Inca Chasqui

Which word from paragraph 1 best helps the reader understand that the word requirement refers to something that is an obligation?

Which characteristic of historical fiction is present in the excerpt?

• The main character is a real person who lived long ago.

• The conflict is based on actual events from long ago.

• The setting includes details about a culture that existed in the past.

• The dialogue actually occurred between people of the past

Which sentence from the excerpt best reveals how the conflict will be resolved?

• Mayta was the fastest Chasqui in the southeast quarter.(paragraph 4)

• For three years he had longed for the day when it would be he who raced along this rugged stretch on the road to the Inca capital of Cuzco. paragraph 12)

• Muru stood, looking majestic in his white headdress, his club and sling carefully tucked in the pouch at his side. (paragraph 6)

• For a few moments we both stood frozen, staring at each other like two llamas eyeing the same patch of grass.” (paragraph 18)

The third-person limited point of view in the excerpt helps the reader understand —

• how Natu feels when he listens to Mayta’s story

• what Mayta thinks about Natu’s ambition to be a runner

• why Muru will spread the story of what happened to Mayta

• how all the characters feel when Mayta is hurt

Which detail supports the key idea that Natu must take his brother’s place?

• Natu is excited to show Mayta he would be an excellent runner

• Natu has watched Mayta and Muru exchange messages for years.

• Muru no longer possesses the strength to make the journey.

• The fastest and most reliable boys are chosen to become Chasquis

Read these sentences from paragraph 18. “I slid the meat into the sling and pulled it back as slowly as I could. Then, with a shout that echoed over the mountain and back again, I shot that meat right past our friend’s nose and so deep into the brush that I’m sure it took the puma quite some time to find it.” What can the reader infer from these sentences?

• Mayta scares the puma with the meat.

• Mayta plans to return for the meat after the puma leaves.

• Mayta enjoys watching the puma search for the meat.

• Mayta uses the meat to distract the puma.

How does the author’s use of language in paragraph 26 affect the mood of the excerpt?

• By expressing a feeling of profound sadness

• By hinting at feelings of regret and confusion

• By conveying a sense of hope for the future

• By creating a sense of suspense and excitement

What does Mayta’s encounter with the puma reveal about him?

• He remains calm under pressure.

• He chooses not to deliver the messages himself.

• His recklessness causes his later injury

• His vanity means that he does not care about others.