Understanding Banshees in Irish Folklore

What is the main idea of the passage? TEKS 4.9.D.i - Recognize the central idea and supporting details in informational text.

• The banshee is a legendary figure in Irish folklore that brings death to people.

• The banshee is a spirit that warns of death with its mournful cry and plays an important role in Irish culture.

• The banshee is a dangerous creature that people must avoid at all costs.

• The banshee is a fictional character created to scare people.

Which detail from the text best supports the idea that banshees are not considered evil? TEKS 4.9.D.ii - Explain how text features, including headers, support an understanding of the text.

• “Her cry is unmistakable—said to be so mournful that those who hear it are filled with dread.”

• “The banshee’s role is not to cause harm, but to prepare families for an inevitable loss.”

• “She is accompanied by a coach known as the Cóiste Bodhar, a death coach drawn by headless horses.”

Why do some people feel uneasy when they hear the banshee’s cry? TEKS 4.6.B - Identify the meaning of unfamiliar words using context clues.

• Because they know they are going to die.

• Because the banshee is coming to attack them.

• Because the cry is associated with death and loss.

• Because they are superstitious and afraid of spirits.

Which of the following can be inferred about the cultural significance of the banshee in Irish folklore? TEKS 4.6.G - Evaluate details read to infer meaning and draw conclusions.

• The banshee is seen as a threat and must be avoided.

• The banshee symbolizes fear and chaos in the natural world.

• The banshee is a symbol of respect for the natural cycle of life and death.

• The banshee only appears in fictional stories used to entertain children.

How does the author organize the information in the passage? TEKS 4.9.D.ii - Explain how text structure contributes to the author's purpose.

• The author presents the events in chronological order, starting with the first banshee sighting.

• The author uses a compare and contrast structure to explain the different types of banshees.

• The author uses headings to divide the text into sections that explain different aspects of the banshee legend.

• The author provides a problem and solution to explain why people believe in banshees.