California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress (CAASPP) English Practice Exam

Which transition can indicate a change in the timeline of a narrative?

1. However

2. After

3. Therefore

4. Similarly

The correct answer is: After

The choice of "After" is particularly effective in indicating a change in the timeline of a narrative because it explicitly signifies that one event occurs subsequent to another. This transition allows readers to understand the sequence of events clearly, marking the progression of time within the story. Using "After" helps to establish a chronological relationship and provides clarity regarding when one action takes place in relation to another, thus reinforcing the narrative structure. In contrast, the other transitions serve different purposes in a narrative. "However" introduces a contrast or contradiction, "Therefore" indicates a result or consequence, and "Similarly" suggests a comparison or likeness between events. While they serve important roles in conveying relationships between ideas, they do not specifically denote a shift in the timeline. As a result, "After" stands out as the most suitable choice for highlighting changes in time within a narrative context.