A Little Common Courtesy, Please

By referring to the man in the grocery store as a “novelist,” the author —

• depicts writers as being self-absorbed in their work

• illustrates why grocery stores are interesting places to observe people

• suggests that technology has increased our ability to stay in touch with friends

• emphasizes the man’s rudeness by exaggerating how long he took to write a text message

The author used the sentence​ to attempt to stir emotions in the reader.​

• Imagine the confusion children feel when adults refuse to practice the simple courtesies they themselves preach.

• They tell their children not to interrupt when others are talking.

• Children are taught to apologize when they’ve been disrespectful to a schoolmate.

• It’s true that we live in a fast-paced world now, and technology has contributed to the “instantness” of our society.

Choose two correct answers.

The examples in paragraphs 3 and 4 reinforce the author’s point that being courteous —

• not something that should be practiced only at a young age

• guarantees that others will show their appreciation and be kind in return

• requires time and energy but is still worthwhile

• is less important for adults than for children

• should be accepted by all of society

The word justify in paragraph 2 means to —​ ​ (a)  

• make acceptable
• provide an opportunity
• give up on a task
• explain in detail

The author supports the central argument of the article mainly by —

• describing personal observations

• referring to facts on the subject

• sharing quotations from experts on the subject

• comparing rules from the past with rules from the present

By referring to Emily Post in both the beginning and ending of the article, the author —

• implies that etiquette focuses too much on others’ feelings and not enough on a person’s own actions

• suggests that traditional ideas about etiquette do not apply to the digital etiquette needed today

• implies that hosting a party based on the information from Emily Post’s book would be difficult today

• communicates that even though some etiquette rules may be outdated, the need to have manners is still important today

What is one difference between Noah’s mother in the excerpt and the author of the article?

• Noah’s mother thinks that computers are not useful tools, while the author understands the value of technology.

• Noah’s mother believes it is young people who are not courteous, while the author believes that some adults also lack courtesy.

• Noah’s mother applauds the behavior of others, while the author criticizes the behavior of others.

• Noah’s mother encourages her sons to appreciate their elders, while the author explains how adults need to demonstrate more respect for young people.