Question

Which best describes the climax of the story?

Story:
1 Chris and Taylor have been neighbors for years. During the summer, they enjoy biking on the trails in town. Chris always has to remind Taylor to wear his helmet or else Taylor forgets. Every time that happens, Chris makes a joke about it and says that because he is older, it is his duty to remember. He adds that having red hair and freckles helps his memory.

2 One afternoon Taylor suggested that they ride their bikes into town for lunch at the diner. Because Taylor had been saving his money, he offered to pay for the meal. When Chris asked how he earned the money, Taylor replied, “I mow the lawn and take out the trash.” Suddenly Chris seemed upset. His face turned bright red, and he quickly pedaled home.

3 The next day, Taylor was playing basketball in his driveway when Chris rode up on his bike. Taylor wiped the sweat from his sunburned face and slicked back his brown hair. He smiled at Chris, who smiled back and said, “I’m sorry for getting angry yesterday.” He explained that he got mad because he helps watch his younger sister and feeds the family dog but does not get paid.

4 The two friends shook hands and happily played basketball for the rest of the afternoon. Chris made his usual jokes about things, and Taylor kept forgetting the score of the game—things were back to normal.
Use the selection to answer the question

(Sorry you had to read all that.)

Answer 1

Answer: 2. One afternoon Taylor suggested that they ride their bikes into town for lunch at the diner. Because Taylor had been saving his money, he offered to pay for the meal. When Chris asked how he earned the money, Taylor replied, “I mow the lawn and take out the trash.” Suddenly Chris seemed upset. His face turned bright red, and he quickly pedaled home.

The climax of a story is the turning point of the narrative. It is the point of highest tension and drama, or the time where the main action starts.

In this case, the highest point of tension in the story is when Taylor discloses that he has been earning money, which causes Chris to react badly and pedal home. This event sets the stage for the resolution that happens near the end of the story.