Active Reading and Assignment

You should print out a copy of the Text and have a highlighter, ruler and pen or pencil with you.

What does the writer mean in the second paragraph when she says, ‘It is a long time now since he disappeared’?
Re-read the third paragraph, list four activities that the boy liked to play.
How has the mother changed with time? Support your answer with evidence from the text.
In the fifth paragraph, what does the word ‘obliterate’ mean?
In the fifth paragraph, what does the writer mean when she says that mothers, ‘don’t know their happiness then.’
Re-read the last 3 paragraphs, do you think the mother and son are still close? Support your answer with evidence from the text.

Re-read the first paragraph, how is it structured to interest and engage the reader?
Look again at paragraphs 3-5, what is similar about the way these three paragraphs are structured? Why do you think the writer has done this – what effect does it have on the reader?
Re-read the first 2 lines of paragraph 6, how does the structure here help to create a sense of uncertainty and discomfort?
Re-read the final paragraph – do you think this is an effective ending?
After reading this extract, a student says, ‘It is clear that the mother feels nostalgic and unable to let go’ – to what extent do you agree with this statement?

Referring only the Text for Boys Growing Up 1, the writer attempts to engage the reader by describing his son. Evaluate how successfully this is achieved.
Referring to both Texts from Boys Growing Up 1 and Boys Growing Up 2, both boys were very active when they were younger, what are the differences in how they enjoyed spending their time. Refer to both Text in your answer.
Referring to both Texts from Boys Growing Up 1 and Boys Growing Up 2 compare how the two writers convey their different perspectives and feelings about their children growing up.

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