The Explorer - Session 26 - Reading Comprehension suggested answers

In "The Explorer," a reading comprehension exercise titled "Waiting for Dawn & Flight Home," students are tested on their understanding of the narrative's events and the characters' emotions. Fred's feelings on the eve of their departure are described as nervous and terrified, reflecting his inner turmoil. The direction he must follow is north-east along the river, a clear and specific route for their journey. Fred's desire to remain with the explorer stems from a deep sense of connection; he believes the explorer comprehends him more profoundly than his own father does, offering him an opportunity to learn and engage in exploration.

The phrase "this is where I feel most honest," as uttered by the explorer, indicates a place of authenticity where he can be true to himself without the constraints of societal expectations or rules. The term "a heart with claws" is a metaphor suggesting a fierce passion that drives one to take action and persist against challenges. When the plane takes off, the atmosphere is described as tense, a mix of nervousness and desperation among the passengers. A concise summary of "Waiting for Dawn" is required to encapsulate the essence of the passage in no more than 50 words, challenging students to distill the key points with clarity and brevity.