Analyzing Precise Language
Highlight the precise words the author uses to describe the island.
A barren rock face loomed ahead of them, without a hint of green anywhere. Worse, boulders rose out of the water like sharp claws ready to tear the boat to pieces.
—Heart of a Samurai,
Margi Preus
Which word best describes the island?
familiar
threatening
welcoming
green

Which of the following words best describes gregors life as expressed in this passage a.) excitingb.)surprisingc.)satisfying d.)demanding

Which statement best evaluates the author's use of pacing in the passage? a. the author's use of pacing is not effective, because the imagery and figurative language don't adequately describe either the cheetah or the gazelle. b. the author's use of pacing is effective, because the imagery and figurative language speed up the action, making the scene come alive for the reader. c. the author's use of pacing is effective, because the long, complex sentences the reader fully understand the power and beauty of nature. d. the author's use of pacing is not effective, because the long, complex sentences distract from the sense of stress and anxiety the passage should convey.

How does the literature of this period influence future generations of american literature? where have you seen traces of these themes and how were they presented in the other literature you read?