Name ______Period ______Date ______

Evaluating Evidence

·  When making inferences, readers must consider the evidence provided in the text.

·  Readers must critically evaluate the evidence to determine if it supports the inference which may be about the theme, the characters, the importance/affect of an event/setting, etc.

·  Ask yourself, “Does this evidence match what I am trying to prove?” or “Which evidence best connects to the inference I made?”

Read the excerpt from Little Women. Answer the multiple choice question by circling the best choice. Then, in the boxes to the right, explain why the answer choice is or is not correct. Critically evaluate each choice and whether or not it relates to the question.

from Little Women

By Louisa May Alcott

1. What is an important theme of the story?

Explain why it works/why it does not
A / Vanity and selfishness are stronger than generosity and kindness.
B / In times of trouble, family and good friends support each other.
C / Misfortune can overwhelm even the strongest people.
D / The best way to deal with grief is to distract yourself with other tasks.

2. How does Aunt March’s response to Marmee’s note help to develop the theme?

Explain why it works/why it does not
A / Despite the situation, Aunt March still wants to prove she was right.
B / Aunt March gives only the amount of money she feels she is obligated to give.
C / Even though she expressed her disapproval, Aunt March is still willing to help.
D / Aunt March realized that her early warnings were inappropriate and apologizes.

3. Which quote from the story best supports the story’s theme? Choose the one best piece of evidence.

Explain why it works/why it does not
A / “I won’t waste no time a-cryin’, but git your things ready right away, mum.”
B / “I earned it, and I don’t think you’ll blame me, for I only sold what was my own.”
C / “She’s right, there’s not time for tears now. Be calm, girls, and let me think.”
D / “That’s my contribution toward making Father comfortable and bringing him home.”