“LAMB TO THE SLAUGHTER” by Roald Dahl

http://www.schooltube.com/video/b4ffb2ed2146057eda1d/

A. Vocabulary

Vocabulary game in class…

Ex: blissful (adjective) – full of happiness; joyful

She was blissful.

(L poor example /(meaning may not be understood)

ane’s blissful expression said it all: she had passed her driving test.

(J good example/ meaning is understood!)

placid consoling mantel tranquil

bewildered translucent luxuriate alibi

B. Questions: Answer the following questions in complete sentences.

1.  In a paragraph answer, describe how the reader’s understanding of Mary Maloney’s character shifts dramatically from the beginning of the story to the end. [In your answer, you may want to consider: What kind of wife does she appear to be at the beginning? What is revealed about her by the end of the story? What kind of a person does she turn out to be?]

Create a t- chart to list first and last impressions.

Then, create a character chart for brainstorming and for collecting information before you write your answer. Use TWO traits from early in the story and ONE trait to explain what she is REALLY like.

2.  What indications are there that show that Patrick Maloney is preoccupied?

3.  What clues does the writer give about how Mary feels when she hears his news?

4. In point form, outline the steps that Mary takes to construct her alibi.

5. Why is the ending of the story so ironic? Write a thorough answer.

C. Draw and label a plot graph for this story.

On your graph, label all SIX elements of plot AND

Provide the specific details for this story, placing them on the graph, as well.

D.  Using the following brainstorming chart, find and explain the writer’s use of each literary device. Use a specific example from the story and explain the ways in which the example shows suspense, foreshadowing or irony. Use a separate sheet of paper for your final explanations.

SUSPENSE: FORESHADOWING: IRONY:

Quotation: / Quotation: / Quotation:
Explanation (how does this example show suspense? foreshadowing? or irony?) / Explanation (how does this example show suspense? foreshadowing? or irony?) / Explanation (how does this example show suspense? foreshadowing? or irony?)