Page 83 - Grade 5 - unit 1

Idioms

To make dialogue more realistic
and lively, authors may include
idioms, or phrases with meanings
that differ from the literal
meanings of the words. Look back
at page 92. Rudy says, “We can’t
push our luck, dude.” Real fifth
graders might use this idiom when
talking to each other. It means
“We can’t be too greedy, or we
won’t get anything.”

Formal and Informal
Language

Miata’s speech includes formal
phrases, such as I’m seeking your
votes and I plan to beautify the
school grounds. In contrast, Rudy
uses informal slang words, such as
dude and homeboys. What
differences between Miata and
Rudy are revealed through their
dialogue? What does their use of
some Spanish terms tell you about
both characters?

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