HOLES.

CHAPTERS 21-24

1. In chapter 21 we learn that the outlaw Kissin’ Kate Barlow left Stanley’s great-grandfather stranded in the
desert. Explain how he survived in the desert for seventeen days.
2. Give three examples from chapter 22 that show Zero is a smart boy.
3. In chapter 23, we learn that Green Lake was different in the past. Explain how the lake was in the past and
how it changed as the years went by.

CHARACTERIZATION

Read the following explanation and complete activity 4

Characterization is the process by which a writer reveals the personality of a character. Characterization may be
revealed through direct characterization or indirect characterization.

Direct characterization tells the audience what the personality of the character is.

Example: “The patient boy and the quiet girl were both well mannered.

Explanation: The author is directly telling readers their personality: the boy was patient and the girl was quiet.

Indirect characterization shows things that reveal the personality of a character without telling readers directly.

Example: She bit her fingernails while waiting for the test’s results.

Explanation: The author shows the girl was nervous/anxious about the results through her actions: she bit her
fingernails.

Some methods of indirect characterization include:

Speech What does the character say? How does the character speak?
Thoughts What is revealed through the character’s private thoughts and feelings?

Effect on others What is revealed through the character’s effect on other people? how do other
towards the character characters feel or behave in reaction to the character?

Actions What does the character do? How does the character behave?
Looks/Appearance What does the character look like? How does the character dress?
4. a-Identify two examples of direct characterization the author applies to reveal Miss Katherine’s personality.
b- Identify one example of direct characterization the author applies to reveal Trout Walker’s personality.
c- By the end of chapter 23, the author presents a conversation between Trout Walker and Miss Katherine:
 Explain what they are talking about
 What do the following examples of indirect characterization (speech) reveal about each character’s
personality? Think about the context in which the quotes are stated.

d- “No, thank you,” said Miss Katherine.

e- “No one ever says ‘No’ to Charles Walker!”