A Mural for Wonderland - Comparing and contrasting characters (Grade 6)

What does Wesley want his project to be?

• Loud and new

• Abstract and colorful

• Faithful to the original story

• A playlist of pop music

Answer explanation

Wesley states his goal clearly when he says his idea is "faithful" and that art should "respect the original story."

What is the main reason Wesley disagrees with Talia's idea for a modern mural?

• He does not like pop music.

• He believes it does not respect the original story.

• He thinks murals are too much work.

• He is not a good painter.

Answer explanation

Wesley shows his motivation when he says, "The art should respect the original story," and later tells Talia her idea "isn't really 'Alice in Wonderland'."

What is Talia's main complaint about Wesley's idea to do detailed drawings?

• She thinks it is too difficult to draw.

• She thinks it is quiet and boring.

• She thinks it is not faithful to the book.

• She thinks it will get a bad grade.

Answer explanation

Talia directly states her opinion on Wesley's idea by saying, "Drawings are so... quiet... And boring!"

Which statement best describes the difference between Talia's and Wesley's approaches to art?

• Talia is excited about the project, but Wesley is not.

• Talia prefers painting, while Wesley prefers drawing.

• Talia wants to get a good grade, but Wesley does not care.

• Talia believes art should be new and emotional, while Wesley believes it should be traditional and faithful.

Answer explanation

Talia says art should be "loud and new" and "make people feel something," while Wesley says it should be "faithful" and "respect the original story." This shows their different views on art.

What is the final compromise that Talia and Wesley agree on?

• A mural that tells the story in panels using both of their styles.

• A series of detailed drawings that include neon colors.

• An abstract mural that also includes text from the book.

• To work on two separate projects.

Answer explanation

The passage ends with Wesley suggesting a mural with panels in both his "detailed style" and her "abstract, colorful style," to which Talia agrees.

Sort the following descriptions based on which character's initial idea they support.

Groups:

(a) Talia's Initial Idea

,

(b) Wesley's Initial Idea

• Respects the original story

• Loud and new

• Detailed drawings

• Faithful

• Abstract art

• Pop music

Answer explanation

Talia's plan was for a 'huge, modern mural' that was 'loud and new,' using 'abstract' art and 'pop music.' Wesley's plan was to be 'faithful' and 'respect the original story' with 'detailed drawings.'

Match each character's statement to the primary motivation it reveals.

• Enthusiasm for a creative and bold idea

• "Art should be loud and new. It should make people feel something instantly!"

• A belief that art's purpose is to create strong, immediate emotion

• "Maybe there's a way to do both?"

• A willingness to compromise and combine ideas

• "It's brilliant! We'll create a huge, modern mural."

• A desire to be traditional and faithful

• "The art should respect the original story."

Answer explanation

Talia's first statement shows her excitement for her idea. Wesley's statement shows his focus on tradition. Talia's next statement explains her philosophy on art. Wesley's final question shows he is ready to find a solution.

Compare the tones of Talia and Wesley at the beginning of their conversation versus the end. How do their tones change, and what does this change show about their ability to work together? Use at least one quote from the passage to support your answer.

Answer explanation