CHP-4 Characters and Character

Traits

Sample GED RLA Practice Question:

Read the following passage:

"Samantha was a diligent student who always completed her assignments on time and never
missed a class. She was known for her strong work ethic and determination to succeed. One
day, as she was studying for an important exam, she received a call from her best friend,
Emily, who was going through a tough time. Samantha knew that Emily needed her support,
but she also knew that her exam was crucial for her future. What should Samantha do?"

Question:

Which of the following best describes Samantha's character traits as presented in the
passage?

A) Selfish and uncaring

B) Diligent and determined

C) Unreliable and lazy

D) Apathetic and indifferent

Explanation:

In this passage, we are provided with information about Samantha's character traits. To
answer the question, you need to identify the traits that are described in the passage.

The passage mentions that Samantha is a "diligent student" who completes her assignments
on time and never misses a class. This suggests that she is hardworking and dedicated.
It also mentions that she has a "strong work ethic" and is determined to succeed, which
further supports the idea that she is diligent and determined.
Based on the information in the passage, option B) "Diligent and determined" is the best
description of Samantha's character traits. She is depicted as someone who takes her
studies seriously and is committed to her goals.

So, the correct answer is B) Diligent and determined.

Sample Question 1:

Read the following passage:

"John was known among his friends as someone who was always quick to help others. He
volunteered at the local food bank, regularly donated to charity, and never hesitated to lend a
hand when a friend was in need. He had a reputation for his kindness and generosity. How
would you describe John's character?"

Question:

Which of the following best describes John's character based on the passage?

A) Self-centered and inconsiderate

B) Compassionate and altruistic

C) Greedy and untrustworthy

D) Indifferent and uninterested

Explanation:

In this passage, we are given information about John's actions and reputation. To answer the
question, we need to identify the traits that are described.

The passage mentions that John is "quick to help others," "volunteered at the local food
bank," and "regularly donated to charity." These actions suggest that he is compassionate
and altruistic.
It also states that he "never hesitated to lend a hand when a friend was in need," indicating
his willingness to help and support others.
Based on the information in the passage, option B) "Compassionate and altruistic" is the
best description of John's character. He is depicted as someone who is kind, generous, and
caring toward others.

So, the correct answer is B) Compassionate and altruistic.

Sample Question 2:

Read the following passage:

"Maria had a reputation for being punctual and organized. She always arrived at work on
time, met her deadlines, and had a meticulously neat desk. Her coworkers often sought her
advice on time management and organization. What can you infer about Maria's character?"

Question:
What can you infer about Maria's character based on the passage?

A) She is careless and disorganized.

B) She is diligent and efficient.

C) She is frequently late and unprepared.

D) She is unreliable and forgetful.

Explanation:

In this passage, we are provided with information about Maria's behavior and her reputation
among coworkers. To answer the question, we need to make an inference about her
character based on this information.

The passage mentions that Maria is "punctual and organized," always arrives at work on
time, and has a "meticulously neat desk." These details suggest that she is diligent and
efficient.
It also states that her coworkers seek her advice on time management and organization,
indicating that she is considered an expert in these areas.
Based on the information in the passage, option B) "She is diligent and efficient" is the most
reasonable inference about Maria's character. She is depicted as someone who values
punctuality and organization, and others seek her guidance in these areas.

So, the correct answer is B) She is diligent and efficient.

Passage:

Eleanor had always been a fiercely independent person. From a young age, she displayed a
determination to do things her way. She often clashed with authority figures, including her
parents and teachers, because she refused to conform to their expectations. Eleanor's
rebellious spirit led her to explore unconventional paths in life. She dropped out of college to
pursue a career in art, despite her family's wishes for her to become a lawyer. Friends
admired her adventurous and free-spirited nature, while some viewed her as stubborn and
headstrong. Eleanor's journey through life was marked by her unwavering commitment to
charting her own course.

Question 1:

Which of the following character traits can be attributed to Eleanor based on the passage?

A) Submissive and obedient

B) Rebellious and independent

C) Conforming and compliant

D) Boring and unadventurous

Explanation for Question 1:

In the passage, Eleanor is described as someone who is fiercely independent, clashes with
authority figures, explores unconventional paths, and has a rebellious spirit. These traits
indicate that she is not submissive or conforming. Therefore, option B) "Rebellious and
independent" is the most suitable description of Eleanor's character.

Question 2:

What is one of the ways in which Eleanor's character differs from the expectations of her
family?

A) She pursued a career in law.

B) She dropped out of college.

C) She followed a conventional path.

D) She was obedient to her parents.

Explanation for Question 2:

The passage mentions that Eleanor dropped out of college to pursue a career in art, which
differs from her family's wishes for her to become a lawyer. Therefore, the correct answer is
B) "She dropped out of college."

Question 3:

How did Eleanor's friends generally perceive her character?

A) As submissive and conventional

B) As adventurous and free-spirited

C) As obedient and compliant

D) As stubborn and headstrong

Explanation for Question 3:

The passage states that Eleanor's friends admired her adventurous and free-spirited nature.
Therefore, the correct answer is B) "As adventurous and free-spirited."

Question 4:

Which of the following words best describes Eleanor's commitment to her choices?
A) Uncertain

B) Unwavering

C) Indifferent

D) Inconsistent

Explanation for Question 4:

The passage mentions that Eleanor's journey through life was marked by her "unwavering
commitment" to charting her own course. Therefore, the correct answer is B) "Unwavering."
Passage:

In the small town of Cedarville, Clara was a well-known figure. She had lived there her entire
life and had dedicated herself to the community in various ways. Clara was a tireless
advocate for the environment, leading local initiatives to clean up the town's parks and rivers.
Her dedication to preserving nature often led her to confront local businesses over pollution
concerns, earning her both admiration and criticism. Clara was also a devoted mother of
three and a loving wife, known for her patience and understanding. However, her
commitment to her family sometimes clashed with her environmental advocacy, as it
required frequent travel for her husband's job, leading to an internal struggle she faced.
People in Cedarville saw Clara as a woman of strong principles, but they also witnessed the
complexities of her character as she navigated her roles as an environmentalist, a mother,
and a wife.

Question 1:

Which character trait is most associated with Clara's environmental advocacy work?

A) Patience and understanding

B) Dedication and advocacy

C) Indifference and apathy

D) Selfishness and neglect

Explanation for Question 1:

The passage highlights that Clara was a tireless advocate for the environment, leading local
initiatives to clean up the town's parks and rivers. This demonstrates her dedication and
advocacy. Therefore, option B) "Dedication and advocacy" is most associated with her
environmental advocacy work.

Question 2:
How did Clara's environmental advocacy sometimes affect her family life?

A) It brought her family closer together.

B) It had no impact on her family.

C) It required her husband to travel frequently for his job.

D) It made her neglect her family.

Explanation for Question 2:

The passage mentions that Clara's commitment to her family sometimes clashed with her
environmental advocacy, as it required frequent travel for her husband's job. Therefore, the
correct answer is C) "It required her husband to travel frequently for his job."

Question 3:

How did people in Cedarville perceive Clara's character?

A) They saw her as a woman of strong principles.

B) They viewed her as indifferent and apathetic.

C) They considered her to be neglectful of her family.

D) They admired her selfishness.

Explanation for Question 3:

The passage indicates that people in Cedarville saw Clara as a woman of strong principles.
Therefore, the correct answer is A) "They saw her as a woman of strong principles."

Question 4:

Which word best describes the overall characterization of Clara in the passage?

A) Simple

B) Complex

C) Selfish

D) Indifferent

Explanation for Question 4:

The passage presents Clara as a character with complexities in her roles as an
environmentalist, a mother, and a wife. Her dedication to the environment sometimes
clashed with her family life, which adds depth to her character. Therefore, the best word to
describe her characterization is B) "Complex."

Interaction Between Characters

Sample Question:
Read the following passage and answer the question that follows.

Passage:
In a small, cozy cafe, Sarah sat alone at a corner table, sipping her latte and lost in thought.
Her friend, Alex, walked in and spotted her. With a warm smile, Alex approached the table.

Alex: "Hey, Sarah! Mind if I join you?"

Sarah looked up from her coffee, surprised but pleased to see Alex.

Sarah: "Oh, hey, Alex! I didn't expect to see you here. Sure, grab a chair!"

Alex pulled up a chair and sat down, still smiling.

Alex: "What's been on your mind lately? You seem a bit distant."

Sarah hesitated for a moment, then decided to confide in Alex.

Sarah: "Well, I've been thinking about changing jobs. I'm just not happy with where I am right
now."

Alex nodded empathetically.

Alex: "I understand, Sarah. It's important to do what makes you happy. Have you started
looking for new opportunities?"

Sarah: "Not yet, but I've been doing some research. It's just a big step, you know?"

Question:
What can you infer about Sarah and Alex's relationship from this passage?

A) Sarah and Alex are coworkers who see each other every day.
B) Sarah and Alex are close friends who feel comfortable sharing personal matters.
C) Sarah and Alex are acquaintances who rarely speak to each other.
D) Sarah and Alex are business partners working on a project together.
Explanation:
The correct answer is B) Sarah and Alex are close friends who feel comfortable sharing
personal matters.

Passage:
In a bustling city, two longtime friends, Maria and Mark, were meeting for lunch at their
favorite Italian restaurant. They hadn't seen each other in months due to their busy
schedules. As they settled into their seats, their faces lit up with genuine excitement.

Maria: "Mark, it's been way too long! How have you been?"

Mark: "I know, Maria! I've been good, just swamped with work. How about you?"

Maria: "Same here, work has been a whirlwind. But I'm managing. Any exciting updates in
your life?"

Mark leaned in closer, a mischievous twinkle in his eye.

Mark: "Actually, I have some big news. I'm getting married!"

Maria's eyes widened with surprise and joy.

Maria: "Mark, that's incredible! Congratulations! Tell me all about it."

Mark proceeded to share the story of how he met his fiancée, the romantic proposal, and
their plans for the wedding. Maria listened intently, her smile growing wider with every detail.

Maria: "I'm so happy for you, Mark. She sounds wonderful. When's the big day?"

Mark: "We're thinking about next spring. You have to be there, Maria; you're like family to
me."

As they enjoyed their meal, they reminisced about their shared adventures over the years,
feeling grateful for their enduring friendship.

Question:
What can you infer about Maria and Mark's friendship from this passage?

A) Maria and Mark see each other regularly and share all aspects of their lives.
B) Maria and Mark are distant friends who only meet on special occasions.
C) Maria and Mark were once close but have grown apart due to their busy lives.
D) Maria and Mark are colleagues who occasionally catch up over lunch.

Explanation:
The correct answer is A) Maria and Mark see each other regularly and share all aspects of
their lives.

Passage:
In a quiet suburban neighborhood, Sarah and John, longtime neighbors and close friends,
found themselves sitting on Sarah's front porch one warm summer evening. They had spent
countless hours together, sharing stories and laughter. This evening, however, a somber
mood hung in the air.

Sarah: "John, you've been distant lately. Is everything alright?"

John sighed, his shoulders slumping.

John: "Sarah, I've been dealing with some health issues. Nothing too serious, but it's been
weighing on my mind."

Sarah's expression immediately shifted to one of concern.

Sarah: "Why didn't you tell me sooner, John? We're friends; you can always lean on me for
support."

John appreciated Sarah's genuine concern and felt relieved to share his worries.

John: "I didn't want to burden you with my problems, Sarah. But thank you for being there."

Sarah reached out and placed a comforting hand on John's shoulder.

Sarah: "John, we've been through so much together. We're here for each other, no matter
what. Let's talk about it and figure out how I can help."

As the evening sun dipped below the horizon, they began discussing John's health issues,
his treatment options, and ways Sarah could support him during this challenging time. Their
friendship, built on trust and unwavering support, remained as strong as ever.

Question:
What can you infer about Sarah and John's friendship from this passage?

A) Sarah and John have a shallow acquaintance and rarely share personal matters.
B) Sarah and John have a deep and caring friendship, and they can confide in each other
during difficult times.
C) Sarah and John are coworkers who occasionally socialize outside of work.
D) Sarah and John are neighbors but do not have a close relationship.

Explanation:
The correct answer is B) Sarah and John have a deep and caring friendship, and they can
confide in each other during difficult times.
Passage:
In the heart of a bustling city, two childhood friends, Emily and David, reunited after several
years apart. They had been inseparable throughout their school years but had lost touch due
to different life paths and busy schedules. On this sunny afternoon, they found themselves
sitting in a charming park, catching up on lost time.
Emily: "David, it's incredible to see you after all these years. How have you been?"

David smiled warmly, nostalgia filling his eyes.

David: "Emily, I've missed you so much. Life's been a rollercoaster, but I can't complain. How
about you?"

Emily's gaze turned contemplative.

Emily: "It's been quite a journey. I finished my degree, traveled a bit, and now I'm working as
a journalist. But honestly, I've felt a bit lost lately, like I'm not on the right path."

David leaned forward, his expression filled with empathy.

David: "I'm sorry to hear that, Emily. But you've always been talented and passionate about
writing. Maybe it's just a phase."

Emily nodded, appreciating David's support.

Emily: "You're right. I need to rediscover my passion. What about you, David? Any big
changes in your life?"

David's smile grew broader as he shared his story.

David: "Well, I started a nonprofit organization that helps underprivileged kids get access to
education. It's been incredibly rewarding."

Emily's eyes sparkled with admiration.

Emily: "David, that's amazing! You've always had such a big heart. I'm proud of you."

As they continued talking, the hours slipped away, and the park's peaceful ambiance
enveloped them. Emily and David's friendship, rekindled by shared memories and their
genuine connection, felt as strong as ever.

Question:
What can you infer about Emily and David's friendship from this passage?

A) Emily and David have been lifelong friends who reconnected easily despite years apart.
B) Emily and David were once close but have grown apart due to their busy lives.
C) Emily and David are colleagues who occasionally meet for lunch.
D) Emily and David are acquaintances who rarely share personal matters.

Explanation:
The correct answer is A) Emily and David have been lifelong friends who reconnected easily
despite years apart.

Passage:
In a quaint coastal town, nestled between the rolling hills and the serene sea, lived two
lifelong friends, Lisa and Michael. They had known each other since their early childhood
and had shared countless adventures together. As they entered their adult years, their bond
remained as strong as ever. One summer evening, they decided to take a leisurely stroll
along the beach, the golden rays of the setting sun painting the sky in hues of orange and
pink.

Lisa: "Michael, it's incredible how this place hasn't changed a bit. The sea, the sand, the
memories—it all feels so timeless."

Michael nodded, a reminiscent smile on his face.

Michael: "You're right, Lisa. This place holds so many of our secrets and stories. Speaking of
stories, have I told you about the new project I'm working on?"

Lisa's eyes lit up with curiosity.

Lisa: "No, you haven't! Tell me everything."

Michael began sharing the details of his latest endeavor—a documentary about the town's
history, its people, and their enduring love for the ocean. Lisa listened intently, her admiration
for her friend's passion evident.

Lisa: "Michael, that sounds incredible. You've always had a way with stories. I can't wait to
see it."

As they continued their walk along the beach, they talked about their families, their dreams,
and the challenges they faced in their respective careers. The waves gently lapped at the
shore, providing a soothing backdrop to their conversation.

Michael: "And how about you, Lisa? How's your photography exhibition coming along?"

Lisa sighed, a mix of excitement and nerves.

Lisa: "It's been a whirlwind, Michael. Preparing for the exhibition has been a rollercoaster of
emotions, but I'm hoping it'll be a success."

Michael put a reassuring hand on Lisa's shoulder.

Michael: "You're incredibly talented, Lisa. Your work deserves all the recognition it gets."

As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting long shadows on the beach, Lisa and Michael
felt grateful for their enduring friendship. The years may have passed, but their connection
remained steadfast, just like the timeless sea they had grown up beside.

Question:
What can you infer about Lisa and Michael's friendship from this passage?
A) Lisa and Michael have a casual acquaintance and rarely share personal matters.
B) Lisa and Michael were once close but have grown apart due to their busy lives.
C) Lisa and Michael have a deep and enduring friendship, and they continue to support each
other's dreams and passions.
D) Lisa and Michael are coworkers who occasionally meet for a coffee.

Explanation:
The correct answer is C) Lisa and Michael have a deep and enduring friendship, and they
continue to support each other's dreams and passions.

Setting
Question:
Read the following passage and answer the question that follows:

"In the heart of the bustling city, there stood a quaint little bookstore. Its shelves were lined
with dusty volumes, and the creaky wooden floor added character to the space. Sunlight
streamed through the small windows, casting a warm glow on the antique furniture. On one
corner of the store, a cozy reading nook invited customers to lose themselves in the world of
books."

Question:
What does the setting of the bookstore suggest about the atmosphere in the store?

A) The atmosphere is cold and unwelcoming.

B) The atmosphere is busy and chaotic.

C) The atmosphere is warm and inviting.

D) The atmosphere is modern and sterile.

Answer:
C) The atmosphere is warm and inviting.

Explanation:
The passage describes the setting of the bookstore in detail, mentioning features like dusty
volumes, a creaky wooden floor, sunlight casting a warm glow, and a cozy reading nook.
These details create an image of a charming and inviting atmosphere, making option C the
correct choice. The other options (A, B, and D) do not align with the description provided in
the passage.

Question 1:
Read the following passage and answer the question that follows:
"The old cabin sat at the edge of the serene lake, surrounded by towering pine trees. A
gentle breeze rustled the leaves, and the sound of chirping birds filled the air. The sun was
setting, casting a golden hue over the water, creating a picturesque scene."

Question:
What can you infer about the setting of the cabin based on the passage?

A) The cabin is located in a noisy urban area.

B) The cabin is in a remote and peaceful natural environment.

C) The cabin is modern and luxurious.

D) The cabin is near a busy highway.

Answer:
B) The cabin is in a remote and peaceful natural environment.

Explanation:
The passage describes the cabin's location as being near a serene lake, surrounded by
towering pine trees, with sounds of nature like rustling leaves and chirping birds. These
details convey a sense of tranquility and suggest that the cabin is situated in a remote and
peaceful natural environment, making option B the correct choice.

Question 2:
Read the following passage and answer the question that follows:

"The narrow, dimly lit alleyway was filled with the aroma of sizzling street food. Vendors lined
the cobblestone path, their colorful carts displaying an array of culinary delights. People
bustled about, chatting animatedly and savoring their meals."

Question:
What does the setting of the alleyway suggest about the atmosphere in this place?

A) The atmosphere is quiet and deserted.

B) The atmosphere is lively and bustling.

C) The atmosphere is formal and elegant.

D) The atmosphere is chaotic and disorganized.

Answer:
B) The atmosphere is lively and bustling.

Explanation:
The passage describes the alleyway as being filled with the aroma of street food, vendors
lining the cobblestone path, and people bustling about and savoring their meals. These
details create an image of a lively and bustling atmosphere, making option B the correct
choice.

Question 3:
Read the following passage and answer the question that follows:

"The laboratory was filled with rows of stainless steel equipment, humming with activity.
Fluorescent lights overhead cast a sterile, white glow. Scientists in lab coats moved about
methodically, conducting experiments with precision."

Question:
What can you infer about the setting of the laboratory based on the passage?

A) The laboratory is disorganized and chaotic.

B) The laboratory is brightly lit with natural sunlight.

C) The laboratory is a place of scientific research and precision.

D) The laboratory is located in a historic building.

Answer:
C) The laboratory is a place of scientific research and precision.

Explanation:
The passage describes the laboratory as having rows of stainless steel equipment, scientists
in lab coats conducting experiments with precision, and fluorescent lights casting a sterile,
white glow. These details suggest that the laboratory is a place of scientific research and
precision, making option C the correct choice.

Question 1:
Read the following passage and answer the question that follows:

"The medieval castle stood atop a steep hill, overlooking the sprawling village below. Its
towering stone walls and turrets conveyed a sense of strength and history. Flags bearing the
royal crest fluttered in the wind, and the drawbridge led to a massive wooden door."

Question:
What can you infer about the setting of the castle based on the passage?

A) The castle is located in a modern city.

B) The castle is situated on flat terrain.

C) The castle is old and imposing.

D) The castle is made of glass and steel.

Answer:
C) The castle is old and imposing.

Explanation:
The passage provides descriptions of the castle's appearance, including phrases like
"medieval," "towering stone walls," and "flags bearing the royal crest." These details suggest
that the castle is old and imposing, making option C the correct choice.

Question 2:
Read the following passage and answer the question that follows:

"The sun-drenched beach stretched for miles, with soft white sand and crystal-clear waters.
Colorful umbrellas dotted the shoreline, and children built sandcastles near the gentle surf.
Beachgoers relaxed in the shade of palm trees, enjoying the soothing sounds of the waves."

Question:
What does the setting of the beach suggest about the atmosphere in this place?

A) The atmosphere is hectic and crowded.

B) The atmosphere is serene and relaxing.

C) The atmosphere is stormy and turbulent.

D) The atmosphere is urban and noisy.

Answer:
B) The atmosphere is serene and relaxing.

Explanation:
The passage describes the beach as having soft white sand, crystal-clear waters, colorful
umbrellas, children building sandcastles, and beachgoers relaxing in the shade of palm
trees. These details create an image of a serene and relaxing atmosphere, making option B
the correct choice.

Question 3:
Read the following passage and answer the question that follows:

"The small cafe was tucked away on a quiet street, its exterior adorned with ivy-covered
walls and hanging flower baskets. Inside, cozy tables were set with checkered tablecloths,
and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee wafted through the air. Soft jazz music played in the
background."

Question:
What can you infer about the setting of the cafe based on the passage?
A) The cafe is located in a bustling shopping mall.

B) The cafe is large and spacious.

C) The cafe is charming and inviting.

D) The cafe is noisy and chaotic.

Answer:
C) The cafe is charming and inviting.

Explanation:
The passage provides descriptions of the cafe's exterior, including ivy-covered walls and
hanging flower baskets, as well as the interior with cozy tables, checkered tablecloths, and
the aroma of freshly brewed coffee. These details suggest that the cafe is charming and
inviting, making option C the correct choice.

Question 1:
Read the following passage and answer the question that follows:

"The forest was a dense tangle of ancient trees, their branches intertwined like fingers
reaching for the sky. Shafts of sunlight filtered through the canopy, illuminating patches of
wildflowers. The air was filled with the chirping of birds and the rustling of leaves."

Question:
What can you infer about the setting of the forest based on the passage?

A) The forest is a barren wasteland.

B) The forest is a young and recently planted area.

C) The forest is an old and lush environment.

D) The forest is a city park.

Answer:
C) The forest is an old and lush environment.

Explanation:
The passage provides descriptions of the forest, including ancient trees, interwoven
branches, shafts of sunlight, wildflowers, and sounds of nature. These details suggest that
the forest is an old and lush environment, making option C the correct choice.

Question 2:
Read the following passage and answer the question that follows:
"The school library was a modern space, with sleek glass walls and rows of computer
terminals. Soft lighting and ergonomic chairs made it comfortable for studying. Students sat
in small groups, collaborating on projects, while others worked quietly at individual carrels."

Question:
What can you infer about the setting of the school library based on the passage?

A) The library is outdated and in need of renovation.

B) The library is noisy and chaotic.

C) The library is a modern and comfortable space for studying.

D) The library is dimly lit with no seating.

Answer:
C) The library is a modern and comfortable space for studying.

Explanation:
The passage describes the school library as having modern features like glass walls,
computer terminals, soft lighting, ergonomic chairs, and students collaborating or working
quietly. These details suggest that the library is a modern and comfortable space for
studying, making option C the correct choice.

Question 3:
Read the following passage and answer the question that follows:

"The old farmhouse stood at the end of a long dirt road, surrounded by fields of tall grass. A
weathered wooden fence marked the property boundary. The front porch creaked underfoot,
and a porch swing swayed gently in the breeze."

Question:
What can you infer about the setting of the farmhouse based on the passage?

A) The farmhouse is located in a bustling city.

B) The farmhouse is in a suburban neighborhood.

C) The farmhouse is old and isolated in a rural area.

D) The farmhouse is a modern and luxurious mansion.

Answer:
C) The farmhouse is old and isolated in a rural area.

Explanation:
The passage provides descriptions of the farmhouse, including its location at the end of a
long dirt road, the presence of tall grass fields, a weathered wooden fence, a creaky front
porch, and a porch swing. These details suggest that the farmhouse is old and isolated in a
rural area, making option C the correct choice