staar practice 1

How does the author’s use of language in paragraph 36 emphasize a theme in the excerpt?

Select TWO correct answers.

• By showing why Mrs. Lapidus wants Gogol to pick a new name

• By suggesting that Gogol will adapt to kindergarten

• By specifying the importance of a classroom environment

• By exaggerating the power of nicknames in school

• By contrasting the schooling experiences of Gogol and his parents

Read this quotation from paragraph 1-

"Not only is it a perfectly respectable Bengali good name, meaning “he who is entire, encompassing all,” but it also bears a satisfying resemblance to Nikolai, the first name of the Russian Gogol."

The author uses the word _____ to suggest that the name Nikhil is inclusive of two cultures.

Part A

Based on the information in paragraphs 23 through 36, Ashoke can best be described as —

• optimistic and irritable

• compassionate and stern

• elegant and critical

• insightful and authoritarian

Part B-

Which quotation from the excerpt best supports the answer to Part A?

• “No, no, it’s not a middle name,” Ashoke says. He is beginning to lose patience. (paragraph 23)

• “Don’t be scared, Gogol,” he says, raising his son’s chin with his finger. “You’re a big boy now. No tears.” (paragraph 26)

• Ashoke hands over the lunch box, a windbreaker in case it gets cold. (paragraph 28)

• Ashima and Ashoke wonder, shaking their heads. But since neither of them feels comfortable pressing the issue, they have no choice but to give in. (paragraph 36)

Which events in the excerpt help express the theme of self-determination? Support your answer with evidence from the excerpt.

Answer explanation

A correct response MUST reference the text in some way! Ex: "In paragraph 5, ...."

Answer should be 4-5 sentences.