Trade Rats Quiz

What time does the story “Trade Rats” begin?

• Midnight

• 12 PM

• 10 PM

• 1 AM

Answer explanation

The story 'Trade Rats' begins at midnight, setting a mysterious tone for the events that follow. This time is crucial as it marks the start of the narrative.

Who are the main characters mentioned at the beginning of the story?

• Mary and the cayote

• Mary and mother

• Mary and father

• Mary and Jack

Answer explanation

At the beginning of the story, the main characters introduced are Mary and her mother. This choice is correct as it highlights the familial relationship central to the narrative.

What awakens Mary in her dream?

• Jack’s hoarse whisper

• A scratching sound

• The clock striking

• A bird singing

Answer explanation

Mary is awakened in her dream by Jack’s hoarse whisper, which indicates a personal and intimate connection, making it the most significant trigger compared to the other options.

What does the tiny object carry in its mouth?

• A piece of clothing

• A piece of food

• A cactus burr

• A toy

Answer explanation

The tiny object carries a cactus burr in its mouth, which is a spiny seed pod. This choice is correct as it specifically refers to a type of object that can be found in nature, unlike the other options.

What does Jack do after he hears the noise?

• He lights a candle and searches for the source of the noise.

• He goes back to sleep.

• He calls his parents.

• He ignores it.

Answer explanation

After hearing the noise, Jack lights a candle and searches for its source, indicating his curiosity and concern, rather than ignoring it or going back to sleep.

What was the reason that Mary could not find the doll’s gown?

• Whatever had been in the house during the night had taken it.

• She loses it while playing outside.

• It is taken by the cayote.

• She is lazy to find it.

Answer explanation

Mary could not find the doll’s gown because something that had been in the house during the night took it. This indicates an external factor, rather than her losing it or being lazy.

How does Mary feel when she cannot find her doll’s gown?

• Tired and frustrated

• Indifferent

• Angry

• Happy

Answer explanation

Mary feels tired and frustrated when she cannot find her doll’s gown, as losing something important can be exhausting and upsetting.

What does the story suggest about the nature of the visitor?

• It is mischievous and sneaky.

• It is dangerous and scary.

• It is friendly and helpful.

• It is a family pet.

Answer explanation

The story portrays the visitor as mischievous and sneaky, engaging in playful tricks that create a sense of unpredictability, which aligns with the correct choice.

What lesson can be inferred from Mary’s experience in the story?

• Nature is full of surprises and mysteries.

• Friends are important in times of need.

• Always keep your belongings safe.

• Curiosity can lead to trouble.

Answer explanation

Mary's experience highlights the unpredictability of nature, showcasing its wonders and the unexpected events that can occur, reinforcing the idea that nature is indeed full of surprises and mysteries.