Question

1. which universal theme is common to both selections, and how is this theme developed through the two plots? universal theme: nature deserves to be protected. how theme is developed through plot: in selection 1, a beloved natural landmark collapses overnight. in selection 2, keikos brother organizes a beach cleanup. universal theme: it is better to try and fail than not to try at all. how theme is developed through plot: in selection 1, the narrator fails to photograph the rock “face” but takes a better selfie than the grumbling hiker. in selection 2, keiko boards the train knowing she will face injury and humiliation. universal theme: success requires courage. how theme is developed through plot: in selection 1, the narrator competes with a crowd of tourists to capture an impressive photograph. in selection 2, keiko packs goggles, a helmet, and a wetsuit to be ready for any challenge. universal theme: vanity can inspire foolish behavior. how theme is developed through plot: in selection 1, the narrator leans out as far as possible over a sheer ledge for social media attention. in selection 2, keiko recalls dangerous challenges faced by game show contestants while reaffirming her plan to audition.

Explanation:

For the theme "Nature deserves to be protected", in Selection 1 the collapse of a natural landmark shows the vulnerability of nature, and in Selection 2 the beach - cleanup is an act of protecting nature. For "It is better to try and fail than not to try at all", the actions in Selection 1 about the photograph and in Selection 2 about Keiko boarding the train don't strongly convey this theme. For "Success requires courage", the actions in the selections don't clearly demonstrate this as a common theme. For "Vanity can inspire foolish behavior", the actions in the two selections don't seem to be mainly about vanity - inspired foolishness. The most fitting theme is "Nature deserves to be protected".

Answer:

Universal Theme: Nature deserves to be protected.
How Theme is Developed Through Plot: In Selection 1, a beloved natural landmark collapses overnight. In Selection 2, Keiko's brother organizes a beach cleanup.