The Future in the Garage - Imagery in literary texts (Grade 6)

Which of the following phrases from the passage is an example of auditory imagery (sense of sound)?

• a mess of copper wires

• a low, electric hum

• a tunnel of swirling colors

• the cold metal

Answer explanation

This is the correct answer because 'a low, electric hum' describes something that is heard, which appeals to the sense of sound (auditory imagery). The other options describe sight or touch.

The author uses the phrase 'his stomach felt like a knot of terrified snakes' to show that Andres is feeling...

• excited

• angry

• very scared

• sick

Answer explanation

This figurative language creates a powerful image of intense fear and anxiety. A 'knot' suggests tightness and discomfort, and 'terrified snakes' adds a sense of active, writhing fear.

According to the passage, what did the time travel experience look like?

• A dark and empty space

• A bright white flash

• A tunnel of swirling colors

• A view of the stars

Answer explanation

The passage explicitly states, 'The world outside the chair blurred into a tunnel of swirling colors.' This is a direct recall of the visual imagery used to describe the time travel event.

What is the main purpose of the imagery 'a sea of smiling faces'?

• To show that the auditorium was near the ocean.

• To describe how large the crowd was.

• To suggest the audience was bored.

• To show that the audience was friendly and supportive.

Answer explanation

This metaphor compares the crowd to a 'sea' to show its size, but the key detail is 'smiling faces.' This imagery is used to reassure Andres (and the reader) that the audience is not scary but encouraging.

The author contrasts the 'roaring monster' of fear with a 'little flutter' to show that...

• Andres's fear has become much smaller and more manageable.

• Andres is no longer afraid of monsters.

• Andres has gotten physically stronger.

• Andres's fear has completely disappeared.

Answer explanation

This question requires students to understand how contrasting images are used to show change. A 'roaring monster' is a powerful, overwhelming image of fear, while a 'little flutter' is a small, barely noticeable image. The contrast shows his fear has shrunk.

Categorize the following phrases from the story based on which sense they appeal to most.

Groups:

(a) Appeals to Sight

,

(b) Appeals to Sound

,

(c) Appeals to Touch/Feeling

• a sound like a giant bee

• the cold metal

• flickering green lights

• a tunnel of swirling colors

• a knot of terrified snakes

• a low, electric hum

Answer explanation

The phrases are sorted by the primary sense they engage. 'Flickering lights' and 'swirling colors' are seen. 'Hum' and 'buzzing sound' are heard. 'Cold metal' is felt by touch, and the 'knot' describes an internal physical feeling.

Match the image from the passage with the main purpose of that image.

• To show Future Andres's confidence

• A mess of copper wires

• To describe the overwhelming size of his initial fear

• A little flutter

• To describe his new, manageable level of fear

• A roaring monster

• To make the time machine look homemade and chaotic

• His voice was clear and steady

Answer explanation

Each image is chosen by the author for a specific effect. 'A mess of copper wires' shows the machine is not a sleek, professional device. 'Clear and steady' is auditory imagery showing confidence. The 'roaring monster' and 'little flutter' are contrasting metaphors used to illustrate the change in his fear.

Analyze how the author uses contrasting imagery to show the change in Andres from the beginning of the story to the end. Use at least two specific examples of imagery from the text to support your answer.

Answer explanation