"The War of the Wall" by Toni Cade Bambara Close Reading Analysis Worksheet

Help middle and 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 the short story “The War of the Wall” by Toni Cade Bambara. An answer key is provided. Materials are delivered in editable Word Document and printable PDF formats. By completing this close reading activity, students will:

• Identify what the text states explicitly as well as implicitly
• Utilize dictionaries to ensure knowledge of word meanings
• Infer the intended effects of the author’s word choices and narrative techniques
• Consider how a different point of view would fundamentally change the story
• Determine the functions of given excerpts
• Explore how complex characters think, behave, interact, and develop
• Apply knowledge of literary devices including idiom, onomatopoeia, situational irony, and symbolism
• Consider themes in context
• Conduct research as needed to answer questions about relevant plot points
• 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