Name ____________________________ Date _______________________
The word “plain” has occurred multiple times throughout the story so far. However, the context in which the word “plain” is used has varied. Looking at the two instances below, determine the appropriate definition using a dictionary and the context.
Sarah stepped down from the wagon, a cloth bag in her hand. She reached up and took off her yellow bonnet, smoothing back her brown hair into a bun. She was plain and tall.
Sarah, Plain and Tall – page 19
- What does “plain” mean in the above sentence?
Sarah turned and looked out over the plains.
Sarah, Plain and Tall – page 20
- What does “plains” refer to in the above sentence?
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Read the following passage again and think about why “Sarah was already lonely.”
Sarah turned and looked out over the plains.
“No,” she said. “There is no sea here. But the land rolls a little like the sea.”
My father did not see her look, but I did. And I knew that Caleb had seen it, too. Sarah was not smiling. Sarah was already lonely. In a month’s time the preacher might come to marry Sarah and Papa. And a month is a long time. Time enough for her to change her mind and leave us.
Sarah, Plain and Tall – page 20
- Explain why Caleb and Anna both believe Sarah is already lonely.
