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Inquiring Mind of the English Teacher Kind

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Say hello to a platform dedicated to industrious, yet overtasked teachers like you. Say goodbye to countless hours spent developing relevant and engaging ELA lessons. Whether you are teaching the fundamentals of grammar, creative writing skills, classic literature, or contemporary fiction, you will find thousands of activities and assessments to help you achieve a healthier work-life balance without sacrificing academic rigor.

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Say hello to a platform dedicated to industrious, yet overtasked teachers like you. Say goodbye to countless hours spent developing relevant and engaging ELA lessons. Whether you are teaching the fundamentals of grammar, creative writing skills, classic literature, or contemporary fiction, you will find thousands of activities and assessments to help you achieve a healthier work-life balance without sacrificing academic rigor.
"Through the Tunnel" by Doris Lessing Craft Analysis Activity
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"Through the Tunnel" by Doris Lessing Craft Analysis Activity

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Help high school students analyze how Doris Lessing used figurative language (simile), alliteration, descriptive language, and characterization to develop a compelling narrative and a mature, emotionally intelligent protagonist in “Through the Tunnel.” Delivered in Word Document and PDF formats, this resource serves well for an independent learning opportunity, as well as for small-group discussions. Through such discussions, students may evaluate peers’ reasoning and use of rhetoric to support claims, clarifying or challenging ideas as needed. An answer key is included.
The Adventures of Ulysses Chapter 7 Close Reading Questions
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The Adventures of Ulysses Chapter 7 Close Reading Questions

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Help middle and high school students go beyond general reading comprehension and develop close reading analysis skills while they engage with The Adventures of Ulysses by Bernard Evslin. Highlighting a significant passage from chapter seven (“Circe”), this resource features a line of rigorous questioning to promote active engagement with the text. An answer key is provided. Materials are delivered in printable Word Document and PDF formats. By engaging with this close reading activity, students will: Discern the reason for Ulysses’ reluctance in terms of advancing toward the castle Apply knowledge of literary concepts including internal conflict and personification Discern the significance of the white deer’s appearance Define complex words and phrases in the context of a passage Verify interpretations of language using reference materials Determine which given adjective is most suitable to Ulysses in context Explore the setting’s influence on Ulysses’ psychological state Discern a logical inference in context Isolate a false statement about plot from correct statements
Fallen Angels by Walter Dean Myers Quiz and Answer Key Bundle
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Fallen Angels by Walter Dean Myers Quiz and Answer Key Bundle

6 Resources
Evaluate general reading comprehension and eliminate assessment planning responsibilities with this bundle of plot-based quizzes covering the entirety of Fallen Angels by Walter Dean Myers. The assessments may double as guided reading worksheets to facilitate active engagement with the novel. Answer keys are provided. Materials are delivered in editable Word Document and printable PDF formats. By taking these quizzes, students will demonstrate knowledge of the following: Perry’s home city Perry’s hopes and dreams Perry’s motivations for serving in the military Perry’s physical limitations Rumors concerning the war Peewee’s erratic behavior Perry’s relation to Kenny Why Peewee likes being in the military Jenkins’ motivations for serving in the military Why Lt. Carroll refers to Jenkins as an “angel warrior” The veteran soldiers’ perception of Lt. Carroll The reason for a mission to a Vietnamese village The purpose of Earlene’s letter to Peewee Lt. Carroll’s request of Perry Perry’s loyalty to his squad Lobel’s mindset at he is on patrol Perry’s stated reason for being a soldier The reason Perry does not participate in the killing of an adversary Perry’s mindset as he looks at the corpse of the adversary Captain Stewart’s lies Perry’s physical condition The reason for a fistfight between two characters Why Peewee asks Perry to write a letter to Earlene A major mistake by another squad Lt. Carroll’s generosity Perry’s request of Brew Monaco’s reckless behavior The purpose of a visit to a Vietnamese village Brunner’s behavior while in the Vietnamese village Johnson’s defense of Perry What Peewee wants to buy while in the Vietnamese village The content of a letter Lobel receives Kenny’s personal goals as outlined in his letter to Perry Peewee’s emotional state as he interacts with Red Cross representatives The location where the squad will wait to ambush enemy forces The death of a character following a conflict Who is tasked with notifying the dead character’s family Perry’s declining of an offer from Stewart Perry’s learning of how Vietnamese forces treat hostages Lobel’s extreme guilt The author of a letter sent to Peewee A lengthy discussion on draft-dodging The rumor circulating about the war An incident that jeopardizes the squad’s safety Who accepts responsibility for the aforementioned incident The reason for a group vote The main purpose of the American soldiers’ mission to ambush Vietnamese forces Perry’s brush with death How Peewee is affected by events The ARVN Jamal’s role Tam Ky Why Gearhart does not order his men to fire upon enemy forces Simpson’s feelings toward Captain Stewart Perry’s physical condition The nature of Perry’s injuries Judy’s role What happens to Brew What Perry sends Kenny The squad’s suspicions about Dongan Dongan’s trick to make enemy forces vulnerable to attack A booby-trapped child Perry’s observations before shooting an enemy soldier Dongan’s death The reason for burning American soldiers’ bodies The incident involving a jet Monaco’s hallucinations The reason Gearhart hands Perry a letter What Gearhart hands Walowick Why Perry feels distressed when writing to Kenny Brunner’s new role Qualities Perry and Peewee share in common How Perry and Peewee are separated from their peers Where Perry and Peewee spend a night The Viet Cong fighters’ trap Perry’s concerns for his physical condition An update on Judy Duncan Characters who are sent home
“The Fog Horn” by Ray Bradbury Close Reading Analysis Worksheet
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“The Fog Horn” by Ray Bradbury Close Reading Analysis Worksheet

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Help high school students extend beyond general reading comprehension and support the development of close reading analysis skills with this set of rigorous, text-dependent questions on the science fiction short story “The Fog Horn” by Ray Bradbury. An answer key is included. Materials are delivered in printable Word Document and PDF formats. By engaging in this exercise, students will… Articulate what is stated in the text explicitly and implicitly Identify several examples of personification and/or anthropomorphism in the narrative Identify several textual details that contribute to a sense of isolation Discern the intended meaning of figurative language Discern the function of a given excerpt Apply knowledge of sonic literary devices including consonance and assonance Analyze the author’s craft Identify stylistic changes in a given excerpt Articulate the intended effect of stylistic changes in a given excerpt Analyze relationships between complex characters Articulate how a given detail is an example of foreshadowing Make logical inferences about character motivations Cite textual evidence in support of inferences and claims Write with clarity and precision
The Adventures of Ulysses Chapter 15 Close Reading Questions
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The Adventures of Ulysses Chapter 15 Close Reading Questions

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Help middle and high school students go beyond general reading comprehension and develop close reading analysis skills while they engage with The Adventures of Ulysses by Bernard Evslin. Highlighting a significant passage from chapter fifteen (“Nausicaa”), this resource features a line of rigorous questioning to promote active engagement with the text. An answer key is provided. Materials are delivered in printable Word Document and PDF formats. This resource may serve as the basis for small-group discussions in which students decode language and pose/respond to questions relating to plot, broad topics, and character development. Using this resource for structured guidance, students will improve their ability to present information, conclusions, and supporting textual evidence clearly and convincingly. By engaging with this resource, students will: Identify the purpose of a particular paragraph Discern the best explanation of the dominant conflict in the context of the passage Identify character motivations Discern the best description of Alcinous’s character Identify the tone of Arete’s dialogue Discern the intent of Arete’s dialogue Analyze the symbolism of snakes in the context of Nausicaa’s dream Apply knowledge of literary devices including assonance
“The Oval Portrait” by Edgar Allan Poe Craft Analysis Worksheet
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“The Oval Portrait” by Edgar Allan Poe Craft Analysis Worksheet

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Help high school students analyze how Edgar Allan Poe used figurative language, sonic language, and descriptive language to develop a complex Gothic narrative and convey obsessiveness of character in “The Oval Portrait.” Delivered in Word Document and PDF formats, this resource serves well for an independent learning opportunity, as well as for small-group discussions. Through such discussions, students may evaluate peers’ reasoning and use of rhetoric to support claims, clarifying or challenging ideas as needed. An answer key and copy of the public domain narrative are included.
“The Chaser” by John Collier Craft Analysis Activity
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“The Chaser” by John Collier Craft Analysis Activity

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Help high school students analyze how John Collier used direct description (setting and characterization), figurative language (euphemism, metaphor, and simile), and foreshadowing to develop a compelling work of fantasy in “The Chaser.” Delivered in Word Document and PDF formats, this resource serves well for an independent learning opportunity, as well as for small-group discussions. Through such discussions, students may evaluate peers’ reasoning and use of rhetoric to support claims, clarifying or challenging ideas as needed. An answer key is included.
"The Monkey's Paw" by W. W. Jacobs Literary Craft Analysis Activity
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"The Monkey's Paw" by W. W. Jacobs Literary Craft Analysis Activity

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Help high school students explore literary craft with this activity covering W. W. Jacobs’ short story “The Monkey���s Paw.” With this worksheet, students will isolate and reflect upon textual details that meaningfully establish setting, develop characterization, and advance plot. An answer key is provided, as well as a copy of the narrative, which makes for an excellent addition to a short story unit for grades 9 through 12. Materials are delivered in editable Word Document and printable PDF formats. By engaging with this literary craft analysis activity, students will: Isolate characterization details that elicit emotional responses from readers Isolate examples of descriptive language that establish and sustain a suspenseful tone Isolate examples of foreshadowing and articulate what those details reveal about future events Apply knowledge of various literary devices including personification, situational irony, symbolism, and verbal irony Convey information through speech and writing in a coherent manner Come to class better prepared to discuss works of fiction
“Thank You, Ma’am” by Langston Hughes Craft Analysis Activity
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“Thank You, Ma’am” by Langston Hughes Craft Analysis Activity

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Help high school students analyze how Langston Hughes used direct description, dialect, and various literary devices to develop complex characters and situations in “Thank You, Ma’am.” Delivered in Word Document and PDF formats, this resource serves well for an independent learning opportunity, as well as for small-group discussions. Through such discussions, students may evaluate peers’ reasoning and use of rhetoric to support claims, clarifying or challenging ideas as needed. An answer key is included.
“The Beast in the Cave” by H.P. Lovecraft Craft Analysis Worksheet
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“The Beast in the Cave” by H.P. Lovecraft Craft Analysis Worksheet

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Help high school students develop a greater understanding of how H.P. Lovecraft used descriptive language, auditory imagery, characterization, and various literary techniques in “The Beast in the Cave” to establish an eerie mood consistent with the Gothic fiction genre. Delivered in printable Word Document and PDF formats, this resource serves well as an independent learning opportunity, as well as for small-group discussions. Through such discussions, students may evaluate peers’ reasoning and use of rhetoric to support claims, clarifying or challenging ideas as needed. An answer key and copy of the public domain short story are included.
"Celebrated Jumping Frog of Calaveras County" Craft Analysis Worksheet
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"Celebrated Jumping Frog of Calaveras County" Craft Analysis Worksheet

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Help high school students explore how Mark Twain used literary devices like hyperbole, allusion, and simile to develop an exaggerated short story in “The Celebrated Jumping Frog of Calaveras County,” also known as “Jim Smiley and His Jumping Frog” and “The Notorious Jumping Frog of Calaveras County.” Delivered in Word Document and PDF formats, this resource serves well for an independent learning opportunity, as well as for small-group discussions in which students evaluate their peers’ reasoning and use of rhetoric to support claims. An answer key and copy of the public domain short story are included.
Macbeth Act 5 Scene 1 Close Reading Worksheet
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Macbeth Act 5 Scene 1 Close Reading Worksheet

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Help high school students go beyond basic reading comprehension and support the development of critical thinking and literary craft analysis skills with this close reading worksheet covering Act 5, scene 1, of William Shakespeare’s Macbeth. An answer key is included. Materials are delivered in editable Word Document and printable PDF formats. More specifically, students will: Identify what the text states both explicitly and implicitly Define complex words and phrases in context Discern the greater significance of a given detail Examine how characters think, behave, interact, and develop Apply knowledge of literary devices with emphasis on hyperbole and metaphor Support inferences and claims with sound reasoning and relevant evidence Write about Shakespearean drama with clarity, accuracy, and precision
Macbeth Act 5 Scene 7 Close Reading Worksheet
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Macbeth Act 5 Scene 7 Close Reading Worksheet

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Help high school students go beyond basic reading comprehension and support the development of critical thinking and literary craft analysis skills with this close reading worksheet covering Act 5, scene 7, of William Shakespeare’s Macbeth. An answer key is included. Materials are delivered in editable Word Document and printable PDF formats. By completing this exercise, students will: Identify what the text states both explicitly and implicitly Explain the dual interpretations of a given phrase Discern the intended effect of figurative language in context Explore how characters think, behave, interact, and develop Analyze how Macbeth’s circumstances have changed since preceding scenes transpired Apply knowledge of literary devices with emphasis on onomatopoeia Support inferences and claims with sound reasoning and relevant evidence Write about Shakespearean drama with clarity, accuracy, and precision
Macbeth Act 5 Scene 3 Close Reading Worksheet
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Macbeth Act 5 Scene 3 Close Reading Worksheet

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Help high school students go beyond basic reading comprehension and support the development of critical thinking and literary craft analysis skills with this close reading worksheet covering Act 5, scene 3, of William Shakespeare’s Macbeth. An answer key is included. Materials are delivered in editable Word Document and printable PDF formats. More specifically, students will: Identify what the text states explicitly and implicitly Connect previous plot details to current developments Discern tone in context Determine the greater significance of a given detail Examine how characters think, behave, interact, and develop Apply knowledge of literary devices including aposiopesis and metaphor Support inferences and claims with sound reasoning and relevant evidence Write about Shakespearean drama with clarity, accuracy, and precision
Macbeth Act 3 Scene 3 Close Reading Worksheet
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Macbeth Act 3 Scene 3 Close Reading Worksheet

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Help high school students go beyond basic reading comprehension and support the development of critical thinking and literary craft analysis skills with this close reading worksheet covering Act 3, scene 3, of William Shakespeare’s Macbeth. An answer key is included. Materials are delivered in editable Word Document and printable PDF formats. By completing this exercise, students will: Identify what the text states both explicitly and implicitly Define challenging words as they are used in the text Discern tone in context Examine cause-and-effect relationships Explore how characters think, behave, interact, and develop Apply knowledge of literary devices including callback and situational irony Explain the symbolism of the extinguished light Support inferences and claims with sound reasoning and relevant evidence Write about Shakespearean drama with clarity, accuracy, and precision
Macbeth Act 1 Scene 2 Close Reading Worksheet
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Macbeth Act 1 Scene 2 Close Reading Worksheet

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Help high school students go beyond basic reading comprehension and support the development of critical thinking and literary craft analysis skills with this close reading worksheet covering Act 1, scene 2, of William Shakespeare’s Macbeth. An answer key is included. Materials are delivered in editable Word Document and printable PDF formats. By completing this exercise, students will: Identify what the text states both explicitly and implicitly Infer the intended effect of Shakespeare’s figurative language Discern tone in context Define complex and archaic words as they are used in the text Examine cause-and-effect relationships Explore how characters think, behave, interact, and develop Apply knowledge of literary devices including sibilance, verbal irony, and allusion Identify the best textual evidence in support of claims and inferences
"The Devil and Daniel Webster" by Stephen Vincent Benet Craft Analysis Activity
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"The Devil and Daniel Webster" by Stephen Vincent Benet Craft Analysis Activity

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Help high school students develop a greater understanding of how Stephen Vincent Benet used hyperbole, simile, metaphor, and other literary devices to convey an exaggerated narrative in “The Devil and Daniel Webster” that is consistent with the supernatural fiction and tall tales. Delivered in both Word Document and PDF formats, this resource serves well for an independent learning opportunity, as well as for small-group discussions. Through such discussions, students may evaluate peers’ reasoning and use of rhetoric to support claims, clarifying or challenging ideas as needed. An answer key is included.
"The Frog King" by the Brothers Grimm Close Reading Analysis Worksheet
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"The Frog King" by the Brothers Grimm Close Reading Analysis Worksheet

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Help middle and high school students go beyond general reading comprehension and support the development of critical thinking skills with this close reading analysis worksheet covering a classic Grimm’s fairy tale titled “The Frog King” (also called “Iron Heinrich” and “Iron Henry”). An answer key and copy of the public domain short story are included. Materials are delivered in editable Word Document and printable PDF formats. By engaging with this close reading activity, students will do the following: Identify what the text states explicitly and implicitly Infer the intended effects of the author’s stylistic choices and narrative techniques Determine the narrative’s inciting incident Examine how complex characters think, behave, interact, and develop Apply knowledge of literary devices including hyperbole, onomatopoeia, personification, dramatic irony, and situational irony Consider themes in context Support claims and inferences with sound reasoning and relevant evidence Write about fiction with clarity, accuracy, and precision Come to class better prepared to discuss literature
“The Frog King” by the Brothers Grimm Quiz and Answer Key
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“The Frog King” by the Brothers Grimm Quiz and Answer Key

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Evaluate general reading comprehension and eliminate assessment planning responsibilities with this plot-based quiz covering the classic Grimm’s fairy tale “The Frog King.” The assessment may double as a guided reading worksheet to facilitate active engagement with the short story. An answer key and copy of the text are provided. All materials are delivered in editable Word Document and printable PDF formats. Students will demonstrate knowledge of the following aspects of plot: The cause of the princess’ sadness The frog’s negotiations with the princess The princess’ betrayal of the frog The princess’ reaction to the frog’s sudden appearance The king’s response to his daughter’s explanation of events The frog’s conduct in the castle The princess’ reaction to the frog’s conduct The reason for the prince’s transformation into a frog The personal wellness of Faithful Henry The cause of cracking noises
“Cinderella” by the Brothers Grimm Close Reading Worksheet
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“Cinderella” by the Brothers Grimm Close Reading Worksheet

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This resource extends beyond text comprehension, helping high school students analyze the formal elements of fiction and respond thoughtfully in writing to questions about literature. The featured short story is “Cinderella” by the Brothers Grimm. Included are the following: the public domain fairy tale, which has an estimated Lexile measure of 1000-1100; a related bell ringer activity; a set of rigorous close reading questions in both Word Doc and PDF formats; an answer key; and editable emergency substitute teaching plans. By completing this exercise, students will: Articulate what is stated in the text explicitly and implicitly Apply knowledge of literary devices including metaphor, juxtaposition, anthropomorphism, symbolism, and more Identify the story’s inciting incident Discern the intended meaning of figurative language Discern the function of a given excerpt Analyze the author’s craft Explore relationships between complex characters Articulate character motivations Cite textual evidence in support of inferences and claims Write with clarity and precision