A Hug in a Box
The Herrera family was having a discussion. Cousin Flora was a soldier serving overseas, and the family wanted to let her know they were thinking of her. They were already sending a weekly email that updated Flora on family news, but they wanted to do more.
Dorinda asked if Flora could receive regular mail. “I love getting mail. I bet Flora would love to get mail, too!” Dorinda said excitedly.
Mrs. Herrera answered that they could mail things to Flora. “In fact, we could put together a box of things that would remind Flora of home. Boxes like that are called care packages,” Mrs. Herrera added.
A box contains books, magazines, and a toy bus.
“We want to fill the box with great things so she knows that we care,” said Matias.
The family found a Web site that listed items often included in care packages for soldiers.
Matias was quiet for a minute, and then he said, “I think that other soldiers would enjoy care packages, too. Could we send packages to lots of soldiers?”
Mrs. Herrera said she liked the idea. But sending many care packages would be expensive. Matias wilted in defeat, but after a few minutes he became excited again. He suggested they tell other families in the neighborhood about their idea. Maybe other families would be able to send care packages. Then lots of soldiers would know people care about them.
Mr. Herrera hugged his son and praised his idea. Just then, Dorinda had a concern that struck like a bolt of lightning. How would they get the names and addresses of other soldiers? They decided to ask Flora for the names of some other soldiers serving with her.
The family spent the rest of the afternoon working on the plan. Mr. Herrera and Dorinda made fliers explaining their project. Then they handed them to their neighbors. Mrs. Herrera and Matias made a list of the items they wanted to put in Flora’s care package. The next day, the family put Flora’s package together and mailed it.
A few weeks went by. One afternoon, Mr. Herrera opened an email from Flora. “Thanks so much for the hug in a box,” wrote Flora. “I cannot thank you enough for your affection. These reminders of home really brightened my day. Some of my fellow soldiers have received packages from your kind neighbors, as well. Thank you for all that you have done!”
This question has two parts. First, answer Part A. Then, answer Part B.
Part A
Which is a main problem in the passage?
A.
The family wants to do more for cousin Flora.
B.
The family needs to send an email once a week.
C.
The family needs to find information on the Internet.
D.
The family wants to update cousin Flora on family news.
Part B
Which detail from the passage shows this problem?
A.
“The Herrera family was having a discussion.”
B.
“. . . the family wanted to let her know they were thinking of her.”
C.
“They were already sending a weekly email that updated Flora on family news, . . .”
D.
“Dorinda asked if Flora could receive regular mail.”
Part A:
The main problem in the passage is A. The family wants to do more for cousin Flora. Throughout the passage, the family discusses and brainstorm ideas on how to send care packages to Flora and other soldiers, indicating their desire to do more for her.
Part B:
The detail from the passage that shows this problem is C. "They were already sending a weekly email that updated Flora on family news…" This detail shows that the family feels the need to do more than just sending a weekly email to Flora. It implies that the email alone is not enough to convey their care and support, leading to their decision to send care packages.