Securing 1

The stage directions at the beginning of Scene 1 help the reader by-

• describing the setting of the first scene.

• explaining the relationships between characters.

• foreshadowing events that will occur later.

• providing context before the dialogue begins.

The reader can tell that "Digging Up the Truth" is a play because it has a

• plot with a beginning, middle, and end.

• conversation between two or more characters.

• series of events that build to a climax.

• scenes and stage directions.

This question has two parts. First, answer Part A. Then answer Part B. 

Part A 

What might the reader infer about Nelson and Matt's relationship?

• They are close friends.

• They are rivals.

• They do not get along well.

• They barely know each other.

Part B

Which evidence from the text supports the answer to Part A?

• Matt helps Nelson look for his missing book.

• Matt points out Lucia reading the same book.

• Matt tells Nelson to hurry or he'll miss the bus.

• Matt asks Nelson what he wrote about in camp.

Read the stage direction from line 13.

NELSON: [Disappointed.] I hope so. Thanks, Ms. Chen.

What does this stage direction suggest about Nelson and the librarian?

• Nelson feels optimistic that his book will be found.

• Nelson is concerned that the librarian could not find his book.

• Nelson is grateful for the librarian's help searching.

• Nelson doubts the book is still in the library.

What can the reader infer about why Ms. Chen offers to help Nelson? 

Use evidence to support your answer.

Sentence Stem: The reader can infer that Ms. Chen offers help to Nelson because she is…

In paragraph __, …

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Answer explanation

The reader can infer that Ms. Chen offers to help Nelson because she is kind and wants to assist him. In paragraph 8, when Nelson tells Ms. Chen he left a book behind, she says "Feel free to look around, Nelson. What are you missing?" This shows she is willing to let Nelson search for his missing book. Then in paragraph 10, it says "Ms. Chen: No, but I'll help you look." Based on Ms. Chen's actions and dialogue, the reader can infer she wants to help Nelson find his missing book because she is kind and helpful.

Read this stage direction from line 30.

What does this stage direction suggest about Lucia?

• She wants to be sure to take the book when she leaves.

• She wants to read the book before Nelson does.

• She is upset that Nelson plans to write about the book.

• She realizes that Nelson thinks the book belongs to him.