Understanding Themes in Historical Narratives

Mrs. Robinson introduces 'Encounter' by Jane Yolen, a story about the first meeting between Christopher Columbus and the Taino people, told from the perspective of a Taino boy. The video guides students through understanding the story's themes, cultural exchanges, and the impact of the encounter. Students are encouraged to reflect on the story's genre, the boy's perspective, and the historical context provided in the author's note.

What is the main purpose of setting up the reading notebook with sticky notes?

• To organize thoughts and questions about the story

• To create a colorful page

• To practice writing neatly

• To make a collage

What does the word 'encounter' suggest in the context of the story?

• A chance discovery

• A significant meeting with lasting impact

• A brief conversation

• A friendly meeting

In the boy's dream, what do the 'great winged birds' represent?

• Mountains

• Clouds

• Ships

• Actual birds

Why does the chief decide to welcome the strangers despite the boy's warning?

• He wants to learn from the strangers

• It is their custom to welcome strangers

• He believes the boy is mistaken

• He is curious about their appearance

What is unusual about the strangers' appearance according to the Taino people?

• They are very tall

• They wear bright colors and have beards

• They have no hair

• They have wings

What do the Taino people give to the strangers as gifts?

• Food and water

• Weapons and tools

• Cotton thread and parrots

• Gold and silver

Why does the boy become suspicious of the strangers again?

• They leave quickly

• They refuse to speak

• They show interest in gold

• They are unfriendly

What does the boy do after praying to his zemas?

• He is taken by the strangers

• He confronts the strangers

• He runs away

• He hides in the forest

What happens when the boy tries to warn others about the strangers?

• They flee the island

• They listen and prepare

• They ignore him

• They attack the strangers

What is the boy's reflection as an old man?

• He regrets not fighting back

• He is proud of his people

• He is happy with the changes

• He mourns the loss of his culture