Study

Short Stories Assessment

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  • Describe the gift Della bought for Jim. Why did she choose it?
    A platinum watch chain; it was simple and precious, like Jim.
  • How did Della feel when she looked at herself after the haircut?
    She was nervous and hoped Jim would still think she was beautiful.
  • What does Mike Schofield offer to give Pratt if he wins?
    He offers his house (and his daughter's hand in marriage).
  • Why is it impossible for them to use their gifts on Christmas night?
    Because Della sold her hair and Jim sold his watch.
  • Why does Margie think a man couldn't be a teacher?
    She thought a human wasn't clever enough to know as much as a machine.
  • Describe the maid in Taste and her role at the end. How does she change the story?
    She is a quiet, observant servant. She enters at the end to return Pratt's glasses, which proves he cheated by looking at the wine label in the study.
  • What specific problem did Margie have with the Geography sector?
    It was geared too fast for her age level and she was failing tests.
  • In your opinion, is the one in The Gift of the Magi a happy or a sad story? Explain.
    Own answer
  • Describe the County Inspector in The Fun they Had. What tools did he carry?
    He was a round little man with a red face and a box of tools with dials and wires.
  • Who were the original "Magi," and why are Jim and Della like them?
    They were wise men who gave gifts; Jim and Della are wise because they gave for love.
  • How does the author describe Richard Pratt’s personality?
    He is a gourmet, arrogant, and very serious about food and wine.
  • What was the original bet in Taste, and how did it escalate (increase)?
    Originally it was for cases of wine, but it changed to Mike's house vs. the daughter's hand.
  • Who are the main characters at the table in Taste, and what is the atmosphere like?
    Mike, his wife and daughter, and Richard Pratt. The atmosphere is tense.
  • The couple in Gift of the Magi had two "possessions/treasures." What were they?
    Jim’s gold watch and Della’s long hair.
  • Why was Jim’s expression "strange" when he first saw Della?
    He was shocked because the gift he bought was for her long hair.
  • What is a "telebook," and why is it useful in the year 2157?
    It is a digital book on a screen that can hold millions of words.
  • Why did Della go to "Mme. Sofronie"? What happened there?
    She went to sell her hair; she got $20 for it.