New Hampshire Foundations of Reading Practice Test

Which of the following describes character development?

1. Focusing solely on physical characteristics

2. Summarizing the plot of the story

3. Understanding characters' traits and how they change

4. Analyzing the setting of the story

The correct answer is: Understanding characters' traits and how they change

Character development refers to the process by which characters are created, grow, and evolve throughout a narrative. The correct response highlights the importance of understanding both the traits of characters and the ways in which these traits may change as a result of experiences, conflicts, or relationships within the story. This progression can be pivotal for the overall narrative arc and helps readers form connections with the characters. When analyzing character development, one looks for signs of change that reveal deeper themes in the story, such as personal growth, moral dilemmas, or realizations that characters undergo as they face various challenges. This understanding allows readers to appreciate not just who the characters are at the beginning of the story, but also how their experiences shape them by the end. In contrast, focusing solely on physical characteristics ignores the depth of the character’s personality and development. Summarizing the plot does not capture the nuances of character growth, and analyzing the setting, while valuable for context, does not delve into the complexities of how characters evolve throughout the narrative.