Determine the meaning of words and phrases as they used in a text, including figurative meanings.
In paragraph 1 of "A Quilt of a Country," the author uses a simile, or a comparison. She says
that the United States " was built of bits and pieces... like the crazy quilts that have been one of
its great folk-art forms, velvet and calico and checks and brocades." What does the comparison
mean about the United States?"

Read the excerpt from act iii of the importance of being earnest. jack. [in a pathetic voice.] miss prism, more is restored to you than this hand-bag. i was the baby you placed in it. miss prism. [amazed.] you? jack. [embracing her.] yes . . mother! miss prism. [recoiling in indignant astonishment.] mr. worthing! i am unmarried! jack. unmarried! i do not deny that is a serious blow. but after all, who has the right to cast a stone against one who has suffered? cannot repentance wipe out an act of folly? why should there be one law for men, and another for women? mother, i forgive you. [tries to embrace her again.] what is the best conclusion that can be drawn about jack, based on his words and actions in this excerpt? he has a tendency to be rude. he is inclined to show his emotions. he has a tendency to be gullible. he is inclined to be unresponsive.

Read the sample student claim and the reasons listed for making this claim. claim: although many people argue that medical testing on animals is a violation of animal rights, the benefits it yields for society far outweigh any argument that can be made. reason #1: animal research has yielded both pain-relieving and life-saving drugs for humans. reason #2: laws prohibit scientists from using animal-based research in cases where non-animal testing would produce equally clear and valid results.

The library carries many current books.what is the adjective