A New Way of Speaking Comprehension Check

Main Idea and Details
Which detail from the story supports the idea that Raj is nervous?

• Raj chews his nails.
• Raj smiles at his mother.
• Raj shakes Mr. Washington's hand.
• Raj bows to Sandeep.

Problem and Solution
What problem does Raj face in the story?

• He has trouble understanding English.
• He is late for his first day in a new school.
• He gets lost in his new school.
• He cannot find other people who speak his language.

Analyze Character
How does Raj feel about the English language?

• He thinks it is easy to learn.
• He has a hard time understanding it.
• He is excited to learn.
• He is curious about it.

Sequence
What happens before Raj meets Mr. Washington?

• Raj goes to the cafeteria.
• Raj has his first handshake.
• Raj meets the principal.
• Raj makes a new friend.

Vocabulary
Play it by ear is an example of ___________.

• a synonym
• a verb
• a noun
• an idiom

Cause and Effect
What is the main reason Mr. Washington has Sandeep help Raj?

• Sandeep is kind and nice.
• Sandeep is new to the school.
• Sandeep is also from India.
• Sandeep is the only student willing to help Raj.

Main Idea and Details
Which of the following details most supports the main idea of A New Way of Speaking?

• Today is Raj's first day of school in a new country.
• Mr. Washington introduced Raj to the class.
• The other children are kind and helpful to Raj.
• Ms. Alvarez introduced Raj to his teacher.

Author's Purpose
Why did the author most likely write this story?

• to inform the reader about how hard it is to learn English.
• to inform and entertain the reader about the challenges of learning English.
• to persuade the reader to learn a second language.
• to inform the reader about the difference between India and the U.S.

Vocabulary
Relief is ___________.

• being free from boredom.
• being free from worry.
• being free from happiness.
• being free from excitement.

Analyze Character
How does Raj feel at the end of the story?

• scared
• disappointed
• happy
• bored