Flynn's Cityscape - Supporting details of the theme (Grade 6)

What is the name of the art contest Flynn is entering?

• The Future is Now

• Future of Our City

• City Dreams

• Art of the Future

Answer explanation

The passage directly states, 'He was adding the final touches to his painting for the city-wide art contest, “Future of Our City.”'

Which detail does Reese point out to show that Flynn's painting is 'smart'?

• The flying cars

• The green gardens

• The solar panels on the windows

• The bright streak of light in the sky

Answer explanation

The text says, 'Reese argued, pointing to a small detail. “Look at the solar panels on the windows. That’s not silly, that’s smart.”'

What is the main reason Flynn feels doubtful about his painting?

• He thinks Reese does not like it.

• He is worried the judges will think his ideas are silly.

• He ran out of the right color paint.

• He thinks the gardens on the skyscrapers look bad.

Answer explanation

Flynn expresses his doubt by saying, 'Maybe it’s too silly. Flying cars? The judges might just laugh.' This shows his fear of being judged negatively.

How does Reese's encouragement help Flynn's aspiration?

• She offers to help him paint.

• She tells him to start a new painting.

• She distracts him by talking about other things.

• She helps him see the value and strength in his own ideas.

Answer explanation

Reese reminds Flynn of the smart details in his work and tells him, 'This painting is your dream on a canvas. You have to believe in it.' This helps restore his confidence in his aspiration.

Categorize the following details from the story based on whether they support the idea of 'Expressing a Dream' or 'Feeling Doubt'.

Groups:

(a) Expressing a Dream

,

(b) Feeling Doubt

• Painting a city with flying cars and green gardens

• Thinking the judges might laugh

• Putting his brush down with a sigh

• Wanting the judges to see a dream for a better place

• Saying, 'Maybe it's too silly.'

• Signing his name with a flourish

Answer explanation

The items in 'Expressing a Dream' are all actions or thoughts that show Flynn's positive aspiration. The items in 'Feeling Doubt' are actions or words that show his uncertainty and fear about achieving his dream.

What is the last thing Flynn does to his painting after talking with Reese?

• He signs his name in the corner.

• He erases the flying cars.

• He asks Reese to sign it too.

• He adds more gardens to the skyscrapers.

Answer explanation

The passage states, 'Then, with a flourish, he signed his name in the bottom corner.' This action happens after he adds a streak of light, showing his renewed confidence.

Match each character's statement to the feeling or motivation it reveals about their dreams and aspirations.

• Directly encourages belief in one's own aspiration

• “I just want the judges to see what I see…”

• Shows fear that his aspiration will be rejected

• “Maybe it’s too silly.”

• Expresses the hope for his vision to be understood

• “Look at the solar panels on the windows.”

• Highlights a specific, thoughtful part of the dream

• “This painting is your dream on a canvas.”

Answer explanation

Flynn's statement about his work being 'silly' shows his fear of rejection. Reese's comment on the 'solar panels' points out a strength in his dream. Flynn's desire for judges to 'see what I see' reveals his hope for his aspiration to be shared. Reese's final statement is direct encouragement to believe in his dream.

Reese helps Flynn by pointing out a specific, positive detail in his work instead of just saying 'it's nice.' Imagine your friend wants to try out for the school soccer team but is worried they are not a strong enough player. Based on Reese's actions in the passage, what are two specific, encouraging things you could say to your friend? Explain why this type of encouragement is helpful.

Answer explanation