Learning Objective

I can expand my vocabulary by exploring and understanding the meanings of the words "veer," "hesitate," "collapse," "scurry," and "shoulder" within the context of the historical novel "A Long Walk to Water" by Linda Sue Park.

As the storm approached, the ship veered off its course to avoid the turbulent waters.

Sentence

To change direction suddenly or swerve.

Meaning

veered (verb)

Sarah hesitated before entering the mysterious cave, unsure of what she might find inside.

Sentence

To pause or be uncertain before taking action or making a decision.

Meaning

hesitated (verb)

The old building, weakened by years of neglect, was collapsing under its own weight.

Sentence

To fall down or give way suddenly due to pressure, stress, or a lack of support.

Meaning

collapsing (verb)

The mice scurried across the kitchen floor, seeking shelter as the cat approached.

Sentence

To move quickly with short, hurried steps, often in a timid or nervous manner.

Meaning

scurried (verb)

Despite the heavy rain, John shouldered his backpack and continued hiking through the muddy trail.

Sentence

To carry a burden or load on one's shoulders; to take responsibility for something.

Meaning

shouldered (verb)

Practice!

Using the sentences or paragraphs from the novel, A Long Walk to Water by Linda Sue Park, let's analyze how these sentences or paragraphs provide context for vocabulary words, demonstrating their meanings in different situations while doing her assigned task.