“The Lottery” by Shirley Jackson Review

Which of the following describes a theme of the text? (REMEMBER: A theme is an underlying message or lesson in the text)

• Even if something is cruel or awful, people have the tendency to follow the crowd and participate.

• Sometimes a few people must be sacrificed to ensure the group's survival.

• Important decisions should not be made by lotteries.

• Traditions help people understand the past.

Answer explanation

The correct choice highlights the theme of conformity, illustrating how individuals may participate in harmful actions simply because others do, emphasizing the darker aspects of human nature.

Tags

CCSS.RL.7.2

What purpose does Old Man Warner's character best serve in the story?

• He represents the value of overcoming hardship.

• He represents the importance of respecting one's elders.

• He represents the acceptance of change in traditions over time.

• He represents the fear of change and desire to follow traditions.

Answer explanation

Old Man Warner embodies the fear of change and the desire to cling to outdated traditions, as he vehemently defends the lottery, showcasing resistance to any alteration in societal customs.

Tags

CCSS.RL.7.2

CCSS.RL.7.3

Which detail from the text best supports the fact that the purpose of Old Man Warner's character is to represent the fear of change and desire to follow traditions.

• “and the black box now resting on the stool had been put into use even before Old Man Warner, the oldest man in town, was born.” (Paragraph 5)

• 'They do say,' Mr. Adams said to Old Man Warner, who stood next to him, 'that over in the north village they're talking of giving up the lottery.'" (Paragraph 31)

• 'There's always been a lottery,' he added petulantly. 'Bad enough to see young Joe Summers up there joking with everybody.'" (Paragraph 32)

• 'Seventy-seventh year I been in the lottery,' Old Man Warner said as he went through the crowd. 'Seventy-seventh time.'" (Paragraph 40)

Answer explanation

The choice highlights Old Man Warner's resistance to change, as he expresses disdain for any suggestion of abandoning the lottery, emphasizing his commitment to tradition.

Tags

CCSS.RL.7.1

CCSS.W.7.9A

What is the setting of the story?

• A small village on a summer day

• A large city during winter

• A rural farm in autumn

• A suburban neighborhood in spring

Answer explanation

The story is set in a small village on a summer day, which creates a warm and vibrant atmosphere, contrasting with the other options that depict different seasons and settings.

Tags

CCSS.RL.7.3

How do the children behave at the beginning of the story?

• They are crying and upset

• They are excited and boisterous

• They gather quietly before playing

• They are helping their parents

Answer explanation

At the beginning of the story, the children are described as excited and boisterous, indicating their lively and energetic behavior, which aligns with the correct answer choice.

Tags

CCSS.RL.7.1

CCSS.W.7.9A

What object is central to the lottery ritual?

• A white envelope

• A golden ticket

• A black wooden box

• A glass bowl

Answer explanation

The black wooden box is central to the lottery ritual as it holds the slips of paper that determine the lottery's outcome. It symbolizes the tradition and secrecy of the selection process.

Tags

CCSS.RL.7.1

Who conducts the lottery?

• Mr. Graves

• Mr. Summers

• Old Man Warner

• Mr. Hutchinson

Answer explanation

Mr. Summers is the one who conducts the lottery in the story. He organizes the event and oversees the process, making him the correct answer to the question.

How has the lottery ritual changed over time?

• It has become more elaborate

• It has remained exactly the same

• Some aspects have been simplified or forgotten

• It now takes place twice a year

Answer explanation

Over time, the lottery ritual has evolved, leading to the simplification or loss of certain aspects, making the correct choice 'Some aspects have been simplified or forgotten'.

How does Tessie Hutchinson arrive at the square?

• She is the first one there

• She comes late and hurriedly

• She arrives with her husband

• She doesn't attend at all

Answer explanation

Tessie Hutchinson arrives late and hurriedly, indicating she was not among the first to gather in the square. This detail highlights her rushed entrance, contrasting with the other villagers who are already present.

What is Old Man Warner's attitude towards the lottery?

• He thinks it should be abolished

• He is indifferent about it

• He strongly supports maintaining the tradition

• He suggests modernizing the ritual

Answer explanation

Old Man Warner believes in the importance of tradition, stating that the lottery has been a long-standing practice. He dismisses any thoughts of abolishing it, showing strong support for maintaining the ritual.

Tags

CCSS.RL.7.1

CCSS.RL.7.6