NJSLSA.R5

Description: Analyze the structure of texts, including how specific sentences, paragraphs, and larger portions of the text (e.g., a section, chapter, scene, or stanza) relate to each other and the whole.
Maps to Reading Plus skills: 5A

Exemplars

5A: Examining Text Structure

5A: Examining Text Structure

Description: Examining Text Structure

SeeReader
✓ standard met

Selection: HiE-47

HiE-47

Grade level: 5
Word count: 1617 words
Author: Diane Lang
Synopsis: He had a smile for everyone, even for those people who didn't smile back.
Excerpt: As their group began to follow the hostess, one of the young men waiting in front of them stepped in front of the group and said, "Hey, we were here before they were. We should be seated first."

"We called ahead but our table was not ready," Alicia explained.

"Yes, and today is my birthday!" Uncle Scott said.

"There's something wrong with him," the young man said as he stared at Uncle Scott. "He tried to hit on my girlfriend."

Uncle Scott smiled and said, "No, I was just saying hello."

Just then a group of people from Uncle Scott's work walked in carrying balloons and party hats. "Surprise!" they yelled. "Happy birthday, Scott!"

The young man tilted his head from side to side, stretching one neck muscle and then another. "Guys like him should not be allowed out in public."

Question: How does the author use conversation in this part of the selection?
  1. to build a feeling of tension
  2. to create a mood of sadness
  3. to give an example of fear
  4. to show a sense of loneliness

Writing
✓ standard met

Writing prompt: Why would an author choose to tell a story that does not follow chronological order? Use an example from a fictional story you have read to support your argument.

Evaluator

Organization: Certica Solutions