Understanding Mate and Charlie's Bond

In paragraph 2, the author uses the phrase "in a foreign tongue" to indicate that:

• Mate only responds to the commands of Charlie.

• Mate dislikes being patted by the townspeople.

• Mate does not want to stop his walk with Charlie.

• Mate does not care what the townspeople say.

Which detail signals a change in the direction of the story?

• The indication that Mate listened “with his head cocked to one side and one ear raised” (paragraph 2).

• The statement that “Mate would bark loudly, acting as the Fast and Able’s foghorn” (paragraph 3).

• The indication that “Charlie fell to the bottom of the boat unconscious” (paragraph 4).

• The statement that “Mate leaped into the cold water and dog-paddled to the beach” (paragraph 5).

How does paragraph 8 best help advance the plot of the story?

• By showing that Jake knows Charlie’s dog.

• By demonstrating how Mate responds to Jake’s voice.

• By having Jake realize Charlie may be in trouble.

• By illustrating the trust Jake inspires in Mate.

Which detail best shows how the author indicates the close friendship of Charlie and Mate to the reader?

• “Sailing in each other’s company provided a perfect afternoon for Charlie and Mate,” (paragraph 3).

• “Mate either slept on the sun-warmed deck or joined Charlie in the cockpit,” (paragraph 3).

• “The cold seawater flew off Mate’s furry coat and splashed over Charlie,” (paragraph 10).

• “Charlie softly whispered, ‘Shipshape!’ to Mate, then a little louder, ‘Hardtack!’ ” (paragraph 11).

A common saying is that “Dogs are man’s best friend.” Which detail from the story best supports this idea? Support your answer with evidence from the text.

How do the townspeople's reactions to Mate's barking reflect his determination? Use details from paragraphs 7–9 to support your answer.

Describe how Mate's actions show his loyalty to Charlie. Cite at least two examples from the text to support your response.