“The Scarlet Ibis” English Pre-Reading Activity
The following words appear in the short story we will be reading. They are important words
with symbolic meaning that can lead us to a deeper understanding of the story. This deeper
understanding is called the “theme”. The words are an important part of the setting or
“place” in the story and they were not chosen randomly. In other words, the author chose
them for a reason.
Step One: Define each of the following words (their denotative, literal meaning). After
defining them, identify at least 3 or more of the emotional associations, feelings, or
thoughts you have about these words (connotative meanings).
Step Two: Look over your list of words, and choose one word to write about. Then, write a
paragraph on a feeling, image, or memory you associate with your chosen word.
RED
STAINED
ROTTING
AUTUMN
EMPTY CRADLE
GRAVEYARD