Instructions
Read the following passage carefully. After reading, answer the questions that follow.
Passage:
In the small town of Maplewood, life moved at a slower pace. The streets were lined with oak trees, and neighbors greeted each other with warm smiles. This quaint town was renowned for its annual autumn festival, where families came together to celebrate the changing seasons. As the leaves turned vibrant shades of orange and gold, the air filled with the aroma of baked goods and the sound of laughter. During the festival, children participated in various activities, from hayrides to pumpkin carving, while adults enjoyed local music and shared stories of simpler times.
However, the town faced challenges as new developments threatened its tranquility. Large corporations aimed to buy land and transform the area into a bustling commercial hub. Many residents were torn between the promise of economic growth and the desire to preserve their cherished way of life.
As tensions rose in Maplewood, the community began to hold meetings to discuss the future. Would they stand together to protect their town, or would they allow progress to change their beloved home forever?
Questions:
1. What is the main theme of the passage?
2. Describe how the autumn festival impacts the town's sense of community.
3. What challenges does Maplewood face according to the passage?
4. In your opinion, what should the residents of Maplewood prioritize: economic growth or preserving their way of life? Explain your reasoning.
5. Find a sentence in the passage that describes the atmosphere of the autumn festival. Write it below.