English Language Arts6-8
Literary Suspense in O. Henry
By Janet W.
This 1-page reading comprehension packet guides 6th graders through an analysis of O. Henry's "A Retrieved Reformation." Students will identify how rising action builds suspense and foreshadows the climax, strengthening their understanding of plot structure and literary devices.
Customize for your classroom
Teacher Guide & Tips
- Use this packet as a 30-minute whole-class or small-group activity to analyze plot structure.
- Discussion question: How does the author's word choice in the rising action contribute to the suspense?
- For struggling readers, provide a graphic organizer that maps the rising action events and their emotional impact.
- Advanced learners can compare the suspense techniques in this story to another short story.
English Language Arts6-8
Literary Suspense in O. Henry
By Janet W.
This 1-page reading comprehension packet guides 6th graders through an analysis of O. Henry's "A Retrieved Reformation." Students will identify how rising action builds suspense and foreshadows the climax, strengthening their understanding of plot structure and literary devices.
Customize for your classroom
Teacher Guide & Tips
- Use this packet as a 30-minute whole-class or small-group activity to analyze plot structure.
- Discussion question: How does the author's word choice in the rising action contribute to the suspense?
- For struggling readers, provide a graphic organizer that maps the rising action events and their emotional impact.
- Advanced learners can compare the suspense techniques in this story to another short story.