16Hit1600
Information and IdeasHardInterpreting a character's silence

Information and Ideas practice question

The following text is from a novel. When the letter came confirming the scholarship, Amara read it twice, folded it, and put it in her drawer. She said nothing at dinner. Her mother, who had watched the post for weeks, said nothing either, and the two of them passed the bread in a silence that was almost a celebration.

Which statement best describes what the text conveys about the dinner scene?

  1. A. Mother and daughter share good news without speaking of it.Correct
  2. B. Amara is hiding bad news from her mother.
  3. C. Amara's mother does not know a letter was expected.
  4. D. The two are angry with each other.

Answer: A. Mother and daughter share good news without speaking of it.

'A silence that was almost a celebration' — both know, neither says, and the quiet is happy.

Why the other answers are wrong

B. Amara is hiding bad news from her mother.
The letter confirms a scholarship — good news.
C. Amara's mother does not know a letter was expected.
The mother 'had watched the post for weeks'.
D. The two are angry with each other.
The silence is described as celebratory, not hostile.

More Information and Ideas questions

Not affiliated with the College Board. SAT is a trademark of the College Board.