Before Reading
Make a Character Chart
The selection deals with the experiences of six individuals who survived the atomic bombing of Hiroshima. Make a character chart with one column for each of the following characters: Miss Toshiko Sasaki, Dr. Masakazu Fujii, Mrs. Hatsuyo Nakamura, Father Wilhelm Kleinsorge, Dr. Terufumi Sasaki, and Reverend Mr. Kiyoshi Tanimoto.
During Reading
Add Details and React to Characters
1. Listen as your teacher reads the first paragraph aloud. The paragraph introduces each character. Write down what you learn about each character in your chart.
2. Continue reading on your own. As you read, fill in details that you think are important about each character and details about each character's experiences. Also add your reactions to the characters and their experiences.
Fix-Up Idea: Unlock Difficult Words
If you are struggling with the vocabulary in the selection, read through the selection once trying to gather important ideas without worrying about the meaning of every word. Then go back and reread. Copy unfamiliar words into your notebook. Use context clues to help you figure out their meanings. If that doesn't work, try to use word parts such as prefixes and word roots to help you figure out meanings. Use a dictionary if you are still unsure of what the words mean. Then add the definitions to your word study notebook.
After Reading
Share Your Ideas
With a few of your classmates, compare your character charts. Discuss why you think Hersey chose to focus on six individuals. What effect does this decision have on your view of the Hiroshima bombing?