1. A Retrieved Reformation
By O. Henry

2. Before Reading: Connect to Your Life
In your LNb, make a list of characters in stories, books, or movies, or of people you know, who have changed– for better or worse. Try to name at least 3.
How do you explain the reasons for the change in each of these characters? (write a short phrase for each person)
What do you think some of the most powerful motives for change are? (2-3 sentences)

3. Before reading: Review Irony
A device that writers sometimes use to add a special twist to their work.
There are three types of irony.

4. Before Reading: Review Irony
Verbal Irony:
Saying the opposite of what you really mean.
Usually sounds like SARCASM
Dramatic Irony:
The reader knows something that the character does not know.
Situational Irony:
An unexpected turn of events, usually when things turn out to be the opposite of what the characters expected.

5. Before Reading: Review Irony

6. Before Reading: Understand Vocabulary
Look up the meanings of these words in a dictionary and record in your LNB. Split the list with your partner.
assiduously
compulsory
eminent
rehabilitation
unobtrusively
balk
elusive
perceived
retribution
virtuous

7. During Reading: Find examples of Irony
While we read the story, keep your LNb handy and record examples of irony. A chart like the one below might be useful:
Example from Story
(include pg. #)
Type of Irony
(Verbal, Dramatic, Situational.

8. After Reading: Understanding Plot Structure
Plot: the sequence of related events that make up a story
Rising action: events that lead up to the climax, or moment of greatest intensity (turning point)
Falling action: events after the climax; part of the resolution.
Complete the Plot Graphic organizer worksheet with a partner.
The climax should be in the second row, but should not be the last box.

9. After Reading: Comparing Text to Film
Imagine the characters from the story in your mind.
What did they look like ? What kinds of clothes did they wear?
Make a chart like the one below and briefly describe the features of the main characters.
Jimmy
Annabel
Ben
Age
Hair color/style
Height/Weight
Clothing Style

10. After Reading: Comparing Text to Film
What were your impressions of the setting?
How do you feel about the change in the title from the story to the film? Explain your answer.
Describe any differences you noticed between the plot in the story and the plot in the film.
Why do you think the ending of the film is different from the ending of the story? How do you feel about that?

11. After Reading: Comparing Text to Film
Project: Create a Video Jacket (cover for the DVD version of the film)
It should include the following:
A summary of the movie (without giving away the ending). This is usually on the back.
Quotes from “reviews”
A picture
It should interest people in renting the video without giving away the ending.