Close Reading & Literary Analysis — Problem set, Grade 8
Use the grade’s short story to explain how a change in a character or narrator develops a larger idea. Analyze two details from different parts and one craft choice.
Review the key ideas
Theme & Symbolism
A theme is a supported interpretation of what a text suggests about a topic. Symbols and recurring patterns can develop it; several readings may be defensible.
Character & Dialogue
Infer a character’s motives from actions, speech, thoughts, and how others respond. Distinguish what a character says from what the story gives you reason to believe.
Plot Structure & Pacing
Separate plot events from the order in which a writer presents them. A flashback can make readers reassess an action; a delayed explanation can create uncertainty.
Tone & Mood
Tone is the attitude conveyed by a speaker or writer; mood is an atmosphere experienced by readers. Neither is simply the subject of a passage.
Close Reading & Textual Evidence
Before interpreting, establish who is speaking, what is happening, and what a sentence literally says. Mark an uncertainty rather than guess past it.
Problem 1
Answer and explanation
The story suggests that worth can come from use and connection rather than winning. The hidden trophy first represents failed status; its visible use for a shared activity suggests a different measure of value.
Use the criteria to compare your reasoning, not to copy the model’s wording. A supported alternative interpretation may earn full credit.
Response criteria
- Make an accurate, focused claim or revision.
- Use a relevant detail or a clearly explained language choice.
- Explain the relationship and recognize a relevant limit.
Problem 2
Answer and explanation
Her words distance her from the team, but the repair suggests attachment or responsibility. The text supports a conflict between wanting independence and caring; it does not establish why she hides that care.
Use the criteria to compare your reasoning, not to copy the model’s wording. A supported alternative interpretation may earn full credit.
Response criteria
- Make an accurate, focused claim or revision.
- Use a relevant detail or a clearly explained language choice.
- Explain the relationship and recognize a relevant limit.
Problem 3
Answer and explanation
Initially the empty chair is a puzzle. The flashback makes it evidence of a hoped-for repair, so the final absence carries personal disappointment rather than being ordinary unused seating.
Use the criteria to compare your reasoning, not to copy the model’s wording. A supported alternative interpretation may earn full credit.
Response criteria
- Make an accurate, focused claim or revision.
- Use a relevant detail or a clearly explained language choice.
- Explain the relationship and recognize a relevant limit.
Problem 4
Answer and explanation
The praise is ironic. “Splendid” conflicts with the damaged safety manual, conveying criticism of the planning rather than sincere admiration.
Use the criteria to compare your reasoning, not to copy the model’s wording. A supported alternative interpretation may earn full credit.
Response criteria
- Make an accurate, focused claim or revision.
- Use a relevant detail or a clearly explained language choice.
- Explain the relationship and recognize a relevant limit.
Problem 5
Answer and explanation
The text explicitly says she refuses water and conceals the bag’s contents. Those actions suggest embarrassment about the lost key, but they do not prove she dislikes the neighbor.
Use the criteria to compare your reasoning, not to copy the model’s wording. A supported alternative interpretation may earn full credit.
Response criteria
- Make an accurate, focused claim or revision.
- Use a relevant detail or a clearly explained language choice.
- Explain the relationship and recognize a relevant limit.