Red Scarf Girl Read Aloud

What mood is established at the beginning of the story? Identify specific details, such as word choice, imagery, or setting, that the author uses to create this mood.

Answer explanation

The mood is welcoming and cheerful. The author describes her home as "bright", "warm", and cozy, with curtains that "shut out the darkness outside" and a a "tables covered with steaming dishes". Her family is all there together, laughing and talking.

What news is Ji-li excited to share with her family?

• She has the opportunity to audition for the Central Liberation Army Arts Academy.

• She has the opportunity to join the Red Guard because of her martial arts training.

• She has been accepted as a perfomer in the Central Liberation Army and will transfer to a new school.

• She received a commendation for being the top of her class.

How does the tone start to change as Ji-li's family members respond to her news? Include specific details and phrases the author uses to set the tone.

Answer explanation

Her brother and sister share her excitement and twirl around with her. However, her mom, dad, and grandma respond solemnly. The tone becomes serious as her dad forcefully tells her to not audition. Her mother looks at her worriedly.

Is Ji-li's description of her father's response to the badge an example of direct or indirect characterization?

• direct characterization

• indirect characterization

What descriptive words or phrases continue to set a serious, solemn tone?

Answer explanation

When her father leaned back in his chair, it "put his face in shadow". Words like "sorrow", "whispered", "complicated", and "burst out crying" set the tone of sadness and seriousness.