Vocabulary for “The Sniper” Spell each of the following words as they are called—listen carefully for word endings that you know.

Check your spelling! Spasmodically  adv involuntarily contracting or moving Beleaguered  adj  surrounded or blockaded Ascetic  noun  a person who practices severe self-discipline (also used as an adjective) Fanatical  adj  having excessive devotion

Paroxysm  noun  a sudden activity, outburst , or convulsion Take a look at this story’s title and the vocabulary words: what do you notice about them? What inferences can you make about thi s story based on the vocabulary?

Oh—an FYI: This story also contains the word “parapet Oh—an FYI: This story also contains the word “parapet.” You don’t need to write it down, but, so you know, it means. . . A low, protective wall at the edge of a roof, balcony or bridge

Vocabulary Sentences: Because the athlete has so much self-discipline, she can be described as an ___________________. The sudden ___________________ of coughing startled the entire class and went on for a long time. When I’m trying to get through the hallways between classes, I feel totally _____________________ because of all the people. Sometimes when Eli gets angry, his eye starts twitching _____________________. “I’m ________________ about baseball,” the student announced. “I’m way too crazy about it.”

Vocabulary Practice for “The Sniper” Write one sentence for each of your FIVE “Sniper” vocabulary words (paroxysm, beleaguered, spasmodically, fanatical, ascetic). Be sure to include a context clue to show the meaning of the word. Number your sentences.