HSPAReading Passage Elements

Narrative Reading Passage 1.) The selection will have a clearly

established problem/conflict and resolution• Centered on either plot or characters that

produces a resolution• Every selection will have a different problem• You will have to figure out how the problem

can be solved. • Form an opinion • In the open-ended question, you might have to

discuss how you would solve a given conflict.

Narrative Reading Passage 2.) The selection will follow a traditional

narrative structure with an organized plot and developed characters. • A story unfolds• Meet and learn about certain characters, their

problems, their lives, and motivations• Will require you to infer elements of the plot or

characters• You might have to figure out why a character

chooses to act a certain way, possibly in writing• Pay attention to the author’s descriptions…you

might be asked about them later

Narrative Reading Passage 3.) The setting will be important to

the plot and characters. • The author of any narrative piece chooses

his or her setting for a purpose.• The introduction identifies the setting, and

pay close attention to the sentences above the title.

• Example: words such as “thou” or “shall” will indicate the past

• Elements in the setting can cause the conflict or resolve an issue.

Narrative Reading Passage 4.) The selection will use a range of

literary devices, such as imagery, foreshadowing, flashback, and figurative language.

5.) The selection will contain a range of vocabulary for which context is provided.• If you are asked about a specific word, use the

context clues to figure out the meaning. • On the HSPA, words will be marked with an

asterisk (*) and defined at the bottom of the page.

Narrative Reading Passage The selection will allow readers to

think about universal themes and diverse cultures.• This is an idea that is generally true for all

people. • Examples: parents’ desires to produce better

lives for their children, fame, fortune, desire for peace

• The HSPA may provide an opportunity to read about different cultures, religions, or ethnicities