"Explain" for RACE Practice (Analysis) - "A Long Walk to Water"

Thesis: Salva’s journey highlights the importance of perseverance in the face of fear. Evidence: In the text it states, 'If I die now, I will never see my family again.'

• This shows that facing fear can build inner strength and determination.

• This shows that Salva’s encounter with the soldier is a moment of intense danger.

Tags

CCSS.RI.5.8

CCSS.RI.6.1

CCSS.RI.6.8

CCSS.RI.7.1

CCSS.RL.6.1

2. Thesis: The separation from his family marks the beginning of Salva’s growth into independence. Evidence: In the text it states, 'Salva realized he had to keep moving, even without his family.'

• This shows that learning to cope with difficult situations helps people become more resilient.

• This shows that Salva misses his family deeply and worries about their safety.

Tags

CCSS.RI.5.2

CCSS.RI.6.2

CCSS.RI.7.2

CCSS.RL.6.2

CCSS.RL.7.2

3. Thesis: *A Long Walk to Water* shows how hardship can foster resilience and courage. Evidence: In the text it states, 'He had been left alone...but he did not stop. He kept moving.'

• This shows that overcoming challenges helps people discover inner courage.

• This shows that Salva feels lost and uncertain about what to do next.

Tags

CCSS.RI.5.2

CCSS.RI.6.2

CCSS.RL.5.2

CCSS.RL.6.2

CCSS.RL.7.2

4. Thesis: Salva’s memories of his family serve as a source of motivation and strength. Evidence: In the text it states, 'Somehow, this thought strengthened him enough to keep him from collapsing.'

• This shows that remembering loved ones can provide strength in tough times.

• This shows that Salva wishes he were at home, safe with his family.

Tags

CCSS.RI.6.2

CCSS.RI.7.2

CCSS.RL.5.2

CCSS.RL.6.2

CCSS.RL.7.2

5. Thesis: Salva’s encounters with others demonstrate the impact of kindness during difficult times. Evidence: In the text it states, 'You are not a man yet. Don’t be in such a hurry!' The soldier laughed and let him go.

• This shows that acts of kindness can make a big difference in someone’s survival and outlook.

• This shows that the soldier decides not to harm Salva because he is just a boy.

Tags

CCSS.RI.6.1

CCSS.RI.6.8

CCSS.RI.7.8

CCSS.RL.6.1

CCSS.RL.7.1

6. Thesis: The fear and uncertainty of war impact young people in profound ways. Evidence: In the text it states, 'Where are we going? Where is my family? When will I see them again?'

• This shows that living through war can make children feel anxious and insecure.

• This shows that Salva is afraid and lonely.

Tags

CCSS.RI.5.2

CCSS.RI.6.2

CCSS.RL.5.2

CCSS.RL.6.2

CCSS.RL.7.2

Thesis: Salva’s experience shows how difficult circumstances can bring people together for support. Evidence: In the text it states, 'There was no one from his family...but it was comforting to see them.'

• This shows that difficult times can foster a sense of community and support.

• This shows that Salva feels isolated despite being surrounded by others.

Tags

CCSS.RI.5.7

CCSS.RI.6.7

CCSS.RI.7.7

CCSS.RL.6.9

CCSS.RL.7.7

Thesis: The separation of men from women and children underscores the dangers faced by young boys during the war. Evidence: In the text it states, 'Teenage boys, it seemed, were considered men.'

• This shows that war can force young boys to confront responsibilities meant for adults.

• This shows that the rebels don’t view young boys as children, putting them in danger.

Tags

CCSS.RI.5.8

CCSS.RI.6.1

CCSS.RI.6.8

CCSS.RL.6.1

CCSS.RL.7.1

Thesis: Salva’s choice to keep moving, even when alone, illustrates his resilience. Evidence: In the text it states, 'Salva took a deep breath and kept walking.'

• This shows that resilience is the ability to keep going despite difficult circumstances.

• This shows that Salva does not want to be alone, but he knows he has to keep moving.

Tags

CCSS.RI.5.8

CCSS.RI.6.1

CCSS.RI.6.8

CCSS.RI.7.1

CCSS.RL.6.1

Thesis: Salva’s response to abandonment shows his determination to survive. Evidence: In the text it states, 'Nobody. Nothing. They had left him. He was alone.'

• This shows that determination can help people push through even the toughest challenges.

• This shows that Salva’s fear of being alone motivates him to try and find others.

Tags

CCSS.RI.6.1

CCSS.RI.6.8

CCSS.RI.7.1

CCSS.RI.7.8

CCSS.RL.6.1