Before Reading
Make a Plan
Read about stream-of-consciousness writing on page 562. As you read, try to understand Granny Weatherall's stream of consciousness. Get sticky notes or make a chart like the one on page 570 to keep track of her thoughts.
During Reading
Write Things Down as You Read
1. Listen as your teacher reads the first ten paragraphs. Which parts of the story are taking place in Granny Weatherall's head? Mark her thoughts with sticky notes and write your reactions or what you think her thoughts mean in your chart. You may want to use a different color sticky note or take notes on a a separate sheet of paper for Granny Weatherall's actions and speech.
2. Continue reading on your own. Keep using sticky notes or your chart to track Granny Weatherall's stream of consciousness.
Fix-Up Idea: Reread
If you are having trouble following the story, try rereading. Remember that some parts of the story are what is happening inside Granny Weatherall's head. Other times, characters are speaking and acting. Reread a short section. Keep track of whose point of view is being put forth in each section. If you are unsure, reread sections to find out. Mark passages you are still having trouble with. Reread those sections and discuss their meaning with a partner.
After Reading
Summarize What You Wrote
Look through your sticky notes or examine what you wrote in your chart. Share your responses with a few of your classmates. As a group, prepare a character sketch of Granny Weatherall.