1. “The Escape” by J.B. Stamper Discussion Questions

2. Discussion Groups
Your teacher will put you in groups of 3 or 4.
You will discuss the following questions with your group. Every member of the group must answer each question.

3. Based on your predictions, were you surprised by any of the events
Based on your predictions, were you surprised by any of the events? If so, which? Do you wish anything had happened differently? Why or why not?
This story leaves the reader with many unanswered questions. What is a lingering question you had about the story?

4. Do you think Boris made the correct decision in choosing to enter the tunnel? Why or why not? What would you have done?
The story is a good representation of irony, especially given its title. What type of irony is evident in the story? Justify.

5. What are your feelings towards Boris and his situation
What are your feelings towards Boris and his situation? Did you want him to escape?
If you wanted him to escape, how is that ironic?
Do you think the author purposefully influenced the reader’s feelings about Boris?

6. We discussed phobias. What do you think are Boris’s phobias? Why?
How did his phobias impact the story?

7. What is the conflict (internal or external)
What is the conflict (internal or external)? How does Boris deal with this conflict? What complications arise?
Based on the genre and plot of the story, did the author wisely choose elements of setting that would contribute to the overall mood? Justify.

8. Based on his words and actions throughout the story, analyze Boris’s character. Is he a protagonist or antagonist? Is he a dynamic or static character.
Discuss at least 2 adjectives to describe him and explain these to your group.

9. Plot Summary Sentence (use SWBS strategy)
Discuss your answers:
Plot Summary Sentence (use SWBS strategy)
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10. ___________________________________________________
Discuss your answers:
Exposition
Climax
Resolution
Falling Action
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Rising Action
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Exposition
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