The Rockpile

The Rockpile by James Baldwin

P.1026

1. Critical Viewing: How does the setting depicted in this painting connect to Baldwin's story?

2. Literary Focus: Identify the details that let the reader know that the story is set in the story (setting).

P. 1027

3. Literary Focus: Note that the story begins with the setting. What is the significance of this (setting)?

4. Build Vocabulary: What is the definition of "benevolent"?

5. Critical Thinking: Read the section where Roy and John are introduced into the setting. What can you tell about the two boys from the description (analyze)?

6. Critical Thinking: What does the boy's perception of the contrast between the "redeemed" and the "wickedness of the street" suggest about their upbringing (Draw Conclusions)?

7. Literary Focus: What does the description of the river and the boy who drowned add to the understanding of the setting?

P. 1028

8. Critical Thinking: Make inferences about John's character based on the argument he has with his brother, Roy.

9. Build Vocabulary: What is the definition of "engrossed." Use the word in a sentence.

10. Reading Strategy: What is the immediate effect of Roy's accident?

P. 1029

11. Critical Thinking: If John had chosen to give his mother a real answer, what might he have told her (modify)?

12. Critical Thinking: Do you believe Sister McCandless's scolding of John is justified or not?

13. Comprehension Check: What is the father's occupation?

14. Critical Thinking: How does John seem to feel about his father's homecoming?

P. 1030

15. Critical Thinking: Does Elizabeth feel confident that everything is going to be all right when her husband comes home (infer)?

16. Reading Strategy: Why is Gabriel so upset by Roy's injury?

17. Critical Thinking: Pay attention to Gabriel's words to Elizabeth. What do these remarks reveal about the way Gabriel views himself?

P. 1031

18. Reading Strategy: What is the effect of John's silence on Gabriel?

19. Critical Thinking: Is Gabriel a completely bad person? Explain your answer.