IXL | Show character emotions and traits

You are writing a story about Manny, who sees a high-wire act at the circus. Choose the best description to show that Manny is amazed.

Manny leaned forward in his seat, wide-eyed, and silently mouthed the word "Wow."

Manny looked at the person sitting next to him and smirked. "Give me a break," he said.

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Learn with an example

question

You are writing a story about Lacey, who is new at school. Choose the best description to show that Lacey is lonely.

Lacey politely asked Matt to take his backpack off the seat so she could sit.

Lacey sat by herself at lunch and held back tears while she ate.

key idea

A story usually shows what its characters are like and how they feel. When you write, try to use actions and dialogue to show these things about your characters. Doing so helps bring your characters to life for the reader.

For example, maybe you want to show that your character is embarrassed.

Maya's face turned red, and she ducked her head.

"Did—did everyone see that?" Maya stuttered.

People often blush and stutter when they're embarrassed. Either of these sentences would help show the reader how Maya is feeling.

solution

The second description shows that Lacey is lonely. She isn't sitting with other people and is holding back tears.

Lacey sat by herself at lunch and held back tears while she ate.

The other description doesn't show this. It makes the reader think Lacey is trying to make new friends.

Lacey politely asked Matt to take his backpack off the seat so she could sit.

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Work it out

Not feeling ready yet? This can help:

C.1Use actions and dialogue to understand characters

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