1. What does Mr. Johnson do for a living?
He is a farmer.
How do you know this?
The text states he "surveyed the field," that it was "well seeded," and that "He had seeded it himself." These actions are characteristic of a farmer.
2. Why is Mr. Johnson cursing the sun?
He is cursing the sun because its heat and lack of rain have caused a severe drought, drying out his field and preventing his crops from growing.
How do you know this?
The text says, "The insatiable sun drained the land of all moisture," the dirt was "bone dry, almost powdery," and "nothing sprang from the dirt" despite him having seeded the field.
3. Why does Mr. Johnson go to church at the end of the passage?
He goes to church to pray for rain, as a last resort after his crops have failed due to the drought.
How do you know this?
After observing his failed crops, he says, "Well, there's only one thing left to do," and then heads to church, implying he is seeking divine intervention.
4. What is Warren doing?
Warren is taking out the trash.
How do you know this?
He is dragging a "heavy black plastic sack," which gets ripped, spilling "foul, odorous juice." He then walks "out to the alley and deposited the bag in a large plastic container," which is typical behavior for disposing of household garbage.
5. Why does Warren get so angry when the bag spills on his leg?
He gets angry because the spilled contents are foul-smelling and messy, and they have ruined his pants.
How do you know this?
The text describes the spill as "foul, odorous juice" and notes Warren's reaction: "Ew... gross!" He is also "still muttering about his pants" as he leaves, indicating his anger is directed at the mess on his clothing.
Parent Tip: Review the logic above to help your child master the concept of reading worksheet for 8th grade.
