short stories – detectives and crime -...

Short Stories – Detectives and Crime

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Level 1- Detectives and Dubai

[1] Agatha Christie is the best-selling author of all time, having sold over four billion copies of her books. She is also the most translated author, with her books being printed in 103 languages. Christie's play, 'The Mousetrap', has had the longest run of any theatre production: since 25th November 1952 it has been on at the Ambassadors Theatre in London. [2] She was known as the 'Queen of Crime'. Christie's two most famous detectives were Miss Marple and Hercule Poirot. Miss Marple is a little old lady who solves murder cases that happen in the small villages she visits. Hercule Poirot is a Belgian man who also solves murders, and he is helped by his friend Captain Hastings. Hastings described Poirot as having a head 'exactly the shape of an egg... his moustache was very stiff and military... the neatness of his attire [clothing] was almost incredible.' [3] Christie created the classic structure for future crime novels. There is a murder, and there are about six or seven suspects – all of which have a secret they wish to hide. The detective slowly works out their secrets. Finally, the detective will bring everyone together into one room and explain who the murderer was and his reasons for working it out. [4] It has been said that it's possible to work out who the murderer is by choosing the least likely person to have committed the crime. It is definitely true that she gives clues along the way and, with careful reading, it is possible to work out who was the killer. Reading Questions

1. How many copies of her books has Agatha Christie sold? � Four billion � Four million � One hundred � One billion

Explanation: This is a reference question. Refer to the first sentence.”...having sold over four billion copies of her books.” 2. Which one of Christie's plays has had the longest run of any theatre production?

� The Mousetrap � Queen of Crime � Miss Marple � Hercule Poirot


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Explanation: This is a reference question. Refer to the first paragraph:”The Mousetrap', has had the longest run of any theatre production:” 3. Where is the Ambassadors Theatre where 'The Mousetrap' has been performed since 1952?

� London � France � Belgium � Germany

Explanation: This is a reference question. Refer to the first paragraph. “...it has been on at the Ambassadors Theatre in London.” 4. Where does Miss Marple, one of Christie’s famous detectives, solve murder cases?

� In Belgium � In cities � In the countryside � In small villages

Explanation: This is a reference question. Refer to paragraph 2. “...who solves murder cases that happen in the small villages she visits.” 5. How did Captain Hastings describe Poirot’s head? It is shaped like an...

− egg/Egg Explanation: This is a reference question. Refer to paragraph 2. ‘‘Exactly the shape of an egg...” 6. In the first line of paragraph 3 Christie is described as creating the 'what' for future crime novels?

− The classic structure Explanation: This is a reference question. Refer to paragraph 3. “Christie created the classic structure for future crime novels.” 7. Which word is used instead of clothing in this sentence: ‘the neatness of his ___ (clothing) was almost incredible'?

− Attire/ attire


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Explanation: This is a reference question. Refer to paragraph 2. “...the neatness of his attire [clothing] was almost incredible.” 8. What is the main purpose of this piece?

� To describe � To persuade � To inform � To inspire

Explanation: This is a thematic question. Refer to the whole text. 9. In Christie’s novels, what does the detective slowly work out about each of the suspects?

� How they know each other � Their secrets � What they do at weekends � How old they are

Explanation: This is a reference question. Refer to paragraph 3. “The detective slowly works out their secrets.” 10. Who is the text’s target audience?

� the general public � detectives � children � teachers

Explanation: This is a thematic question. Refer to the whole video. 11. Who is often found to be the murderer?

� The detective � The most likely suspect � The least likely suspect � Someone they didn’t know about

Explanation: This is a reference question. Refer to paragraph 4.”It has been said that it's possible to work out who the murderer is by choosing the least likely person to have committed the crime.”


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12. Complete the sentence by quoting from the piece: ‘there is a murder, and there are six or seven suspects-all of which have...’

− a secret they wish to hide Explanation: This is a reference question. Refer to paragraph 3.”‘There is a murder, and there are about six or seven suspects – all of which have a secret they wish to hide.” 13. How is Christie said to help the reader guess the murderer? Answer by quoting from the piece.

− By giving clues

Explanation: This is a reference question. Refer to paragraph 4.”‘It is definitely true that she gives clues along the way...” 14. In what year did the play ‘The Mousetrap’ start being performed?

� 1925 � 1952 � 1946 � 1903

Explanation: This is a reference question. Refer to paragraph 1. “...since 25th November 1952 it has been on at the Ambassadors Theatre in London.” 15. How is Christie described in this piece?

− Sample answer: Christie is seen as the ‘Queen of Crime’ and shows she is a very successful writer as she has sold over four billion copies of her books in many different languages. She is also shown to have set the classic structure for future crime novels.

Explanation: This is a thematic question. Refer to the whole video. 16. How many different languages have Agatha Christie’s books been published in?

� 100 � 103 � 25 � 10

Explanation: This is a reference question. Refer to paragraph 1: “...with her books being printed in 103 languages.”


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17. How was Poirot’s moustache described in paragraph 2 by Captain Hastings? � Neat � Incredible � Military � Grey

Explanation: This is a reference question. Refer to paragraph 2: “...his moustache was very stiff and military...” 18. Which word could replace ‘finally’ in paragraph 3: ‘Finally, the detective will bring everyone together...’?

� Lastly � Firstly � Secondly � Doubtfully

Explanation: This is a vocabulary question. Refer to paragraph 3:” Finally, the detective will bring everyone together...” 19. Complete the sentence by quoting from paragraph 4: ’...with careful reading, it is possible to work out...’

− who was the killer. Explanation: This is a reference question. Refer to paragraph 4:”... with careful reading, it is possible to work out who was the killer.” 20. What TWO things does the piece show Hastings describing about Poirot in paragraph 2? Place an ‘X’ next to the two correct answers.

His moustache X

His clothing X

His dog

His house

Explanation: This is a reference question. Refer to paragraph 2: “...his moustache was very stiff and military... the neatness of his attire [clothing] was almost incredible.”


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Level 2- Best Writers [1] The recent films starring Robert Downey Jr. have made the character of Sherlock Holmes popular again. The BBC has also made a TV series called Sherlock which is one of the most-watched programmes on British television. Holmes first appeared in 1887 in books written by Arthur Conan Doyle. He solves mysteries in four books and 57 short stories. [2] Sherlock Holmes was the first detective to have an assistant. His is called Dr Watson. The job of Dr Watson is to be less intelligent than Holmes, so that he has to ask questions. This helps the reader to understand Holmes' ideas and to follow the story. [3] Holmes was based on a person who worked with Conan Doyle as a doctor. Dr Joseph Bell was known for coming up with big answers from nothing much at all, and that is how Holmes works. Bell joked that Holmes was really based on Conan Doyle though, and wrote to him once: “You are yourself Sherlock Holmes and well you know it!” [4] Holmes is meant to have lived in Baker Street in London, and if you go to the Baker Street tube station it is filled with pictures and tiles showing images of Sherlock Holmes. Reading Questions

1. True or false? Films starring Robert Downey Jr. have made the character of Sherlock Holmes less popular.

� true � false � not given

Explanation: This is a reference question. Refer to paragraph 1: “The recent films starring Robert Downey Jr. have made the character of Sherlock Holmes popular again.” 2. What is the TV series created by the BBC about Holmes called?

� Sherlock � Holmes � Arthur � Sherlock Holmes

Explanation: This is a reference question. Refer to paragraph 1: “The BBC has also made a TV series called Sherlock...”


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3. Find words in paragraph 1 that could be replaced by the following: − famous... popular − figures out... solves − new... recent

Explanation: This is a vocabulary question. Refer to paragraph 1: “…of Sherlock Holmes popular again... He solves mysteries... The recent films...” 4. How many short stories were written about Sherlock Holmes?

� 87 � 4 � 57 � 50

Explanation: This is a reference question. Refer to paragraph 1: “He solves mysteries in four books and 57 short stories.” 5. Who is this piece mainly talking about?

� Arthur Conan Doyle � Dr Watson � Dr Joseph Bell � Sherlock Holmes

Explanation: This is a reference question. Refer to the whole piece. 6. In paragraph 2, why is Sherlock Holmes shown to be different to other detectives?

� He was the first detective to have an assistant � He was less intelligent than other detectives � He solved murders in different ways � He wore different clothes to other detectives

Explanation: This is a reference question. Refer to paragraph 2. “Sherlock Holmes was the first detective to have an assistant.”


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7. Which word in paragraph 2 means mean the opposite of ‘stupid’? − intelligent

Explanation: This is a vocabulary question. Refer to paragraph 2: “...Dr Watson is to be less intelligent than Holmes...” 8. Who does ‘he’ refer to in paragraph 2: ‘The job of Dr Watson is to be less intelligent than Holmes, so that he has to ask questions’?

� Dr Watson � Sherlock Holmes � The murderer � Conan Doyle

Explanation: This is a structural question. Refer to paragraph 2: “The job of Dr Watson is to be less intelligent than Holmes, so that he has to ask questions.” 9. Which word could NOT be used to replace the word ‘understand’ in paragraph 2: ‘This helps the reader to understand Holmes’ ideas...’?

� Learn � Know � Ignore � Accept

Explanation: This is a vocabulary question. Refer to paragraph 2: “This helps the reader to understand Holmes' ideas...” 10. The style of this piece is...

� descriptive � informal � academic � literary

Explanation: This is a thematic question. Refer to the whole piece.


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11. What is the writer's main purpose in writing this piece? � to inform � to describe � to persuade � to protest

Explanation: This is a thematic question. Refer to the whole piece. 12. Who is the writer's target audience?

� British television viewers � the general public � Crime novelists � Children

Explanation: This is a thematic question. Refer to the whole piece. 13. Who was Holmes based upon?

� Conan Doyle � A doctor Conan Doyle worked with � Another fictional character � A real life detective

Explanation: This is a reference question. Refer to paragraph 3: “Holmes was based on a person who worked with Conan Doyle as a doctor.” 14. Who did Dr Bell really think the character Sherlock Holmes was based on?

� Arthur Conan Doyle � Himself � A friend they both knew � A real life detective

Explanation: This is a reference question. Refer to paragraph 3: “Bell joked that Holmes was really based on Conan Doyle though...”


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15. Complete the sentence by quoting from paragraph 3: ‘You are the Holmes character and...’ − well you know it!

Explanation: This is a reference question. Refer to paragraph 3: “...You are yourself Sherlock Holmes and well you know it!” 16. In what year did Holmes first appear in books?

� 1887 � 1878 � 1784 � 1857

Explanation: This is a reference question. Refer to paragraph 1: “Holmes first appeared in 1887…” 17. What was Joseph Bell known for doing?

� Being loyal to Conan Doyle � Coming up with big answers from nothing � Always solving mysteries � Joking around

Explanation: This is a reference question. Refer to paragraph 3: “Dr Joseph Bell was known for coming up with big answers from nothing much at all...” 18. Decide if the following are true, false, or not given.

Statement TRUE FALSE Not Given

Sherlock Holmes is the world’s most popular detective. Explanation: This is a reference question. Refer to paragraph 1: “The BBC has also made a TV series called Sherlock which is one of the most-watched programmes on British television.”

X


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Holmes lived on Barber Street. Explanation: This is a reference question. Refer to paragraph 4: “Holmes is meant to have lived in Baker Street...”

X

Sherlock Holmes solves mysteries in six full length books. Explanation: This is a reference question. Refer to paragraph 1: “He solves mysteries in four books …”

X

19. At what type of public transport station would you find pictures and tiles showing Sherlock Holmes?

� Train � Bus � Tube/Underground � Taxi

Explanation: This is a reference question. Refer to paragraph 4. 20. Explain how we know Sherlock is a popular character. Give reasons for your answer, and use your own words.

− Sample answer: There have been recent films based on the stories of Sherlock and also a TV series created by the BBC which is a popular British TV programme. There have also been 4 books and 57 short stories written about Sherlock.


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Level 3- Worldwide Detectives

[1] Books about crimes have been popular for centuries. The first serious crime novels were by Edgar Allen Poe written in the 1840s, and Wilkie Collins wrote popular books like The Woman in White in the 1860s. The Sherlock Holmes series are said to be the books that really made crime fiction popular with readers. In fact, the person who has sold the most books was a crime writer: Agatha Christie's books have sold over four billion copies around the world. [2] There is even a special award for crime fiction. The Gold Dagger Award is given annually by the Crime Writers' Association for the best crime novel of the year. There is an Edgar Award in honour of Edgar Allen Poe, given out by the Mystery Writers of America. And there are multiple crime-writing festivals around the world, the most popular being held in the UK every year. You can meet your favourite crime writers there, have lunch with them, and take classes on how to write your own crime novel. [3] The most popular detectives used to be very, very British – like Sherlock Holmes. But today, crime fiction has taken over the world. Andrea Camilleri sets his novels on Sicily, with Inspector Montalbano proving so popular a television series has even been made of the books. Alexander McCall Smith has won many awards for his series about 'the No. 1 Ladies 'Detective Agency', set in Botswana and featuring Precious Ramotswe as the main detective. These books have also been made into a TV series by the BBC and HBO. [4] Do you have a favourite detective series? Have you spent many nights desperately trying to get to the end of a book to find out who the murderer was? It is an addictive genre, with something for every taste. Give some books a try and find out which detective you want to follow. Reading Questions

1. Who wrote some of the first crime novels in the 1840s? � Wilkie Collins � Sherlock Holmes � Edgar Allen Poe � Agatha Christie

Explanation: This is a reference question. Refer to paragraph 1: “The first serious crime novels were by Edgar Allen Poe written in the 1840s...”


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2. What was the example given of a book written by Wilkie Collins? � The Woman in White � Sherlock Holmes � Poirot � Gold Dagger

Explanation: This is a reference question. Refer to paragraph 1: “...Wilkie Collins wrote popular books like The Woman in White in the 1860s.” 3. How many copies of books has Agatha Christie sold? Answer using words.

− Four/four billion copies

Explanation: This is a reference question. Refer to paragraphs 1: “Agatha Christie's books have sold over four billion copies around the world.” 4. What are the TWO names of the special awards for crime fiction?

� The Christie Award � The Crime Writers Award � The Gold Dagger Award � The Edgar Award

Explanation: This is a reference question. Refer to paragraph 2: ” The Gold Dagger Award is given annually... There is an Edgar Award...” 5. Which two-word phrase in paragraph 2 could be replaced by ‘ in celebration’?

− In honour/in honour Explanation: This is a vocabulary question. Refer to paragraph 2: ”There is an Edgar Award in honour of Edgar Allen Poe...” 6. Complete the sentence by quoting from paragraph 2: ‘There are many...

− festivals around the world dedicated to crime-writing fiction.

Explanation: This is a structural question. Refer to paragraph 2 : ” And there are multiple crime-writing festivals around the world...”


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7. Which one of these crime writers is NOT mentioned in the piece? � Agatha Christie � Andrea Camilleri � John Grisham � Alexander McCall Smith

Explanation: This is a reference question. Refer to the whole piece. 8. True or false? The most popular crime writing festival is held in America.


Explanation: This is a reference question. Refer to paragraph 2:”… multiple crime-writing festivals around the world, the most popular being held in the UK...” 9. The style of this piece is...

� academic � informal � formal � literary

Explanation: This is a thematic question. Refer to the whole piece. 10. What is the writer's main purpose in writing this piece?

� to protest � to persuade � to describe � to inform

Explanation: This is a thematic question. Refer to the whole piece. 11. Who is the writer's target audience?

� the general public � Crime writers � Government � Teachers



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12. Below is a table that shows fictional characters and three nationalities that are mentioned in this piece. Place an ‘X’ in the correct box to show which character is from which country. Africa Britain Italy

Sherlock Holmes X

Precious Ramotswe X

Inspector Montalbano X

Explanation: This is a reference question. Refer to paragraphs 3. 13. What word could NOT be used to replace the word ‘popular’ in paragraph 3: “The most popular detectives...”

� Uncommon � Famous � Favoured � Praised

Explanation: This is a vocabulary question. Refer to paragraph 3: “The most popular detectives...” 14. Decide if the following are true, false, or not given.


Crime books have only been around for a few decades. Explanation: This is a reference question. Refer to paragraph 1:” Books about crimes have been popular for centuries...”

X

The Mystery Writers of America give out the Edgar Award every year. Explanation: This is a reference question. Refer to paragraph 2:”There is an Edgar Award in honour of Edgar Allen Poe, given out by the Mystery Writers of America.”

X


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In the piece no negative views are given about crime fiction. Explanation: This is a reference question. Refer to the whole piece.

X

Wilkie Collins won awards for his novels. Explanation: This is a reference question. Refer to paragraph 1:” Wilkie Collins wrote popular books like The Woman in White in the 1860s.”

X

15. Where does Andrea Camilleri set his books?

� Britain � Sicily � Botswana � America

Explanation: This is a reference question. Refer to paragraph 3: “Andrea Camilleri sets his novels on Sicily...” 16.What books does ‘these’ refer to in this sentence from paragraph 3: ’These books have also been made into a TV series...’?

� The No.1 Ladies Detective Agency � The Woman in White � Sherlock Holmes � Inspector Montalbano

Explanation: This is a structural question. Refer to paragraph 3: “...his series about 'the No. 1 Ladies 'Detective Agency', set in Botswana and featuring Precious Ramotswe as the main detective. These books have also been made into a TV series...” 17. What crime series was described as making crime fiction popular with readers?

� Poirot � Miss Marple � The Woman in White � Sherlock Holmes


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Explanation: This is a reference question. Refer to paragraph 1: “The Sherlock Holmes series are said to be the books that really made crime fiction popular with readers.” 18. Find words in paragraph 3 that could replace the following:

− globe... world − Gained... Won − starring... featuring − Now... Today

Explanation: This is a vocabulary question. Refer to paragraph 3: “…around the world…. won many awards... featuring Precious Ramotswe... But today...” 19. What two things does the piece say you can do at crime writing festivals in paragraph 2? Place an ‘X’ next to the two correct answers.

Read new crime books

Meet famous crime writers X

Learn how to write your own crime novel

X

Dress up as your favourite characters

Explanation: This is a reference question. Refer to paragraph 2: “You can meet your favourite crime writers there, have lunch with them, and take classes on how to write your own crime novel.” 20. How does the last paragraph encourage you to read crime novels? Give a reason for your answer, and use your own words.

− Sample answer: The writer tries to persuade the reader to start reading crime by describing them as an addictive genre where you will spend all night trying to finish the book and work out the murderer. They also suggest there is a crime book for every taste and that we can all find a detective we want to follow.


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Level 4- Dogs as Detectives

[1] Arthur Conan Doyle considered “The Adventure of the Red-Headed League” to be one of his best Holmes stories. In the story, Jabez Wilson, a businessman with bright red hair, comes to Holmes with a strange problem. [2] Recently, his shop assistant suggested he answer an advertisement in a newspaper for red-headed men. Many red-headed men responded, but Wilson got the job. He was given some useless work to do in an office, but he was paid a lot of money for it. But then one day, he came into work to find a sign saying “The Red-Headed League is dissolved.” Disappointed about losing the money he had been earning, Wilson went to Holmes to try to find out what had happened to the Red-Headed League. [3] Holmes and Watson go to see Wilson’s assistant to find out what happened. It turns out that Wilson’s shop is next to a bank. Holmes then notices an important clue—Wilson’s assistant has dirty knees. He calls the police to tell them that he has discovered a crime. [4] According to Holmes’ plan, they go with the police to the next door bank vault at night. As Holmes expected, they catch the criminals coming up through a hole in the floor! [5] Wilson’s assistant had been part of a gang of criminals who planned to rob the bank. They came up with the idea of the Red-Headed League to get Wilson out of the shop. While Wilson was away every day, they dug a tunnel through the cellar of his shop up into the bank. [6] Holmes was able to solve the case just by noticing the small detail that the assistant had been digging! Reading Questions

1. Who wrote ‘The Adventure of the Red-Headed League’? � Jabez Wilson � Sherlock Holmes � Arthur Conan Doyle � Agatha Christie

Explanation: This is a reference question. Refer to paragraph 1: “Arthur Conan Doyle considered “The Adventure of the Red-Headed League” to be one of his best Holmes stories.”


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2. What does Jabez Wilson work as? − A Businessman/businessman

Explanation: This is a reference question. Refer to paragraph 1: “...Jabez Wilson, a businessman...” 3. Which word can best replace 'but' in paragraph 2, '…men responded, but Wilson got the job'?

� although � since � therefore � because

Explanation: This is a structural question. Refer to paragraph 2: “...men responded, but Wilson got the job.” 4. True or false? Wilson’s wife suggested he answer the advertisement.


Explanation: This is a reference question. Refer to paragraph 2: “…his shop assistant suggested he answer an advertisement in a newspaper...” 5. What did the advertisement specifically say you must have if you wish to apply for the job?

� Previous experience � Another job � Red hair � Good maths skills

Explanation: This is a reference question. Refer to paragraph 2: “...an advertisement in a newspaper for red-headed men.” 6. What did Wilson like about his new job?

� He was given easy work. � He got paid well. � It was something different. � He liked working with other red headed people.

Explanation: This is an inference question. Refer to paragraph 2: “...but he was paid a lot of money for it.”


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7. Which word from the following would NOT be suitable to replace ‘disappointed’ in paragraph 2? ‘Disappointed about losing the money...’ � Frustrated � Dissatisfied � Downhearted � Fulfilled

Explanation: This is a vocabulary question. Refer to paragraph 2: “Disappointed about losing the money...” 8. Why did Wilson go to visit Holmes?

� to ask for a job � to find out why the group had stolen his money � to find out what happened to the group that hired him � To ask him how he could make more money

Explanation: This is a reference question. Refer to paragraph 2: “Wilson went to Holmes to try to find out what had happened to the Red-Headed League.” 9. How is this piece of writing best described?

� essay � short description of a book � short story � short description of an historical event

Explanation: This is a thematic question. Refer to the whole piece. 10. What is the writer's main purpose in writing this piece?

� to debate � to teach a lesson � to entertain � to frighten



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11. Place the following events into the order in which they happened. Use A, B, C, D to put them into the correct order.

Event Placing

Holmes caught the criminals coming up through a hole in the ground.

D

Wilson was encouraged to get a new job. A

Holmes went to the bank with the police. C

Wilson went to Holmes for help. B

Explanation: This is a reference question. Refer to the whole piece. 12. What was the most important clue for Holmes solving the mystery?

� red hair � dirty knees � a hole in the floor � a letter in the office

Explanation: This is a reference question. Refer to paragraph 3: “. Holmes then notices an important clue—Wilson’s assistant has dirty knees.” 13. Find words or phrases in paragraph 3 that could be replaced by the following:

− filthy dirty − recognises... notices − critical... important − identified... discovered

Explanation: This is a vocabulary question. Refer to paragraph 3: “...dirty knees... Holmes then notices... an important clue... he has discovered a crime.” 14. Who does ‘he’ refer to in paragraph 3, ‘He calls the police...'?

� Wilson’s assistant � Wilson � Holmes � Watson

Explanation: This is a structural question. Refer to paragraph 3: “He calls the police to tell them that he has discovered a crime.”


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15. Which of these statements is true, according to this piece? � Holmes and the police go to the bank vault early in the morning. � Holmes and the police go to the office late at night. � Holmes and the police go to the office early in the morning. � Holmes and the police go to the bank vault late at night.

Explanation: This is a reference question. Refer to paragraph 4: “they go with the police to the next door bank vault at night.” 16. Which one of these statements is NOT true about Jabez Wilson?

� Jabez Wilson had been involved in crimes before � A gang of criminals dug a tunnel to the bank � Wilson's shop is next to a bank � The company Wilson started working for suddenly disappeared

Explanation: This is an inference question. Refer to the whole piece. Using a process of elimination we can infer the correct answer is no.1. 17. Decide if the following are true, false, or not given.


The criminals dug a tunnel from the cellar to the shop. Explanation: This is a reference question. Refer to paragraph 5. “...they dug a tunnel through the cellar of his shop up into the bank.”

X

The criminals planned to start working at the bank. Explanation: This is a reference question. Refer to paragraphs 5:” a gang of criminals who planned to rob the bank...”

X

Jabez Wilson then fired his assistant after he found out he was working against him.

X


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Explanation: This is a reference question. Refer to paragraph 5.

Wilson believed he was given useless work to do in the office. Explanation: This is a reference question. Refer to paragraph 2:” He was given some useless work to do...”

X

18. What did Wilson’s assistant’s dirty knees prove to Holmes?

� that he wasn’t a clean man � he was poor � he had a new job � he had been digging

Explanation: This is a reference question. Refer to paragraph 6: “Holmes was able to solve the case just by noticing the small detail that the assistant had been digging!” 19. What does Holmes do when he figures out the case?

� goes to Wilsons assistant � goes to the bank � goes to the police � goes to Wilson’s shop

Explanation: This is a reference question. Refer to paragraph 3:” He calls the police to tell them that he has discovered a crime.” 20. What information did Holmes use to work out the answer to the case? Answer using your own

words. − Sample answer: Holmes guessed the assistant was digging when he saw his dirty knees. He

also knew that Wilson’s shop was located next to a bank which gave him the idea that there may be a gang of criminals digging from the shop to the bank in order to steal money.


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Level 5- See-through

[1] Holmes had read carefully the note. Then, with the dry chuckle which was his nearest approach to a laugh, he tossed it over to me. [2] "What do you make of it, Watson?" [3] I read as follows: [4] Dear Mr. Holmes [it said]: [5] This letter concerns a gentleman friend of mine. This gentleman married some five years ago a Peruvian lady. The lady was very beautiful, but because of the fact of her foreign birth and of her alien religion they soon lost interest in each other. His love cooled towards her and he came to regard their union as a mistake. [6] Now for the point. The lady began to act strangely, especially in her conduct towards her own child, a dear boy just under one year of age. The strangest incident happened about a month ago when this child had been left by its nanny for a few minutes. A loud cry from the baby, as of pain, called the nanny back. [7] As she ran into the room she saw the lady leaning over the baby, and apparently biting its neck. Indeed, there was a small bloody wound on the neck! The nanny was so horrified that she wished to call the husband, but the lady asked her not to do so and actually gave her five pounds to buy her silence. [8] At last there came one dreadful day when the facts could no longer be concealed from the husband. The nanny's nerve had given way; she could stand the stress no longer, and she told the man everything. [9] While they were talking, a similar cry of pain was heard. Nanny and the man rushed together to the nursery. [10] Imagine his feelings, Mr. Holmes, as he saw his wife rise from a kneeling position beside the bed and saw blood upon the child's neck and upon the sheet. With a cry of horror, he turned his wife's face to the light and saw blood all round her lips. It was she — she beyond all question — who had drunk the poor baby's blood.


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Reading Questions

1. What does Holmes’ reaction to the note in the first paragraph show about how he feels about it? � He took it very seriously. � He didn't take it seriously at all. � He was interested in the contents. � He was worried by the contents.

Explanation: This is an inference question. Refer to paragraph 1: “Holmes had read carefully the note. Then, with the dry chuckle which was his nearest approach to a laugh, he tossed it over to me.” 2. What are the TWO reasons why the marriage described in the letter broke up?

− her foreign birth − her alien religion

Explanation: This is a reference question. Refer to paragraph 5: “…because of the fact of her foreign birth and of her alien religion they soon lost interest in each other.” 3. Which word can best replace 'beautiful' in paragraph 5, ‘The lady was very beautiful...?’

� awkward � dull � appealing � plain

Explanation: This is a structural question. Refer to paragraph 5: “The lady was very beautiful...” 4. True or false? The wife started acting strangely when the child was two years old.


Explanation: This is a reference question. Refer to paragraph 5 and 6: “…The lady began to act strangely, especially in her conduct towards her own child, a dear boy just under one year of age.


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5. What does the phrase ‘buy her silence’ in paragraph 7 mean, ‘...actually gave her five pounds to buy her silence’? � when you pay someone to help yourself stay silent � when you pay someone to keep everyone else silent � when you pay someone to keep just themselves silent � when you pay someone to break the silence

Explanation: This is a vocabulary question. Refer to paragraph 7: “...actually gave her five pounds to buy her silence.” 6. How long were the couple said to be married before they realised they had lost interest in each

other? Answer using a figure. − 5 years

Explanation: This is a reference question. Refer to paragraph 5: “This gentleman married some five years ago...” 7. What does the phrase ‘beyond all question’ mean in paragraph 10: ‘It was she — she beyond all

question ...’? � the answer is undoubtedly clear � there are too many questions to ask � the answer is unclear � all questions have already been asked

Explanation: This is a vocabulary question. Refer to paragraph 10: “It was she — she beyond all question...” 8. What is said to have called the Nanny back into the baby’s room? Answer using words from

paragraph 6 of the piece. − a loud cry from the baby

Explanation: This is a reference question. Refer to paragraph 6: “A loud cry from the baby, as of pain, called the nanny back.”


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9. The style of this piece is... � academic � literary � informal � descriptive

Explanation: This is a thematic question. Refer to the whole piece. 10. From whose point of view is this extract written?

� Holmes � Dr Watson � The reader � The authors

Explanation: This is a thematic question. Refer to the whole piece. 11. Who was the letter written addressed to?

� Dr Watson � The wife � Holmes � The police

Explanation: This is a thematic question. Refer to paragraph 4: “Dear Mr. Holmes [it said]” 12. What does the nanny want to do when she finds out what the wife has done?

� Nothing � Tell the husband � Call the police � Take the baby away from the mother

Explanation: This is a reference question. Refer to paragraph 7: “The nanny was so horrified that she wished to call the husband...”


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13. Find words in paragraph 6 that could be replaced by the following: − oddly... strangely − specifically... especially − scene... incident − deafening... loud

Explanation: This is a vocabulary question. Refer to paragraph 6: “…began to act strangely... especially in her conduct towards... strangest incident happened... A loud cry...” 14. Who does ‘she’ refer to in paragraph 8, ‘...she told the man everything’?

� the wife � the Nanny � the police officer � their family relative

Explanation: This is a structural question. Refer to paragraph 8: “The nanny's nerve had given way; she could stand the stress no longer, and she told the man everything.”

15. Which of these statements is true, according to this piece?

� The nanny told the husband because she felt very stressed. � The nanny told the husband because she feared the wife may get into trouble. � The nanny told the husband because she thought he already knew. � The nanny told the husband because she wanted to protect the baby.

Explanation: This is a reference question. Refer to paragraph 8: “The nanny's nerve had given way; she could stand the stress no longer...” 16. The letter describes the order of events. Which one of these things is NOT true about the events

that took place? � The baby had a small wound on his neck. � There was blood on the sheets. � The wife had blood around her lips. � There was a trail of blood on the floor.

Explanation: This is a reference question. Refer to paragraph 10.


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17. Decide if the following are true, false, or not given.


The wife hated the husband. Explanation: This is a reference question. Refer to the whole passage. Although they lost interest in each other, whether she now hated him is not mentioned.

x

Holmes read the note several times. Explanation: This is a reference question. Refer to paragraphs 1.

X

His wife was from Europe. Explanation: This is a reference question. Refer to paragraph 5: “This gentleman married some five years ago a Peruvian lady...”

X

The first incident happened a month before the letter was written. Explanation: This is a reference question. Refer to paragraph 6:” The strangest incident happened about a month ago...”

X

18. Which character from this piece would be most likely to know about how the mother treats the

child? � Holmes � Dr Watson � the father � the nanny

Explanation: This is a reference question. Refer to the whole piece.


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19. How did the husband feel when he saw his wife with blood around her lips in paragraph 10? � worried � shocked � angry � pleased

Explanation: This is an inference question. Refer to paragraph 10: “With a cry of horror, he turned his wife's face to the light and saw blood all round her lips. It was she — she beyond all question — who had drunk the poor baby's blood.” 20. Do you think the wife's actions can be blamed on her realisation that the marriage was a

mistake? Answer using your own words. − Sample answer: Once they realised their marriage was a mistake, the strange incidents started

happening and she began acting differently altogether. However, she wanted to keep the secret from her husband which shows that she wished to protect him and that she still cared about him. She did not wish to upset him.


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Level 6- Caught by an Insect

[1] On glancing over my notes of the seventy odd cases in which I have during the last eight years studied the methods of my friend Sherlock Holmes, I find many tragic, some comic, a large number merely strange, but none commonplace; for, working as he did rather for the love of his art than for the acquirement of wealth, he refused to associate himself with any investigation which did not tend towards the unusual, and even the fantastic. Of all these varied cases, however, I cannot recall any which presented more singular features than that which was associated with the well-known Surrey family of the Roylotts of Stoke Moran. The events in question occurred in the early days of my association with Holmes, when we were sharing rooms as bachelors in Baker Street. It is possible that I might have placed them upon record before, but a promise of secrecy was made at the time, from which I have only been freed during the last month by the untimely death of the lady to whom the pledge was given. It is perhaps as well that the facts should now come to light, for I have reasons to know that there are widespread rumours as to the death of Dr Grimesby Roylott which tend to make the matter even more terrible than the truth. [2] It was early in April in the year '83 that I woke one morning to find Sherlock Holmes standing, fully dressed, by the side of my bed. He was a late riser, as a rule, and as the clock on the mantelpiece showed me that it was only a quarter-past seven, I blinked up at him in some surprise, and perhaps just a little resentment, for I was myself regular in my habits. [3] "Very sorry to knock you up, Watson," said he, "but it's the common lot this morning. Mrs Hudson has been knocked up, she retorted upon me, and I on you." [4] "What is it, then — a fire?" [5] "No; a client. It seems that a young lady has arrived in a considerable state of excitement, who insists upon seeing me. She is waiting now in the sitting-room. Now, when young ladies wander about the metropolis at this hour of the morning, and knock sleepy people up out of their beds, I presume that it is something very pressing which they have to communicate. Should it prove to be an interesting case, you would, I am sure, wish to follow it from the outset. I thought, at any rate, that I should call you and give you the chance." [6] "My dear fellow, I would not miss it for anything."


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[7] I had no keener pleasure than in following Holmes in his professional investigations, and in admiring the rapid deductions, as swift as intuitions, and yet always founded on a logical basis with which he unravelled the problems which were submitted to him. I rapidly threw on my clothes and was ready in a few minutes to accompany my friend down to the sitting-room. A lady dressed in black and heavily veiled, who had been sitting in the window, rose as we entered. [8] "Good-morning, madam," said Holmes cheerily. "My name is Sherlock Holmes. This is my intimate friend and associate, Dr Watson, before whom you can speak as freely as before myself. Ha! I am glad to see that Mrs Hudson has had the good sense to light the fire. Pray draw up to it, and I shall order you a cup of hot coffee, for I observe that you are shivering." Reading Questions

1. About how many cases has Holmes had since Watson has been working with him? � 8 � 25 � 70 � 100

Explanation: This is a reference question. Refer to paragraph 1: “On glancing over my notes of the seventy odd cases in which I have during the last eight years studied the methods of my friend Sherlock Holmes...” 2. Which one of these does NOT accurately describe the cases Holmes usually studied?

� comic � tragic � ordinary � bizarre

Explanation: This is a reference question. Refer to paragraph 1: “...I find many tragic, some comic, a large number merely strange, but none commonplace...” 3. Find words in paragraph 1 that could be replaced by the following:

− attainment... acquirement − liberated... freed − remember... recall − single men... bachelors


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Explanation: This is a vocabulary question. Refer to paragraphs 1. “...the acquirement of wealth... have only been freed... I cannot recall... sharing rooms as bachelors...” 4. Which character would be most likely to say the following? Answer with either Dr Watson (A) or Sherlock Holmes (B).

Quote Character

‘I normally like to rise late in the morning.’ B

‘I prefer cases with an interesting story rather than a high wage.’

B

‘I love being able to follow professional investigations.’

A

Explanation: This is an inference question. Refer to paragraphs 1, 2 and 7: “He was a late riser, as a rule... as he did rather for the love of his art than for the acquirement of wealth... I had no keener pleasure than in following Holmes in his professional investigations...” 5. What TWO phrases in paragraph 7 describe what the lady was wearing?

− Dressed in black/dressed in black − Heavily veiled/heavily veiled

Explanation: This is a reference question. Refer to paragraph 7:” A lady dressed in black and heavily veiled...” 6. What does this piece suggest Dr Watson feels about Holmes?

� He views him as an equal � He feels Holmes is too famous for what he does � He feels Holmes is too confident � He admires Holmes

Explanation: This is an inference question. Refer to paragraph 7: “I had no keener pleasure than in following Holmes in his professional investigations, and in admiring the rapid deductions...”


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7. Find words or phrases in paragraphs 7 and 8 that mean the opposite of the following: − dissatisfaction... pleasure − slowly... rapidly − distant... intimate − unwillingly... cheerily

Explanation: This is a vocabulary question. Refer to paragraphs 7 and 8. “I had no keener pleasure... I rapidly threw on... my intimate friend... said Holmes cheerily...” 8. The style of this piece is...

� descriptive � academic � literary � informal

Explanation: This is a thematic question. Refer to the whole piece. 9. Who is the narrator of this piece?

� Sherlock Holmes � Dr Watson � Mrs Hudson � The lady

Explanation: This is a thematic question. Refer to the whole piece. 10. What was the writer’s main purpose of writing this piece?

� to entertain � to frighten � to inform � to find out information



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11. When did the lady come to visit Holmes? � April ’98 � April ‘83 � May ‘84 � November ‘72

Explanation: This is a reference question. Refer to paragraph 2: “It was early in April in the year '83...” 12. What impression does Holmes give of this young lady in paragraph 5?

� that she is excitable � that she is independent � that she is a nuisance � that she is clever

Explanation: This is an inference question. Refer to paragraph 5. “It seems that a young lady has arrived in a considerable state of excitement, who insists upon seeing me...” 13. What street do Holmes and Dr Watson share a flat together?

− Baker Street

Explanation: This is a reference question. Refer to paragraph 1:”... when we were sharing rooms as bachelors in Baker Street.” 14. In paragraph 2 what TWO emotions did Dr Watson have towards Holmes waking him up?

− Surprise/surprise and resentment/Resentment

Explanation: This is a reference question. Refer to paragraph 2: “...I blinked up at him in some surprise, and perhaps just a little resentment...” 15. In which paragraph do the two detectives see the lady for the first time? Answer using a figure.

− 7

Explanation: This is a structural question. Refer to paragraph 7.


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16. Place the following events in the correct order. Use the letters A, B, C and D to show the order.

Event Placing

Dr Watson and Holmes walk to the sitting-room.

C

Dr Watson believes there may be a fire. B

Holmes orders a coffee for the lady. D

Holmes wakes up Dr Watson. A

Explanation: This is a reference question. Refer to the whole piece. 17. Decide if the following are true, false, or not given.


In the most famous case Dr Watson remembers Dr Grimesby Surrey died. Explanation: This is a reference question. Refer to paragraph 1:” ...the death of Dr Grimesby Roylott...”

X

Dr Watson had worked with other detectives before he found Holmes. Explanation: This is a reference question. Refer to paragraphs 1.

X

The time on the clock when Sherlock woke up Holmes was quarter to seven. Explanation: This is an inference question. Refer to paragraph 2:”... the clock on the mantelpiece showed me that it was only a quarter-past seven...”

X

Watson is eager to follow Holmes on his latest case with the young lady.

X


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Explanation: This is an inference question. Refer to paragraph 6:” "My dear fellow, I would not miss it for anything."”

18. What is the main event of paragraph 8?

� Mrs Hudson lighting the fire � Holmes and Watson meeting the lady � Holmes and Watson getting ready to meet the lady � Homes and Watson talking together

Explanation: This is a thematic question. Refer to paragraph 8. 19. Complete the sentence using appropriate words from paragraph 5:

− Many young women walk around the metropolis early in the morning and cause tired people to rise from their beds.

Explanation: This is a vocabulary question. Refer to paragraph 5:” Now, when young ladies wander about the metropolis at this hour of the morning, and knock sleepy people up out of their beds...” 20. What impression is given of Dr Watson in this piece? Use your own words in your answer.

− Sample answer: Dr Watson is shown as being very loyal to Holmes and he shows great admiration for his work and is always eager to go along to professional investigations with him. He is also shown as a man who likes his routine and regular habits.

short stories – detectives and crime -...

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