Who Stole My Cactus Arm?

Why is it important to the story that Oliver is friends with Calvin?

• To provide a contrasting character and highlight Oliver's positive qualities.

• To create a source of conflict and tension throughout the story.

• To develop Oliver's social skills and teach him the importance of friendship.

• To introduce a love interest for Oliver.

What is the main problem the main character faces in the story?

• Deciding to knock down the cactus arm and lie to his dad.

• Oliver hears a spooky whisper in the middle of the night.

• Overcoming his fear of storms.

• Convincing his parents to let him get a pet.

This part of the selection is important to the story because it...

• Introduces the conflict of the story.

• Reveals the true culprit behind the stolen cactus arm.

• Shows the consequences of Oliver's actions.

• Provides a flashback to an earlier event.

Which sentences in the story show that Oliver is a curious character?

• "I don't know," I say, kicking at the cactus lightly. "My parents are trying to save it."

• "I strain to hear the words. The whispering is getting louder. My heart nearly stops as I figure out the words."

• "I pull the covers up to my trembling chin. Then I let out a big sigh of relief."

• "I know you're out there, Calvin! I'm not letting you off the hook for the money!"

Why do you think Oliver is tempted to take Calvin's bet?

• They share similar interests and hobbies.

• They are both mischievous and enjoy playing pranks.

• Oliver wants the money to buy a video game.

• They both have a strong sense of adventure.

Why does Oliver decide to confess to his parents?

• He feels guilty about his actions.

• He wants to avoid getting into further trouble.

• He realizes that lying is wrong.

• All of the above.

What caused Oliver to change his mind about stealing the cactus arm?

• The guilt he felt after hearing the whispering.

• The realization that the cactus was very old.

• The fear of getting caught by his parents.

• The advice from the park ranger.

According to this section of text, how is Oliver feeling?

• Excited

• Relieved

• Guilty

• Angry

Which word best describes Oliver's relationship with Calvin?

• Distant

• Loving

• Conflicted

• Fearful

Which sentence from the story shows how Oliver feels about his friendship with Calvin?

• "I ended up with the most painful sting of my life. But that was still better than having to deal with Calvin making fun of me if I chickened out."

• "Calvin hands me the 15 dollars as we walk to the bus stop the next morning."

• “I’m not letting you off the hook for the money!”

• "We help Dad roll the arm up in an old rug so we don’t get hurt by the thorns."