1. ECA Practice: Analysis of Nonfiction
“Letter of Advice to His Daughter Martha” by Thomas Jefferson

2. Thomas Jefferson’s style and word choice help to create a tone that is
A) hot and angry
B) warm and loving
C) strict and polite
D) cheerful and familiar

3. #1 Explanation
Jefferson uses a tone that is strict and polite as he presents rules for his young daughter to follow.

4. 2) To impress upon this daughter the importance of his advice, Jefferson uses a style that is A) formal B) informal C) ornate D) technical

5. #2 Explanation
Formal language is used for writing that serves a serious purpose. It often involves longer and more complicated sentence structures.

6. 3) What does Jefferson say will be the result if Patsy accomplished all that he requires of her? A) He will consider her to be a valuable friend. B) He will praise her when she learns to spell well. C) He will be happy when she acquires the accomplishments. D) He will respect her when she spends her days he directs.

7. #3 Explanation
He will be happy when she acquires the accomplishments. Jefferson states that he has placed his happiness on seeing her good and accomplished.

8. 4) Which statement BEST reflects Thomas Jefferson’s attitude toward his obligations? A) He assumed responsibilities for his duties both as a statesman and as a parent. B) The death of his wife prevented him from fulfilling his obligations in all areas. C) He attended the Continental Congress but felt that his daughter would not do well during his absence. D) He was more concerned about attending the Continental Congress than staying at home with his daughter.

9. #4 Explanation
He assumed responsibilities for his duties as a statesman and as a parent is the correct answer. He attended the Continental Congress, and he provided very detailed care for his daughter during his absence.

10. 5) This letter is representative of the time period in which it was written A) by giving ways to change behavior and to improve life during that time B) by reflecting the expectations and education of women during that time C) by appealing to the emotions of the reader as expected during that time D) by using extensive imagery and figurative language common during that time

11. #5 Explanation
He gives instructions to his daughter that are the typical ways of the period prior to the Revolutionary War.