Critical Skills Assignment Answer Keyclassroomwilliams.weebly.com/uploads/6/4/3/1/... · Critical...

English | Critical Skills Assignment | Critical Reading and Argument Writing (A)

© 2014 K12 Inc. All rights reserved. of 22 Copying or distributing without K12’s written consent is prohibited.

Critical Skills Assignment Answer Key

Critical Reading and Argument Writing (A)

Starter feedback for correct and incorrect answers is in blue. Use or adapt the feedback in this answer key as you

grade each student assignment. Many answers will vary. The model answers demonstrate what a complete

student response should include, but they do not represent the only correct response to most questions.

Read the passage. Then answer the questions.

Adopting a Dog

(1) Adopting a dog is no small matter. Dogs require a lot of care, and that care is a responsibility that

must be taken seriously. Many people adopt a dog or puppy because it is cute and lovable. Sometimes they

don’t realize how much work is involved until after they get their new pet home. For it to be a successful

match, you need to know what kind of dog will best fit into your life. Breeders, animal shelters, and rescue

groups want to ensure that the dogs and puppies they adopt out are going to good homes. Shelters try to

match a dog with the best family for it. They don’t want the new relationship to fail and the dog returned to

them. Before sending a dog or puppy home with anyone, these agencies want to know about the home

environment of the adoptive family.

Puppy or Adult Dog

(2) Once you’ve decided you want a dog, determine if you want a puppy or an older dog. All dogs

require training. But puppies require a lot more. Puppies need to be housebroken and this requires taking

them outside more frequently. They need obedience training to learn commands such as sit, stay, and come.

Puppies also need to learn how to walk on a leash properly. Older dogs have most likely been housebroken,

answer to basic commands, and walk well on a leash. But sometimes they need to learn new commands or

have additional training to correct problems they may have. Another advantage of an adult dog is it won’t

grow any larger.

Size and Temperament

(3) The size and temperament of the dog is important as well. Small dogs are well-suited for

apartments and condominiums. Large dogs, such as Labrador retrievers, need a lot of exercise. They may

not be happy living without a yard to roam in. If you want a dog to run along on your morning jog, a bulldog

may not be able to keep up with you. Determining the size and temperament that fits best with your lifestyle

will help you narrow your search.

Purebred or Mutt

(4) You may have a few dog breeds in mind, but some research is in order. For example, you may

want a Dalmatian because of the movie 101 Dalmatians you saw when you were younger. But before going

ahead and buying a Dalmatian, research this breed to find out more about it. Dalmatians are very cute. They

are also very active and require a lot of exercise. They are highly intelligent and sensitive, so training them will



be a challenge. Think about where you live. If it’s a small apartment in the city, a Dalmatian may not be the

right dog for you.

(5) There are dog-related websites that describe the characteristics of breeds. Some websites even

have online questionnaires. Answering these will provide a list of breeds best suited to your requirements.

Ask your veterinarian to recommend a breed. If you don’t have a vet yet, do your research and ask questions

at the vet you intend to use once you have your new pet. You may want to consider mixed breeds as well.

Mixed breed dogs tend to be healthier than purebreds. Many purebreds have a risk of inherited diseases.

Where to Find Your Dog

(6) Once you’ve decided the age and breed of dog you want, it’s time to determine where to look for

the next member of your family. If you want a purebred dog, research breeders, or look for breed-specific

rescue groups. But don’t dismiss your local animal shelter or humane society. About 25 percent of shelter

dogs are purebred. And there are dozens of mixed breed dogs at shelters waiting for a good home. Your vet

may have a patient that recently had pups. Or maybe one of the vet’s clients is looking to re-home their dog.

The website Petfinder.com lists dogs for adoption across the country. You can search for dogs in your area by

breed, age, and gender. The listings indicate if the dog is being offered for adoption through a shelter or a

rescue group.

Breeders

(7) Breeders mate certain dogs to maintain or produce specific qualities and characteristics specific

to that breed of dog. Puppies from reputable breeders come with “papers.” This is a dog registration

certificate. It lists the puppy’s birthdate and its parents. The breeder also provides the puppy’s pedigree. This

is a family tree that shows the puppy’s bloodline for four or more generations. With these papers, the new

owner can register the puppy with the American Kennel Club (AKC). As a member of the AKC, a puppy is

eligible to participate in AKC events. Some of these are agility, obedience, tracking, field trails, and dog

shows.

(8) Reputable breeders care about their dogs. They want to place a puppy in a loving home. They

will not sell puppies to just anyone. Be wary of anyone who has bred a dog at home and is anxious to sell the

puppies quickly.

Rescue Groups

(9) Some people are fond of a certain dog breed and are concerned for those of the breed that are

homeless or neglected. They often organize a breed-specific rescue group. Volunteers search shelters for

purebred dogs or those that display distinctive characteristics of that breed. Many times they rescue dogs and

puppies that can no longer stay at the shelter. They try to find them homes. Volunteers temporarily house the

dogs or find foster homes for them until they are adopted. Adoption events are often held in public places

such as pet stores. This allows people to see and spend time with the dogs and puppies. Dogs can also be

found online at the rescue organization’s website or listed on a site like Petfinder.com. There, families can find

pictures and information about the different dogs’ backgrounds and habits.



Animal Shelters

(10) Animal shelters house lost, abandoned, and homeless animals until they are reunited with their

owners or placed in new homes. Most shelters take in only cats and dogs. Unfortunately, some shelters can’t

keep cats and dogs indefinitely if, after a certain period of time, no home is found. Some shelters accept other

animals, such as horses, birds, pigs, and turtles.

(11) Most city or county governments run animal control agencies that house homeless pets. They

accept any animal brought to them or captured by animal control agents on patrol. Private, nonprofit

organizations take in homeless pets as well. Many of these are “no-kill” facilities. No kill means that they don’t

euthanize animals. They rely on donations and grants for their programs. Space is often limited, so

sometimes they have to turn an animal away because there is no room for it.

(12) When you finally pick the dog or puppy that will be part of your family, remember that it’s a

lifetime commitment for the life of the dog.



Choose answers to multiple choice questions. Type responses to questions that ask you to write a response. Be

sure to save your work.

1. Answer the questions about the passage.

(a) What is the author’s purpose in “Adopting a Dog”?

A. to explain that rescue groups are volunteer organizations

B. to explain what to consider before adopting a dog

C. to inform readers that all dogs need training

D. to inform readers that there are multiple ways of finding a dog

Teacher feedback: (The correct answer is B.)

(b) Which sentences from the passage support your answer in Part (a)?

Choose exactly two answers that are correct.

A. Older dogs have mostly likely been housebroken, answer to basic commands, and walk well on a

leash. (Paragraph 2)

B. For it to be a successful match, you need to know what kind of dog will best fit into your life.

(Paragraph 1)

C. Animal shelters house lost, abandoned, and homeless animals until they are reunited with their

owners or placed in a new home. (Paragraph 10)

D. Volunteers search shelters for purebred dogs or those that display distinctive characteristics of

that breed. (Paragraph 9)

E. Determining the size and temperament that fits best with your lifestyle will help narrow your

search. (Paragraph 3)

F. If you want a dog to run along on your morning jog, a bulldog may not be able to keep up with

you. (Paragraph 3)

Teacher feedback: (The correct answers are B and E.)

Score: (2 points – both (a) and (b) must be correct to earn 2 points, if (a) is correct and (b) is incorrect award 1 point, if (a) is incorrect, award 0 points.)



2. How does the author help readers understand how dog rescue groups work?

Use evidence from the text to support your answer.

Model Answer

The author explains that people who are fond of a certain breed of dog will often organize a rescue group to

rescue dogs of that breed or those that have distinctive characteristics of that breed. These organizations are run

by volunteers who search shelters for purebred dogs. Most of these dogs cannot stay at shelters because the

shelters need the space for mixed breed dogs. The author explains the main purpose of the volunteers is to find a

new home for these dogs. The rescue group will hold adoption events where people can view the dogs. The

organization will post pictures and descriptions of the dogs and their backgrounds on the rescue group’s website.

The author explains that the rescue group will find housing for the dog or a foster family to take it in until a

permanent home is found.

Award points for specific answers as shown below (for a total of 0–2 points).

Points Concept Addressed Feedback for Student Answers

2 The answer analyzes how the author helps

readers understand how dog rescue groups

work. The answer uses evidence from the text

to support it. (1 point for explanation, 1 point

for evidence)

Your answer should analyze how the author helps readers understand how dog rescue groups work. Your answer should use evidence from the text to support it.

Feedback for completely correct answer:

Your answer analyzes how the author helps readers understand how dog rescue groups work. Your answer uses evidence from the text to support it.

3. How does the section Where to Find Your Dog contribute to the development of the author’s key ideas?


Model Answer

In this section, the author tells readers that after they determine the age and breed of the dog they want, the next

step is to determine where that dog can be found. This section provides an overview of the options people have of

where to search for a dog—researching breeders, contacting breed-specific rescue groups, or going to animal

shelters or humane societies. The author also explains that people can look online at websites, such as

Petfinder.com, to look for dogs that are available for adoption. They can search for dogs in their area by breed,

age, and gender. The listings will indicate if the dog is offered through a shelter or a rescue group. The author

follows this section with more in-depth information about each of the three options of places of where to find

adoptable dogs.





2 The answer analyzes how the section Where

to Find Your Dog contributes to the

development of the author’s key ideas. The

answer uses evidence from the text to support

it. (1 point for explanation, 1 point for

evidence)

Your answer should analyze how the section Where to Find Your Dog contributes to the development of the author’s key ideas. Your answer should use evidence from the text to support it.


Your answer analyzes how the section Where to Find Your Dog contributes to the development of the author’s key ideas. Your answer uses evidence from the text to support it.

4. How does the author develop the argument about adopting a dog from a reputable breeder? Is the argument

effective? Why or why not?


Model Answer

The author explains that breeders mate certain dogs to produce specific qualities and characteristics of that breed

of dog, and puppies from reputable breeders come with “papers.” The author explains that these papers are a

dog’s registration certificate validating the puppy’s pedigree.

The author’s argument is effective because it explains that this registration certificate is a family tree showing the

puppy’s bloodline of at least four or more generations. The papers allow the owner to register the puppy with the

American Kennel Club, making the puppy eligible for AKC events. The author explains that reputable breeders

care about the puppy and want to place it in a loving home.

The author cautions readers that not all breeders are reputable. The author states that some people breed dogs

in their homes and if they are anxious to sell them, then the puppy more than likely does not have papers.



1 The answer analyzes how the author develops

the argument about adopting a dog from a

reputable breeder, and uses evidence from

the text to support it.

Your answer should analyze how the author develops the argument about adopting a dog from a reputable breeder, and should use evidence from the text to support it.




1 The answer evaluates whether the argument

is effective and explains why or why not. The


it.

Your answer should evaluate whether the argument is effective and explains why or why not. Your answer should use evidence from the text to support it.


Your answer analyzes how the author develops the argument about adopting a dog from a reputable breeder. Your answer also evaluates whether the argument is effective and explains why or why not. Your answer uses evidence from the text to support it.




Rescue Me!

Shelter Dogs

(1) According to the ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals),

approximately 3.9 million dogs enter animal shelters each year. About 35 percent of them are adopted. That’s

about 1.4 million dogs. About 26 percent are stray dogs that are returned to their owners. However, some

owners never reclaim their dogs. Unfortunately, the remaining 31 percent of dogs in a shelter are euthanized.

Dogs enter shelters through no fault of their own. According to the American Humane Society, many dogs are

given up because their owners have moved and the new place doesn’t allow pets. Some owners don’t have

the time to give the dog the attention it needs. In some cases, there has been a death in the family or a

divorce. Sometimes the owners can no longer afford to keep the dog. And some dogs have behavioral issues

that the owners cannot manage or won’t deal with.

(2) Animal shelters have a great selection of puppies and adult dogs that make wonderful pets. Most

of these animals have already lived with families. They are housebroken and have the basic social skills to

get along in a new household. The majority of dogs and puppies are mixed breed and are unique, one-of-a-

kind dogs. About 25 percent of shelter dogs are purebred.

Benefits of Shelter Dogs

(3) When people adopt a shelter dog, they are saving a life and giving a wonderful animal a new

home. Most shelter dogs are healthy and affectionate. They are so appreciative to have a loving family and a

warm, cozy place to live. It may take some time for the dog to adjust to its new environment, and the dog may

need some training. However, with a lot of attention and any needed retraining, the dog will become a

treasured member of the family. Shelters evaluate dogs when they first enter the facility. They are given

physical exams, vaccinations, and are spayed and neutered. Volunteers may even begin teaching basic

training. Most shelters also implant microchips in their animals. A microchip is a tiny device about the size of a

rice grain that transmits identifying information about the animal. This way, pets can be returned to their

owners if they are ever lost. Adoption fees at a shelter are much lower than the cost of buying a dog from a

breeder or from a pet store. The fee usually includes the cost of exams, vaccinations, spaying or neutering,

and microchips.

Selecting a Shelter Dog

(4) When you visit a shelter, walk through the entire kennel. Look for dogs that appeal to you.

Observe those you’re interested in from a little distance to see how they interact with people. Then greet each

dog through the kennel doors to see how they interact with you. Friendly dogs may wag their tails, wiggle,

paw at you, or approach you. If a dog stays at the back of the kennel, it may be shy. If a dog jumps and barks

at you, it may be overly excited. A kennel can be a stressful environment for a dog, so ask to see the dog

outside the kennel. If the dog is friendlier and calmer away from the kennel, this is a good indicator as to how

it will be in your home. Spend as much time as you can with the dogs that interest you most. Then think about

what you want in a dog. Once you’ve narrowed it down to one dog, ask to put a hold on it. Many shelters

allow a 24-hour hold on dogs. Come back the next day, maybe with a friend or family members, and spend



more time with the dog before you make your final decision. If you already have a dog and are looking to find

a playmate for it, be sure to take your dog with you and ask to go for a walk with the shelter dog to see

whether they will like each other. If you don’t find the perfect dog or puppy right away, be patient. Shelters

receive new dogs every day.

Breed-Specific Rescue Groups

(5) If you want a certain breed of dog, check for breed-specific rescue groups instead of going to a

breeder. Dogs end up in breed-specific rescue groups for a variety of reasons. Some owners relinquish their

dogs because they realize the dog needs more care and attention than they’re willing or able to give. Or they

realize that the breed they selected isn’t a good match for their lifestyle. Sometimes, the dog is given up

because the family is moving and unable to take the dog with them. Often, families have financial problems

and can no longer afford the dog. Some of the dogs are strays that haven’t been claimed. Shelters sometimes

turn purebreds over to a rescue group. This way the shelters have more room for mixed-breed dogs.

Volunteers sometimes search “high-kill” shelters and rescue purebred dogs. Dogs from puppy mills often end

up in rescues as well. Puppy mills are inhumane, commercial dog-breeding facilities.

Benefits of Breed-Specific Dogs

(6) When adopting from a breed-specific rescue group, you’re able to get the breed you desire with

the characteristics of that breed. The rescue group evaluates the dog’s temperament and how it gets along

with other dogs, children, and cats. The dogs are in good health and are up-to-date on their vaccinations.

They have been spayed or neutered. Most rescue groups go through an evaluation process to make sure

there is a good match with a potential owner. This way the dog goes to a permanent home and is not returned

or dropped off at a shelter. The cost for a purebred dog through a rescue group is significantly less than

through a breeder.

Selecting a Breed Rescue Dog

(7) To find a breed rescue group, search online for groups in your area. The American Kennel Club’s

website lists various breed rescue groups, or search on Petfinder.com. Or you can google the breed name

and the word “rescue” for rescue groups in your area.

(8) Most breed rescue groups post pictures and descriptions of available dogs and puppies on their

websites. Many have adoption events where you’ll have the opportunity to meet some of the available dogs.

When you attend an adoption event, you’ll learn more about the rescue group’s organization. You will be

asked to fill out an application and be interviewed. You may even need to provide references. Questions

about your home, your activity level, how much time you have to spend with the dog, and if you have children

or other pets may be asked. The rescue group will evaluate whether the breed is right for you. If so, they will

match you with a dog that has the right personality for you and your home. In many cases, rescue groups will

make a home visit before you can adopt a dog. Some rescue groups often ask a potential owner to foster the

dog for a period of time to make sure that you and the dog are a good fit.





5. Read this sentence from Paragraph 4 of “Rescue Me!”:

Once you’ve narrowed it down to one dog, ask to put a hold on it.

What is the connotation of the word hold in this sentence?

A. grasp

B. set aside

C. carry on

D. restrain


Score: (1 point)

6. What are two main ideas of “Rescue Me!”? Explain how these ideas develop over the course of the passage.

Use evidence from the text to support each of the main ideas in your answer.

Model Answer

Two main ideas of “Rescue Me” are that there are plenty of well-behaved dogs available to adopt through

shelters, and that people who want to adopt a certain breed of dog can find one through a breed-specific rescue

group.

The author states that 3.9 million dogs enter shelters every year, and only about 35 percent of them are adopted.

About 26 percent of those are stray dogs that are returned to their owners. But the remaining 31 percent of dogs

are euthanized. The dogs end up in shelters because their owners have moved and cannot take them, or the

owners cannot give the dog the attention it needs. The author explains that about 25 percent of the dogs in

shelters are purebred. She goes on to explain how shelter dogs make wonderful pets and gives tips on how to

select a dog when one goes to the shelter.

The author explains that some purebred dogs end up in breed-specific rescue groups because the owners realize

the dog needs more care and attention than they’re willing or able to give. Sometimes, the owner realizes that the

breed they have isn’t a good match for their lifestyle. Some purebred dogs are turned over from a shelter when its

owner hasn’t claimed it. Dogs from puppy mills may also end up in breed-specific rescue groups. The author

explains some of the benefits of adopting a breed-specific dog, such as getting the breed one desires, and getting

a dog that has been updated on its shots and has been evaluated by the rescue organization. Another factor is

the price of the dog through a rescue group is significantly less. The author concludes with where to find breed-

specific rescue groups and how they can help in selecting the right dog.



Award points for specific answers as shown below (for a total of 0–4 points). Answers may vary.


2 The answer identifies two main ideas of

“Rescue Me!”—(1) the availability of dogs to

adopt and (2) how to find a particular breed of

dog to adopt. (1 point for each main idea)

(Note that students’ description or wording of

main ideas may vary.)

Your answer should identify two main ideas of “Rescue Me!”

2 The answer explains how these ideas develop

over the course of the passage, and includes

details from the text to support the answer. (1

point for each idea explained)

Your answer should explain how these ideas develop over the course of the passage, and include details from the text to support the answer.


Your answer identifies two main ideas of “Rescue Me!” and explains how these ideas develop over the course of the passage. Your answer includes evidence from the text to support it.

7. What steps does the author suggest a prospective dog owner take when selecting a dog at a shelter?

Use at least three details from the passage to support your answer.

Model Answer

The author explains that the first step to take when visiting a shelter is to walk through the kennel and look for

dogs that are appealing. Observe the dogs from a distance to see how they interact with people.

Then greet each dog through the kennel doors to see how they interact with you. Friendly dogs will wag their tails,

while shy dogs will stay at the back of the kennel. Some dogs may be overly excited and jump and bark.

The author states that it is a good idea to ask to see the dogs outside of the kennel. This will give an indication of

how they will be in the home.

Once one has been chosen, place a hold on it and return the next day with a friend or another pet one owns to be

sure the two would get along.



1 The answer lists at least three steps to take

when selecting a dog at a shelter.

Your answer should list at least three steps to take when selecting a dog at a shelter.




Your answer lists at least three steps to take when selecting a dog at a shelter.

8. Why is a dog shelter a stressful environment for dogs?

Use details and inferences that you make from the text to support your answer.

Model Answer

When a dog ends up in a shelter, oftentimes it is because its owner has relinquished it for one reason or another.

This alone can be stressful for the dog. The dog is in a new environment, and it’s not as warm or cozy as its

former home probably was. Sometimes, the dog is a stray, and it may be waiting for its owner to come and claim

it. And if the owner doesn’t come, the dog may become frightened. Dog shelters are often crowded and noisy, and

this can be stressful, too. It may cause a dog to become overly excited or frightened and shy.



2 The answer analyzes why a dog shelter is a

stressful environment for dogs. The answer

uses details from the text and inferences that

the student makes to support the answer. (1

point for details from the text, 1 point for

student’s inferences)

Your answer should analyze why a dog shelter is a stressful environment for dogs. Your answer should use details from the text and inferences that you make to support the answer.


Your answer analyzes why a dog shelter is a stressful environment for dogs. Your answer uses details from the text and inferences that you made to support the answer.




That Doggie in the Window

(1) At pet stores you may see lots of cages filled with puppies. Those cute little dogs with the

waggley tails are from puppy mills. According to the Humane Society of the United States, a puppy mill is an

inhumane, commercial dog-breeding facility. It is a place where the health of the dogs is disregarded so the

breeder can keep costs low and maximize profits.

(2) Puppies born in puppy mills have a horrible life. They live in overcrowded, unsanitary conditions.

Most are kept in small wire cages stacked one on top of another. The puppies have very little room to move

around. Many have never touched the ground or run around in grass. Puppies are often taken away from their

mother and their litter mates when they are six weeks old. They aren’t given the opportunity to socialize with

other dogs. Getting along with other dogs is critical to their development. Puppies that aren’t socialized can

become fearful, extremely shy, aggressive, or suffer from anxiety.

(3) Female dogs used for breeding often have one litter after another. This helps the owners make

more money. The puppies often suffer from illnesses and diseases. Many times the owners do not remove

sick dogs from their group of breeders. Consequently, many puppies are born with congenital and hereditary

conditions. These diseases may include diabetes, hip dysplasia, heart or kidney disease, respiratory

disorders, deafness, or eye disorders. By the time the puppies arrive in pet stores, some of them are ill. They

may have parvovirus, distemper, upper respiratory infections, kennel cough, pneumonia, or mange. They also

may be infested with intestinal parasites, fleas, ticks, and heartworm. People who buy a puppy at a pet store

may have to take it to a vet because it is already sick.

(4) Some puppies are sold to pet stores through a broker who buys them from the puppy mill. The

pedigree of these puppies is often falsified. Many of the puppies are also sold over the Internet, through

newspaper ads, and at swap meets or flea markets.

(5) Puppy mills began in the United States shortly after World War II. At that time, there were major

crop failures in the Midwest. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) encouraged raising

purebred puppies as a “cash crop” that earned money. There are approximately 2,000 to 3,000 USDA-

licensed breeders in the United States today. These are basically puppy mills. The ASPCA estimates that as

many as 10,000 puppy mills operate in America. Many of them operate illegally without a license.

(6) There are laws that regulate breeders. In 1966, Congress passed the Animal Welfare Act (AWA).

It provides standards for the care of dogs, cats, and some other animals that are bred for commercial resale.

Breeders that have more than three female breeding dogs and sell puppies to pet stores or brokers are

required by the AWA to be licensed and inspected by the USDA. But the legal standards for dog breeders are

minimal. Unfortunately, some of the conditions that are perfectly legal most people would consider inhumane.

(7) The Humane Society of the United States supports legislative changes that will affect puppy mills.

It promotes public awareness of the conditions at puppy mills. People are encouraged to adopt dogs from an

animal shelter, a rescue group, or a responsible breeder.





9. Answer the questions about the passage.

(a) What is the author’s opinion of puppy mills?

A. Puppies from puppy mills are cute dogs.

B. The mills have helped agricultural communities earn money.

C. Puppy mills raise healthy and well-cared for dogs.

D. Puppy mills are unsanitary places that treat dogs inhumanely.

Teacher feedback: (The correct answer is D.)

(b) Which sentences from the passage support the answer in Part (a)?

Choose exactly two answers that are correct.

A. Many of the puppies are also sold over the Internet, through newspaper ads, and at swap meets

or flea markets. (Paragraph 4)

B. The puppies have very little room to move around. (Paragraph 2)

C. There are approximately 2,000 to 3,000 USDA-licensed breeders in the United States today.

(Paragraph 5)

D. They also may be infested with intestinal parasites, fleas, ticks, and heartworm. (Paragraph 3)

E. The ASPCA estimates that as many as 10,000 puppy mills operate in America. (Paragraph 5)

F. Puppy mills began in the United States shortly after World War II. (Paragraph 5)

Teacher feedback: (The correct answers are B and D.)

Score: (2 points – both (a) and (b) must be correct to earn 2 points, if (a) is correct and (b) is incorrect award 1 point, if (a) is incorrect, award 0 points.)

10. How does the author develop the argument about puppy mills? Is the argument effective? Why or why not?


Model Answer

The author describes the conditions found in most puppy mills. The author explains that the puppies live in

overcrowded, unsanitary conditions. The puppies are often taken away from their mothers when they are only six

weeks old and aren’t socialized with other dogs. Female dogs used for breeding have one litter after another.

Some of these dogs are ill or have diseases that they pass on to their puppies.



The author’s argument is effective because the author explains how the puppies live at the mills before they ever

reach a pet store. Most of them live in wire cages and never get to run around on the grass. The author explains

that dogs that aren’t socialized can become fearful, shy, or aggressive. Many of the puppies arrive at the pet

stores already sick.



2 The answer explains how the author develops

the argument about puppy mills, and uses

evidence from the text to support the answer.

(1 point for explanation, 1 point for evidence)

Your answer should explain how the author develops the argument about puppy mills, and use evidence from the text to support the answer.

2 The answer evaluates whether the argument

is effective and explains why or why not. The


the answer. (1 point for explanation, 1 point for

examples)

Your answer should evaluate whether the argument is effective and explain why or why not. Your answer should use evidence from the text to support the answer.


Your answer explains how the author develops her argument about puppy mills. Your answer also evaluates whether the argument is effective and explains why or why not. Your answer uses evidence from the text to support it.

11. Reread this sentence from Paragraph 3 of “That Doggie in the Window”:

Many times the owners do not remove sick dogs from their group of breeders.

How does this sentence contribute to the author’s ideas about the health of the puppies from puppy mills?


Model Answer

Mother dogs that are ill or have a disease can pass these illnesses or diseases down to their puppies. The author

states that many puppies are born with congenital and hereditary conditions. These may include diabetes, hip

dysplasia, heart or kidney disease, respiratory disorders, deafness, or eye disorders. The puppies may arrive at

pet stores already sick. They may have parvovirus, distemper, upper respiratory infections, kennel cough, mange,

or pneumonia.





1 The answer analyzes how the sentence from

Paragraph 3 contributes to the author’s ideas

about the health of the puppies from puppy

mills. The answer uses evidence from the text

to support the answer.

Your answer should analyze how the sentence from Paragraph 3 contributes to the author’s ideas about the health of the puppies from puppy mills. Your answer should use evidence from the text to support the answer.


Your answer analyzes how the sentence from Paragraph 3 contributes to the author’s ideas about the health of the puppies from puppy mills. Your answer uses evidence from the text to support the answer.

12. Explain how information about purebred dogs presented in “Adopting a Dog” and “That Doggie in the Window” are alike and how they are different.

Use details from each text for each comparison.

Model Answer

In “Adopting a Dog” and “That Doggie in the Window,” both authors explain that purebred dogs are purposely

mated with dogs from the same breed, so they carry on the same characteristics of that breed.

While both passages discuss breeding, there are several differences in how the breeding is managed. In

“Adopting a Dog,” the author states that only certain dogs are mated to maintain or produce specific qualities

inborn in that breed. The resulting puppies come with “papers” showing the puppy’s pedigree, or its family

bloodline for four or more generations. These puppies become members of the American Kennel Club. The

author also states that reputable breeders care about the puppy, and they make sure the puppy is placed in a

loving home. In “That Doggie in the Window,” the author states that female dogs used for breeding have one litter

after another. The author states that many of these mother dogs may be sick, but are not removed from the group

of breeders. Consequently, many of the puppies are born with congenital and hereditary conditions. The puppies

are not taken care of very well and many are sold to pet stores, where they arrive ill. The puppies generally do not

have papers since their bloodline is questionable. If they do have papers, they are often falsified. The breeder

doesn’t seem to care who buys the puppies since they are sometimes sold over the Internet, through newspaper

ads, or at swap meets.





1 The answer explains how information about

purebred dogs presented in “Adopting a Dog”

and “That Doggie in the Window” are alike,

and uses details from the text to support the

answer.

Your answer should explain how information about purebred dogs presented in “Adopting a Dog” and “That Doggie in the Window” are alike, and use details from the text to support the answer.

1 The answer explains how information about

purebred dogs presented in “Adopting a Dog”

and “That Doggie in the Window” are different,

and uses details from the text to support the

answer.

Your answer should explain how information about purebred dogs presented in “Adopting a Dog” and “That Doggie in the Window” are different, and use details from the text to support the answer.


Your answer explains how information about purebred dogs presented in “Adopting a Dog” and “That Doggie in the Window” are alike and different, and uses details from the text to support the answer.

13. Read this paragraph Julia wrote about an adoption event she attended:

We are going to a dog adoption event this morning at the shopping center. Mom and I

have been talking about getting a dog ever since we moved. We can’t decide what kind

of dog her and me would like, so we’ll see what the event volunteers suggest for ours.

Which sentence is the best revision of the last sentence?

A. We can’t decide what kind of dog her and I would like, so we’ll see what the event volunteers

suggest for me.

B. We can’t decide what kind of dog she and I would like, so we’ll see what the event volunteers

suggest for us.

C. We can’t decide what kind of dog her and me would like, so we’ll see what the event volunteers

suggest for us.

D. We can’t decide what kind of dog she and me would like, so we’ll see what the event volunteers

suggest for mine.


Score: (1 point)



14. Read this paragraph Jason wrote about a dog rescue group:

I have always loved dogs. Last summer I began volunteering for a border collie rescue

group. At first, I helped out at adoption events. Then I got into fostering dogs. I got so

attached to Ollie my foster puppy that I ended up adopting him.

Which revision of the last sentence is punctuated correctly?

A. I got so attached to Ollie, my foster puppy that I ended up adopting him.

B. I got so attached to Ollie my foster puppy, that I ended up adopting him.

C. I got so attached to Ollie my, foster puppy that I ended up adopting him.

D. I got so attached to Ollie, my foster puppy, that I ended up adopting him.


Score: (1 point)

15. Read this paragraph Jason wrote advising people what to do before getting a dog:

People who want to get a dog should do their research first. Many times people get a dog

because they like the way it looks. But they don’t take the time to find out about the dog’s

personality. My friend got a dog only to return it because they were too much work.

Which sentence is the best revision of the last sentence?

A. My friend got a dog only to return it because it was too much work.

B. My friend got a dog only to return them because they were too much work.

C. My friend got a dog only to return them because it was too much work.

D. My friend got a dog only to return it because you were too much work.

Teacher feedback: (The correct answer is A.)

Score: (1 point)



16. Read this paragraph Claire wrote about her sister seeing a puppy in a pet store:

Mom drove my sister to the shopping plaza, and then she walked to the grocery store.

While Mom was in the grocery store, my sister looked at the puppies in the pet store. The

puppies in there all started barking and jumping up and down in their cages. They were

all cute, but there was one she really wanted to see. It had shaggy white fur and the

sweetest eyes.

Which sentence is the best revision of the first sentence?

A. She drove her to the shopping plaza, and then she walked to the grocery store.

B. Mom drove her sister to the shopping plaza, and then Mom walked to the grocery store.

C. Mom drove her to the shopping plaza, and then she walked to the grocery store.

D. Mom drove my sister to the shopping plaza, and then Mom walked to the grocery store.


Score: (1 point)

17. Read this paragraph Macy wrote about volunteering:

The volunteers yourselves help set up the adoption events. They are each responsible

for picking up a dog at one of the organization’s kennels and bringing it to the event.

Those who foster the dogs need to make sure the dogs are freshly bathed and fed before

the event.

Which sentence is the best revision of the first sentence?

A. The volunteers theirselves help set up the adoption events.

B. The volunteers herself help set up the adoption events.

C. The volunteers ourselves help set up the adoption events.

D. The volunteers themselves help set up the adoption events.


Score: (1 point)



18. Write a persuasive essay of at least three paragraphs about how you would acquire a dog. State where you

would adopt your dog from—either from a breeder, an animal shelter, or a rescue group. Explain why you

have decided to use this method of pet adoption. Explain the benefits of this resource over the others, but

acknowledge differing opinions. Be sure to use information in your essay from the passages you have read.

(a) Write a cohesive argument of at least three paragraphs.

(b) Take a stand on the best way to acquire a dog.

(c) Explain the best place to adopt a dog from, why this is the right method of pet adoption, and the

benefits of this resource over the others.

(d) Organize your essay in order of importance or logical order.

(e) Use relevant evidence from the texts you have read as well as your own ideas to introduce your claim

and acknowledge alternate or opposing claims.

(f) Support your position about pet adoption with logical reasoning and relevant evidence.

(g) Use appropriate transitions between sentences and paragraphs to create cohesion and clarify the

relationships among ideas and concepts.

(h) Use precise language to explain your stand.

(i) Provide a strong concluding statement to your essay.

Score: Use the rubric to evaluate the student’s writing. Award points for each category as shown below (for a total of 12–20 points). Students who do not respond should be given a 0.

Teacher feedback: Provide feedback about the student’s writing in each category.



Category Level 3 (5 points) Level 2 (4 points) Level 1 (3 points)

Purpose and Content

The writing is entirely a

persuasive argument that

takes a stand on where to

acquire a dog. An

explanation of the method

used to adopt a dog is

presented and supported

with relevant quotations and

examples. The benefits of

this resource of adoption

over the others are also

addressed. Evidence from

the texts has been effectively

used to support the student’s

position. The student

includes a counterargument

but convincingly

demonstrates why that

opposing viewpoint is

incorrect. All sentences in

the essay are purposeful and

related to the topic. There is

no tangential or irrelevant

information.

The writing is mostly a

persuasive argument about

where to acquire a dog. An


used to adopt a dog is

presented and supported

with mostly relevant

quotations and examples.

The benefits of this resource

of adoption over the others is

addressed, but may not be

thoroughly supported. Some

evidence from the texts has

been used, and it is mostly

relevant to development of

the argument. The student

mentions a counterargument

and tries to explain why that

opposing viewpoint is

incorrect. Most of the

sentences in the essay are

purposeful and related to the

topic. There may be some

tangential or irrelevant

information.

The writing may not be a

persuasive argument and

may not tell about where to

acquire a dog. An


used to adopt a dog may not

be presented and may not

be supported with relevant

quotations and examples.

The benefits of this resource

of adoption over the others

may not be addressed. Evidence from all the texts

may not have been used or

the evidence used may be

irrelevant to the development

of the argument. The student

may fail to include a

counterargument or fail to

explain why an opposing

viewpoint is incorrect. All

sentences in the essay may

not be purposeful or related

to the topic. There may be

much tangential or irrelevant

information.

Structure and Organization

The writing is a focused

argument or opinion essay

and follows this form

consistently. The writing is

consistently written from the

same point of view. It is

consistently focused on the

topic. The writing is at least

three paragraphs long. It is

consistently organized by

order of importance, or with

logical order. There is a

strong statement of the

student’s position at the

beginning. The rest of the

argument advances the

position, flows smoothly, and

contains details and

explanations. The essay

The writing is mostly an

argument or opinion essay

and mostly follows this form.

The writing is mostly written

from a consistent point of

view. The writing is at least

two paragraphs long. It is

mostly organized in order of

importance, or with logical

order. There is a statement

of the student’s position at

the beginning. The rest of

the argument mostly

advances this position; it

mostly flows smoothly, and

there is some use of details

and explanations. There is a

conclusion to the essay.

The writing may not take the

form of an argument or

opinion essay or may not

follow this form consistently.

The writing may not be from

the same point of view. It

may lack focus. The writing

is less than two paragraphs

long. It may not be organized

or it may lack a clear

organizational pattern. There

may be no statement of the

student’s position, or the rest

of the essay may not

advance the thesis. The

essay may not flow

smoothly, or it may not

include sufficient details or

explanations. There may be



Category Level 3 (5 points) Level 2 (4 points) Level 1 (3 points)

concludes in a satisfying

manner.

no clear conclusion.

Language and Word Choice

The writing has a consistent

tone and is appropriate for

the subject matter and

audience. The writing uses

precise language and the

correct connotations of

words when making an

appeal and stating a

position. The writing

consistently uses connecting

words between ideas and

paragraphs.

The writing has a mostly

consistent tone and is mostly

appropriate for the subject

matter and audience. The

writing mostly uses precise

language and the correct

connotations of words when

making an appeal and

stating a position. The writing

mostly uses connecting

words between ideas and

paragraphs.

The writing may not have a

consistent tone or the tone

may be inappropriate for the

subject matter. The writing

may not use precise

language and there may be

evidence that the

connotation of words was not

considered when making an

appeal or stating a position.

The writing may not use

connecting words between

ideas and paragraphs, if

there are paragraphs.

Grammar, Usage, and Mechanics

The writing is in standard

English. The writing has no

errors in grammar, usage, or

mechanics. The writing has

no errors in punctuation or

spelling.

The writing is mostly in

standard English. The writing

may contain a few errors in

grammar, usage, or

mechanics. The writing may

contain some errors in

punctuation or spelling. The

errors do not interfere with

the reader’s understanding.

The writing may not be in

standard English. The writing

may contain many errors in

grammar, usage, or

mechanics. The writing may

contain many errors in

punctuation or spelling. The

errors may make it difficult to

follow or understand the

writing.

Critical Skills Assignment Answer Keyclassroomwilliams.weebly.com/uploads/6/4/3/1/... · Critical...

Documents

Transcript of Critical Skills Assignment Answer Keyclassroomwilliams.weebly.com/uploads/6/4/3/1/... · Critical...