Journal

In the story you are about to read, the main character finds himself

in a hair-raising situation. Think of a time when you felt most

paralyzed by fear. Where were you and what happened?

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8-17-2011

Please finish reading the story! Starts on page 17…

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Contents of a Dead Man’s Pocket

By: Jack Finney

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About the authorPage 17

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To note:

The story’s events occur over a period of minutes. Time

how long it takes you to read the story. Then, determine if reading the story takes more or less time than the story’s

events do.5

Pre-Reading Survey

1. Have you ever used a typewriter?

2. Have you ever used carbon paper?

3. Have you ever had one copy of a document that cannot be replaced?

4. Does knowing there’s a copy of your documents on the hard drive reassure you?

Imagine how Tom will feel in this short story. 6

Pre-Reading Discussion

• How many of you have been in a skyscraper?

• Have you been to a famous one?

• Are you afraid of heights or get vertigo?

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Literary DeviceSuspense – What is the definition in your own words.

Setting – Is the setting pertinent if it all takes place in the same location over just a short period of time?

Imagery – How important is imagery to literature? Lexington Avenue and Chrysler

Building

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During Reading Activity

Draw/sketch elements of the scene on your paper.

1. How many stories above the ground is Tom’s apartment?

2. How far below the window is the ledge?

3. How many yards are there between the window and the yellow paper?

4. How wide is the ledge?5. What size is the finger

hold?New York City Public Library

Fifth Avenue

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During Reading Activity

Tom’s wife is at the Loews Theater down the street. As he is standing on the ledge, notice

that he begins to view himself as if he is “in a movie.”

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Write a note on your paper each time Tom sees himself from a “in movie-like scenario” instead of

focusing on the deadly risk he is taking. For example, if he sees

himself falling to his death, write that down. 10

Post-Reading

What do you think about the story’s ending? Did you think it was –

-predictable?-disappointing? -abrupt? -heartwarming?

Why? Write your opinion and include details from the story for support. Then we will discuss!

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Post Reading --Homework --1. Imagery & setting are extremely important in this short story. In a paragraph response explain why.

2. Then, tell what you believe the theme of this short story is.

3.Finally, tell about a time that your life could have changed in an instant of time.

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