Explain How Illustrations Contribute to Story Practice Test

TEXT: Jamal carried a tray of cupcakes to the class party. He smiled, but he walked very slowly. “I really hope I don’t drop them,” he said.

ILLUSTRATION: The illustration shows Jamal with a tight, nervous smile and his shoulders raised. In the picture, his hands grip the tray, and one cupcake is tilted near the edge. The lighting is bright, but the close-up view makes the moment feel tense. In the background, classmates are blurred, showing he is focused on the tray.

Read the story and look at the illustration. What does Jamal’s expression in the illustration add?

TEXT: Yuki packed her lunch and checked the calendar. She bounced on her toes. “I’ve been waiting for this day!” she said.

ILLUSTRATION: The illustration shows Yuki wearing a light jacket and holding a small bouquet of flowers. In the picture, trees outside the window have pink blossoms, showing it is spring even though the text doesn’t say. The colors are bright and fresh, creating a cheerful mood. A calendar on the wall has a big circle around today, helping show why she is excited.

Read the story and look at the illustration. What does the illustration add about the season?