After reading "The False Gems" and "The Diamond Necklace", you have seen that the author provided a view of class and love, while he challenged the way we view happiness by suggesting that things are not always what they appear to be. Take a look at both stories again, and write a comparison and contrast essay. You will do your own prewriting to determine what you want to focus on in this essay.
Think of the theme and the elements of social class during this time period.
Why are the stories similar?
Why are the stories different?
Explain your ideas clearly.

Read this passage: byron and mitch are co-captains of the mathletes, their high school's academic team. they are backstage with the five other team members, preparing to compete in the state math quiz. byron sits on the floor with his eyes closed and his earbuds in, listening to classical jazz, which him focus his mind and energy. suddenly, he feels a presence beside him. he opens his eyes to see mitch staring at him. "mathletes! mathletes! " mitch chants loudly. mitch gives byron a thumbs-up and then proceeds to strut around like a peacock, high-fiving the other team members, as byron shuts his eyes again and does his best to refocus his mind which statement best summarizes the passage?