Story: The Ravine 1. Review lines 38-65. In your own words, describe what Vinny knows about the dead boy. Explain his thoughts and feelings about this past event.

2. Review lines 71-100. What are some examples of language the author uses to describe the setting? Why is the setting important to the story?

3. Review lines 110-130 and think about what the author wants us to understand about Vinny. What words would you use to describe Vinny’s character traits?

4. Before jumping, the characters perform certain rituals. Reread lines 163-206 to review how they prepare to jump. What inferences can you make about the characters feelings and their reasons for these rituals?

5. Consider Vinny’s feelings and actions throughout the story. How is Vinny different by the end of the story? How is he the same?

6. Review the story’s ending in lines 319-339 and examine the descriptions the author provides. Do you think the ending makes the story more powerful? Why or why not?