"The Dinner Party" Vocab And Elements Of A Short Story

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| By Michelle BYRD
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Michelle BYRD
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Read the directions, questions and answer choices CAREFULLY before deciding on your answer.
A WORD BANK has been provided for some questions ---please make sure to SPELL WORDS ACCURATELY (correctly) or the system will count the answer WRONG! (Use the word bank for spelling!):
spirited
arresting

commotion
rafters
sober
forfeit
veranda
naturalist
attache
rupee
exposition
rising action
resolution
climax


Questions and Answers
  • 1. 

    Using AT LEAST 5 vocabulary words from "The Dinner Party" ---write a paragraph (at least 5 sentences) discussing at least 2 of the ELEMENTS of a Short Story as seen in this story AND their importance to the THEME of the story.      BE SURE TO UNDERLINE THE VOCABULARY WORDS in your paragraph AND REMEMBER TO INDENT the paragraph!!!      OR ---you may write a sentence with 5 different VW from this story that use the word as it relates in/to the story: Be sure to PUNCTUATE the Title of the story ANYTIME you write "The Dinner Party"!!!!!Vocabulary Words from "The Dinner Party"commotionarrestingspiritedraftersattachesoberraftersverandanaturalistexpositionresolution 

  • 2. 

    Explain  (in a sentence or two) how the cobra in the story is SYMBOLIC ---

  • 3. 

    BONUS --  You will ONLY receive extra credit if you FOLLOW ALL DIRECTIONS COMPLETELY!!!  Do not complete part of it but not the rest!!!   This is NOT required/will not count against you; it can only help you!!!  Write the number, then complete the question/instructions.  TURN THIS IN TO ME ON PAPER ---please remember to put your name, I will not be attempting to find the owner!!!!1)  Write the word ALLUSION and underline or highlight it ---then WRITE THE DEFINITION of the term2)  Give me an example of an allusion ---state why it is an allusion and how it being used in the selection would help the reader understand something better!!

  • 4. 

    From the ___________________ of a building, you can hang flags so people can see them better because they're high up in the building..

    Explanation
    Rafters are the sloping beams that support the roof of a building. Hanging flags from the rafters allows them to be positioned at a higher level, making them more visible to people.

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  • 5. 

    In considering Nathan and Jack, everyone found themselves wondering, "Who will be known as the most _________________________,?"  Between the two boys, it was difficult to tell which one was most energetic and loud!!

    Explanation
    The correct answer is spirited. In the given sentence, the question is about who will be known as the most energetic and loud between Nathan and Jack. The word "spirited" accurately describes someone who is full of energy, enthusiasm, and liveliness. Therefore, it is the most suitable word to complete the sentence and convey the intended meaning.

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  • 6. 

    The German _______________ sat with the president at the luncheon to discuss government affairs.

    Explanation
    An attache is a person who is assigned to an embassy or consulate and serves as a representative or liaison between their government and the host country. In this context, the German attache sat with the president at the luncheon to discuss government affairs, indicating that they were present as a representative of the German government to engage in diplomatic discussions.

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  • 7. 

    The _________________ went to the rain forest to study a rare frog species.

    Explanation
    A naturalist is a scientist or researcher who studies and observes the natural world, including plants, animals, and ecosystems. In this case, the naturalist went to the rainforest specifically to study a rare frog species. As a naturalist, their expertise and interest in the natural world make them the ideal person to conduct research and gather information about this particular species of frog.

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  • 8. 

    If you cheat on a test, you _________, or give up the right to get a grade.

    Explanation
    If you cheat on a test, you forfeit, or give up the right to get a grade. Cheating is considered dishonest and against the rules, so as a consequence, the person who cheats loses the opportunity to receive a grade for their performance on the test.

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  • 9. 

    The beginning of a story is called its ______________________________

    Explanation
    The beginning of a story is called its exposition. This term refers to the introduction of the story where the setting, characters, and background information are established. It sets the stage for the rest of the narrative by providing essential details that help the reader understand the context and the initial situation. The exposition is crucial in capturing the reader's attention and laying the foundation for the plot and character development that will unfold throughout the story.

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  • 10. 

    When the snake emerges from the table and the naturalist slams the door once it's outside.......

    • A.

      The conflict is resolved

    • B.

      The climax of the story occurs

    • C.

      The conflict is revealed

    • D.

      The story's conflict escalates

    Correct Answer
    B. The climax of the story occurs
    Explanation
    The correct answer is "the climax of the story occurs." The climax is the turning point or the most intense moment in a story where the conflict reaches its peak. In this scenario, when the snake emerges from the table and the naturalist slams the door once it's outside, it signifies a significant and intense moment in the story. This event may have been building up throughout the narrative, and it marks the climax where the tension and conflict reach their highest point before being resolved.

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  • 11. 

    News about which of the following developments would SOBER the mood of a party?  (choose the BEST answer)

    • A.

      Car accident

    • B.

      Vacation plans

    • C.

      A winning game

    • D.

      Listening to a lively rock song

    Correct Answer
    A. Car accident
    Explanation
    A car accident is a serious and unfortunate event that can have a sobering effect on people. It is likely to dampen the mood of a party as it brings a sense of sadness, concern, and reflection. The news of a car accident can shift the focus from the enjoyment and celebration of the party to a more somber and serious tone, making it the best answer in this context.

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  • 12. 

    Which subject would NOT be required in a program of study for a naturalist?

    • A.

      Banking

    • B.

      Biology

    • C.

      Earth science

    • D.

      Psychology

    Correct Answer
    A. Banking
    Explanation
    A naturalist is someone who studies and observes nature and the natural world. Therefore, banking, which is a subject related to finance and economics, would not be required in a program of study for a naturalist. The other subjects listed - biology, earth science, and psychology - are all relevant to understanding and studying the natural world and its various aspects.

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  • 13. 

    A likely interpretation for the phrase "spirited discussion" is.....

    • A.

      Parody

    • B.

      Flirting

    • C.

      Argument

    • D.

      Learned exchange

    Correct Answer
    C. Argument
    Explanation
    A likely interpretation for the phrase "spirited discussion" is an argument. This phrase suggests that the discussion is lively, passionate, and intense, indicating that there may be opposing viewpoints and strong emotions involved. It implies a robust and energetic exchange of ideas, often characterized by a back-and-forth exchange of arguments and counterarguments.

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  • 14. 

    An arresting sign might cause you to swerve off the road.

    • A.

      True

    • B.

      False

    Correct Answer
    A. True
    Explanation
    An arresting sign refers to a sign that is attention-grabbing or captivating. If a driver encounters such a sign while driving, it may distract their attention from the road and cause them to swerve off the road unintentionally. Therefore, the statement is true.

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  • 15. 

    According to the naturalist's rationale, the most important reason he does not warn the others of the snake's presence is which of the following:

    • A.

      He doesn't want to appeart unable to control himself

    • B.

      He doesn't want to embarrass the hostess

    • C.

      He would reveal too much about his love for snakes to the other guests

    • D.

      He is afraid the cobra would strike if the other guests panic

    Correct Answer
    D. He is afraid the cobra would strike if the other guests panic
    Explanation
    The naturalist's rationale for not warning the others of the snake's presence is that he is afraid the cobra would strike if the other guests panic. By keeping quiet, he avoids causing a panic and potentially putting the other guests in danger.

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  • 16. 

    The discussion about the differences of ability to maintain control between men and women will most likely NEVER be answered because....

    • A.

      These differences can only be determined on an individual basis ~ whether men or women are involved.

    • B.

      All women scream when they're afraid.

    • C.

      All men scream when they're afraid.

    • D.

      Men are insensitive and women are sensitive

    Correct Answer
    A. These differences can only be determined on an individual basis ~ whether men or women are involved.
    Explanation
    The correct answer states that the discussion about the differences of ability to maintain control between men and women will most likely never be answered because these differences can only be determined on an individual basis, regardless of whether men or women are involved. This means that generalizations or stereotypes about all men or all women cannot be applied to every individual, as each person is unique and may have different abilities or traits. Therefore, it is not possible to make a definitive statement about the ability to maintain control based solely on gender.

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  • 17. 

    Which of the following is NOT an example of the naturalist's keen power of observation?

    • A.

      He observed the servants bring the milk

    • B.

      Watching the hostess' face suddenly become tense

    • C.

      His participation in the conversation about which sex has the most control

    • D.

      Scanning each corner of the room in search of the snake

    Correct Answer
    C. His participation in the conversation about which sex has the most control
    Explanation
    The naturalist's keen power of observation is focused on observing and studying the natural world, such as animals, plants, and their behaviors. It does not involve participating in conversations about social or cultural topics like which sex has the most control. Therefore, his participation in the conversation about which sex has the most control is not an example of the naturalist's keen power of observation.

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  • 18. 

    Which of the following is the BEST example of a THEME seen in this short story?

    • A.

      Snakes can be scary/stay away from them!

    • B.

      Naturalists have an interesting job and can learn lots about others by watching them

    • C.

      The person you see take action is always in charge/be a keen observer!

    • D.

      Use caution in making snap judgeents until you have all the evidence./do not stereotype

    Correct Answer
    D. Use caution in making snap judgeents until you have all the evidence./do not stereotype
    Explanation
    The theme of the short story is about not making snap judgments and avoiding stereotypes. This theme is conveyed through the idea of using caution and gathering all the evidence before making judgments. The story likely explores the consequences of jumping to conclusions and the importance of taking the time to understand a situation fully.

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  • 19. 

    Which of the following would NOT be an example of an EXTERNAL CONFLICT?

    • A.

      Deciding whether to cheat on a test

    • B.

      Your 4-wheeler tearing up and needing to be fixed

    • C.

      Surviving without shelter during a thunderstorm

    • D.

      Getting a ticket for speeding because you were, indeed, speeding

    Correct Answer
    A. Deciding whether to cheat on a test
    Explanation
    Deciding whether to cheat on a test would not be an example of an external conflict because it is an internal conflict. External conflicts typically involve a struggle between a character and an outside force, such as another character, society, nature, or a situation. In this case, the conflict of deciding whether to cheat on a test is a moral dilemma that the individual is facing within themselves, rather than a conflict with an external force.

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  • 20. 

    From the story's RESOLUTION, evidence best supports the idea that.....

    • A.

      The man had the most control

    • B.

      The man was in charge from the beginning

    • C.

      The woman took control in the very beginning

    • D.

      It was unwise for the man to have the guests play the quiet game

    Correct Answer
    C. The woman took control in the very beginning
    Explanation
    The evidence from the story's resolution supports the idea that the woman took control in the very beginning. This can be inferred from the fact that she initiated the game of the quiet game, which ultimately led to the man losing control of the situation. Additionally, the resolution suggests that the man was unable to regain control as the guests continued to play the game, indicating that the woman's initial control persisted throughout the story.

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  • 21. 

    What is an IDIOM?

    • A.

      A phrase that is worded in a crazy sort of way and you have to wonder about its meaning

    • B.

      When a symbol stands for - or represents - something else

    • C.

      A phrase that doesn't mean what it literally says - you have to think deeper to understand its meaning

    • D.

      When a statement is difficult to understand

    Correct Answer
    C. A phrase that doesn't mean what it literally says - you have to think deeper to understand its meaning
    Explanation
    The correct answer is a phrase that doesn't mean what it literally says - you have to think deeper to understand its meaning. An idiom is a group of words that have a figurative meaning different from their literal meaning. They are expressions that are used in a specific language or culture and are not meant to be taken literally. Understanding the meaning of an idiom requires knowledge of the cultural context and the ability to interpret the figurative language used.

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  • 22. 

    In "The Dinner Party", the idiom 'waiting for the other shoe to drop' was illustrated through.............

    • A.

      The spirited conversation between the colonel and the lady/which led to the realization that the woman had been in charge

    • B.

      The events that took place during the exposition/and realizing that the hostess was really in charge

    • C.

      The events that took place at the climax of the story/when the naturalist jumped up and slammed the door closed

    • D.

      The reaction of the naturalist to seeing the hostess' face, and observed the boy taking the milk to the verandah/and was looking for where the snake might be

    Correct Answer
    D. The reaction of the naturalist to seeing the hostess' face, and observed the boy taking the milk to the verandah/and was looking for where the snake might be
    Explanation
    The correct answer is the reaction of the naturalist to seeing the hostess' face, and observed the boy taking the milk to the verandah/and was looking for where the snake might be. This choice illustrates the idiom "waiting for the other shoe to drop" because it shows the suspense and anticipation building up as the naturalist realizes there may be a dangerous snake nearby. The phrase "waiting for the other shoe to drop" means waiting for something inevitable or anticipated to happen, and in this case, it refers to the impending danger of the snake.

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  • 23. 

    In what way is the SETTING most significant (important) in/to this short story?

    • A.

      The setting is a dinner party, and without a dinner party there would not be a table

    • B.

      The setting is in India, and if the dinner party were not in India the cobra would not be as likely to be a threat to people.

    • C.

      The setting was not really all that important, a dinner party could take place anywhere in the world which makes the setting a universal sort of place.

    • D.

      This short story is set in a house and without it being in a house there would be no veranda..

    Correct Answer
    B. The setting is in India, and if the dinner party were not in India the cobra would not be as likely to be a threat to people.
    Explanation
    The setting being in India is significant because it adds to the overall tension and danger in the story. India is known for its diverse wildlife, including cobras, which are highly venomous and pose a threat to humans. By setting the dinner party in India, the author creates a sense of unease and foreshadows the potential danger that the characters may face from the cobra. The setting enhances the suspense and adds depth to the story's plot.

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  • 24. 

    In "The Dinner Party" what POINT OF VIEW is utilized (used), and in what way is this SIGNIFICANT in/to the story?

    • A.

      "The Dinner Party" is written in 1st person point of view and that's important because we see the events purely from the naturalist's point of view.

    • B.

      "The Dinner Party" is written from the 2nd Person Point of View and that's important because we are instructed as to what to think about the characters.

    • C.

      "The Dinner Party" is written in 3rd Person Point of View and that's important because we see the events from the cobra's point of view.

    • D.

      "The Dinner Party" is written from Third Person Point of View and that's important because we see the events from a narrator's point of view and not simply one person's (within the story) point of view.

    Correct Answer
    D. "The Dinner Party" is written from Third Person Point of View and that's important because we see the events from a narrator's point of view and not simply one person's (within the story) point of view.
    Explanation
    The correct answer is that "The Dinner Party" is written from Third Person Point of View, which is significant because it allows us to see the events from a narrator's perspective rather than just one person's point of view within the story. This provides a broader and more objective view of the events, allowing the reader to have a better understanding of the story as a whole.

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  • 25. 

    The sequence of events in the PLOT that are most significant towards creating the THEME of the story are...............

    • A.

      The woman's face changes, she tells the boy to bring milk, and the naturalist figures out what's going on/slams the door and protects everyone

    • B.

      The argument between the colonel and young woman, the naturalist figuring out there's a problem through observing the hostess/seeing milk being taken out/counting/slamming door, the colonel believing he was right because a man (the naturalist) kept his cool, then the naturalist clarifying/asking the hostess how SHE knew there was a snake in the room and her revelation that it had been on her foot

    • C.

      The argument between the man/woman, then the hostess telling the boy to bring milk, then the naturalist counting to 300 and slamming the door, then the colonel pointing out that a man had been in control of himself

    • D.

      The setting was India at a dinner party and there was an argument, then a revelation that the woman had been in charge all along

    Correct Answer
    B. The argument between the colonel and young woman, the naturalist figuring out there's a problem through observing the hostess/seeing milk being taken out/counting/slamming door, the colonel believing he was right because a man (the naturalist) kept his cool, then the naturalist clarifying/asking the hostess how SHE knew there was a snake in the room and her revelation that it had been on her foot
    Explanation
    The sequence of events described in the answer is most significant towards creating the theme of the story because it highlights the power dynamics between men and women. The argument between the colonel and the young woman demonstrates a clash of opinions and a struggle for control. The naturalist's ability to figure out the problem and maintain composure reinforces the idea that men are rational and level-headed. The colonel's belief that he was right because a man kept his cool further emphasizes this gendered perspective. Finally, the revelation that the hostess had been in charge all along challenges societal expectations and stereotypes about women's roles and abilities.

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  • 26. 

    We went out on the ______________________ to get fresh air.

    Correct Answer
    veranda
    Explanation
    The veranda is a covered outdoor space attached to a building, typically with a roof and open sides. It is a common place to go to get fresh air while still being protected from the elements. Therefore, in this context, it makes sense that the speaker went out on the veranda to get fresh air.

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  • 27. 

    If the teacher asks a student in class not to cause a ________________________ by creating a loud noise and distraction other students, he or she should simply stop!!

    Correct Answer
    commotion
    Explanation
    The correct answer is "commotion." In this context, a commotion refers to a disturbance or disruption caused by a loud noise and distraction. The teacher is asking the student to refrain from creating such a commotion in order to maintain a peaceful and focused learning environment for the other students.

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  • 28. 

    A __________________________ is Indian currency (money).  The American naturalist stated that if anyone moved, he or she would forfeit this as a result.

    Correct Answer
    rupee
    Explanation
    The correct answer is "rupee". The explanation is that the rupee is the official currency of India. The sentence implies that someone would lose their money if they moved, as stated by the American naturalist.

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  • 29. 

    The television show was so intense, or ___________________, that it grabbed my attention so much I forgot the time and fell asleep in my regular clothes.

    Correct Answer
    arresting
    Explanation
    The word "arresting" is used to describe something that is captivating or attention-grabbing. In the given sentence, the television show is described as intense or arresting, indicating that it was so captivating that the speaker became engrossed in it and lost track of time, eventually falling asleep without changing their clothes.

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  • 30. 

    The teacher's voice was extremely __________________ as she seriously discussed with us our low grades and her concern about them.

    Correct Answer
    sober
    Explanation
    The word "sober" means serious, calm, and thoughtful. In this context, the teacher's voice being described as "sober" indicates that she was discussing the low grades and expressing her concern in a serious and thoughtful manner. The use of the word "extremely" further emphasizes the seriousness and gravity of the situation.

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  • 31. 

    A most appropriate synonym for VERANDA is

    • A.

      Sidewalk

    • B.

      Porch

    • C.

      Park

    • D.

      Shelter

    Correct Answer
    B. Porch
    Explanation
    A veranda is an open, roofed structure attached to the outside of a building, typically with a paved floor. A porch is also an open area attached to a building, usually covered and used for relaxation or socializing. Both veranda and porch refer to similar structures, making porch the most appropriate synonym for veranda. Sidewalk, park, and shelter do not accurately convey the same meaning as veranda.

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  • 32. 

    Which would be the best explanation for why the scientist (American naturalist) does not participate in the argument?

    • A.

      He is too interested in finding out who will win because he loves competition

    • B.

      He is busy doing his job which is based in observation/he was observing which caused him to notice the hostess' face

    • C.

      He instinctively senses the danger that is to follow

    • D.

      He wants to prove he has the most control of all the guests

    Correct Answer
    B. He is busy doing his job which is based in observation/he was observing which caused him to notice the hostess' face
    Explanation
    The scientist does not participate in the argument because he is busy with his job, which involves observation. While observing, he notices the hostess' face, which suggests that his focus is on his work rather than engaging in arguments or competitions.

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  • 33. 

    Which of the following were invited guests at the dinner party?  (May answer as many as apply):

    • A.

      Government attaches and wives

    • B.

      Army officers and wives

    • C.

      Colonial official and wife

    • D.

      The snake

    Correct Answer(s)
    A. Government attaches and wives
    B. Army officers and wives
    Explanation
    The invited guests at the dinner party were government attaches and their wives, as well as army officers and their wives. This can be inferred from the given options, which include "government attaches and wives" and "army officers and wives." There is no mention of a colonial official and wife, nor the snake, being invited guests at the dinner party.

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  • 34. 

    What evidence supports THE THEORY or  IDEA that the colonel wins the argument.?  (May answer all that apply)

    • A.

      All the women screamed when the cobra exited the room

    • B.

      All the men screamed when the cobra exited the room

    • C.

      No one was aware that the milk was put on the verandah by the woman

    • D.

      It appears that the man handled the situation when he slammed the door

    Correct Answer(s)
    A. All the women screamed when the cobra exited the room
    D. It appears that the man handled the situation when he slammed the door
    Explanation
    The evidence that supports the theory or idea that the colonel wins the argument is that all the women screamed when the cobra exited the room. This suggests that the colonel's argument was convincing enough to elicit a strong reaction from the women. Additionally, it appears that the man handled the situation when he slammed the door, indicating that he may have supported the colonel's argument or acted in line with his instructions.

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  • 35. 

    Some people would gladly forfeit working his/her job if he/she won the lottery.

    • A.

      True

    • B.

      False

    Correct Answer
    A. True
    Explanation
    The statement implies that if someone won the lottery, they would willingly give up their job. This suggests that they are not satisfied or fulfilled in their current employment and winning the lottery would provide them with the financial means to no longer have to work. Therefore, the correct answer is true.

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  • 36. 

    The types of CONFLICTS seen in the story could BEST be described as....... 

    • A.

      Internal Conflict ----man vs. himself and External Conflict - man vs man

    • B.

      External Conflict --man vs. society and Internal Conflict - man vs. nature

    • C.

      Internal Conflict --man vs. nature, man vs. man, & man vs. society

    • D.

      External - man vs nature, man vs. man, & man vs society

    Correct Answer
    D. External - man vs nature, man vs. man, & man vs society
    Explanation
    The conflicts seen in the story can be described as external conflicts involving man vs. nature, man vs. man, and man vs. society. This means that the protagonist faces challenges and struggles against natural forces, other individuals, and the norms and expectations of society.

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  • 37. 

    What GENRE is this short story?

    • A.

      Drama

    • B.

      Non-Fiction

    • C.

      Fiction

    • D.

      Science Fiction

    Correct Answer
    C. Fiction
    Explanation
    The correct answer is Fiction because the question is asking for the genre of the short story, and Fiction is a genre that encompasses stories that are made up or imaginary rather than based on real events or facts.

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  • 38. 

    In what point of view is this story told?

    • A.

      1st Person Point of View

    • B.

      2nd Person Point of View

    • C.

      3rd Person Point of View

    • D.

      4th Person Point of View

    Correct Answer
    C. 3rd Person Point of View
    Explanation
    The story is told from a 3rd person point of view, which means that the narrator is not a character in the story and refers to the characters as "he," "she," or "they." The narrator has an external perspective and is able to provide insight into the thoughts, feelings, and actions of multiple characters. This allows for a broader understanding of the story and the ability to see events from different perspectives.

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  • Mar 20, 2023
    Quiz Edited by
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  • Aug 21, 2013
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    Michelle BYRD
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