Answer Key: 1. a) Overcoming fear and adversity 2. c) It suggests a sense of chaos and confusion. 3. c) Personification 4. a) The challenges and obstacles in life’s journey 5. a) Hopeful and empowering

Vocabulary Matching: 1. d) To shake or quiver 2. c) A feeling of sadness or depression 3. e) Rigid or not easily bent 4. b) To walk with long and determined strides 5. a) To repair or fix

Passage Scenario Based Questions: Passage 1: 1. The wind symbolizes the external forces or obstacles that try to prevent the protagonist from following their own path. 2. The phrase “stiff fingers” creates a vivid image and suggests that the wind is forcefully trying to hold the protagonist back.

Passage 2: 3. The phrase “the stars began to burn” suggests that hope and guidance are starting to shine through the darkness. 4. The phrase “sheets of clouds” emphasizes the thickness and density of the clouds, further highlighting the obstacles and challenges the protagonist faces.

Passage 3: 5. The phrase “a new voice” signifies the protagonist’s growing self-awareness and confidence in their own decisions.

Riddle Questions: 1. A guiding light or a compass. 2. Fallen branches or stones. 3. Making a life-saving decision or being a hero.

Critical Thinking Real-World Application Questions: 1. (Answers will vary.) 2. The theme of following one’s own path and purpose can be applied to someone’s journey through high school by encouraging them to pursue their own interests and goals, rather than conforming to societal expectations or peer pressure. 3. (Answers will vary.)