"By the Waters of Babylon" by Stephen Vincent Benet Quiz and Answer Key

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