The Garden of Second Chances - Character types (Grade 6)

What was Bryce doing when Sadie called him about the storm?

• Playing a game on his screen

• Doing his homework

• Already on his way to the garden

• Watching the weather forecast

Answer explanation

The passage states, '...he mumbled, his eyes glued to a game on his screen.' This shows he was playing a game and not paying attention to his responsibilities.

What specific action does Bryce promise to take to fix his mistake?

• He will apologize to Mr. Wesley.

• He will quit playing video games forever.

• He will use his allowance to buy new plants and help every day.

• He will do Sadie's homework for a week.

Answer explanation

The passage explicitly states Bryce's plan: 'I'll use my allowance to buy new plants. And I promise, I'll be here every day after school to help.'

Which statement best describes Bryce's character at the beginning of the story?

• He is a helpful and hardworking partner.

• He is an irresponsible person who avoids his duties.

• He is a shy person who is afraid to help.

• He is a leader who likes to give orders.

Answer explanation

At the start, Bryce makes excuses and plays games instead of helping Sadie, which shows he is irresponsible. The text says, '"together" usually meant Sadie did all the work.'

Why does Sadie ultimately decide to forgive Bryce?

• Because she is afraid of getting a bad grade on the project.

• Because the plants were not actually damaged very much.

• Because Mr. Wesley forced her to forgive him.

• Because Bryce's apology was sincere and he had a plan to make things right.

Answer explanation

Sadie's decision comes after she sees Bryce's regret and hears his genuine apology and concrete plan to fix the damage. The text says, 'Sadie was still angry, but his words sounded genuine.' This, combined with her memory of Mr. Wesley's advice, leads to her forgiveness.

Who is the protagonist of this story?

• Sadie

• Bryce

• Mr. Wesley

• The storm

Answer explanation

Sadie is the protagonist, or main character. The story focuses on her efforts in the garden, her frustration with Bryce, and her decision to forgive him.

Match the character's dialogue or action to the emotion or trait it reveals.

• Shows he feels regret and takes responsibility.

• "Okay. Let's make a list of what we need."

• Shows he is distracted and not taking the task seriously.

• Sadie's shoulders slumped.

• Shows her disappointment and sadness.

• "This is all my fault," he whispered.

• Shows she is willing to forgive and move forward.

• "Okay, okay, in a bit," he mumbled.

Answer explanation

Bryce's mumbled words show his distraction. Sadie's slumped shoulders show her sadness over the ruined garden. Bryce's whisper shows his genuine regret. Sadie's final statement shows her acceptance and willingness to reconcile.

Categorize the following characters and events based on their function in the story's plot.

Groups:

(a) Element that Creates Conflict

,

(b) Element that Guides a Character

,

(c) Element that Leads to Resolution

• Bryce playing a game instead of helping

• The storm that damages the plants

• Mr. Wesley's remembered advice

• Sadie's decision to make a new list with Bryce

• Sadie working alone with the tarps

• Bryce's apology and offer to buy new plants

Answer explanation

The conflict is created by Bryce's irresponsibility, Sadie's struggle, and the storm. The resolution begins with Bryce's apology and Sadie's acceptance. Mr. Wesley's advice serves as a guiding influence for Sadie's decision.

The story shows Bryce earning back Sadie's trust. Think about a time at school when you might have to work with a partner on a project. Based on Bryce's actions at the end of the story, what are two specific things someone could do to earn back a partner's trust if they made a mistake? Explain your answer using details from the passage.

Answer explanation