“Puppet Show” by Fredric Brown Quiz and Answer Key

For many high school readers, science fiction is a high-interest genre that maximizes student engagement. “Puppet Show” by Fredric Brown is a sci-fi short story about a supposed alien visitor who is tasked with evaluating humanity’s worthiness to be included in a distinguished organization. With this editable quiz, high school English teachers will be able to evaluate reading comprehension and promote homework accountability. An answer key is provided. Materials are delivered in printable Word Document and PDF formats. By taking this assessment, students will demonstrate knowledge of the following:

• Setting
• Physical characteristics of the visitor
• Manuel Casey’s general characterization
• The purpose of the alien’s visit
• The alien’s mode of communication
• The condition under which humanity will learn the secrets to space travel
• A definition of xenophobia
• The psychological condition of the aliens
• Criticism of humankind’s hubris