The Watsons Go to Birmingham: Comprehension and Analysis
A Grade 8 ELA worksheet focusing on comprehension and analysis of Christopher Paul Curtis's novel, 'The Watsons Go to Birmingham - 1963'.
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The Watsons Go to Birmingham: Comprehension and Analysis
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Read each question carefully and provide thoughtful, complete answers. Refer to your knowledge of 'The Watsons Go to Birmingham - 1963' to answer the questions.
1. What is Byron's punishment for straightening his hair with chemicals?
He is grounded for a month.
His parents shave his head.
He has to do extra chores.
He is sent to military school.
2. Why do the Watsons decide to go to Birmingham?
To visit Aunt Mae.
To escape the cold Michigan winter.
To send Byron to live with Grandma Sands.
To attend a family reunion.
3. Kenny often describes his brother Byron as a (troublemaker/hero) at school.
4. The Watson family lives in (Flint, Michigan/Detroit, Michigan).
5. The event that deeply traumatizes Kenny in Birmingham is the (church bombing/Woolworth's sit-in).
6. Describe the relationship between Kenny and Rufus. How does it evolve throughout the beginning of the novel?
7. What impact does the trip to Birmingham have on Byron's character? Provide specific examples from the story.
8. Mama Watson is initially excited about the idea of traveling to Birmingham.
True
False
9. Joetta is the oldest of the Watson children.
True
False
10. The novel explores themes of family, racism, and growing up. Discuss how the author uses the characters and plot events to develop these themes. How does the setting of 1963 Birmingham contribute to the novel's central messages?