Starfish/The Poet X 8th Grade ELA MCAS

Which contrast between Kiko and Jamie is mainly developed in paragraphs 12–24 of Starfish?

• Kiko is curious, while Jamie is bored.

• Kiko is anxious, while Jamie is relaxed.

• Kiko is irritated, while Jamie is forgiving.

• Kiko is irritated, while Jamie is forgiving.

Read paragraph 14 of Starfish in the box.

What is the main purpose of the dashes in the paragraph?

• to show that the words inside the dashes are an opinion

• to suggest that a thought is being interrupted

• to emphasize the words inside the dashes

• to reveal the definition of a phrase

What is the most likely reason the author uses a series of short sentences in paragraph 26 of Starfish?

• to demonstrate the extent of Kiko’s surprise

• to emphasize the severity of Kiko’s resentment

• to illustrate the rush of Kiko’s negative thoughts

• to suggest the certainty of Kiko’s hopes for her life

Which quotation from Starfish indicates a turning point in the passage?

• “‘These paintings are hilariously random,’ Jamie notes.” (paragraph 6)

• “He pauses thoughtfully. ‘She’s actually here visiting to look at art schools for the fall.’” (paragraph 25)

• “‘Okay, I’m coming.’ He looks at me and Jamie and gives a wrinkled smile.” (paragraph 44)

• “I blush. ‘Why did you take photos of my portfolio?’” (paragraph 49)

Based on The Poet X, what does the reference to the goldfish in lines 60–63 most likely represent?

• Xiomara’s jealousy of the success of those around her

• Xiomara’s feeling that she is too eager to please those around her

• Xiomara’s annoyance about how much of their room Twin occupies

• Xiomara’s concern that her close relationship with Twin is limiting their potential

In The Poet X, what do lines 121–123 mainly reveal?

• Xiomara is practicing her poem with great expression.

• Xiomara is recalling her day with extreme displeasure

• Xiomara is staging a performance with her classmates.

• Xiomara is preparing for a confrontation with her mother.

7. In The Poet X, what do lines 132–135 mainly suggest about Xiomara?

• She is sorry for upsetting her mother.

• She is happy to have the trust of her mother.

• She feels uneasy about deceiving her mother.

• She respects the rules established by her mother.

Read the quotations from Starfish and The Poet X in the box.

Which statement best describes how the quotations reflect a similar experience for Kiko and Xiomara?

• Both quotations show that Kiko and Xiomara will no longer try to avoid challenging circumstances.

• Both quotations suggest that Kiko and Xiomara are relieved to no longer be withholding a part of themselves.

• Both quotations show that Kiko and Xiomara have a new appreciation for the importance of teachers in their lives.

• Both quotations illustrate that Kiko and Xiomara will become happier by ignoring the advice of those around them.

Which sentence states a main theme of both Starfish and The Poet X?

• True friends stay loyal during the hardest times in life.

• Taking advantage of opportunities requires self-control.

• Religion may be the most significant influence on a person.

• People must overcome self-doubt before following their dreams.

Read lines 35 and 36 from The Poet X in the box.

Based on the lines, which word best describes Twin’s attitude toward his sister?

• intolerant

• supportive

• controlling

• sympathetic