Read the scenario of a formal discussion. Evan and Ben are discussing a short story. EVAN: On page 7, the text says, "the old man quickly changed his frown to a smile when he noticed his daughter had come to visit.” This shows that the man is hiding his true feelings of pain to protect his daughter’s feelings.

[Ben interrupts Evan.]

BEN: Yes. Evan, I can see how you would think that. But, later on page 7, the text says, "the old man’s best memories were of spending time with his daughter.” Do you think this indicates that the daughter’s presence actually changes the old man’s mood?

How does Ben’s participation reflect that he is prepared?

He uses language that is appropriate to the topic.
He understands social cues for entering a conversation.
He poses and responds to questions thoughtfully.
He advances the discussion to a different topic.