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"Saturday Climbing" by W.D. Valgardson

1. Give one example of conflict in the story. What type of conflict is it? Write two to three sentences and provide at least one quote to support your idea.

2. Why was Barry "full of fear" at the end of the story?

         3. The world seeks balance is a theme of "Saturday Climbing." Provide an example to support this.

Journal Question: choose one of the following statements  guide your response.

On page 55, Valgardseon writes, "Gradually, as a dozen Saturdays passed, what had seemed impossible was reduced to the merely difficult."

Think back to your own life experiences and make a connection to this statement by writing 2-3 paragraphs.

or

In this story, Moira and her father share some success, conflict and the tension between her moving on and her father not wanting to let go. Describe a recent experience you have had with your parents or guardians (2-3 paragraphs).

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Questions for the story "The Brass Teapot"

1. List the following details for this story:

• Protagonist
• Antagonist
• Conflict
• Climax
• Point of View

2. The final line of the story, "we could buy our way into paradise" is an example of dramatic irony. Explain why.
3. Can you think of anything in our society that would drive someone to act like John and Alice do in this story? What might the teapot symbolize in that situation?

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Questions for the story "the kayak"

1.   What is it that Teresa most desires? Use evidence from the text to support your answer.

2.   Why did Teresa start to head for shore?

3.   What does the author's use of italics indicate?

4.   Which literary device is used in "you don't know what it's like being so helpless."

5.   What does Jamie's remark, "Bring the marshmallows" suggest about the way he thinks of Teresa?