1. Vocabulary from “The Flowers” by Alice Walker
Listen carefully to spell each word as it is called.

2. Correct any of the words that you misspelled.
Myopic
Keenness
Laden
Benignly

3. Use context to define each word.
1. Although Martin talked to Vickie every day, he was too myopic and preoccupied with soccer practice to see that she liked him.
2a. Because of the team’s keenness to win the tournament, each player gave her best on the field.
2b. A keen wind blew through the stands, cutting right through my light jacket.
3. College students laden with boxes moved into the dorms last week.
4. “May I help you, dear?” asked the woman as she smiled benignly at the frightened child.

4. Copy the part of speech and definition for each of the words.
Myopic  adjective shortsighted; lacking understanding
Keenness noun intenseness; sharpness; eagerness
Laden  adjective  burdened; loaded with
Benignly  adverb  gently; kindly

5. Vocabulary Practice Directions
Complete each of the following sentences with one of your four vocabulary words from “The Flowers.”
You may use your word list to complete this task.

6. 1. ___________ with a huge stack of papers, I could hardly make it up the stairs.

7. 2. Though Jorge was intimidated by his new teacher at first, her ___ personality soon put him at ease.

8. 3. My sister is annoyingly ___ when it comes to how current decisions could affect her future.

9. 4. Octavia was surprised that her dad was so _____ on her going to college out of state. She had expected him to be against the idea.

10. 1. Laden 2. Benign 3. Myopic 4. keenness