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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.
"Home" by Gwendolyn Brooks Close Reading Analysis Worksheet
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"Home" by Gwendolyn Brooks Close Reading Analysis Worksheet

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Help high school students improve fluency, stamina, text comprehension, and close reading analysis of the formal elements of fiction with this set of rigorous, text-dependent questions on the short story titled “Home” by Gwendolyn Brooks. An answer key is included. Materials are delivered in printable Word Document and PDF formats. By completing this activity, students will: Identify what the text states explicitly as well as implicitly Examine the title of the narrative to make inferences about the author’s intent Discern the function of the opening paragraph Articulate the situational irony associated with a character’s vision of the future Contrast the characters of Helen and Maud Martha Analyze the author’s stylistic decision to offset a particular detail with em dashes Explain the intended meaning of a metaphor in context Articulate how Helen is a good example of dynamic character Write clearly, concisely, and accurately in response to analytical questioning Cite relevant textual evidence in support of claims
"The Chaser" by John Collier Close Reading Analysis Worksheet
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"The Chaser" by John Collier Close Reading Analysis Worksheet

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Support the development of high school and college close reading skills with this assessment on John Collier’s short story “The Chaser.” A variety of question types facilitates the process of analyzing the author’s craft, applying knowledge of literary devices, identifying relevant and compelling textual evidence to support claims, and more. An answer key is included. Materials are delivered in Word Document and PDF formats. By engaging in this exercise, students will… Discern what is stated in the text explicitly and implicitly Analyze the author’s choice of words to discern the intended effect of language Explore how the protagonist is characterized Discern the tone of dialogue in context Apply knowledge of satire to the plot Apply knowledge of literary devices to the text Analyze dialogue to discern what is implied Analyze dialogue to discern one of its primary functions in the story Identify an example of figurative language in the text Isolate a false statement concerning plot from factual ones
“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 Portable Phonograph" by Walter Clark Close Reading Worksheet
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"The Portable Phonograph" by Walter Clark Close Reading Worksheet

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Help high school students go beyond general reading comprehension and support the development of critical thinking and literary craft analysis skills with this close reading worksheet covering the short story “The Portable Phonograph” by Walter van Tilburg Clark. An answer key is provided. Materials are delivered in editable Word Document and printable PDF formats. This resource may facilitate 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 completing this close reading activity, students will: Identify what the text states both explicitly and implicitly Analyze the significance of the season in the context of the plot Make logical inferences about the dugout’s significance to the plot Analyze the thematic importance of a given detail Analyze how complex characters interact and develop Explore the author’s use of language Discern the most relevant theme
"Tom Thumb" by the Brothers Grimm Close Reading Analysis Worksheet
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"Tom Thumb" by the Brothers Grimm Close Reading Analysis Worksheet

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Help high school students go beyond general reading comprehension and support the development of critical thinking and literary craft analysis skills with this close reading worksheet covering the classic fairy tale “Tom Thumb” by the Brothers Grimm. An answer key and copy of the public domain short story are provided. Materials are delivered in editable Word Document and printable PDF formats. This resource may facilitate 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 completing this close reading activity, students will: Identify what the text states explicitly as well as implicitly Discern the intended effects of the author’s word choices and narrative techniques Determine the function of a given detail Examine how complex characters think, behave, interact, and develop Apply knowledge of literary devices including aphorism, dramatic irony, foreshadowing, idiom, invective, situational irony, and more Explore 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 Lady with the Dog" by Anton Chekhov Quiz and Answer Key
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"The Lady with the Dog" by Anton Chekhov Quiz and Answer Key

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Evaluate general reading comprehension and eliminate assessment planning responsibilities with this plot-based quiz covering Anton Chekhov’s short story “The Lady with the Dog.” The assessment may double as a guided reading worksheet to facilitate active engagement with literature. An answer key and copy of the public domain narrative are included. Students will demonstrate knowledge of the following aspects of plot: Setting Gurov’s occupation Gurov’s initial impressions of Anna Gurov’s unfaithfulness How Gurov tries to appeal to Anna Anna’s self-image Gurov’s reaction to Anna’s vulnerability Gurov’s philosophy on life A letter Anna receives What surprises Gurov when he returns to Moscow A reunion between Gurov and Anna Anna’s assessment of her relationship with Gurov The resolution
"By the Waters of Babylon" by Stephen Vincent Benet Quiz and Answer Key
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"By the Waters of Babylon" by Stephen Vincent Benet Quiz and Answer Key

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Evaluate general reading comprehension and eliminate assessment planning responsibilities with this plot-based quiz covering Stephen Vincent Benet’s short story titled “By the Waters of Babylon.” The assessment may double as a guided reading worksheet to facilitate active engagement with fiction. An answer key is provided. Materials are delivered in editable Word Document and printable PDF formats. Students will demonstrate knowledge of the following aspects of plot: The protagonist’s community Societal expectations The destruction of the Place of the Gods A valuable resource Restrictions on who may access the valuable resource A sign that indicates to the protagonist that she should travel The protagonist’s personal motivations The protagonist’s philosophy on life Setting The former inhabitants of the Place of the Gods Theme
"The Stone Boy" by Gina Berriault Quiz and Answer Key
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"The Stone Boy" by Gina Berriault Quiz and Answer Key

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Evaluate general reading comprehension and eliminate assessment planning responsibilities with this plot-based quiz covering Gina Berriault’s short story “The Stone Boy.” The assessment may double as a guided reading worksheet to facilitate active engagement with fiction. An answer key is provided. Materials are delivered in editable Word Document and printable PDF formats. Students will demonstrate knowledge of the following aspects of plot: The age of the protagonist Eugie’s relation to Arnold Arnold’s intentions The cause of a significant complication The nature of Eugie’s death Arnold’s immediate response to Eugie’s death Arnold’s response to a question about not contacting authorities The sheriff’s beliefs The identity of a family member who agrees with the sheriff The effect of a conversation among neighbors on Arnold The root of Arnold’s concern in the resolution
"The Storyteller" by Saki Quiz and Answer Key
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"The Storyteller" by Saki Quiz and Answer Key

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Evaluate general reading comprehension and eliminate assessment planning responsibilities with this plot-based quiz covering Saki’s short story titled “The Storyteller.” The assessment may double as a guided reading worksheet to facilitate active engagement with fiction. An answer key is provided. Materials are delivered in editable Word Document and printable PDF formats. Students will demonstrate knowledge of the following aspects of plot: Setting Weather conditions Details about the aunt’s story The moral of the aunt’s story The children’s reaction to the aunt’s story The identity of the person who travels alongside the aunt and kids A description of Bertha Bertha’s meaningful objects Where Bertha visits The danger facing Bertha The aunt’s reaction to the bachelor’s story
"Mariana" by Fritz Leiber Quiz and Answer Key
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"Mariana" by Fritz Leiber Quiz and Answer Key

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Evaluate general reading comprehension and eliminate assessment planning responsibilities with this plot-based quiz covering Fritz Leiber’s science fiction short story titled “Mariana.” The assessment may double as a guided reading worksheet to facilitate active engagement with literature. An answer key is included. Materials are delivered in editable Word Document and printable PDF formats. Students will demonstrate knowledge of the following aspects of plot: Mariana’s feelings toward the tall pine trees around her house Jonathan’s comments on the origin of the pine trees Jonathan’s condescension toward Mariana Mariana’s decision to switch off the trees and her observations about the landscape Mariana’s attempt to cheer herself up The breaking of a switch The consequences of Mariana’s decision to switch the house off Jonathan’s extreme reaction to Mariana’s decision Where Mariana finds herself near the story’s resolution The revelation of a sixth (and final) switch and its significance.
"Ms. Lipshutz and the Goblin" by Marvin Kaye Quiz
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"Ms. Lipshutz and the Goblin" by Marvin Kaye Quiz

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Evaluate general reading comprehension and eliminate assessment planning responsibilities with this plot-based quiz on Marvin Kaye’s satirical short story “Ms. Lipshutz and the Goblin.” The assessment may double as a guided reading worksheet to facilitate active engagement with fiction. An answer key is provided. Materials are delivered in editable Word Document and printable PDF formats. Students will demonstrate knowledge of the following aspects of plot: Daphne’s Quest for the Perfect Mate The story’s setting Daphne’s professional life Daphne’s first impression of Klotsch Klotsch’s poor behavior Klotsch’s previous employer The reason Daphne misses the bus Daphne and Klotsch’s post-marriage lives
"The Open Window" by Saki Quiz and Answer Key
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"The Open Window" by Saki Quiz and Answer Key

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Evaluate general reading comprehension and eliminate assessment planning responsibilities with this plot-based quiz covering Saki’s short story “The Open Window.” The assessment may double as a guided reading handout to facilitate active engagement with fiction. An answer key and copy of the public domain narrative are included. Materials are delivered in editable Word Document and printable PDF formats. Students will demonstrate knowledge of the following aspects of plot: The reason for Framton’s visit to the country The concern of Framton’s sister The nature of the relationship between Framton and Mrs. Sappleton Vera’s relation to Mrs. Sappleton The details of Vera’s fanciful story Mrs. Sappleton’s general disposition toward Framton The reason for Framton’s aprupt departure Vera’s storytelling to conclude the narrative
"The Star" by H.G. Wells Close Reading Analysis Worksheet
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"The Star" by H.G. Wells Close Reading Analysis Worksheet

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Help high school students go beyond general reading comprehension and support the development of critical thinking and craft analysis skills with this close reading worksheet covering the science fiction short story “The Star” by H.G. Wells. A detailed answer key is provided. Materials are delivered in editable Word Document and printable PDF formats. This resource may facilitate 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 completing this close reading activity, students will: Identify what the text states explicitly and implicitly Consult reference materials in order to learn and verify word meanings Discern the intended effects of the author’s word choices and narrative techniques Describe tone in context Explore how complex characters think, behave, interact, and develop Apply knowledge of literary devices including alliteration, personification, simile, and more Generate a relevant theme and support how it is developed 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
"Contents of the Dead Man's Pocket" by Jack Finney Quiz and Answer Key
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"Contents of the Dead Man's Pocket" by Jack Finney Quiz and Answer Key

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Evaluate general reading comprehension and eliminate assessment planning responsibilities with this plot-based quiz covering the short story “Contents of the Dead Man’s Pocket” by Jack Finney. The assessment may double as a guided reading handout to facilitate active engagement with fiction. An answer key is included. Materials are delivered in Word Document and PDF formats. Students will demonstrate knowledge of the following aspects of plot: Setting The protagonist’s career The wife’s location The reason the protagonist does not go with his wife Complications facing the protagonist The protagonist’s efforts to gain attention The psychological state of the protagonist The resolution Situational irony Theme
"Meditation 17" by John Donne Close Reading Worksheet
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"Meditation 17" by John Donne Close Reading Worksheet

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Help high school students go beyond general reading comprehension and support the development of critical thinking skills with this close reading analysis worksheet covering metaphysical poet John Donne’s “Meditation 17,” an excerpt from Devotions Upon Emergent Occasions. An answer key is included. Materials are delivered in editable Word Document and printable PDF formats. This resource may facilitate 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 close reading activity, students will: Read for literal and interpretive comprehension Apply knowledge of setting, characterization, conflict, and literary devices Be better prepared to engage in collaborative discussions about literature
"anyone lived in a pretty how town" by E.E. Cummings Close Reading Worksheet
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"anyone lived in a pretty how town" by E.E. Cummings Close Reading Worksheet

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Use this close reading worksheet to help high school students find deeper meaning in E. E. Cummings’ poem “anyone lived in a pretty how town,” a creative exploration of the ideas of conformity and its effects on individuals and communities. An answer key is included. Materials are delivered in editable Word Document and printable PDF formats. This resource may facilitate 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 close reading activity, students will: Read for literal and interpretive comprehension Apply knowledge of setting, characterization, and conflict Be better prepared to engage in collaborative discussions about poetry
Sonnet X by John Donne ("Death Be Not Proud") Close Reading Worksheet
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Sonnet X by John Donne ("Death Be Not Proud") Close Reading Worksheet

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Help high school students go beyond general reading comprehension and support the development of critical thinking skills with this close reading analysis worksheet covering Sonnet X, also known as “Death be Not Proud,” by metaphysical poet John Donne. An answer key is included. Materials are delivered in editable Word Document and printable PDF formats. This resource may facilitate 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 close reading activity, students will: Read for literal and interpretive comprehension Apply knowledge of setting, characterization, conflict, and literary devices Be better prepared to engage in collaborative discussions about poetry
"Sonnet 130" by William Shakespeare Close Reading Worksheet
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"Sonnet 130" by William Shakespeare Close Reading Worksheet

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Help high school students go beyond general reading comprehension and support the development of critical thinking skills with this close reading analysis worksheet covering “Sonnet 130” by William Shakespeare. An answer key is included. Materials are delivered in editable Word Document and printable PDF formats. By engaging with this close reading activity, students will: Read for literal and interpretive comprehension Apply knowledge of setting, characterization, conflict, and literary devices Determine the rhyme scheme and overall tone of the poem Be better prepared to engage in collaborative discussions about poetry
"Raymond's Run" by Toni Cade Bambara Close Reading Worksheet
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"Raymond's Run" by Toni Cade Bambara Close Reading Worksheet

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For many middle and high school readers, realistic and young adult fiction are genres that maximize engagement with literature. “Raymond’s Run” by Toni Cade Bambara is a representative short story that focuses on the relationship between a devoted, young woman and her brother, who happens to have a disability. English Language Arts teachers may assign this set of rigorous close reading analysis questions to complement the story and evaluate students’ high-order skills. An answer key is included. Materials are delivered in printable Word Document and PDF formats. By engaging with this close reading activity, students will: Identify what the text states both explicitly and implicitly Apply knowledge of literary devices including hyperbole, metaphor, simile, epiphany, situational irony, and more Discern and articulate the intended effect of the author’s word choices Identify textual evidence in support of ideas and claims Analyze how complex characters interact and develop Read a passage to isolate a false statement about plot Make logical inferences about the narrator’s imagery and figurative language Articulate a self vs. society conflict in the context of a given passage Write with clarity and precision
Julius Caesar Act 4 Quiz and Answer Key
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Julius Caesar Act 4 Quiz and Answer Key

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Evaluate general reading comprehension and eliminate assessment planning responsibilities with this plot-based quiz covering Act 4 of William Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar. The assessment may double as a guided reading worksheet to facilitate active engagement with Shakespeare’s drama. An answer key is included. Materials are delivered in editable Word Document and printable PDF formats. Students will demonstrate knowledge of the following: The nature of Antony’s conversation with Octavius and Lepidus What Antony intends to do with Caesar’s will Antony’s intentions for Lepidus The changing nature of Brutus and Cassius’s relationship Brutus’s observations about Cassius’s behavior Information provided to Brutus by Lucilius Why Brutus punished Lucius Brutus’s accusations against Cassius Cassius’s self-image Cassius’s emotionally charged offer to Brutus An unexpected visitor to the tent A supernatural encounter