What are nudibranch? Only some of the most colorful sea creatures on Earth! These marine mollusks boast a variety of unique shapes and colors, and they live anywhere in the world's oceans, from the tropics to Antarctica. There are many different types of nudibranchs, some no longer than an inch, and some as long as two feet! Some use toxic appendages to defend themselves, while others use camouflage. Some even make their own chemicals to keep predators at bay. Why do nudibranchs have these defenses? Because they are naked! Nudibranch means "naked gills," so named for their soft bodies and their exposed gills, which sit atop their backs. While common to the ocean, these unusual creatures can be spotted on underwater dives.
In 2–3 sentences, summarize the information in the paragraph.
(2 points)
Nudibranch are colorful marine mollusks found in oceans worldwide, and they come in various shapes and sizes. They possess defensive mechanisms such as toxic appendages, camouflage, and chemical production to protect themselves from predators. Their name, nudibranch, derives from their soft bodies and exposed gills.
In 3–5 sentences, describe a character that is stingy with money and dishonest. Include allusions to Scrooge and Pinocchio or two other suitable, well-known allusions in your response. (4 points)
Meet Mr. Grinch, the stingiest and most dishonest character you could ever encounter. With a heart as cold as Scrooge's and a nose that grows longer with every lie, he is the epitome of greed and deceit. Just like Pinocchio, his words twist and turn, weaving a web of deception to manipulate others for his personal gain. He hoards his money like Smaug guards his treasure, unwilling to part with even a penny unless it benefits him. Beware of Mr. Grinch, for his true nature is as deceptive as Iago or the Cat in the Hat, forever scheming and plotting to satisfy his insatiable desires.
In 3–5 sentences, describe a character that is stingy with money and dishonest. Include allusions to Scrooge and Pinocchio or two other suitable, well-known allusions in your response.
Introducing Mr. Penny Pincher, a character whose stinginess with money knows no bounds and whose dishonesty is as legendary as Scrooge's. Like Pinocchio, his lies are as apparent as his long nose, growing longer with every tall tale he spins. He hoards his wealth like Dragon from "The Hobbit," refusing to part with even a penny unless it directly benefits him. And just as Loki's cunning knows no limits, Mr. Penny Pincher's schemes and manipulations are always at play, deceiving those around him for his own selfish gain. Beware the tricks and tight-fisted ways of Mr. Penny Pincher, for his true nature can rival the greatest of infamous characters.
The current state of Castle Park is a disgrace to our community. Ten years ago, community groups came together to give our children a safe place to play. Today, the wooden structure rots, the chains on the swing set rust, and garbage covers the ground. The city government refuses to take responsibility for restoring the structure, yet it will not allow concerned citizens to make their own repairs. Our children deserve a safe, clean, functional play space. The city council’s inaction has turned a gem of the park system into yet another public junkyard.
In 3–5 sentences, identify and explain words in the letter that create a negative tone. Support your answer with details from the text.
(4 points)