Evaluate general reading comprehension and eliminate take-home assessment planning with this plot-based quiz covering Dino Buzzati’s allegorical short story titled “The Colomber.” This 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: A birthday request A description of a colomber The protagonist’s career choice Advice from the protagonist’s father Stefano’s perception of the colomber A gift from the colomber Qualities associated with the gift And more

Evaluate general reading comprehension and eliminate take-home assessment planning with this plot-based quiz covering chapters 16, 17, 18, and 19 of Susan Beth Pfeffer’s dystopian sci-fi novel The Dead and the Gone, the sequel to Life As We Knew It. The assessment may double as a guided reading handout to facilitate active engagement with fiction. An answer key is included, along with a short answer alternate quiz for reassessment purposes. Materials are delivered in Word Document and PDF formats. Students will demonstrate knowledge of the following: An incident resulting in the death of Kevin An item Alex desperately needs to acquire from Harvey Bri’s weak physical condition The quarantine and its effect on Port Authority convoys The typical time frame between convoy departures Julie’s lack of fear over dying, except under one condition Alex’s difficult decision for the night Bri’s sole inhaler cartridge empties Alex’s failing condition and his sisters’ attempts to nurture him back to health The reason Bri decides to leave the apartment Bri’s death and the discovery of her body Sister Rita’s comments on Bri’s faith and its influence on Bri An offer that could potentially save Alex and Julie’s lives

Evaluate general reading comprehension and eliminate take-home assessment planning with this plot-based quiz covering chapters 9, 10, and 11 of Susan Beth Pfeffer’s dystopian sci-fi novel The Dead and the Gone, the sequel to Life As We Knew It. The assessment may double as a guided reading handout to facilitate active engagement with fiction. An answer key is included, along with a short answer alternate quiz for reassessment purposes. Materials are delivered in Word Document and PDF formats. Students will demonstrate knowledge of the following: Natural disasters of epic proportion Kevin and Alex’s decision to go “body shopping” A bartering system in a black market Harvey, the neighborhood dealer with a monopoly Julie’s devastation following the death of her garden Alex’s conversation with Sister Rita Alex’s motive leading to his conversation with Father Franco A comparison of city life and country life in the current climate The return of Bri The witnessing of a suicide and Alex’s subsequent confession Alex’s decision to confess his sins to Father Mulrooney A surprise celebration

Evaluate general reading comprehension and eliminate take-home assessment planning with this plot-based quiz covering chapters 6, 7, and 8 of Susan Beth Pfeffer’s dystopian sci-fi novel The Dead and the Gone, the sequel to Life As We Knew It. The assessment may double as a guided reading handout to facilitate active engagement with fiction. An answer key is included, along with a short answer alternate quiz for reassessment purposes. Materials are delivered in Word Document and PDF formats. Students will demonstrate knowledge of the following: Uncle Jimmy’s reappearance Uncle Jimmy’s offer to Briana Mr. Dunlap and his kind offer to Alex and Julie Alex’s conflicting feelings about “stealing” food Father Mulrooney’s announcement that school will continue through summer Alex’s specific job, which must be done daily before school Julie’s newfound love for gardening The lack of sufficient food resources and the consequent mob Alex’s failed effort to wish Briana a happy birthday Father Mulrooney’s “insufficient compassion” and Alex’s reaction to it Kevin’s kindness and generosity Volcanic eruptions leading to the deaths of millions

Evaluate general reading comprehension and eliminate take-home assessment planning with this plot-based quiz covering chapters 12, 13, 14, and 15 of Susan Beth Pfeffer’s dystopian sci-fi novel The Dead and the Gone, the sequel to Life As We Knew It. The assessment may double as a guided reading handout to facilitate active engagement with fiction. An answer key is included, along with a short answer alternate quiz for reassessment purposes. Materials are delivered in Word Document and PDF formats. Students will demonstrate knowledge of the following: Alex’s friends’ concerns for Briana’s health Alex’s decision for the siblings to skip school to move away Alex and Kevin’s 'body shopping" endeavors Julie’s feelings of inferiority The sudden closing of Julie’s school The conflict between Bri and Julie regarding the probability that their parents are dead Lottery tickets Alex’s efforts to save Julie from a potential kidnapper Harvey’s arrangements for Alex and Bri Harvey’s disturbing arrangements for Julie Mr. Flynn’s kindness and generosity Alex’s physically exhausting labor

Evaluate general reading comprehension and eliminate take-home assessment planning with this plot-based quiz covering chapters 3, 4, and 5 of Susan Beth Pfeffer’s dystopian sci-fi novel The Dead and the Gone, the sequel to Life As We Knew It. The assessment may double as a guided reading handout to facilitate active engagement with fiction. An answer key is included, along with a short answer alternate quiz for reassessment purposes. Materials are delivered in Word Document and PDF formats. Students will demonstrate knowledge of the following: Observations about who is missing in the chapel Alex’s decision to miss school and visit Yankee Stadium The rules that must be followed while at Yankee Stadium Methods of lessening the severity of the experience at Yankee Stadium Alex’s austere reaction to Julie’s “Who died and made you boss?” remark Chris Flynn and his father’s generosity Bri’s belief that Mami may be alive, and her reasoning Father Franco’s good news concerning Bri Why Julie is not offered the same opportunity as Bri A promise Bri wants Alex to make before departing Alex’s maturity

Evaluate general reading comprehension and eliminate take-home assessment planning with this plot-based quiz covering chapters 1 and 2 of Susan Beth Pfeffer’s dystopian sci-fi novel The Dead and the Gone, the sequel to Life As We Knew It. 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: The absence of Alex’s father Alex’s brother, Carlos, and his Marine status The setting of the novel Why Mami is not home on the night of the meteor strike Uncle Jimmy’s need for help at the bodega The phone conversation between Alex and Carlos Alex’s failed effort to visit the school for more information Why the subway system is inoperable The purpose of Alex’s list Clarification on the disaster provided by Father Franco Alex’s search for hidden cash The bulletin board at St. Margaret’s A curfew, a national day of mourning, and Alex’s belief that the government is searching for solutions Alex’s visit to the hardware store A telephone hotline A phone conversation with Aunt Lorraine The location of unidentified bodies

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

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

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.

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

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

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

Evaluate general reading comprehension and eliminate assessment planning responsibilities with this plot-based quiz covering Willa Cather’s short story titled 'The Sentimentality of William Tavener." The assessment may double as a guided reading worksheet to facilitate active engagement with fiction. 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: Character descriptions with emphasis on personality types The type of business the couple runs and its effect on their marriage Interactions between complex characters Details of the couple’s past How sharing memories brings about meaningful change Dynamic character

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

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

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.

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

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

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