The Silver Sword - Lesson 1 - Extension Questions Worksheet

The "Extension Questions Worksheet" for "The Silver Sword" Lesson 1, is designed to deepen students' comprehension and analytical skills. The worksheet poses a series of questions that encourage students to explore the novel's setting, characters, and plot. The first question seeks to establish the historical and geographical context of the story, asking students to identify when and where the narrative takes place, as well as the significant historical event that forms the backdrop of the tale. This sets the stage for a deeper understanding of the challenges the characters face within the novel.

Subsequent questions on the worksheet guide students to enumerate the members of the Balicki family, delve into the reasons behind Joseph's imprisonment, and describe the conditions of the Zakyna prison camp. These inquiries not only help students to recall details from the text but also to empathise with the characters' experiences. Students are further prompted to reflect on Joseph's motivations for survival and escape, and to explain the methods by which he manages to flee the camp. The worksheet concludes by asking students to analyse the author Ian Serraillier's techniques for creating suspense at the end of the first chapter and to predict future events in the story. These exercises aim to enhance students' critical thinking and anticipation skills while engaging with the literature.