The Antique Shop- STAAR Questions

What do paragraphs 14-16 reveal about the significance of the items in the shop?

• They are ordinary and have no special meaning.

• They hold sentimental value and historical importance.

• They are overpriced and not worth buying.

• They are new and have no connection to the past.

How does Jesse’s behavior in paragraphs 17-21 influence the development of the plot?

• Jesse's behavior creates a conflict that drives the plot forward.

• Jesse's behavior resolves the main conflict in the plot.

• Jesse's behavior introduces a new character to the plot.

• Jesse's behavior has no impact on the plot development.

Read the information about the word "heirloom":

   from Old English "heir" meaning "inheritance" + "loom" meaning "tool"

This information helps the reader understand that heirloom in paragraph 9 means —

• an item that is valuable only to collectors

• a possession passed down through generations

• an antique that can be sold for profit

• a tool used by previous family members

Answer explanation

 The context shows the sombrero is passed down through generations, demonstrating the meaning of "heirloom."

Based on the development of Jesse's character, which statement BEST reflects his change by the end of the story?

• He becomes more interested in spending time with his friends

• He learns to appreciate the value his family places on history

• He decides he wants to work more hours at the antique shop

• He realizes that old items can be worth a lot of money

Answer explanation

Jesse's final thoughts show his new appreciation for the shop's historical significance and family connections.

The setting of the antique shop influences the plot because it —

• A) provides Jesse with a place to avoid his schoolwork

• B) creates conflict between Jesse and his uncle

• C) serves as a bridge between past and present for Jesse

• D) gives Jesse's family a reason to stay together

Answer explanation

 The shop serves as a physical connection between past and present, allowing Jesse to understand his family's heritage.

Read this sentence from paragraph 11: "The store no longer fills Jesse with awe." What is the effect of this statement?

• It emphasizes Jesse's maturity and loss of childhood wonder

• It suggests Jesse's resentment toward working at the shop

• It shows Jesse's preference for modern items

• It reveals Jesse's disappointment with his family's business

Answer explanation

This statement marks the transition from Jesse's childhood wonder to his current teenage perspective.

What is the effect of the simile "like children exiting a candy store" in paragraph 12?

• It emphasizes that customers are often disappointed by their purchases.

• It highlights the excitement and joy people feel when they find something special.

• It suggests that Jesse enjoys watching the customers leave the shop.

• It proves that antiques are as valuable as candy.

Answer explanation

The simile compares customers' joy to children leaving a candy store, showing how much they appreciate the items.

The reader can infer that the author most likely uses the sombrero as a symbol of —

• Mexican culture and traditions

• family legacy and heritage

• the value of antique items

• Jesse's childhood memories

Answer explanation

The sombrero represents multiple generations of family history and is treated as a treasured family possession.

What can dialogue reveal about a character?

• The character's favorite color.

• The author's personal opinions.

• The character's background and personality.

• The length of the story.

The flashback in paragraphs 2-9 contributes to the plot by —

• A) explaining why Jesse's father wants him to work at the shop

• B) showing how Jesse's attitude toward the shop has changed

• C) revealing the history of the antique business

• D) demonstrating the close relationship between Jesse and his father

Answer explanation

The flashback contrasts Jesse's childhood wonder with his current attitude, highlighting his character development.