Flowers for Algernon, Homework Part 1
Shaping Interpretations
1. Create two lists. In the first list, write words that describe or suggest what Charlie is like before the operation.
In the second list, write words that describe or suggest what Charlie is like as he becomes more intelligent.
2. Go back to Charlie’s March 7 entry (pages 47–48 in your textbook). What context clues did you use to figure out what “crazy tests” Charlie is taking (such as the “amazed” with Algernon the rat)? Give some other examples of how you used context clues to figure out what Charlie is reporting.
3. Reread Fanny’s comments about the changes in Charlie (page 60 in your textbook). How are Charlie’s experiences similar to those of Adam and Eve? (Look especially at Charlie’s entry for April 20. You may want to compare his description with the Biblical account, in Genesis 2:25–3:24.)
4. Charlie writes, “I think it’s a good thing about finding out how everybody laughs at me” (page 55 in your textbook). Do you agree? Why or why not?
5. Early in the story, Dr. Strauss tells Dr. Nemur that Charlie’s learning to read and write is as much of an achievement as their learning a difficult scientific theory without help would be (page 48 in your textbook). What does he mean? Challenge or defend his statement.
6. Does Charlie have “somebody to lean on”? Explain.
Extending the Text
7. Think about the last few lines in Part 1. Why do people often dislike anyone who is different from them? What do you think of such attitudes?
Challenging the Text
8. Why do almost all the workers in the factory sign the petition to have Charlie fired? Is their behavior believable? Explain.
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