This just isn't working," Ytar groaned. He stared hopelessly at the pile of wood and strings on his workstation. All around him, students at the Barrett School of Music were busily constructing their violins and violas. I am such a loser, he thought. My parents scrimped and saved for years so that I could attend this school, and it was all for nothing.
"Is everything okay, Ytar?" asked Mrs. Gretskaya. Her face was sympathetic as she looked at her newest student.
"No," replied Ytar. "Everything is awful. All my life I've dreamed of making violins, and now that I'm finally here, I can't do it. Every time I start cutting into the wood, I make a huge mess. I'm a failure."
"I disagree," Mrs. Gretskaya said. "You may not have succeeded at making a violin, but you have developed perseverance because of all your hard work. Anyone can learn a skill like woodcarving, but very few people have the ability to keep trying even in the face of discouragement. Which skill do you think will prove to be more valuable in the future?"
"Perseverance, I suppose," said Ytar. "But my grades will suffer if I can't pass this course. I am afraid of disappointing my family."
"A good education involves more than just grades," Mrs. Gretskaya told him. "However, I can promise you that your grade for this course will reflect your hard work and dedication."
"Thank you," Ytar said with a sigh of relief. "I promise not to give up on this violin. Even if it takes me until the last day of class, I will not quit." Mrs. Gretskaya smiled proudly at her student as he returned to work.
2
Which of the following themes is communicated in the passage?
A.
New students are dependent on their teachers.
B.
Hard work can result in unexpected rewards.
C.
Natural talent is better than perseverance.
D.
Parents expect too much of their children.