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Language Arts – Grade 7

CHARLES COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Language Arts – Grade 7

APEX Learning Packet

Weeks 5 & 6

(May 4 – May 15)

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Contents APEX Lesson – Central Idea ........................................................................................................................................3

Information – Central Idea .....................................................................................................................................4

Information – Multiple Central Ideas .....................................................................................................................5

Review – Central Idea .............................................................................................................................................6

Study Guide – Central Idea .....................................................................................................................................7

Assessment – Central Idea .................................................................................................................................. 10

APEX Lesson – Making Inferences ........................................................................................................................... 13

Information – Making Inferences ........................................................................................................................ 14

Information – Explicit Details Lead to Implicit Details ........................................................................................ 15

Information – Inferences ..................................................................................................................................... 15

Review – Making Inferences ................................................................................................................................ 16

Study Guide – Making Inferences ........................................................................................................................ 17

Assessment – Making Inferences ........................................................................................................................ 21

Study Guide Answers ............................................................................................................................................... 25

Central Idea ......................................................................................................................................................... 25

Making Inferences ............................................................................................................................................... 27

Extensions ................................................................................................................................................................ 29

NIPSEY HUSSLE STREET ART IN LOS ANGELES BREATHES LIFE INTO LEGACY ...................................................... 30

FROM TIGER TO FREE-RANGE PARENTS — WHAT RESEARCH SAYS ABOUT PROS AND CONS OF POPULAR

PARENTING STYLES .............................................................................................................................................. 33

The Child .............................................................................................................................................................. 36

Feathers ............................................................................................................................................................... 37

How the Stories Came to Be ................................................................................................................................ 38

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Name: __________________________________________ School: ______________________

Teacher: ________________________________________ Period: ______________________

Packet Directions for Students Students should complete the following activities from APEX English Language Arts 7 course.

APEX Lesson – Central Idea Unit 3: Reading Strategies Lesson: Central Idea: A central idea should be easy to find.

Lesson Objectives:

Identify the central idea, which is the main point of a text.

Recognize more than one central idea in a text

Lesson Directions: 1. Read the information about finding one or more central ideas in a text.

2. Complete the Study Guide

3. Complete the assessment of your learning

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Information – Central Idea The central idea is the main point of a text. A writer uses supporting details, such as reasons, facts, and

examples, to develop the central idea.

Read below to see how supporting details help reveal the central idea

Rowing is growing in popularity and for good reason. Rowing is a full-body activity — working out the legs, arms, and core — that allows the rower to burn calories and build muscle without the strain of impact. If relaxation is the goal, the rhythmic nature of rowing can clear the mind and bring down stress levels. But rowing can also be a very social sport when done with a group and can help build relationships. Rowing is a total package sport and can be used to get in shape, reduce stress, and make new friends.

Sentence Analysis

Rowing The first word in this paragraph helps you figure out the topic, but you'll have to read further to find out the central idea.

Rowing is a full-body activity — working out the legs, arms, and core — that allows the rower to burn calories and build muscle without the strain of impact.

This supporting detail gives you examples of the physical benefits of rowing.

If relaxation is the goal, the rhythmic nature of rowing can clear the mind and bring down stress levels.

This supporting detail gives you an example of the mental benefits of rowing.

But rowing can also be a very social sport when done with a group and can help build relationships.

This supporting detail gives you an example of the social benefits of rowing.

Rowing is a total package sport and can be used to get in shape, reduce stress, and make new friends.

Using the supporting details throughout this passage can lead you to the central idea that rowing is a sport with several benefits.

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Information – Multiple Central Ideas

Texts can contain more than one central idea. An informational text, especially a longer piece, often contains

more than one central idea. In these cases, each central idea is supported by its own supporting details.

Explore the following passage to see how each of the two central ideas are developed by supporting details.

Your skin consists of two main layers: the outer layer, known as the epidermis, and the inner layer, known as the dermis. The epidermis, the part of your skin you see every day, is an important protective layer for humans. The epidermis is essential for keeping nutrients in and keeping dirt out. The epidermis also provides protection from the sun and can keep you cool on a hot day by allowing sweat to exit through this layer of skin. Just as important as the epidermis, the dermis plays several roles critical to your body's survival. The dermis contains blood vessels that help regulate the temperature of your body as well as receptors that help you sense touch, pressure, and pain. With its squishy fat cells, the dermis also acts as a cushion to prevent serious injury. These two layers of skin work together to keep you healthy and safe.

Sentence Analysis

Your skin consists of two main layers:

This information provides the overall topic of the passage, that your skin consists of two layers.

The epidermis, the part of your skin you see every day, is an important protective layer for humans.

This is the first central idea — that the epidermis provides a protective layer for humans.

The epidermis is essential for keeping nutrients in and keeping dirt out. The epidermis also provides protection from the sun and can keep you cool on a hot day by allowing sweat to exit through this layer of skin.

This information provides details that support the first central idea — that the epidermis provides a protective layer for humans.

Just as important as the epidermis, the dermis plays several roles critical to your body's survival.

This is the second central idea — that the dermis plays a critical role in your body's survival.

The dermis contains blood vessels that help regulate the temperature of your body as well as receptors that help you sense touch, pressure, and pain. With its squishy fat cells, the dermis also acts as a cushion to prevent serious injury. These two layers of skin work together to keep you healthy and safe.

This information provides details that support the second central idea — that the dermis plays a critical role in your body's survival.

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Review – Central Idea

Did you know the leatherback sea turtle can grow up to

seven feet long and weigh over 2,000 pounds? So what's

the central idea? That is one huge turtle. A central idea is

the main point of a text.

A text can contain more than one central idea. Here's a

text with two central ideas. Leatherback sea turtles are

the largest living turtle. At maturity, some leatherbacks

can be seven feet long and weigh up to 2,000 pounds.

These mighty giants are also an endangered species as

their populations decline due to water pollution and

human encroachment on their nesting lands. So what is

this passage about? Leatherback turtles, right? But that's

the topic. To find the two central ideas of this text, we

need to think about what ideas this passage is trying to

get across.

The first central idea is that leatherback turtles are very large. The information about

how big the turtles are leads us right to that central idea. The second central idea is that

turtles are endangered. Information about why their populations are declining leads us

to this idea.

So what was my main point today? Well, leatherback sea turtles, but also that the

central idea is the main point of a text.

Key Terms:

Central Idea: The main point of a text.

Supporting Details: Reasons, facts, examples, or other evidence that help explain the main

idea.

Informational Text: Writing that presents facts and explanations of concepts.

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Study Guide – Central Idea Use this guide to take notes as you work through the activity. Taking good notes can help you remember

important ideas. Your notes on this guide will help you prepare for quizzes and tests.

Complete the sentence:

A writer uses supporting details, such as reasons, facts, and examples to develop the ___________________.

Circle the central idea on the left that is best developed by the supporting details on the right.

Central Idea Circle One

Supporting Details

Walking is a healthier exercise option than running.

Exercise promotes bone and muscle health and reduces the risk of disease.

Exercise is a vital part of a healthy lifestyle. Even mild activities like walking improve mental

health and memory.

Exercise, good sleep habits, and healthy eating all contribute to weight loss.

People who move more have higher energy levels.

Circle the statement that best states the central idea of the following passage?

Lunchtime can be fun and healthy with a bento box, which is the Japanese equivalent of a lunch box. A traditional bento box holds nutritious portions of rice, protein, and vegetables, usually in a flat container divided into sections, and is readily available in many places throughout Japan. Additionally, many Japanese homemakers spend time and energy on carefully preparing bento boxes for their families. Sometimes, bento boxes are elaborately arranged in a style called kyaraben, or "character bento," in which foods are decorated to look like characters from Japanese pop culture.

Bento boxes are carefully packed by homemakers for their families.

Bento boxes are readily available throughout Japan.

Bento boxes are a fun, popular, and healthy lunch option in Japan.

Bento boxes sometimes contain elaborately decorated foods.

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Complete the sentence:

When a text has more than one central idea, each is developed by its own ________________________.

Read the opening sentence below. Then, identify the central ideas the details support.

Opening Sentence

Having a pet is a great way to reduce stress, but the decision to care for a pet should not be taken lightly.

Central Idea #1

Central Idea #2

Supporting Details:

Petting an animal can decrease stress hormones and lower blood pressure.

Pet ownership makes people feel safer, more independent, and more in control.

Supporting Details:

Pets rely on their owners for food, shelter, and exercise.

Caring for a pet takes time, money, and responsibility.

Determine whether each idea from the passage below is a central idea or not.

Diabetes is a disease afflicting millions of people and can cause serious health complications. Diabetes affects the young and old alike and has been shown to cause long-term damage to the eyes, kidneys, and heart. If left untreated, diabetes can result in serious nerve damage or kidney failure that often cannot be repaired. Diabetes can be controlled through simple lifestyle changes. Losing weight and changing your diet to include vegetables and proteins, as well as high-fiber carbohydrates and healthy fats, can help combat the symptoms of diabetes. Getting regular exercise and reducing stress can also help. Living with diabetes can be scary, but making the right choices can make it easier.

Central Idea Not a Central Idea

Diabetes can cause serious health complications.

Getting regular exercise can combat the effects of diabetes.

Diabetes can damage the eyes, kidneys, and heart.

Diabetes can be controlled through lifestyle changes.

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Read the passage below, and identify its two central ideas. Then explain how each central idea is backed up

by supporting details.

Having a pet is a great way to reduce stress, but the decision to care for a pet should not be taken lightly. Studies show that the simple act of petting an animal can decrease levels of stress-producing hormones in the body, which can help to lower blood pressure. Pet ownership also has psychological benefits, such as enhancing feelings of safety, independence, and control, which lead to a greater sense of relaxation. Pets make wonderful companions, but it's also important that owners ensure they have the ability to take care of their animals properly. Pets are often unable to care for themselves and must rely on their owners for food, shelter, and exercise. Owners should consider if they can properly provide a pet with these necessary things before bringing one home. Pets can be both a great joy and a big responsibility.

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Assessment – Central Idea 1. What is a central idea?

a. A way of ending an essay

b. The examples supporting a thesis

c. The main point of a text

d. An original idea that has not been written about before

2. Which statement best summarizes two central ideas of the text?

If you want to make a difference in your community, one option to consider is running for office. Most cities and towns have many elected positions, from school board to city council to mayor, and any citizen over 18 years old can run. Once you're elected, you'll have the opportunity to help solve problems and make decisions to improve people's lives. Plus, you can consider running for higher offices, like state representative, governor, or even president!

Of course, getting elected is usually not easy. Even local positions are highly competitive, and you'll need to be organized and hardworking to run a successful political campaign. Before you run, you should be prepared to raise money, give speeches, and have a well-thought-out plan about what you want to accomplish once elected. But the most important thing you can do is to get to know as many people as you can in your community, because your friends and neighbors may well become your greatest supporters.

a. Running for office is a great way to get involved with local affairs; a lot of work and detail goes

into a successful election campaign.

b. If you want to be president, you should start by running in a local election; even a local election

is not necessarily easy to win.

c. More people should consider getting involved with local politics; the best way to get ahead in

local politics is to get to know your neighbors.

d. Politicians are usually motivated by the desire to help others; even with the best intentions, you

might not win a political election.

3. Which statement best explains how the following supporting detail helps develop a central idea of the

text?

Like singing, playing a wind instrument involves the player's own lungs and facial muscles, creating a deep sense of connection between the player and the sound; expert players can control their instruments as precisely as master athletes perform their sports.

a. It explains how the method of playing wind instruments contributes to their expressive quality.

b. It gives evidence to support the claim that wind players are the most talented in the orchestra.

c. It provides instructions that a reader could use to learn to play a woodwind or brass instrument.

d. It tells a personal story in order to give readers an understanding of why wind instruments are

special.

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4. Identify which ideas from the passage below are central ideas and which are not.

The economy in our area continues to grow, so we need to make some important decisions about what our city is going to look like in the future. A major concern here in Parkdale is environmentally conscious building. A recent poll showed that 90 percent of our citizens rated environmental responsibility as a "top concern." In addition, 85 percent of our citizens value "responsible decisions" over cost, which shows that they don't mind paying more to do the right thing. Therefore, as our city grows, we must put our focus on "green buildings," which are structures that generate most of their own energy and have far fewer harmful emissions than older structures. According to the city's environmental bureau, green building technology has advanced to the point that we can have all these environmental benefits with only minimal increased construction or operation costs. There will definitely be some protests from certain groups, but we shouldn't let that get in the way of what's right for us, our planet, and our children.

Central Idea Not a Central Idea

To address environmental concerns, Parkdale should focus on building "green" structures.

Eighty-five percent of the citizens of Parkdale are more worried about the environment than cost.

"Green buildings" generate most of their own energy, while regular buildings do not.

The citizens of Parkdale are especially concerned with environmental issues.

5. Which phrase best supports the central idea that there are good reasons to be awake during the day?

You may think it's normal to be awake during the day and sleep at night, but that's not true for all animals. Humans are diurnal, the scientific term for tending to be up and about during the hours when the sun is up. Being awake in the daytime has some obvious advantages: It's warm, it's easy to see, and, at least for humans, sunshine provides much-needed vitamin D and also makes us feel good.

But for many animals, being up at night, or being nocturnal, is a great arrangement. Small animals who are in danger from predators can gather food more safely in the dark. And some animals can find their way around by using senses other than sight — bats, for example, use their sense of hearing to navigate. In hot climates, it can also be a good thing to avoid the bright sun and spend the day curled up in a cozy cave or den.

a. it's normal to be awake during the day and sleep at night

b. Humans are diurnal

c. sunshine provides much-needed vitamin D and also makes us feel good

d. it can also be a good thing to avoid the bright sun

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6. Read the passage below, and identify its two central ideas. Then explain how each central idea is backed

up by supporting details.

As the editor of the student newspaper, I'm very concerned about our participation levels for the upcoming school year. By my calculations, five of our 12 members have graduated, and another two have switched schools. In addition, in a recent student survey, only 15 percent listed "writing" or "photography" as interests, which are our two greatest needs. I do have a solution, though. I think that a representative from our club should go around to each of the junior high classrooms and do a short presentation on why students should join the newspaper. This way, students will have a more personal invitation — studies show that people are twice as likely to take part in something when they know someone involved or have been personally asked. Also, I happen to know that both the astronomy club and jazz band have had great success using this classroom-to-classroom approach. In fact, each group nearly doubled its membership by doing so.

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Name: __________________________________________ School: ______________________

Teacher: ________________________________________ Period: ______________________

Packet Directions for Students Students should complete the following activities from APEX English Language Arts 7 course.

APEX Lesson – Making Inferences Unit 3: Reading Strategies Lesson: Making Inferences: Look closely to make a correct inference.

Lesson Objectives:

Identify inferences as conclusions based on what you read and what you already know.

Use explicit and implicit details to make an inference.

Lesson Directions: 1. Read the information creating inferences based on explicit and implicit details.

2. Complete the Study Guide

3. Complete the assessment of your learning

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Information – Making Inferences An inference is a conclusion based on what you read and what you already know. An inference is a conclusion

based on evidence and knowledge. Explore the image below to see how explicit and implicit details can help

you make an inference about what is happening.

The explicit details, such as the open car hood and the man's troubled expression, lead to implicit details that something is wrong with the car, and the man is worried.

Background knowledge, such as the fact that people often open the hood of their car when they are having car trouble, helps you to make an inference about what happened.

A safe inference would be that this man's car has broken down, and he's calling for help.

Explicit details

Implicit details

Prior Knowledge

Inference

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Information – Explicit Details Lead to Implicit Details Use explicit and implicit details to make an inference. Explicit details can help you determine implicit details

within a text.

Read the passage below about Anonia to see how explicit details lead to implicit details.

At breakfast, Antonia could hardly eat. She got to class early and sat in the third row — close enough to the front without appearing as if she was trying too hard. As the other students filed in, she stared straight ahead. Out of the corner of her eye, she saw others take their seats. They all called each other by name. Nobody sat in the chair next to her, and, as the classroom began to fill, she felt her face grow hot. The bell rang, and at the very last second, someone took the seat. She turned, and the girl sitting beside her smiled warmly and said, "Hi, I'm Sasha."

Explicit Details Implicit Details

At breakfast, Antonia could hardly eat. This explicit detail leads to the implicit detail that Antonia is nervous.

As the other students filed in, she stared straight ahead.

This explicit detail reveals the implicit detail that Antonia is anxious about the arrival of other students.

They all called each other by name. These explicit details lead to the implicit detail that the other students know each other well.

Nobody sat in the chair next to her, and, as the classroom began to fill, she felt her face grow hot.

This explicit detail reveals the implicit detail that Antonia is embarrassed that nobody wants to sit next to her.

Information – Inferences Both explicit details and implicit details can help you to make an inference. Let’s see what inference we can

make about Antonia.

Antonia didn't eat

any breakfast and

didn't look at

anyone in class.

These are explicit

details that can help

you to make an

assumption about

how she is feeling.

Since the other

students called one

another by name

while Antonia stared

straight ahead, we

can assume she is

nervous and doesn't

know anyone.

(Implicit detail)

Antonia is new to

the school and

doesn't have any

friends. But because

Sasha introduced

herself, one could

also make an

inference that Sasha

and Antonia may

become friends.

(Inference)

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Review – Making Inferences

If someone said, I'm so excited to be here right now, but they were standing

like the picture. What inference would you make? You'd probably guess

they weren't very excited at all.

We make inferences all the time. We guess what someone means when

they say something based on their words, their body language, and the

context. An inference is a conclusion based on what you read and what you

already know. Inferences can be made by looking at the explicit and implicit

details of a text. Explicit details are concrete, specifically stated details.

Mr. Williker walked down the street, holding an umbrella. There's Mr. Williker, he's walking,

and he's holding an umbrella. These are explicit details. Then, there are implicit details, or

assumptions derived from explicit details. If Mr. Williker is walking down the street holding

an umbrella, we might assume it's raining. This would be an implicit detail since it's implied

but not directly stated.

Check out what's going on in this image.

Let's start with the explicit details. There are

three children. Two of them wear a mask

and have tied up an adult in the room with a

rope. The other kid is throwing a ball in the

air, there are clothes everywhere, and the

woman sitting in the chair is reading a book.

These are some of the explicit details. What

do these details suggest? The kids are going

wild and fooling around. But the woman has

chosen to ignore them and remain calm.

These are the implicit details. We can make

the inference that this woman is their mother and has been dealing with their antics for so long that

she's at the end of her rope, so to speak. This is an inference, a conclusion we reach based on what we

see and what we already know. It could also be the case that this woman is just reading a really good

book.

Making inferences is not an exact science, but whatever inference you make, just be sure that it's

based on reasoning and evidence.

Key Terms:

Explicit Detail: A concrete, specifically stated detail.

Implicit Detail: An assumption derived from an explicit detail.

Inference: A conclusion based on what you read and what you already know.

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Study Guide – Making Inferences Use this guide to take notes as you work through the activity. Taking good notes can help you remember

important ideas. Your notes on this guide will help you prepare for quizzes and tests.

List two types of details that help readers make inferences.

Read the passage, then identify each sentence in the table as an implicit detail, explicit detail, or inference.

Kamal ran through the parking lot, trying to put on his jersey at the same time. He could hear cheering in the stands and the crackle of the speakers. The introductions would start at any minute. He hoped his teammates wouldn't be too upset with him.

Implicit Explicit Inference

Kamal is running through a parking lot.

Kamal is late for an event.

Kamal is late and doesn't think he'll make it before the game starts.

Read the passage, then complete the table to identify the implicit detail that each explicit detail reveals.

Jilly looked down at the grade on her test and frowned. How had this happened, she wondered. She was usually so good at math, but this test had seemed like it was written in another language. And the school play was in a week, and she had been at rehearsals every night. As she opened her front door, she stuffed the test into her backpack. She could hear her mother in the kitchen and decided that she would tell her mom about the test after the play opened.

Explicit Detail Implicit Detail

Jilly frowned after seeing her grade on the test.

The math test seemed to Jilly like it was written in another language.

Jilly had been rehearsing for a school play every night.

Jilly stuffed the test into her backpack.

Using the explicit and implicit details in the passage above, what inference can you make about Jilly's situation?

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First, circle the explicit detail from the passage. Then circle the implicit detail from the passage.

"I have a surprise for you," Todd's mother said. She set a white box on the table, tied with a bright green bow. Todd looked from the box to his mother, then undid the green bow, took the top off the box, and carefully unfolded the tissue paper. He lifted up a bright yellow sweater, with small bells sewn into the wool. "Isn't it beautiful?" his mother asked. "It's nice," Todd said. He smiled, then refolded the sweater and put it back in the box. "Even better than the one you got me last year. Thanks, Mom." "Why don't you try it on?" Todd hid a grimace. "I have to catch the bus for school, Mom. I'll try it on later."

Explicit Detail

Todd's mother likes to give him gifts. Todd's mother gives him a yellow sweater.

Todd is not going to wear the sweater his mother gives him.

Todd doesn't like the sweater his mother gives him.

Implicit Detail

The sweater Todd's mother gives him has bells on it.

Todd doesn't like the sweater his mother gives him.

Todd's party was supposed to be a surprise. Todd refuses to try on the sweater his mother

gives him.

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Reread the passage below. Then, explain how the explicit and implicit details in the passage help the reader

make the following inference:

Although Carlotta was nervous about her job interview, it went well, and she will probably get the

job.

In developing your response, make sure you identify and analyze several explicit and implicit details.

The espresso machine buzzed as the morning rush of commuters stood in line to get coffee. Carlotta sat at a small table and took out her résumé, rereading it for the 10th time. She smoothed the collar on her black button-down shirt and took a deep breath. Each time the coffee shop door opened, Carlotta's heart raced and she looked up expectantly. Suddenly a man wearing a suit and tie came toward her. "Carlotta?" he asked and held out his hand. Carlotta stood up and shook it firmly. "Mr. Billings," she said, "very nice to meet you." Mr. Billings sat across from her and asked her questions about her experience and professional goals. Carlotta was well prepared, and she answered each question thoroughly. "Well, Carlotta," he said, smiling. "It was a pleasure talking to you. We will definitely be in touch."

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Assessment – Making Inferences 1. Match each term with its definition.

Implicit detail A conclusion based on what you

read and what you already know.

Inference A concrete, specifically stated

detail

Explicit detail An assumption derived from an explicit detail.

2. Identify each example as either explicit or implicit detail.

Explicit Implicit

A text includes vivid imagery to describe exactly what a new building looks like.

A text suggests but does not directly state that a character is sad.

A text creates a sense of excitement without using the word excited.

A text lists the physical features of a character's appearance.

3. Which inference is best supported by the details in the text?

Have you ever walked along Green Street after the elementary school lets out? Watching students skipping along the shoulder of the road with cars and trucks zipping past them just inches away is a terrifying experience. We are lucky that more accidents have not already occurred. The city needs to act immediately to fix this problem.

a. Children are in danger because of the road conditions on Green Street.

b. Students need to learn to be more responsible when they walk home.

c. Parents should pick their children up rather than letting them walk home.

d. The city should change the time that the elementary school lets out.

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4. Which inference is best supported by the details in the text?

Today's Grand Reopening shows that Bob's Big Potato is now actually a good restaurant. After a visit from the Health Department, the owners installed an up-to-date, fully hygienic kitchen. Meanwhile, feedback from customers has helped the chef craft a new menu of tasty, crowd-pleasing offerings. It may not be fancy cuisine, but the basic family fare is fresh and tastes good, and customers are starting to notice. Yes, Bob's has come a long way. If you've crossed it off your list, you should consider giving it another try.

a. Bob's was visited by the Health Department.

b. Bob's is now under new ownership.

c. Bob's was closed for a year.

d. Bob's served unappetizing food in the past.

5. Which detail from the text best supports the inference that leopards typically hunt alone?

Leopards and cheetahs look very similar since both have spotted coats, but the two species of big cats are actually quite different. Leopards are usually bigger than cheetahs, and they are typically more aggressive. Groups of cheetahs work together to hunt small mammals, whereas one leopard can catch an animal weighing as much as 400 pounds. Cheetahs are relatively comfortable around humans and have even been kept as pets, but leopards have occasionally been known to attack humans unprovoked.

a. Leopards are usually bigger than cheetahs

b. Groups of cheetahs work together

c. one leopard can catch an animal

d. leopards have occasionally been known to attack humans

6. Which detail from the text best supports the inference that the Health Department found the kitchen at

Bob's to be unsanitary?

Today's Grand Reopening shows that Bob's Big Potato is now actually a good restaurant. After a visit from the Health Department, the owners installed an up-to-date, fully hygienic kitchen. Meanwhile, feedback from customers has helped the chef craft a new menu of tasty, crowd-pleasing offerings. It may not be fancy cuisine, but the basic family fare is fresh and tastes good, and customers are starting to notice. Yes, Bob's has come a long way. If you've crossed it off your list, you should consider giving it another try.

a. After a visit from the Health Department

b. an up-to-date, fully hygienic kitchen

c. a new menu of tasty, crowd-pleasing offerings

d. Yes, Bob's has come a long way

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7. Read the passage below. Then, explain how the explicit and implicit details in the passage help the

reader make the following inference:

Felix will most likely cast his vote for Simone.

In developing your response, make sure you identify and analyze several explicit and implicit details.

The secret-ballot election for class president was this afternoon, but Felix didn't know how he would be

voting. Felix knew this was a big deal, since the class presidents had a major say in how the school was run.

While Felix waited for Jamal and Simone to deliver their final speeches, he took out a charcoal pencil and pad

and did a quick sketch of Simone, who paced frantically at the back of the room, wringing her hands. Simone

spoke first, rambling at the beginning but then slowing down a bit. Her main focus, she said, would be getting

more money for art class supplies and more space for the music program — which caused Felix to glance

thoughtfully at the trumpet case next to his desk. When it was Jamal's turn, he immediately captivated the

audience — tall and handsome, he seemed able to convince anyone of anything, except his best friend, Felix.

That's why Jamal liked Felix — he was a freethinker. In his speech, Jamal explained how he wanted to cut back

on music and the arts in favor of more science and math, which he said was important for the future of our

country. The class applauded wildly, but Felix had already stopped listening and returned to his sketch of

Simone.

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Study Guide Answers

Central Idea Complete the sentence:

A writer uses supporting details, such as reasons, facts, and examples to develop the __central idea.

Circle the central idea on the left that is best developed by the supporting details on the right.

Central Idea Circle One

Supporting Details

Walking is a healthier exercise option than running.

Exercise promotes bone and muscle health and reduces the risk of disease.

Exercise is a vital part of a healthy lifestyle. Even mild activities like walking improve mental

health and memory.

Exercise, good sleep habits, and healthy eating all contribute to weight loss.

People who move more have higher energy levels.

Circle the statement that best states the central idea of the following passage?

Bento boxes are carefully packed by homemakers for their families.

Bento boxes are readily available throughout Japan.

Bento boxes are a fun, popular, and healthy lunch option in Japan.

Bento boxes sometimes contain elaborately decorated foods.

Complete the sentence:

When a text has more than one central idea, each is developed by its own _supporting details.

Read the opening sentence below. Then, identify the central ideas the details support.

Opening Sentence Having a pet is a great way to reduce stress, but the decision to care for a pet should not be taken lightly.

Central Idea #1 Sample Response: Owning a pet can help improve

your health and well-being.

Central Idea #2 Sample Response: Pet ownership requires a

commitment.

Supporting Details:

Petting an animal can decrease stress hormones and lower blood pressure.

Pet ownership makes people feel safer, more independent, and more in control.

Supporting Details:

Pets rely on their owners for food, shelter, and exercise.

Caring for a pet takes time, money, and responsibility.

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Determine whether each idea from the passage below is a central idea or not.

Central Idea Not a Central Idea

Diabetes can cause serious health complications. X

Getting regular exercise can combat the effects of diabetes. X

Diabetes can damage the eyes, kidneys, and heart. X

Diabetes can be controlled through lifestyle changes. X

Read the passage below, and identify its two central ideas. Then explain how each central idea is backed up

by supporting details.

Having a pet is a great way to reduce stress, but the decision to care for a pet should not be taken lightly. Studies show that the simple act of petting an animal can decrease levels of stress-producing hormones in the body, which can help to lower blood pressure. Pet ownership also has psychological benefits, such as enhancing feelings of safety, independence, and control, which lead to a greater sense of relaxation. Pets make wonderful companions, but it's also important that owners ensure they have the ability to take care of their animals properly. Pets are often unable to care for themselves and must rely on their owners for food, shelter, and exercise. Owners should consider if they can properly provide a pet with these necessary things before bringing one home. Pets can be both a great joy and a big responsibility.

Sample Response:

The passage's first central idea is that pet ownership can help to relieve stress. For supporting details, the author

points to a study that shows that interacting with pets can lower the levels of stress hormones and also

mentions the psychological benefits of pet ownership that can lead to further relaxation. The second central

idea builds on the first central idea by stating that although pets are wonderful to have around, the

responsibility of pet ownership should be taken very seriously. As a supporting detail, the author points out that

pets depend on humans for many things and that pet owners must be willing and able to provide all of these

things for their pets.

Be sure your response (1) identifies two central ideas in the passage and (2) explains how each central idea is

backed up by supporting details.

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Making Inferences List two types of details that help readers make inferences.

Sample Response: Explicit details and implicit details

Read the passage, then identify each sentence in the table as an implicit detail, explicit detail, or inference.

Kamal ran through the parking lot,…

Implicit Explicit Inference

Kamal is running through a parking lot. X

Kamal is late for an event. X

Kamal is late and doesn't think he'll make it before the game starts.

X

Read the passage, then complete the table to identify the implicit detail that each explicit detail reveals.

Jilly looked down at the grade on her test and frowned. How had this happened, she wondered. She was usually so good at math, but this test had seemed like it was written in another language. And the school play was in a week, and she had been at rehearsals every night. As she opened her front door, she stuffed the test into her backpack. She could hear her mother in the kitchen and decided that she would tell her mom about the test after the play opened.

Explicit Detail Implicit Detail

Jilly frowned after seeing her grade on the test.

Sample Response: Jill’s grade on the test was not good.

The math test seemed to Jilly like it was written in another language.

Sample Response: The test was very hard for her.

Jilly had been rehearsing for a school play every night.

Sample Response: Jill did not study for the test.

Jilly stuffed the test into her backpack.

Sample Response: Jill is not satisfied with the test score

Using the explicit and implicit details in the passage above, what inference can you make about Jilly's situation? Sample Response: Jill is going to get into trouble about the score she earned on the math test. She is probably going to hide it from her parents.

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First, circle the explicit detail from the passage. Then circle the implicit detail from the passage.

"I have a surprise for you," …

Explicit Detail

Todd's mother likes to give him gifts. Todd's mother gives him a yellow sweater.

Todd is not going to wear the sweater his mother gives him.

Todd doesn't like the sweater his mother gives him.

Implicit Detail

The sweater Todd's mother gives him has bells on it.

Todd doesn't like the sweater his mother gives him.

Todd's party was supposed to be a surprise. Todd refuses to try on the sweater his mother

gives him.

Reread the passage below. Then, explain how the explicit and implicit details in the passage help the reader

make the following inference:

Although Carlotta was nervous about her job interview, it went well and she will probably get the job.

In developing your response, make sure you identify and analyze several explicit and implicit details.

The espresso machine buzzed as the morning rush of commuters stood in line to get coffee….

Sample Response:

Explicit details such as the fact that she kept rereading her résumé and that her heart raced every time the door

opened suggest that Carlotta was nervous. The explicit details of the interaction between Carlotta and Mr.

Billings suggest the implicit detail that the interview went well. The passage says that Carlotta was prepared for

every question she was asked. This allows the reader to infer that, though she was nervous for the interview, it

went well and she will probably get the job.

Evaluate Your Response:

If your response does not look like the sample, ask yourself if you (1) answered the question in the prompt, (2)

provided specific examples from the text, and (3) explained why you chose the examples.

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Extensions Here are additional readings to support learning for the week. These are optional, and

the purpose is to provide high-quality texts for middle school students to read. “Nipsey Hussle Street Art in Los Angeles Breathes Life into Legacy”, Associated Press

“From Tiger to Free-range Parents – What Research Says About Pros and Cons of Popular

Parenting Style”, Rebecca English

The Child, J. Patrick Lewis

Feathers, Anonymous

How the Stories Came to Be, Mabel Powers

Reading is thinking, and it is beneficial to write about your thinking after you read. Here are some

sentence starters is you need them

I felt confused when…and so I… The part…was…because… I figured out that…

I read…pages because I was…;

tomorrow I plan on…

A word/phrase I did not completely

understand:

I only read…because…next time

I’ll…by…

I finally understood…because… I stopped because…What I did next

was…

I remembered that earlier in the

text…

I started to think about…and so I… I was distracted by…but then I… The time went quickly because…

I got stuck when…What I did was… I lost track of everything except… I first thought…but then realized…

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NIPSEY HUSSLE STREET ART IN LOS ANGELES BREATHES LIFE INTO

LEGACY Associated Press

Introduction: Nipsey Hussle was an American rapper, business owner, and community activist from Los Angeles, California. This article discusses how fans began memorializing him after he was killed outside his clothing store in 2019. In this reading, you’ll practice identifying an author’s central idea and how they support it. This means paying attention to the evidence they give for their central idea and the details they provide to clarify it. As you read, identify evidence that reveals the impact Nipsey Hussle had on his community. Also, pause after each break to double-check your understanding of the article.

Along busy highways, on the sides of buildings and inside a school basketball court, more than 50 colorful murals

of Nipsey Hussle have popped up in Los Angeles since the beloved rapper and community activist was gunned

down outside his clothing store.

Some show the rapper gazing into the sky or bowing his head. One has him standing with angel wings. Others

include inspiring 1quotes. The street artists who created the work said they want his legacy 2to grow and his

entrepreneurial 3spirit to live on.

“He wasn’t the biggest star, but I knew his music. His passing led me to rediscover him under a completely new

light,” said Levi Ponce, who created an elaborate blue, black and white mural on 26-foot-building with Hussle’s

image in one day. A lyric from his song “Victory Lap” was written above his head.

Hussle was fatally shot on March 31 while standing outside The Marathon, his South Los Angeles clothing store,

not far from where he was raised.

Who was Nipsey Hussle?

“As a muralist, my philosophy is that we can do our part today with what we have now,” Ponce said. “In my

case, I’m a painter and paint in the streets. Nipsey was able to give it on a greater scale. He went out of his way

to help the community. For me, that’s motivation and inspiration. So I had to get my paint on the walls right

away after hearing the sad news.”

Eric R. Holder Jr., who has been charged with killing Hussle, has pleaded not guilty. Police have said Holder and

Hussle had several interactions 4the day of the shooting and have described it as being the result of a personal

dispute5.

1 Inspire (verb) : to encourage or energize 2 Legacy (noun) : something a person leaves behind for future generations to benefit from 3 Entrepreneur (noun) : a business person 4 Interaction (noun) : communication or direct involvement with someone or something 5 Dispute (noun) : argument; disagreement

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The death of the 33-year-old Hussle sent a shock wave through the hip-hop community and beyond. Fans

poured out adoration 6for a man whose career hit new heights with Victory Lap, his first studio album that

earned a Grammy nomination after he released much sought-after 7mixtapes for a decade. He was an up-and-

coming rapper and beloved figure for his philanthropic work 8that went well beyond the usual celebrity “giving

back” ethos9.

After he passed away, Hussle’s peers, from Jay-Z to Snoop Dogg, along with political and community leaders,

were quick and effusive 10in their praise using words. For Ponce and others, paint was how they paid homage.

Why are people making a mural of Nipsey Hussle?

“The world is uniting because of him. You can see the revival 11of all the murals going up,” said Nick Ansom, CEO

of the Venice Basketball League. He spearheaded a project to create the Nipsey Hussle Memorial Basketball

Court at the nonprofit charter school Crete Academy, a few blocks from Hussle’s clothing store.

The basketball court is painted blue with a checkerboard border and a side view of Hussle at midcourt. Ansom

said he felt the urge to push forward the initiative 12to create a basketball court mural in honor of Hussle as a

“thank you” to the rapper who he says was “starting to reach his peak.” He and his partner, Michael McLeod,

drove around South Los Angeles looking for possible schools before Crete Academy founder-principal Hattie

Mitchell agreed to embrace 13the idea.

Afterward, Ansom drew his vision for the mural on paper and called artist Gustavo Zermeno Jr. to design it. He

said about 40 people gathered to paint and touch up the mural in a week’s time frame. Hussle’s father and sister

attended the ribbon-cutting ceremony to unveil it just days after the rapper’s public memorial service, which

drew more than 20,000 people to the Staples Center.

“Nipsey was an advocate 14and passionate (about) the game (of basketball),” said Ansom, who started his

basketball league in 2006 after he moved to Los Angeles from France. He called himself a big fan of Hussle’s

music and visited his clothing store to purchase apparel.

“He used to host charity games at Crenshaw High School,” he said. “He was always around the game. (This

mural) is hip-hop, basketball and art all in one.”

Before Zermeno helped create Hussle’s basketball court mural, he had already done some street art of the

rapper elsewhere in town. He painted a mural of Hussle in between other popular Los Angeles figures including

Lakers player LeBron James and Snoop Dogg on the side of a clothing store. When Ansom asked for his help,

Zermeno said it was a “no brainer.” The muralist feels he’s just doing his part to celebrate Hussle by doing both

for free.

6 Adoration (noun) : deep love or respect 7 Sought-after: in demand or wanted by many people 8 Philanthropic work: charity work that supports people 9 Ethos: attitude or belief 10 Effusive: enthusiastic 11 Revive (verb) : to give new energy or strength to something 12 Initiative: plan or effort 13 Embrace (verb) : to accept or support 14 Advocate (noun) : a person who supports a cause or activity

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“It’s bigger than just painting a mural,” said Zermeno, who has also created murals of the late Mac Miller and

Selena. “A lot of the murals are solidifying 15Nipsey’s legacy.”

Why did Nick Ansom and Gustavo Zermeno honor Hussle with a mural on a basketball court?

Mitchell shed tears while talking about Hussle’s positive influence over her students at Crete Academy and the

community. She was not only taken aback by the mural at her school, but also by the many others around town.

“These murals are popping up every day,” she said. “There are photos that are truly memorializing this man.

Most people are coming here to take photos with their family and etc. But I saw an individual who didn’t have

his phone out. He had his shoulders up, his head down. At that moment, I truly realized that our memorial in our

court is somewhat of a gravesite... It’s a place where you can remember someone, feel their spirit and grieve16.”

Retrieved from: https://www.commonlit.org/en/texts/nipsey-hussle-street-art-in-los-angeles-breathes-life-into-

legacy-1 on April 14, 2020

15 Solidify (verb) : to make stronger 16 Grieve (verb) : to feel sadness over someone’s death

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FROM TIGER TO FREE-RANGE PARENTS — WHAT RESEARCH SAYS

ABOUT PROS AND CONS OF POPULAR PARENTING STYLES Rebecca English

Introduction: There are many different ways to raise a child. In this text, Rebecca English discusses three parenting styles. You’ll practice identifying an author’s central idea and how they support it. This means paying attention to the evidence and reasons they give for their idea. As you read, make note of the details on the three parenting styles and what is the author’s central idea. Also, pause after each break to double-check your understanding of the article.

What’s the best way to raise your child? It’s a question that has provoked the publication of numerous books,

and seen authors race to coin the next quirky name for a new style of parenting.

And it turns out there are many styles. To date, some of the best known include:

Tiger parents, who are seen as pushing their children to succeed according to their parents’ terms.

Helicopter parents, who take over every aspect of the child’s life.

Free-range parents, who allow children a great deal of freedom.

So what does research say about the pros and cons of each of these parenting styles?

Which parenting style would most likely want to control every aspect of a child’s life?

TIGER PARENTS

Type of parent: You expect first-time obedience, excellence in every endeavour and a child who never talks

back.

Who coined it? Amy Chua popularized this name in her 2011 book Battle Hymn of the Tiger Mother. Chua

describes tiger parents, often seen in Chinese families, as superior to Western 17parents. Chinese parents

assume strength and don’t shy away from calling their children names. Chua, for example, called her daughters

“garbage” and “a disgrace” when she thought they might fail. Tiger parents assume their children owe them and

expect their children to repay them by being obedient and making them proud.

Why parents choose this style: Tiger mothers are, as Chua attests18, socialized to be this way by their cultural

background. Thus, when they successfully demand an hour of piano practice it’s part of their cultural

background that the child complies. Western parents will have a hard time emulating 19the years of

acculturation 20that leads to that moment.

17 “Western” countries include the United States, Canada, Australia and nations in western Europe. 18 Attest (verb) : to declare that something is the case 19 Emulate (verb) : to match or surpass 20 Acculturation is the process of adopting the cultural traits or social patterns of a group.

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Parents who follow Chua may do so because they want their child to be successful. It may be these parents hold

deep insecurities about the future. These parents are most likely authoritarian. Authoritarian parents are the

authority in their child’s life. They set the rules and say “jump” and their child responds “how high?”.

Pros: Raising a child in this way can lead to them being more productive, motivated and responsible.

Cons: Children can struggle to function in daily life or in new settings, which may lead to depression, anxiety and

poor social skills.

How would a tiger parent respond to a child not wanting to do something?

HELICOPTER PARENTS

Type of parent: You step in to prevent your toddler’s every struggle; you are over-involved in your child’s

education and frequently call their teacher; you can’t stop watching over your teenager.

Who coined it? Psychologist Foster Cline and education consultant Jim Fay coined the phrase in 1990 in their

book: Parenting with Love and Logic. They described helicopter parents as being confused about the difference

between love and saving children from themselves. Another name for helicopter parenting is “overparenting”.

Why parents choose this style: These parents are likely to be scared for their child’s future, perhaps like tiger

parents. They may not trust their child’s ability to navigate the world. By hovering around they may think

children will be inoculated 21against failing.

Pros: Parents can be overprotective, which may save their child or adolescent from problems they would not

foresee.

Cons: Children can lack emotional resilience 22and independence, which can affect them into adulthood. Being a

child of a helicopter parent may lead to an inability to control behavior.

There’s even an “AskReddit” devoted to the worst aspects of growing up with helicopter parents. Stories include

a contributor, 21 at the time, whose father followed them to jury duty, because he didn’t trust they could do it

properly. It’s claimed dad had a tantrum when he was kicked out by the security guard.

Would a helicopter parent allow their child to fail a class?

FREE-RANGE PARENTS

Type of parent: You believe your role is to trust your child. You equip them with the skills to stay safe, and then

back off.

Who coined it? The term was made famous by a case of “neglect” against Lenore Skenazy, a former columnist

who wrote about letting her nine-year-old son ride the New York subway alone. The experience led to her being

labelled “America’s worst mother” and prompted her to write a book. The book was about fighting the

perception 23that the world was getting more dangerous.

21 Inoculate: protected 22 Resilience (noun) : the ability to recover quickly from difficulties; toughness 23 Perception (noun) : a way of understanding or interpreting something

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This parenting approach is about giving children the freedom their parents experienced when they were kids in

the 1970s and 1980s.

Why parents choose this style: Psychologists and experts suggest this style is a backlash against anxiety-driven,

risk-averse child rearing. It may be that Skenazy is right, we are worrying too much about everything from germs

to other people

Pros: Children learn to use their freedom, be autonomous 24and manage themselves. They may also be better

able to handle mistakes, be more resilient and take responsibility for their actions. It’s also said to lead to

happier adults.

Cons: Problems with this style center on the legal aspects of the approach. In 2015, a mother and father from

Silver Spring, Maryland, were charged with neglect because they allowed their two children, ages 6 and 10, to

walk home from a park by themselves.

In one sentence, summarize what free-range parents believe.

Retrieved from: https://www.commonlit.org/en/texts/from-tiger-to-free-range-parents-what-research-says-

about-pros-and-cons-of-popular-parenting-styles on April 14, 2020.

24 Autonomous: free from control or help

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Describe who is allowed to attend 17th Street Elementary?

How did people treat Sylvia when she visited 17th

Street Elementary?

The Child J. Patrick Lewis

Introduction: J. Patrick Lewis is an American poet and prose writer known for his children’s poetry. In this poem, the speaker describes the experiences of Sylvia Mendez, an important Civil Rights activist of Mexican–Puerto Rican heritage. Mendez played an important role in the desegregation of schools in California, meaning that white and Mexican American students were no longer forced to go to separate schools based on their race. As you read, take notes on Sylvia’s perception of the different schools. Also, pause after each stanza to double-check your understanding of the poem.

Sylvia pushed into the wind,

Septembering the trees,

and hurdled over a railroad track

to a two-room shack

that never read “Browns Only.”

It did not have to.

Under the billion-acre sky,

she wondered, Did white girls

at 17th Street Elementary really

wear rainbow necklaces?

Aunt Sally took her there once.

Eyes sharp as icepicks pierced

the windowpanes as if seeing

a Mexican for the first time.

Every door was locked with a

secret combination of frowns.

How can anyone ever get in?

Sylvia asked. Someone must know

who has the right key…

She looked up at her mother.

Maybe me?

Retrieved from: https://www.commonlit.org/en/texts/the-child on April 14, 2020

Where does Sylvia go?

What does the author mean using the phrase “right key”?

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Feathers Anonymous

In this short story by an anonymous writer, a woman spreads a rumor, unaware of the consequences of her actions. As you read, take notes on how the woman’s understanding of rumors changes throughout the story. Also, pause after each break to double-check your understanding of the story.

A sharp-tongued woman was accused of starting a rumor. When she was brought before the village rabbi25, she

said, “I was only joking. My words were spread by others, and so I am not to blame.”

But the victim demanded justice, saying, “Your words soiled 26my good name!”

“I’ll take back what I said,” replied the sharp-tongued woman, “and that will take away my guilt.” When the

rabbi heard this, he knew that this woman truly did not understand her crime.

How does the woman feel about the situation?

And so he said to the woman, “Your words will not be excused until you have done the following. Bring my

feather pillow to the market square. Cut it and let the feathers fly through the air. Then collect every one of the

feathers from the pillow and bring them all back to me. When you have done this, you will be absolved 27of your

crime.”

The woman agreed, but thought to herself, The old rabbi has finally gone mad!

She did as he asked, and cut the pillow. Feathers blew far and wide over the square and beyond. The wind

carried them here and there, up into trees and under merchants’ carts. She tried to catch them, but after much

effort it was clear to her that she would never find them all.

She returned to the rabbi with only a few feathers in her hand. Facing the rabbi, she said, “I could not take back

the feathers any more than I could take back my words. From now on I will be careful not to say anything that

would harm another, for there is no way to control the flight of words, any more than I could control the flight

of these feathers.” From that day, the woman spoke kindly of all she had met.

What did you woman finally realize about her words?

Retrieved from: https://www.commonlit.org/en/texts/feathers on April 14, 2020

25 Rabbi - a Jewish scholar or teacher 26 Soil (verb) : to make dirty 27 Absolve (verb) : to free from guilt or blame

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How the Stories Came to Be Mabel Powers

Introduction: Mabel Powers’ book Stories the Iroquois Tell Their Children retells important stories from the Iroquois, a collection of northeast Native American tribes. Powers preserved these stories by traveling from tribe to tribe to listen and record them. In this story from her book, a narrator describes how stories came to be. As you read, take notes on the Iroquois’ process for storytelling. Also, pause after each break to double-check your understanding of the story.

Out of the moons of long ago, these stories have come. Then, every tribe of the Iroquois had its storyteller.

When the Old Man of the North came out of his lodge, and the forests and rivers of the Iroquois grew white

with his breath, these storytellers wandered from wigwam 28to wigwam.

Seated on warm skins by the fire, the storyteller would exclaim, “Hanio!” This meant, “Come, gather round, and

I will tell a story.”

What does the storyteller want to do?

Then all would cry, “Heh,” and draw close to the fire. This meant that they were glad to hear the story. And as

the flames leaped and chased one another along the fire trail, they would listen to these wonder stories of the

Little People, of the trees and flowers, of birds, of animals, and men. When the storyteller had finished, he said,

“Na ho.” This meant, “It is the end.”

The earth was very young, when the Iroquois first learned how everything came to be, and just why it is that

things are as they are. They told these wonderful things to their children, and their children in turn told them to

their children; and those children again in turn told them to theirs, that these things might not be forgotten.

How do the Iroquois share stories?

Now, but few of the Iroquois know these stories that the grandmothers and old men of the tribe used to tell.

The storyteller is no longer seen wandering from wigwam to wigwam.

What happened to the stories?

Retrieved from: https://www.commonlit.org/en/texts/how-the-stories-came-to-be on April 14, 2020

28 Wigwam: a dome-shaped hut or tent