The Ravine

The Ravine

First Read Discussion Questions

Multiple Choice

Characters:

Which character is mystical and a leader?

• Mo

• Vinny

• Starlene

• Joe-Boy

Multiple Choice

Characters:

Which character is reckless and pushy?

• Mo

• Joe-Boy

• Vinny

• Starlene

Multiple Choice

Characters:

Which character is quiet and fearless?

• Vinny

• Joe-Boy

• Mo

• Starlene

Multiple Select

Setting:

What is the most important part about the setting of this story?

• it is muddy and slippery

• it is in Hawaii

• it is where a boy died

• it is a pond in a jungle

Open Ended

Read Lines 54-65:

What do Vinny's thoughts about the goddess reveal about him?

Multiple Select

Read Lines 71-87:

Cite words and phrases that indicate how the setting is making Vinny uneasy and afraid.

• clean and clear

• one-hundred foot drop

• tasted tangy

• decomposing

• hooked around his neck

Open Ended

Read Lines 110 - 128.

What conflict is affecting Vinny in this passage? Why would he feel confused?

Multiple Choice

Read Lines 153-157:

Identify new information about Vinny.

• he is afraid of water

• he is afraid of heights

• he is afraid of his friends

Open Ended

Read Lines 267-303:

How is the setting influencing Vinny's feelings?

Give one detail about the setting and one detail about Vinny's feelings.

Poll

Read Lines 319-339:

How does the setting reflect Vinny's feelings?

• Vinny is feeling anxious because a boy drowned in the jungle ravine.

• Vinny is feeling peace as he views the rich Kikuyu grass pasture-land.

• Vinny is feeling angry because his friends left the ravine in silence.

Poll

Read Lines 323 - 339.

Is Vinny happy with his decision? Be prepared to support your response with text evidence.

• yes

• no