PARCC Grade 8 ELA Practice Test Questions

Question 1

1. What is the best way to describe Gawaine's character?

Accepted Answer

Cowardly and apathetic

Answer

Based on the context of the story (implied by the series of questions about Gawaine), Gawaine is consistently portrayed as unwilling to face challenges and lacking enthusiasm. His actions and attitudes throughout the narrative suggest a character who is both afraid (cowardly) and indifferent (apathetic) to his responsibilities, particularly regarding dragon fighting.

Question 2

2. What is the meaning of "his better nature"?

Accepted Answer

A man's nobler instincts

Answer

The phrase 'his better nature' refers to the more virtuous, honorable, or moral aspects of a person's character. It implies a person's higher qualities or impulses, often in contrast to more selfish or base instincts. Therefore, 'a man's nobler instincts' is the most accurate and direct interpretation of this idiom.

Question 3

3. How does the Headmaster put the professor at ease about Gawaine?

Accepted Answer

He mentions that Gawaine will be given a magic word.

Answer

In the narrative, the Headmaster attempts to reassure the professor about Gawaine's safety and prospects. He does this by revealing that Gawaine will be equipped with a 'magic word,' implying it will offer protection or assistance in his dragon-fighting endeavors. This specific detail is presented as the Headmaster's method of alleviating the professor's concerns.

Question 4

4. What would be a good question for the Headmaster to consider?

Accepted Answer

Will Gawaine want to learn about fighting dragons?

Answer

Given Gawaine's implied character (cowardly and apathetic from Q7), a crucial consideration for the Headmaster should be Gawaine's willingness to engage with the training. It's not enough for the professor to be willing to teach or for the opportunity to exist; Gawaine's personal desire and motivation to learn about fighting dragons are paramount to any potential success.

Question 5

5. Suppose that Gawaine's parents have him removed from the school. Would the Headmaster still want Gawaine to learn to fight dragons?

Accepted Answer

No, he would be happy with the tuition payment.

Answer

The Headmaster's primary concern, as suggested by the context of the story, appears to be financial gain rather than Gawaine's personal development as a dragon fighter. If Gawaine's parents removed him but the tuition was already paid, the Headmaster would likely be content with the payment and the absence of a potentially difficult student, indicating his motivation is transactional.

PARCC Practice Test

PARCC Practice Test

PARCC Grade 8 ELA Practice Test Questions