A Simple Act - Study Guide

Describe what Maurice is doing when Laura first sees him.

• Begging on the streets.

• Eating McDonald's.

• Eating at a big dining room table.

• Living in the projects.

Describe the Chinese Proverb and how it relates to the message of this text.

• "An apple a day keeps the doctor away" - describes how staying healthy will prolong the lives of those who are less fortunate.

• "An invisible thread" - describes the art of sewing.

• “An invisible thread” - describes the hidden connection between people that draws them together.

• "An invisible thread" - describes the spider web that ties animals together.

Tags

CCSS.RI.7.2

CCSS.RL.7.2

According to the text, who are the two people in Maurice’s life that actually care about him?

• Laura & his mom

• Laura & his teacher

• Laura & his dad

• Laura & his friends

Tags

CCSS.RL.7.1

CCSS.W.7.9A

How long does it take Laura to write her novel, and how is it received by the reading public?

• About 13 years; no one read it.

• About 13 years; it was the New York Times' best seller because it was a heartfelt story.

• About 10 years; it was the New York Times' best seller because it was a heartfelt story.

• About 7 years; it never made it past publication.

What are three things added to Maurice’s life by spending time with Laura?

• Hope

• Security

• Money

• New experiences

• Free food for life

Tags

CCSS.RI.7.3

CCSS.RL.7.1

CCSS.W.7.9A

What does the word ‘establish’ mean? How can you use ‘establish’ in the definition of the word ‘connects’?

• To create something from nothing. Connects: to establish a created building from nothing.

• To build or construct. Connects: To establish a tower.

• To sever or cut a connection. Connects: To establish ties.

• To build or start/initiate a connection. Connects: establishes a relationship

Tags

CCSS.L.7.4A

CCSS.RI.7.4

Give three synonyms for the word ‘impact’.

• Inspire

• Interrupt

• Affect

• Interfere

• Change

Tags

CCSS.L.7.5C

Give two statements of encouragement.

• You've got this!

• This probably isn't going to work out for you!

• You really need to improve those bad habits!

• Keep up the good work!

• Don't quit your day job!

For Maurice, what does sharing food represent?

• Staying alive.

• Eating better than McDonald's can offer.

• A family spending quality time with each other.

• Family eating on their own and developing independence.

Tags

CCSS.RI.7.2

CCSS.RI.7.3

CCSS.RL.7.2

What quote from the text supports his ideas about everyone/loved ones sharing food?

• "But what amazed him the most was the large dining room table where they all sat down and talked and ate together."

• "Only months earlier, Maurice had seriously doubted that he would live to be an adult."

• "But there is a huge dining room table."

• "You might notice that there is no couch in the living room."

Tags

CCSS.RL.7.1

CCSS.W.7.9A