Reading Check and Short Answer questions on key plot points are designed for guided reading assignments, in-class review, formative assessment, quizzes, and more.

Reading Check

1. Who does Mrs. Sheridan decide will host the annual garden party this year?

2. Which gesture from the workmen makes Laura “[forget] all about the karakas”? (Page 2)

3. Which delicacy do Jose and Laura succumb to, although they are “far too grown up to really care about such things”? (Page 6)

4. Immediately following Jose and Laura’s quarrel about the appropriateness of holding the party, which part of Laura’s news is Mrs. Sheridan most concerned about?

5. What does Laura apologize for in the widow’s home?

Short Answer

Answer each question in at least 1 complete sentence. Incorporate details from the text to support your response.

1. Summarize the song that Jose performs for her family. How is the content of the lyrics juxtaposed against the mood of the day?

2. Describe the information that Godber’s deliveryman brings to the Sheridan house. What is the difference between how Jose and Laura react to the news?

3. Compare and contrast the descriptions of the Sheridans’ property with the little cottages.

4. After the garden party ends, what does Mrs. Sheridan suggest that Laura do in order to help the widow and her family? How does Laura react?

5.