Make a cluster chart on your own paper. In the center circle, write "Characters in The Canterbury Tales." As you read, add a circle for each character you encounter. Around each of these character circles, add circles that include details about each character.
During Reading
Complete the Cluster Chart as You Read
1. Listen as your teacher reads the beginning of the prologue and the section about the knight. Take notes about the knight as you listen.
2. Continue reading the selection on your own. Add an additional circle for each character you encounter. Connect circles that include details about each character.
Fix-Up Idea: Unlock Difficult Words
If you are struggling with the meaning of the selection, begin by examining the Words for Everyday Use and the footnotes. Read each word, meaning, and sentence carefully. If you encounter other words you do not know, try using context clues to determine meanings. Keep a list of new words and their meanings in your notebook. If you cannot guess the meanings from context, try using word parts to understand the words. If you still do not understand the words, use a dictionary.
After Reading
Discuss Characters
With a few of your classmates, talk about the characters introduced in the prologue. Which do you find the most interesting? Which do you think you would like the best? Explain your responses.
"The Pardoner's Tale"
Before Reading
Think about What You Know
Review the description of the Pardoner on pages 231–232.What kind of story do you think the Pardoner will tell? What purpose might he have for his story? Think about these questions before you read the story.
During Reading
Use What You Know as You Read
1. Listen as your teacher reads the first 30 lines of "The Pardoner's Tale" aloud. What kind of moral do you expect the story to have at this point? Why do you think the Pardoner is telling this story?
2. Continue reading the selection on your own. Keep the Pardoner's character in mind. Focus on the moral of the story and why the Pardoner might have chosen it.
Fix-Up Idea: Read Aloud/Think Aloud
With a partner, read 10–15 lines. Then stop and do a think aloud. When you think aloud, ask questions about the selection, comment on what you have read, or make predictions about what you think will happen.
After Reading
Summarize What You Learned
With a partner, discuss the moral of this story. Talk about why you think the Pardoner told this story.