Answers
1.In Passage 1, what can be understood from Lou's argument at the bottom of page 3? Answer- His family has been in debt before
2.How does the author create tension in the last two paragraphs of Passage 2? Answer- by contrasting what Mrs. Brandeis was expected to do with what she did
do
3.Which common theme from American literature do both passages develop? Answer- Determination in the face of hardship
4.Which familiar trait of American literary characters do both Alexandria and Mrs. Brandeis embody? Answer- self reliance
5.Based on passage 1, which statement best describes how the last paragraph contributes to the development of Alexandria's character? Answer- Alexandria is able to articulate her connection with the land
6.Which statement best interprets the author's use of figurative language in the underlined sentence on page 2? Answer- After Christmas, little is left at the store that has any value
7.Which statement best describes how the themes that are developed in passage 1 support the title O Pioneers? Answer- she is willing to endure financial hardships to make life better for future generations
8.Which best describes how the characteristically American settings shape both stories? Answer- Prove difficult to endure and become a source of conflict