Challenge middle and high school students to push beyond basic reading comprehension and exercise close reading analysis skills while engaging with The Adventures of Ulysses by Bernard Evslin. Given the objective nature of the multiple choice questions, each close reading activity is rigorous enough for students to find deeper meaning in the novel, yet convenient enough for teachers to quickly and efficiently gather data on their students’ textual analysis skills. Seven close reading worksheets are provided, as well as answer keys. Materials are delivered in Word Document and PDF formats. These resources may be used to facilitate small-group discussions in which students decode language and pose/respond to questions relating to plot, broad topics, and character development. Using these materials for structured guidance, students will improve their ability to present information, conclusions, and supporting textual evidence clearly and convincingly. By the end of the novel, students will: Identify what the text states explicitly and implicitly Define complex words as they are used in a given passage Select the best synonyms for given words as they are used in the text Verify interpretations of language using reference materials as needed Discern tone in context Explore how characters think, behave, and interact Compare and contrast characters Examine how setting influences character development Apply knowledge of various literary devices including foreshadowing, personification, simile, epiphany, understatement, symbolism, situational irony, and dramatic irony Apply knowledge of various sound devices including sibilance and assonance Locate relevant textual details in support of the claim that Ulysses was the only crew member with the ability to think critically in the face of danger Explore themes that are reinforced in a given passage Write ideas with clarity, accuracy, and precision

Mythological fiction is a genre that appeals to the imaginations of many middle and high school students. The Adventures of Ulysses by Bernard Evslin is a modern retelling of Homer’s The Odyssey, written in a manner that is easier to process—even for struggling readers. With this bundle of multiple choice quizzes, English teachers will be able to evaluate students’ general text comprehension, hold learners accountable for completing assigned readings, and eliminate at-home assessment planning without sacrificing quality in the classroom. Answer keys are provided, and all materials are delivered in printable Word Document and PDF formats. By taking these assessments, students will demonstrate knowledge of the following: A bribe (inciting incident) An oath agreed to by Helen’s suitors The Trojan War The wooden horse An attack on the Island of the Ciconians Ulysses’ efforts to save his men from subsequent attack The tossing away of treasures Morpheus A characterization of the Lotus Eaters Ulysses’ efforts to remove his men from the influence of Lotusland The dangers of Polyphemus Ulysses efforts to save himself and his men The eventual escape A flaw in Ulysses’ character Polyphemus’s plea to his father Aeolus and a gift Another mistake Ulysses makes before arriving home Aeolus’s response to Ulysses’ mistake Incidents on Cannibal Beach A surprising discovery on Circe’s island Circe’s background Circe’s powers Ulysses’ unexpected help from a Greek god Ulysses and Circe’s arrangement The men’s general feelings toward remaining on the island Circe’s offer to Ulysses, which is refused A revelation concerning the Land of the Dead Ulysses’ decision to leave the island The death of Elpenor The importance of the white bird The sacrificing of goats The appearance of ghosts Ulysses’ new-found knowledge of what has transpired at home Strategies Ulysses must employ to successfully return home Protection against the Sirens Scylla and Charybdis The Isle of the Sun Titan A warning not to harm the golden cattle 30 days and nights of wind Efforts to scrounge for food Eurylochus and his lie to Ulysses Ulysses means of survival Calypso’s magic Calypso’s comments about Penelope Penelope’s weaving and her attempts to delay a major decision Hermes’ arrival and its foreshadowing Calypso’s sadness Calypso’s help Poseidon’s anger at Ulysses The characterization of Ino The characterization of Nausicaa Nausicaa’s dream Nausicaa’s encounter with Ulysses The oracle’s warning The men’s conspiracy against Ulysses Nausicaa’s trick King Alcinous’s generosity Ulysses’ return to Ithaca Eumaeus’ loyalty Ulysses’ new-found knowledge upon returning home The suitors vs. Telemachus The concealing of an identity Argo’s reaction to Ulysses’ return The antagonistic nature of Eurymachus An archery contest Penelope’s agreement to marry the victor Bloody conflict The resolution