Understanding Character Motivation
A Grade 7 ELA worksheet focusing on identifying and analyzing character motivation in literary texts.
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Understanding Character Motivation
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Read the following passage carefully and answer the questions that follow. Pay close attention to why the characters act the way they do.
The old lighthouse keeper, Thomas, lived a solitary life on the craggy island. Every evening, he meticulously polished the lamp, ensuring its beam cut through the thickest fog. One stormy night, a small fishing boat, caught in the tempest, struggled against the waves. Thomas, watching from his tower, knew that if the light faltered, even for a moment, the boat would be lost to the treacherous rocks below. His heart pounded as he saw a flicker in the lamp. A loose connection! Without hesitation, he climbed the winding stairs, battling the fierce winds that rattled the ancient structure. He reached the top, his hands shaking, and quickly reconnected the wires, restoring the steady glow just as the boat was dangerously close to the shore. He didn't think of his own safety, only of the lives depending on his light.
1. What is Thomas's primary motivation for ensuring the lighthouse lamp is always working?
He enjoys the solitude of the island.
He is paid well for his work.
He feels responsible for the safety of sailors.
He fears being replaced if he fails.
2. What actions does Thomas take during the storm that reveal his strong sense of responsibility?
3. Thomas's motivation to fix the lamp was driven by his desire to the lives of the fishermen.
4. He did not consider his own when he climbed the tower in the storm.
5. Thomas's solitary life on the island suggests he has no motivation to help others.
True
False
6. How does the author reveal Thomas's motivation? Provide at least two pieces of evidence from the text to support your answer.