answer is D. The author implies that delays in air bag testing are costing lives.
Language Network Connection: Purpose and Audience, p. 411.
The correct answer is B.
Type of Passage: Informational
Benchmark: LA.A.2.4.8
Synthesizes information from multiple sources to draw conclusions.
The correct answer is B. The article states that "Small children and some adults are at risk of serious injury
or even death from the deployment of standard air bags."
Language Network Connection: Interpreting Information, pp. 505-507.
The correct answer is C.
Type of Passage: Informational
Benchmark: LA.A.1.4.2 Selects and uses strategies to understand words and text, and to make
and confirm inferences from what is read, including interpreting diagrams, graphs, and statistical
illustrations.
The correct answer is C (support group).
Language Network Connection: Tools for Developing Word Power, pp. 573-580.
Scoring Rubric
Type of Passage: Informational
Benchmark: LA.A.2.4.1 Determines the main idea and identifies relevant details, methods of
development, and their effectiveness in a variety of types of written material.
(Two-point scoring rubric)
Top-score response
A top-score response will indicate that the author uses the order of degree method of organization. The
details are arranged according to their importance. First, the author writes about solutions that are currently
available. Next, the author mentions the "smart restraint system" that is presently being tested. Finally, the
author calls for consumer action to address the problem.
Language Network Connection: Order of Degree, p. 330.
64
Language Network - Grade Ten
Answer Key: Safer Air Bags Are Needed Now, cont.
Scoring Rubric
Type of Passage: Informational
Benchmark: L.AA.2.4.1 Determines the main idea and identifies relevant details, methods of
development, and their effectiveness in a variety of types of written material.
(Four-point scoring rubric)
Top-score response
A top-score response will indicate that consumers currently are able to obtain an air bag "on-off" switch
from auto dealers. There is also a "smart restraint system" being developed. These devices can sense
whether a person is small or large. They can also sense whether a person is wearing a seat belt or not and
whether or not the passenger is in a child carrier. The sensor then releases information so that the air bag
can be the right shape and size, so as not to hurt the passenger.
Language Network Connection: Real World Problem-Solution Writing, p. 451.
FCAT Writing Language Network Connection: Six Traits of Effective Writing, pp. 314-316.
Informative/Expository Paragraphs, p. 326. Problem-Solution Essay Writing Workshop, pp. 446-453.
65
Language Network - Grade Ten
Name
Date
Selection: Writing for History
Answer numbers 1 through 5. Base your answers on the essay “Writing for History” on page 646 in
Language Network.
Which of these is the best title for this essay?
A.
B.
C.
D.
"The Rise of the Assyrian Empire"
"The Strategies of War"
"The Assyrian Methods of Attack"
"The Barbaric Assyrians"
Which statement is best developed in the essay?
A. The Assyrian method of warfare enabled them to become a great power.
B. The Assyrian method of warfare employed the use of several strategies used in
stages.
C. The Assyrian method of warfare was to show no mercy to their victims.
D. The Assyrian method of warfare was to use several different troops of soldiers.
Read through the events described in paragraph three. Which of these events happened first?
A.
B.
C.
D.
READ
THINK
EXPLAIN
They made a raised dirt roadway.
Soldiers dug beneath the city walls.
The troops hammered the city’s gates.
They killed or enslaved their victims.
Summarize the details important to the Assyrian method of warfare. Use details
and information from the essay to explain your answer.
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
66
Language Network - Grade Ten
Selection: Writing for History, cont.
READ
THINK
EXPLAIN
________
________
________
________
How could a general in today's army use the information in this essay to develop
a strategic warfare plan? Support your answer with examples, details, and
information from the essay.
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
FCAT WRITING PROMPT
Have advances in technology such as guided missiles and nuclear bombs made a difference in the way
countries engage in warfare? Before you write, think about the consequences of using advanced
technology to create weapons of war. Write an editorial for your school newspaper in which you analyze
the positive and negative effects of these technological advances.
67
Language Network - Grade Ten
Answer Key: Writing for History
The correct answer is C.
Type of Passage: Informational
Benchmark: LA.A.2.4.1 Determines the main idea and identifies relevant details, methods of
development, and their effectiveness in a variety of types of written material.
The correct answer is C. The author shows that the Asyrians used several different methods of attack on
enemy cities.
Language Network Connection: The Main Idea, p. 327.
Informative/Expository Paragraphs, p. 326.
The correct answer is B.
Type of Passage: Informational
Benchmark: LA.A.2.4.4 Locates, gathers, and evaluates written information for a variety of
purposes, including research projects, real-world tasks, and self-improvement.
The correct answer is B because it is the best developed. The success of the Assyrian army was the result
of the planned stages of attacks upon enemy cities.
Language Network Connection: Identifying Facts, p 500.
The correct answer is B.
Type of Passage: Informational
Benchmark: LA.A.2.4.1 Determines the main idea and identifies relevant details, methods of
development, and their effectiveness in a variety of types of written material.
The correct answer is B because the first of the events mentioned in paragraph three is the digging beneath
the city’s walls.
Language Network Connection: Interpreting Information, p. 505.
Scoring Rubric
Type of Passage: Informational
Benchmark: LA.A.2.4.8
Synthesizes information from multiple sources to draw conclusions.
(Two-point scoring rubric)
Top-score response
A top-score response will indicate that the Assyrian methods of warfare were successful because the
Assyrians were expert soldiers. They constructed bridges, they dug beneath city walls, and the foot soldiers
employed a carefully planned method of attack. These efficient methods of warfare gave the Assyrians
great power.
Language Network Connection: Conclusions, p. 506.
68
Language Network - Grade Ten
Answer Key: Writing for History, cont.
Scoring Rubric
Type of Passage: Informational
Benchmark: LA.A.2.4.1 Determines the main idea and identifies relevant details, methods of
development, and their effectiveness in a variety of types of written material.
(Four-point scoring rubric)
Top-score response
A top-score response will identify and give examples of some of the ways that a general in today's army
might employ some of the Assyrian methods of warfare in planning an attack. It would explain that
planning is strategic to winning in warfare. It will include several of the following methods of warfare:
In warfare it is important to plan the attack in stages.
A general in today's army must plan to use expert support staff, such as engineers, in their plans of attack.
Foot soldiers should be utilized in several different ways.
Language Network Connection: Parts of a Composition, p. 338.
FCAT Writing Language Network Connection: Developing Compositions, pp. 337-342. Elaboration,
pp. 355-357. Developing Style, pp. 387-389.
69
Language Network - Grade Ten
Name
Date
Selection: Writing for Science
Answer numbers 1 through 5. Base your answers on the essay “Writing for Science” on page 647 in
Language Network.
What does this article explain about solar heating?
A.
B.
C.
D.
Solar-heated water tanks are big enough to hold enough water to last three to five days because
A.
B.
C.
D.
larger tanks would not be practical in a private home.
on cloudy days, the sun cannot heat the water.
most solar homes have alternative methods of heating the house.
small tanks help to eliminate the chance of water damage.
What does the word supplementary mean?
A.
B.
C.
D.
Solar heating is cost efficient.
Solar heat is safer for the environment than oil or gas heat.
Solar heating is a complicated process.
Solar heating is expensive.
READ
THINK
EXPLAIN
Extra
Less
Decreasing
Changing
What are some of the disadvantages of solar heating? Use details and
information from the essay to explain your answer.
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
70
Language Network - Grade Ten
Selection: Writing for Science, cont.
READ
THINK
EXPLAIN
________
________
________
________
Explain the process of heating a house using solar power. Support your answer
with examples, details, and information from the essay.
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
FCAT WRITING PROMPT
Solar power has many uses besides just heating homes. Before you write, think about how solar power can
be used to power calculators, power automobiles, and/or power other machinery that now relies upon
conventional means of power. Write an essay for a science magazine for young adults in which you
analyze ways in which we can better use solar power in our everyday lives.
71
Language Network - Grade Ten
Answer Key: Writing for Science
The correct answer is C.
Type of Passage: Informational
Benchmark: LA.A.2.4.1 Determines the main idea and identifies relevant details, methods of
development, and their effectiveness in a variety of types of written material.
The correct answer is C. The author describes the process by which a typical solar-powered home is
heated.
Language Network Connection: The Main Idea, p. 327. Informative/Expository Paragraphs, p. 326.
The correct answer is B.
Type of Passage: Informational
Benchmark: LA.A.2.4.4 Locates, gathers, and evaluates written information for a variety of
purposes, including research projects, real-world tasks, and self-improvement.
The correct answer is B because it is stated in the last paragraph.
Language Network Connection: Identifying Facts, p. 500.
The correct answer is A.
Type of Passage: Informational
Benchmark: LA.A.1.4.2 Selects and uses strategies to understand words and text, and to make
and confirm inferences from what is read.
The correct answer is A (Extra).
Language Network Connection: Developing Your Word Power, p. 566.
Scoring Rubric
Type of Passage: Informational
Benchmark: LA.A.2.4.8
Synthesizes information from multiple sources to draw conclusions.
(Two-point scoring rubric)
Top-score response
A top-score response will indicate that the tanks can hold enough water to last for only three to five cloudy
days. Also, most solar homes need to have a supplementary source of heat.
Language Network Connection: Conclusions, p. 506.
72
Language Network - Grade Ten
Answer Key: Writing for Science, cont.
Scoring Rubric
Type of Passage: Informational
Benchmark: L.A.A.2.4.8 Synthesizes information from multiple sources to draw conclusions.
(Four-point scoring rubric)
Top-score response
A top-score response will note the process of how a solar house is heated. A complete and correct response
will include the following summary of the process: The heat is pumped through solar panels on the roof;
the panels heat the water; the heated water is circulated through the house.
Language Network Connection: Parts of a Composition, p. 338.
FCAT Writing Language Network Connection: Six Traits of Effective Writing, pp. 314-316.
Developing Compositions, pp. 337-342. Elaboration, pp. 355-357. Developing Style, pp. 387-389.
73
Language Network - Grade Ten
Name
Date
Selection: The Most Dangerous Game
Richard Connell
Answer numbers 1 through 5. Base your answers on the story "The Most Dangerous Game" on
pages 15 - 38 in The InterActive Reader.
On page 25 when Zaroff is talking about a “new” quarry, that quarry to which he is referring is:
A.
B.
C.
D.
We can assume that Ivan’s “own ideas of sport” (page 28, line 486) are a reference to
A.
B.
C.
D.
his verbal banter.
Russian court games.
his whipping his victims.
games Ivan developed.
Which of the following reveals a change in Rainsford’s character?
A.
B.
C.
D.
a grisly bear.
a man.
a leopard.
a newly discovered animal.
READ
THINK
EXPLAIN
“Rainsford knew now how an animal at bay feels.”
“He never slept in a better bed, Rainsford decided.”
“Then, he sat down, took a drink of brandy...hummed a bit...”
“He thought of a native trick he had learned in Uganda.”
Cite specific phrases from page 16 that reveal Rainsford’s views on hunters and
their prey. What picture do they give you of Rainsford at this point in the story?
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
74
Interactive Reader - Grade Nine
Selection: The Most Dangerous Game, cont.
READ
THINK
EXPLAIN
________
________
________
________
________
The word game can refer to a way of amusing oneself, a contest between
opposing players or teams, or something hunted. Interpret the multiple
meanings of the word game in the title.
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
FCAT WRITING PROMPT
Why is the idea of danger in an activity so enticing to some people? Think of a legal activity--a hobby, a
sport, an adventure--that you or a friend anticipated eagerly even though it contained an element of danger.
Write to explain the benefits or drawbacks of the activity.
75
Interactive Reader - Grade Nine
Answer Key: The Most Dangerous Game
Benchmarks:
LA.A.2.4.1
Determines the main idea and identifies relevant details,
methods of development, and their effectiveness in a variety
of types of written material.
LA.A.1.4.2
Selects and uses strategies to understand words and text, and
to make and confirm inferences from what is read.
LA.A.2.4.2
Determines author’s purpose and point of view and their
effects on the text.
The correct answer is B.
The correct answer is C.
The correct answer is A.
Scoring Rubric
(Two-point scoring rubric)
Top-score response
A top-score response will include phrases such as the following that reveal that Rainsford has little
compassion for his prey: “Bah! They’ve no understanding !” and “ ‘ Nonsense,’ laughed Rainsford.”
Scoring Rubric
(Four-point scoring rubric)
Top-score response
A top score response will include the following points: a way of amusing oneself-- Zaroff was bored with
typical hunting and sought another diversion; a contest between opposing players -- the match between
Rainsford and Zaroff; something hunted-- Rainsford was hunted by Zaroff.
76
Interactive Reader - Grade Nine
Name
Date
Selection: The Cask of Amontillado
Edgar Allan Poe
Answer numbers 1 through 5. Base your answers on the story "The Cask of Amontillado" on pages
77 - 85 in The InterActive Reader.
How does Montresor first approach Fortunato regarding the Amontillado?
A. Montresor asks Fortunato to go have a drink with him, and Fortunato quickly agrees.
B. Montresor tells Fortunato that he bought a bottle of sherry and indirectly asks for
Fortunato’s expertise.
C. Montresor asks Fortunato to help him open a case of wine for the party, and
Fortunato is reluctant to assist him.
D. Montresor tells Fortunato that he has a case of wine that he needs to deliver, and
Fortunato gladly agrees to help him.
Where does Montresor finally lead Fortunato?
A.
B.
C.
D.
At the end of the story, what happens to Fortunato?
A.
B.
C.
D.
He leads him into a small opening in the wall.
He leads him into a coffin leaning on the wall.
He leads him into a damp vegetable cellar.
He leads him into the racks of the wine cellar.
READ
THINK
EXPLAIN
Fortunato struggles with and kills Montresor.
Fortunato identifies that the sherry is a fraud.
Fortunato has a heart attack brought on by the damp cellar.
Fortunato is chained to the inner wall and buried alive.
What does Montresor try to use as excuses for Fortunato’s not accompanying
him into the vault? Cite references from the story.
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
77
Interactive Reader - Grade Nine
Selection: The Cask of Amontillado, cont.
READ
THINK
EXPLAIN
________
________
________
________
________
Explain Poe’s use of verbal irony in the story and its impact on the reader. Use
specific details from the text to support your answer.
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
FCAT WRITING PROMPT
There are times in life when a person might feel wronged or insulted. Instead of vengeance, think of
several ways to resolve these feelings. Explain how a person might go about achieving a sensible
resolution to a particular problem.
78
Interactive Reader - Grade Nine
Answer Key: The Cask of Amontillado
Benchmarks:
LA.A.2.4.1
Determines the main idea and identifies relevant details,
methods of development, and their effectiveness in a variety
of types of written material.
LA.A.1.4.2
Selects and uses strategies to understand words and text, and
to make and confirm inferences from what is read.
LA.E.2.2.1
Recognizes cause-and-effect relationships in literary text.
The correct answer is B.
The correct answer is A.
.
The correct answer is D.
Scoring Rubric
(Two-point scoring rubric)
Top-score response
A top-score response will include such references as a supposed engagement of Fortunato and Fortunato’s
cold.
Scoring Rubric
(Four-point scoring rubric)
Top-score response
A top-score response will include passages that show Montresor’s concern for Fortunato’s health and his
urgings to discontinue their journey into the catacombs. Students should identify this as verbal irony since
in reality Montresor’s intention is to take his revenge on Fortunato. Montresor’s seeming concern for
Fortunato’s health lulls him into a false sense of security and enables Montresor to carry out his plan
without much trouble. Fortunato’s name itself is an example of verbal irony since he is anything but
fortunate.
79
Interactive Reader - Grade Nine
Name
Date
Selection: A Christmas Memory
Truman Capote
Answer numbers 1 through 5. Base your answers on the story "A Christmas Memory" on pages
105 - 118 in The InterActive Reader.
How do Buddy and his friend celebrate the completion of their baking?
A.
B.
C.
D.
How do their other relatives react to their celebration?
A.
B.
C.
D.
The other relatives are shocked at first then join in the fun.
The other relatives are surprised at the festivities.
The other relatives are outraged at their scandalous activity.
The other relatives are happy that the two are getting along so well.
What do Buddy and his friend give each other for Christmas?
A.
B.
C.
D.
They eat a whole fruitcake themselves.
They feed one of the fruitcakes to Queenie.
They drink the remainder of the whiskey.
They sit down with their relatives and eat.
READ
THINK
EXPLAIN
He gives her a radio, and she gives him a bike.
He gives her a kite, and she gives him a kite.
He gives her chocolate, and she gives him a sweater.
He gives her a knife, and she gives him a goat.
Re-read the passages (lines 430-458) on page 117. How does Buddy’s friend
feel about him? Use specific details from the text to support your answer.
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
80
Interactive Reader - Grade Nine
Selection: A Christmas Memory, cont.
READ
THINK
EXPLAIN
________
________
________
________
________
Re-read from lines 460 on page 117 to the end of the story on page 118. After
Buddy is sent away to military school, what happens to his friend? Use specific
details from the text to support your answer.
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
FCAT WRITING PROMPT
Sometimes age doesn’t matter when it comes to friendship. Think of an older person with whom you’ve
cultivated a friendship. Explain the special qualities that person possesses that has made your friendship
possible despite your age difference.
81
Interactive Reader - Grade Nine
Answer Key: A Christmas Memory
Benchmarks:
LA.A.2.4.1
Determines the main idea and identifies relevant details,
methods of development, and their effectiveness in a variety
of types of written material.
LA.A.1.4.2
Selects and uses strategies to understand words and text, and
to make and confirm inferences from what is read.
The correct answer is C.
The correct answer is C.
.
The correct answer is B.
Scoring Rubric
(Two-point scoring rubric)
Top-score response
A top-score response will point out that Buddy’s friend values their relationship to the point that she could
pass away contently with the vision of that Christmas day as her last memory.
Scoring Rubric
(Four-point scoring rubric)
Top-score response
A top-score response will specify that after Buddy was sent away to boarding school his friend wrote to
him, then the letters became confused, until finally he realized that she was gone and severed himself from
“that irreplaceable part of himself” and let her go like a “kite on a broken string.”
82
Interactive Reader - Grade Nine
Name
Date
Selections:
“Song of the Open Road”
“The Road Not Taken”
Walt Whitman
Robert Frost
Answer numbers 1 through 5. Base your answers on the poems "Song of the Open Road" and "The
Road Not Taken" on pages 122-123 in The InterActive Reader.
Read “Song of the Open Road.” The author/speaker would most likely agree with which of
these statements?
A.
B.
C.
D.
Read “The Road Not Taken.” Examine the last stanza. Which statement best expresses
what the speaker of the poem is trying to convey?
A.
B.
C.
D.
He believes that he should have traveled with someone.
He believes that traveling in the woods can be dangerous.
He believes that making his own choices has proved beneficial.
He believes that taking the “less traveled” road can lead to trouble.
In comparing these two poems, which point is best illustrated by both?
A.
B.
C.
D.
People control their own destiny.
People who travel criticize those who stay at home.
People are apprehensive about embarking on a journey.
People should travel alone so they can enjoy themselves.
READ
THINK
EXPLAIN
Traveling the world enhances learning.
Once a decision is made, it’s important to stick to it.
Life is a series of choices.
Once you’ve chosen a certain path, you can never go back.
How do the authors of both poems establish mood? Use details from the poems
to support your answers.
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
83
Interactive Reader - Grade Nine
Selections: “Song of the Open Road” and “The Road Not Taken,” cont.
READ
THINK
EXPLAIN
________
________
________
________
Critique the two poems by telling how they are alike and how they are different.
Use details from both poems to support your answer.
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
FCAT WRITING PROMPT
People make choices every day, some more difficult than others. Think of a time when you were faced
with making a tough decision. Explain the nature of the decision you made and its outcome.
84
Interactive Reader - Grade Nine
Answer Key: “Song of the Open Road” and “The Road Not Taken”
Benchmarks:
LA.A.2.4.1
Determines the main idea and identifies relevant details,
methods of development, and their effectiveness in a variety
of types of written material.
LA.A.1.4.2
Selects and uses strategies to understand words and text, and
to make and confirm inferences from what is read.
LA.E.2.2.1
Recognizes cause-and-effect relationships in literary text.
LA.A.2.4.8
Synthesizes information from multiple sources to draw
conclusions.
The correct answer is A.
The correct answer is C.
The correct answer is C.
Scoring Rubric
(Two-point scoring rubric)
Top-score response
A top-score response will include some of the following points that indicate the moods of the speakers of
the poems:
"Song of the Open Road"
"Song of the Open Road"
"The Road Not Taken"
"The Road Not Taken"
- Afoot and light-hearted
- Healthy, free
- And sorry I could not travel both
- I shall be telling this with a sigh
Scoring Rubric
(Four-point scoring rubric)
Top-score response
A top-score response will include the following similarities: both poems depict life as a journey on a road;
both poems comment on looking toward the future and not being able to alter the past; and both speakers
comment on how they exercised their own free will. Students should be able to identify that the tone of the
first poem is that of boldly moving forward with choices made and that the second poem is not so bold,
hinting of regret that is finally overcome.
85
Interactive Reader - Grade Nine
Name
Date
Selection: The Scarlet Ibis
James Hurst
Answer numbers 1 through 5. Base your answers on the story "The Scarlet Ibis" on pages 173 - 188
in The InterActive Reader.
When Doodle was a baby, why did the narrator entertain thoughts of killing him?
A.
B.
C.
D.
Why did the narrator finally decide to share Old Woman Swamp with Doodle?
A.
B.
C.
D.
He was finally won over by Doodle; he had captured his affection.
He didn’t want Doodle to tell their mother about turning over the cart.
He thought the swamp would provide a cushioned area for Doodle to fall.
He wanted to make Doodle cry 1 since he hated him so much.
Read the following sentence: "With success so imminent, we decided not to tell anyone until he
could actually walk." What does the word imminent mean?
A.
B.
C.
D.
He wanted to save Doodle from a miserable existence.
He wanted a sister instead of a brother.
He was embarrassed to have an invalid, possibly retarded, brother.
He was jealous because his mother loved Doodle more.
READ
THINK
EXPLAIN
Foreign and strange
About to occur
Urgently necessary
Unlikely to occur
What are some of the challenges that Doodle faces? Use specific details from
the first three pages of the text to support your answer.
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
86
Interactive Reader - Grade Nine
Selection: The Scarlet Ibis, cont.
READ
THINK
EXPLAIN
________
________
________
________
What behaviors does Doodle exhibit that indicate how he feels about the ibis?
Explain, using details from the text.
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
FCAT WRITING PROMPT
“The Scarlet Ibis” is largely concerned with the narrator’s pride. Think of a time when you have been
motivated by embarrassment or pride. Describe the experience and explain how your behavior made you
feel.
87
Interactive Reader - Grade Nine
Answer Key: The Scarlet Ibis
Benchmarks:
LA.A.2.4.1
Determines the main idea and identifies relevant details,
methods of development, and their effectiveness in a variety
of types of written material.
LA.A.1.4.2
Selects and uses strategies to understand words and text, and
to make and confirm inferences from what is read.
LA.A.2.2.7
Recognizes the use of comparison and contrast in a text.
The correct answer is C.
The correct answer is A.
The correct answer is B.
Scoring Rubric
(Two-point scoring rubric)
Top-score response
A top-score response will include the understanding that they are both out of their element, have struggled
through obstacles to arrive at this spot, were uncoordinated and clumsy at simple, normal physical tasks,
are weak and tired, and died in the same position.
Scoring Rubric
(Four-point scoring rubric)
Top-score response
A top score response will include the following details from the text: that Doodle was not hungry when
asked to eat, instead he knelt down next to the bird; Doodle wanted to bury him; he carried the bird to the
front yard, singing “Shall We Gather at the River” and buried him with great care; after the bird was buried,
he didn’t speak much and seemed lost in his thoughts.
88
Interactive Reader - Grade Nine
Name
Date
Selection: The House on Mango Street
Sandra Cisneros
Answer numbers 1 through 5. Base your answers on the story "The House on Mango Street" on
pages 209 - 215 in The InterActive Reader.
Based on what Cisneros says about her family home (p. 211), which of the following statements
would be true?
A.
B.
C.
D.
What is the literal meaning of the term urban fauna used on page 211?
A.
B.
C.
D.
Small pets found in apartment dwellings
Rodents and other frightening creatures
Homeless people who are living there
Criminals hiding from the law
Which statement best explains the author’s reason for choosing the “ ‘ugliest’ subjects” for her
writing?
A.
B.
C.
D.
The family job was to clean the building.
The family shared their apartment with another family.
The family lived in a poorly maintained building.
The family felt no resentment toward their neighbors.
READ
THINK
EXPLAIN
She identified with the underprivileged.
She liked using slang.
She used to be a waitress in a diner.
She wanted to be rebellious.
While at university, how was Cisneros different from other people? Use
specific details from the text to support your answer.
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
89
Interactive Reader - Grade Nine
Selection: The House on Mango Street, cont.
READ
THINK
EXPLAIN
________
________
________
________
________
Select experiences in the author’s life that helped her find her “own voice.”
Support your answer with details and information from the text.
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
FCAT WRITING PROMPT
We have all felt alienated at one time or another. Think of a time in your life when you felt like an
outsider. Write to explain what made you feel this way and how this experience has affected you.
90
Interactive Reader - Grade Nine
Answer Key: The House on Mango Street
Benchmarks:
LA.A.2.4.1
Determines the main idea and identifies relevant details,
methods of development, and their effectiveness in a variety
of types of written material.
LA.A.1.4.2
Selects and uses strategies to understand words and text, and
to make and confirm inferences from what is read.
LA.A.2.2.1
Recognizes cause-and-effect relationships in literary text.
The correct answer is C.
The correct answer is B.
.
The correct answer is D.
Scoring Rubric
(Two-point scoring rubric)
Top-score response
A top-score response will point out that Cisneros was different from other people in three ways: as a
woman; as a person of the working class; and as a Mexican-American.
Scoring Rubric
(Four-point scoring rubric)
Top-score response
A top-score response will include experiences that helped Cisneros find her own voice. The student should
cite examples of her feelings of alienation, her ability to channel her anger, and her determination to create
something that was uniquely hers.
91
Interactive Reader - Grade Nine
Name
Date
Selection: Harrison Bergeron
Kurt Vonnegut Jr.
Answer numbers 1 through 5. Base your answers on the story "Harrison Bergeron" on pages 2 - 9 in
The InterActive Reader.
The irony of the government policy of handicapping people to make them equal is revealed in an
example on page 6, lines 126-131. What is the basic irony of the story?
A.
B.
C.
D.
This story is a satire, a type of criticism of people or of society. The ending to the story
is different from what the author leads us to expect. What can we infer that the author is
trying to say about society?
A.
B.
C.
D.
Parents are becoming less interested in their children.
The government will do whatever it takes to maintain control.
Even government officials can become killers.
People like Harrison are dangerous and need to be subdued.
“ ‘Who knows better’n I do what normal is?’ said Hazel.” Hazel is the average person, the type
the society tries to create with handicapping. The fact that she is “a little envious” of George’s
painful handicaps suggests that
A.
B.
C.
D.
Harrison is only fourteen and therefore too young to vote.
Ballerinas are portrayed in the story as newscasters.
The smartest, most talented people are easily identified by their greater handicaps.
Harrison’s parents are not equal to each other, which is normally impossible.
READ
THINK
EXPLAIN
an “average” is not what the people want.
Hazel wants to rebel against the government.
George makes his handicaps seem enjoyable.
Hazel should have more say in the government.
How does our society’s attitude toward competition differ from the society of
2081 as depicted in the story? Refer to the box on page 5 and support your
answer with evidence from the text.
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
92
Interactive Reader - Grade Ten
Selection: Harrison Bergeron, cont.
READ
THINK
EXPLAIN
________
________
________
________
________
Explain what Harrison’s handicaps tell us about his talents and skills. Use
specific details from the text to support your answer.
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
FCAT WRITING PROMPT
The Declaration of Independence includes the phrase “all men are created equal.” Think about why our
founding fathers included this statement. Does it have the same meaning today? Write an essay explaining
how you think the phrase applies to our society today.
93
Interactive Reader - Grade Ten
Answer Key: Harrison Bergeron
Benchmarks:
LA.A.2.4.1
Determines the main idea and identifies relevant details,
methods of development, and their effectiveness in a variety
of types of written material.
LA.A.1.4.2
Selects and uses strategies to understand words and text, and
to make and confirm inferences from what is read.
LA.A.2.4.2
Determines author’ purpose and point of view and their
effects on the text.
The correct answer is C.
The correct answer is B.
The correct answer is A.
Scoring Rubric
(Two-point scoring rubric)
Top-score response
A top-score response will convey that George’s comments to Hazel make it clear that competition is
viewed negatively in his society. The passage suggests that competition exists in a less civilized, less
sophisticated society.
Scoring Rubric
(Four-point scoring rubric)
Top-score response
A top-score response will include the following passages: “Nobody had ever borne heavier handicaps” -On intelligence -- “tremendous pair of earphones”; perfect eyesight -- “spectacles with thick wavy lenses”;
on physical strength -- “a walking junkyard...carried three hundred pounds”; handsome looks -- “red rubber
ball for a nose, keep his eyebrows shaved off, and cover his even white teeth.”
94
Interactive Reader - Grade Ten
Name
Date
Selection: Dial Versus Digital
Isaac Asimov
Answer numbers 1 through 5. Base your answers on the story "Dial Versus Digital" on pages 47 - 50
in The InterActive Reader.
Even though Asimov mentions the “advance in technology” provided by the digital clock, his use
of the word “seems,” in line 9, suggests that
A.
B.
C.
D.
His first example against the digital clock is the use of clockwise and counterclockwise.
He contends that
A.
B.
C.
D.
those two terms will be reversed.
new words will replace them readily.
no good substitute exists for them
positioning your hands can solve the problem
In his final example, Asimov warns that with digital clocks
A.
B.
C.
D.
we can’t predict the future.
there might be an argument to the contrary.
the clocks look different.
he is irritated by any kind of change.
READ
THINK
EXPLAIN
hours will be longer.
hours could be decided differently.
time will change between 5 and 6.
education will stop addressing time.
What words does Asimov use to signal the introduction of each effect of
changing from dial to digital? Use specific details to support your answer.
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
95
Interactive Reader - Grade Ten
Selection: Dial Versus Digital, cont.
READ
THINK
EXPLAIN
________
________
________
________
________
Asimov has indicated that changing from dial to digital will impact life as we
know it. Analyze two of the examples he presents. Use specific details to
support your answer.
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
FCAT WRITING PROMPT
Is change always good? Think of something that was “improved” or changed for the sake of progress.
Write to explain how the change impacted life as you know it.
96
Interactive Reader - Grade Ten
Answer Key: Dial Versus Digital
Benchmarks:
LA.A.2.4.1
Determines the main idea and identifies relevant details,
methods of development, and their effectiveness in a variety
of types of written material.
LA.A.1.4.2
Selects and uses strategies to understand words and text, and
to make and confirm inferences from what is read.
LA.A.2.4.2
Determines author’s purpose and point of view and their
effects on the text.
The correct answer is B.
The correct answer is C.
The correct answer is B.
Scoring Rubric
(Two-point scoring rubric)
Top-score response
A top-score response will point to the following phrases: “Here is another example” and “Here is still
another point.”
Scoring Rubric
(Four-point scoring rubric)
Top-score response
A top-score response will include the following : the loss of meaning of the words clockwise and
counterclockwise; the inability to use the clock face to indicate direction; terms like “half” will suggest a
different meaning (half an hour is visible on the clock face but halfway between 5 and 6 is 5.50 if measured
the numerical way.)
97
Interactive Reader - Grade Ten
Name
Date
Selections:
“Piano”
“Those Winter Sundays”
D. H. Laurence
Robert Hayden
Answer numbers 1 through 5. Base your answers on the two poems "Piano" and "Those Winter
Sundays" on pages 77-79 in The InterActive Reader.
Who is the child in line 3 of “Piano”?
A.
B.
C.
D.
In the poem “Those Winter Sundays,” the speaker would most likely agree with which of these
statements?
A.
B.
C.
D.
Getting up on Sundays is always a hardship.
Speaking harshly to people often causes bad feelings.
Understanding someone’s actions fully is difficult.
Putting on polished shoes to go to church is a must.
What is implied by the phrase “chronic angers” in the poem “Those Winter Sundays”?
A.
B.
C.
D.
The speaker of the poem
The speaker’s younger brother
The speaker’s father as a child
The speaker’s childhood friend
READ
THINK
EXPLAIN
Angers occurring repeatedly
Problems that continually upset the household harmony
Nightly stomachaches that disturb our sleep
Lingering angers from the last inhabitants
Compare the tone of the two poems. Use specific details from the text to
support your answer.
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
98
Interactive Reader - Grade Ten
Selections:
“Piano” and “Those Winter Sundays”, cont.
READ
THINK
EXPLAIN
________
________
________
________
________
Compare and contrast the details that trigger mental pictures in the settings of
both poems. Use specific examples to support your answer.
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
FCAT WRITING PROMPT
Parents often put the needs of their children before their own. Think of a childhood memory that involves
parental sacrifice made for your comfort. Explain the nature of the sacrifice and the effect that the memory
of it has on you now.
99
Interactive Reader - Grade Ten
Answer Key: “Piano” and “Those Winter Sundays”
Benchmarks:
LA.A.2.4.1
Determines the main idea and identifies relevant details,
methods of development, and their effectiveness in a variety
of types of written material.
LA.A.1.4.2
Selects and uses strategies to understand words and text, and
to make and confirm inferences from what is read.
LA.A.2.4.8
Synthesizes information from multiple sources to draw
conclusions.
The correct answer is A.
The correct answer is C.
The correct answer is B.
Scoring Rubric
(Two-point scoring rubric)
Top-score response
A top-score response will explain that in “Piano” the speaker is remembering a tender, nurturing moment
from his past and in “Those Winter Sundays” the poet’s word choice makes it seem to be a harsh memory,
but the father’s actions, in hindsight, are nurturing as well.
Scoring Rubric
(Four-point scoring rubric)
Top-score response
A top-score response will include images such as the following: “Piano” -- a child sitting under the piano;
winter outside; a cozy parlour; the tinkling of the piano. “Those Winter Sundays” -- blue black cold; cold
splintering, breaking; “when the rooms were warm.”
100
Interactive Reader - Grade Ten
Name
Date
Selections: Night
Elie Wiesel
Answer numbers 1 through 5. Base your answers on the story "Night" on pages 193 - 200 in The
InterActive Reader.
Why does Wiesel think his father might be selected?
A.
B.
C.
D.
What response does the “bell” elicit in Wiesel?
A.
B.
C.
D.
The bell announced the selection; as a result he feared it.
The bell rang all night long, depriving him of sleep.
The bell gave orders that he automatically obeyed; as a result, he hated it.
The bell signaled dinner, reminding him of his hunger.
What does Wiesel’s father give him before he is taken to the selection?
A.
B.
C.
D.
His father had aged so much he couldn’t make himself look healthy.
His father was next on the SS’s list for execution.
His father had tried to escape the week before.
His father was not able to mask his fear anymore.
READ
THINK
EXPLAIN
He gives him a piece of bread.
He gives him a knife and spoon.
He gives him his wedding band.
He gives him a small prayer book.
In line 169 on page 198, Wiesel describes the cell block. What do
these metaphors reveal about his feelings? Use specific details to
support your answer.
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
101
Interactive Reader - Grade Ten
Selections: Night, cont.
READ
THINK
EXPLAIN
________
________
________
________
Explain how Wiesel feels while he’s waiting to hear the news about his father.
Use specific details from the text to support your answer.
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
FCAT WRITING PROMPT
People who find themselves in difficult situations frequently work better together for the common good.
Think of a time when you worked with a group for the good of all. Convince the reader that this type of
teamwork is essential.
102
Interactive Reader - Grade Ten
Answer Key: Night
Benchmarks:
LA.A.2.4.1
Determines the main idea and identifies relevant details,
methods of development, and their effectiveness in a variety
of types of written material.
LA.A.1.4.2
Selects and uses strategies to understand words and text, and
to make and confirm inferences from what is read.
The correct answer is A.
The correct answer is C.
The correct answer is B.
Scoring Rubric
(Two-point scoring rubric)
Top-score response
A top-score response will reveal that Wiesel was happy to be working even though he was weak because it
took him away from the place that he considered hell. As long as he was working, he would not have to
face the trial of death.
Scoring Rubric
(Four-point scoring rubric)
Top-score response
A top-score response will point out that the other prisoners were treating him with consideration and that
the Kapo had assigned him less work. The students will point out that Wiesel feels his father’s influence
on him even without his presence.
103
Interactive Reader - Grade Ten
Name
Date
Selection: Julius Caesar
William Shakespeare
Answer Numbers 1 through 5. Base your answers on the play Julius Caesar on pages 210 - 250 in
The InterActive Reader.
In the opening scene, the tribunes clearly establish that the crowd
A. dislikes their laboring clothes.
B. is disloyal to Pompey.
C. has a poor work ethic.
D. is disrespectful.
In the boxed passage on page 224, Brutus establishes that
A.
B.
C.
D.
In the boxed passage on page 226, Cassius tries to suggest that
A.
B.
C.
D.
he admires Cassius.
he sees honor and death as equal ideas.
he wants the gods to speed him.
he would rather die than be dishonorable.
READ
THINK
EXPLAIN
Caesar is a coward.
Caesar always gets a fever when he goes to Spain.
Caesar gives important speeches.
Caesar is just like any other person.
On page 228, lines 165-170, Brutus tells Cassius that he will find a time in the
future to hear Cassius’ arguments. After Casca’s account (p. 232), Brutus sees
the situation as more urgent. What has happened to change his mind? Use
details and information from the text to explain your answer.
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
104
Interactive Reader - Grade Ten
Selection: Julius Caesar, cont.
READ
THINK
EXPLAIN
________
________
________
________
In the exchange between Caesar and Antony on pages 230 and 231, Caesar
reveals that he is very perceptive about people -- Cassius, in particular. List
specific details that Caesar uses to describe Cassius.
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
FCAT WRITING PROMPT
What makes a good leader? Think about the characteristics that make a leader popular. Is popularity a
stronger force than effectiveness? Write an essay to convince your reader that your idea of leadership is a
valid one.
105
Interactive Reader - Grade Ten
Answer Key: Julius Caesar
Benchmarks:
L.A.A.2.4.1
Determines the main idea and identifies relevant
details, methods of development, and their effectiveness in a variety of
types of written material.
L.A.A.1.4.2
Selects and uses strategies to understand words and
text, and to make and confirm inferences from what is read.
The correct answer is B.
The correct answer is D.
The correct answer is A.
Scoring Rubric
(Two-point scoring rubric)
Top-score response
A top-score response will indicate that Casca makes it clear to Brutus that Caesar wants to be king and that
the people support him.
Scoring Rubric
(Four-point scoring rubric)
Top-score response
A top-score response will include most of these characteristics: is lean and hungry, thinks too much, is
dangerous, is a great observer who looks through the deeds of men, loves no plays and hears no music,
seldom smiles, is cynical, and is uncomfortable with greater men.
106
Interactive Reader - Grade Ten
Name
Date
Selection: A White Heron
Sarah Orne Jewett
Answer numbers 1 through 5. Base your answers on the story "A White Heron" on pages 254 - 266
in The InterActive Reader.
How is Sylvia like the “wretched geranium” referred to on page 255?
A.
B.
C.
D.
What does the heron represent to Sylvia?
A. Beauty and freedom
B. Love and friendship
C. Strength and courage
D. Escape and denial
Why does Sylvia entertain thoughts of revealing the heron’s whereabouts to the young man?
A.
B.
C.
D.
Both get the attention of Mistress Moolly.
She is crowded in among many people as the geranium is crowded among plants.
Neither likes to be around people.
Both are withered and stifled in their growth in the atmosphere of the town.
READ
THINK
EXPLAIN
She is romantically attracted to him.
Her grandmother said it was a good idea.
She thought the bird would be beautiful stuffed.
She wanted to become an ornithologist.
How does Sylvia’s protecting the heron protect her as well? Use specific details
from the text to support your answer.
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
107
Interactive Reader - Grade Ten
Selection: A White Heron, cont.
READ
THINK
EXPLAIN
________
________
________
________
________
Explain how the tree is a participating character in the story. Use lines from
pages 263 and 264 to prove this personification.
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
FCAT WRITING PROMPT
Often an event or a struggle helps a person to know himself better. Think of a struggle that caused a
turning point in your life. Explain how this event helped you mature.
108
Interactive Reader - Grade Ten
Answer Key: A White Heron
Benchmarks:
LA.A.2.4.1
Determines the main idea and identifies relevant details,
methods of development, and their effectiveness in a variety
of types of written material.
LA.A.1.4.2
Selects and uses strategies to understand words and text, and
to make and confirm inferences from what is read.
LA.A.2.4.2
Determines author’ purpose and point of view and their
effects on the text.
The correct answer is D.
The correct answer is A.
The correct answer is A.
Scoring Rubric
(Two-point scoring rubric)
Top-score response
A top-score response will convey that the heron is an integral part of the life she has found on the farm, an
environment in which she thrives. Betraying the heron would be like betraying herself. Examples may
come from passages and diction which show Sylvia as similar to the bird.
Scoring Rubric
(Four-point scoring rubric)
Top-score response
A top score response will include the following passages: “There was the huge tree asleep...”; “sharp dry
twigs caught and held her...”; “The tree seemed to lengthen itself...”; “...it must have been amazed...”; “The
old pine must have loved his new dependent.”; “...the tree stood still and frowned...”.
109
Interactive Reader - Grade Ten