excerpt from Emma

In paragraph 3, what does the phrase “shadow of authority” suggest about the relationship between Emma and Miss Taylor?

• Miss Taylor had kept constant watch over Emma.

• Miss Taylor had been saddened by Emma’s attitude.

• Miss Taylor had little control of Emma’s behavior.

• Miss Taylor had been jealous of Emma’s carefree life.

How does the author’s choice of words in paragraph 4 impact the tone of the passage?

• They create a judgemental tone by implying that Emma is uncaring and believes her character is superior to others.

• They support an expectant and mildly suspenseful tone by implying that Emma is likely to have her character tested.

• They create a reassuring tone by indicating that Emma’s strong sense of self will help her overcome challenges.

• They support a conceited tone by indicating that Emma’s upbringing will ensure her a place in high society.

Which set of statements best summarizes the passage?

• Emma is pleased that her governess has married and has every promise of happiness. However, after the wedding Emma is saddened by the prospect of having only her father to dine with in the evenings.

• Emma is pretty, clever, rich, and happy. The wedding of Miss Taylor, her governess, prompts Emma to recall with fondness the loving care and attention Miss Taylor provided over the years.

• Emma is a privileged, happy young woman who has had a carefree life. She is faced with the prospect of feeling lonely, perhaps for the first time, when her governess and good friend marries and leaves the household.

• Emma is very close to her governess, Miss Taylor, who has been a good friend since Emma was a young child. After Miss Taylor marries, Emma worries about how she will get along with her father, whose personality is very different from Emma’s.

Part A

What does the reader understand about Emma that she does not understand about herself?

• She is self-centered and somewhat spoiled.

• She resents having to be the mistress of her father’s house.

• Miss Taylor is her good friend only because Emma’s father pays her.

• Her fears of being lonely are unfounded.

Part B

Select the quote from the passage that best supports the correct answer to Part A.

• “Emma Woodhouse, handsome, clever, and rich, with a comfortable home and happy disposition, seemed to unite some of the best blessings of existence; . . .” (paragraph 1)

• “The wedding over, . . . her father and herself were left to dine together, with no prospect of a third to cheer a long evening.” (paragraph 5)

• “She recalled her past kindness — the kindness, the affection of sixteen years — how she had taught and how she had played with her from five years old — . . .” (paragraph 6)

• “[Miss Taylor] had been a friend and companion such as few possessed: . . . peculiarly interested in herself, in every pleasure, every scheme of hers — . . .” (paragraph 6)

Read this sentence from paragraph 6.

Mr. Weston was a man of unexceptionable character, easy fortune, suitable age, and pleasant manners; and there was some satisfaction in considering with what self-denying, generous friendship she had always wished and promoted the match; but it was a black morning’s work for her.

What does this sentence reveal about Emma’s character?

• She is jealous of her friend’s marriage.

• She thinks her friend has made a mistake.

• She is determined to remain close to her friend.

• She feels she has sacrificed for her friend’s happiness.

What does the word disparity mean as it is used in paragraph 8?

• doubt

• disapproval

• difference

• deceit

Part A

Which sentence best states a theme of this passage?

• Adjusting to new circumstances can be difficult.

• Close friendships take time to develop.

• Memories of long ago can often be inaccurate.

• Loneliness finds everyone at times.

Part B

How does Miss Taylor’s approach to her work as Emma’s governess relate to the theme of this passage?

• Miss Taylor’s permissive style leaves Emma unprepared to handle her leaving.

• Miss Taylor’s changing relationship with Emma reflects Emma’s growing maturity.

• Miss Taylor’s many years of loyal service provide an example to Emma about friendship.

• Miss Taylor’s decision to marry gives Emma a chance to grow stronger and more independent.