a long walk to water answers packet

A LONG WALK

TO WATER

STUDENT PACK

Teacher Instructions

Thank you for downloading this
student work pack for your novel
study of A Long Walk to Water by
Linda Sue Park. This work back
provides a one-page assignment
for each chapter of the book,
plus all answer keys. Each page
covers three vocabulary words
that the students must infer,
three higher-order response and
skills-based questions, and a
place to write a brief chapter
summary. Works great for
independently reading the novel,
or if reading aloud as a class,
assign the corresponding page
after the daily reading session.
Enjoy!

© 2014 Erika Forth - For single classroom use only

TA OLONWGAWTAELRK Name: ________________________________ Date: ___________

STUDENT GUIDE – CHAPTER 1

PART 1: VOCABULARY
Infer the meaning of each vocabulary word using context clues in the story. Then write a sentence of your own that
uses the word.

1. Droned (pg.2) ______________________________________________________________________________

My sentence: __________________________________________________________________________________

2. Halted (pg.4) _______________________________________________________________________________

My sentence: __________________________________________________________________________________

3. Rebels (pg.6) _______________________________________________________________________________

My sentence: __________________________________________________________________________________

PART 2: READING QUESTIONS

1.  What kind of student is Salva? Support your answer with evidence from the text.

2.  What social class do you infer Salva’s family belongs to? Are they rich or poor? Support your answer with
evidence from the text.

3.  Describe the setting of the story. Give specific details from the story.

Write a 1-2 sentence summary of this chapter.

© 2014 Erika Forth @ TPT

TA OLONWGAWTAELRK Name: ________________________________ Date: ___________

ANSWER KEY – CHAPTER 1

PART 1: VOCABULARY
Infer the meaning of each vocabulary word using context clues in the story. Then write a sentence of your own that
uses the word.

1.  Droned (pg.2) Continued on and on in a dull, tedious tone
My sentence: Answers will vary.

2. Halted (pg.4) Stopped, ceased, ended
My sentence: Answers will vary.

3. Rebels (pg.6) People who have turned against the government
My sentence: Answers will vary.

PART 2: READING QUESTIONS

1.  What kind of student is Salva? Support your answer with evidence from the text.

Salva is a respectful student who sometimes lets his mind wander from his studies, but still wants to be a model

student on the outside because he is appreciative of education. Salva knows that he is extremely fortunate to have
the opportunity to go to school (2), so he always pays attention, even when he already knows the lesson. On the
outside, he keeps his head front, with hands folded and sitting up straight, however he allowd his eyes and mind

to wander (1) because he “already knew the lesson” (2). This really shows that Salva is respectful because he
doesn’t want to be disrespectful and act out or appear bored, when he really is. This also shows that he values his

education and the opportunities he is provided with.

2.  What social class do you infer Salva’s family belongs to? Are they rich or poor? Support your answer with
evidence from the text.

I infer Salva and his family are fairly wealthy and have high status in their village. We know that Salva is able
to attend school, so his family is doing well enough to not need him to work. Since he explains that he is lucky
to get an opportunity to get an education (2), we know that not every person in the village is in a position to send

their children. In addition, Salva states that his father is successful, owns many cattle, and has a position as a
judge, which is honored and respected (2). In addition, Salva is able to have a bowl of milk to tide him over until

supper (3), so food is not scarce for this family. Clearly, they must be in a higher position in society due to what
they have and the prestige of his father’s job.

3.  Describe the setting of the story. Give specific details from the story.

The setting of this story is in Sudan, Africa. We know there is dust, extreme heat, and dry conditions (1), and the
main character lives in a small village of the Dinka tribe. There is a a dry season and a rainy season that causes the

villagers to continuously move (2). There are also water hole that the villagers walk their livestock to to graze (3).

Write a 1-2 sentence summary of this chapter.
A young girl, Nya, walks for half the morning with an empty contain. Salva, a young boy, is interrupted at school by
rebels attacking his village, and must run into the brush to hide.

© 2014 Erika Forth @ TPT

TA OLONWGAWTAELRK Name: ________________________________ Date: ___________

STUDENT GUIDE – CHAPTER 2

PART 1: VOCABULARY
Infer the meaning of each vocabulary word using context clues in the story. Then write a sentence of your own that
uses the word.

1.  Tense (pg. 9) _______________________________________________________________________________

My sentence: __________________________________________________________________________________

2. Scurried (pg. 12) _____________________________________________________________________________

My sentence: __________________________________________________________________________________

3. Objected (pg.12) _____________________________________________________________________________

My sentence: __________________________________________________________________________________

PART 2: READING QUESTIONS

1.  Find one example of a simile in this chapter. Explain what is being compared.

2.  When given the choice between the line of men and the line of children, Salva chooses the men’s line even
though he is only eleven years old. What does this say about Salva?

3.  What is the mood of this chapter? Cite details from the text that support this mood.
Write a 1-2 sentence summary of this chapter.

© 2014 Erika Forth @ TPT

TA OLONWGAWTAELRK Name: ________________________________ Date: ___________

ANSWER KEY– CHAPTER 2

PART 1: VOCABULARY
Infer the meaning of each vocabulary word using context clues in the story. Then write a sentence of your own that
uses the word.

1.  Tense (pg. 9) Stressed, on edge
My sentence: Answers will vary.

2. Scurried (pg. 12) Moved quickly like a small animal
My sentence: Answers will vary.

3. Objected (pg.12) Protested, went against
My sentence: Answers will vary.

PART 2: READING QUESTIONS

1.  Find one example of a simile in this chapter. Explain what is being compared.

“Overhead, a jet plane veered away like a sleek evil bird.” Salva is comparing a plane flying in the sky to a bird,

because they both fly in the sky with precision. It is interesting that Salva specifically compares it to an an evil
bird; perhaps he is fearful or off put by the technology, as that is something they don’t often come across in their
village and likely do not understand.

2.  When given the choice between the line of men and the line of children, Salva chooses the men’s line even
though he is only eleven years old. What does this say about Salva?

This action shows that Salva is mature and responsible. While he knows he is only 11 and not yet a man, he also
knows that he is the son of an important family and must honor them (11). His father also taught him to be a
good example and to act like a man (11). Because Salva is a mature and responsible boy, he honors his father’s
teachings and chooses to men’s line to do the right thing and show honor to his family. He does this even though
he is terrified of the soldiers and his guns, and even though he thinks he is about to be shot by the solider.

3.  What is the mood of this chapter? Cite details from the text that support this mood.

The mood of this chapter is tense, because the reader is kept on edge throughout it. In the beginning of the
chapter, there are many words that set the scene for danger: “BOOM!”, “cloud of smoke,” and “flames” (8). The
author also creates a simile that compares a plane to a “sleek, evil bird.” (8). In addition, Salva’s actions also
create a tense, dangerous scene: Salva continuously runs for his life and is thinking in panic about where his
family might be (9). Other characters also speak in tense whispers or are “silent with fear” (9). Later in the
chapter, there is a tense standoff between Salva and a solider in which Salva “felt his knees turn to water” (11)
and he thinks he will be killed.

Write a 1-2 sentence summary of this chapter.

Nya walks through harsh conditions to fetch water; Salva runs for his life as the attack on his village continues. He
has a tense standoff with a rebel solider, and in the morning, is left behind by his group.

© 2014 Erika Forth @ TPT

TA OLONWGAWTAELRK Name: ________________________________ Date: ___________

STUDENT GUIDE – CHAPTER 3

PART 1: VOCABULARY
Infer the meaning of each vocabulary word using context clues in the story. Then write a sentence of your own that
uses the word.

1. Artillery (pg. 18) ____________________________________________________________________________

My sentence: __________________________________________________________________________________

2. Sympathy (pg.18) ___________________________________________________________________________

My sentence: __________________________________________________________________________________

3. Dimmer (pg.19) _____________________________________________________________________________

My sentence: __________________________________________________________________________________

PART 2: READING QUESTIONS

1.  Why do you think the author chose to include two different storylines (Nya’s and Salva’s) in one book? What is
the purpose for this?

2.  Describe how Salva treats the older woman he comes across. What does this tell us about Dinka culture?

3.  Why would the rebel soldiers ignore an old woman travelling alone? Why would it be more dangerous for her to
travel with Salva? Explain.

Write a 1-2 sentence summary of this chapter.

© 2014 Erika Forth @ TPT

TA OLONWGAWTAELRK Name: ________________________________ Date: ___________

ANSWER KEY – CHAPTER 3

PART 1: VOCABULARY
Infer the meaning of each vocabulary word using context clues in the story. Then write a sentence of your own that
uses the word.

1. Artillery (pg. 18) Guns and tanks; gunfire
My sentence: Answers will vary.

2.  Sympathy (pg.18) Feeling sorry; feelings of pity
My sentence: Answers will vary.

3. Dimmer (pg.19) Darker, less bright
My sentence: Answers will vary.

PART 2: READING QUESTIONS

1.  Why do you think the author chose to include two different storylines (Nya’s and Salva’s) in one book? What is
the purpose for this?

Answers will vary. Student answers may include reasons such as: to show two different Sudanese experiences, to
show Sudan’s similarities to past and present; to show similarities between regular life in Sudan and wartime life
in Sudan, to add interest for the reader.

2.  Describe how Salva treats the older woman he comes across. What does this tell us about Dinka culture?

When Salva comes across an older woman, he refers to her as “Auntie” even though they are not related. This is
a term of endearment and respect. This shows that the Dinka people respect their elders, including women. It
also shows that they value family, and they consider unrelated members of the same tribe as a sort of family as
well.

3.  Why would the rebel soldiers ignore an old woman travelling alone? Why would it be more dangerous for her to
travel with Salva? Explain.

The soldiers are probably not interested in an elderly, alone woman because she would not be useful in a fight.
The soldiers would be more interested in strong youth and men who can wield weapons and fight in the war. It
would be dangerous for the woman because Salva is a strong young boy who could be easily shaped into a
solider, so it would attract attention from the soldiers, and they are very dangerous.

Write a 1-2 sentence summary of this chapter.
Nya finally reaches the pond to fetch water; Salva receives some help from an older woman, however, she is leaving
and it would be too dangerous for Salva to travel with her, so he is left alone again.

© 2014 Erika Forth @ TPT

TA OLONWGAWTAELRK Name: ________________________________ Date: ___________

STUDENT GUIDE – CHAPTER 4

PART 1: VOCABULARY
Infer the meaning of each vocabulary word using context clues in the story. Then write a sentence of your own that
uses the word.

1. Lag (pg. 22) ________________________________________________________________________________

My sentence: __________________________________________________________________________________

2. Content (pg. 22) _____________________________________________________________________________

My sentence: __________________________________________________________________________________

3. Sluggishly (pg. 23) ___________________________________________________________________________

My sentence: __________________________________________________________________________________

PART 2: READING QUESTIONS

1.  Nya has to walk nearly half a day to find water. What can you infer about the place she lives? Why do you think
she does this?

2.  Whose struggles do you feel is worse – Salva’s or Nya’s? Why? Explain your answer.

3.  Explain what happened when the woman in the group reaches out and touches the man’s arm, and he changes his
mind about letting Salva go with them. Why does he change his mind? What does this tell us about the tribe’s
culture?

Write a 1-2 sentence summary of this chapter.

© 2014 Erika Forth @ TPT

TA OLONWGAWTAELRK Name: ________________________________ Date: ___________

ANSWER KEY – CHAPTER 4

PART 1: VOCABULARY
Infer the meaning of each vocabulary word using context clues in the story. Then write a sentence of your own that
uses the word.

1.  Lag (pg. 22) Fall behind; be slower than the others
My sentence: Answers will vary.

2. Content (pg. 22) Satisfied
My sentence: Answers will vary.

3.  Sluggishly (pg. 23) Slowly, lacking energy and clarity
My sentence: Answers will vary.

PART 2: READING QUESTIONS

1.  Nya has to walk nearly half a day to find water. What can you infer about the place she lives? Why do you think
she does this?

Students should infer that Nya lives in a very dry, desert region, in a very remote area. She is not nearby any
type of modern civilization with modern amenities. She does this to keep her family alive and because likely her
other family members have other tasks to accomplish each day.

2.  Whose struggles do you feel is worse – Salva’s or Nya’s? Why? Explain your answer.

Answers will vary.

3.  Explain what happened when the woman in the group reaches out and touches the man’s arm, and he changes his
mind about letting Salva go with them. Why does he change his mind? What does this tell us about the tribe’s
culture?

The woman is able to communicate with just a touch to the man. Likely, her touch simply reminded him of his
duty to tribe members. This action shows that women and their opinions are respected, and it also shows that the
tribe values every single member as if they were family. This is second nature to them; all they need is a simple
reminder of their core beliefs. They all take care of one another.

Write a 1-2 sentence summary of this chapter.
Nya must return to the pond for a second trip that day, and she must show her younger sister how to make the journey
as well. Salva joins a group of people from his tribe and they walk and walk.

© 2014 Erika Forth @ TPT

TA OLONWGAWTAELRK Name: ________________________________ Date: ___________

STUDENT GUIDE – CHAPTER 5

PART 1: VOCABULARY
Infer the meaning of each vocabulary word using context clues in the story. Then write a sentence of your own that
uses the word.

1. Clashed (pg. 26) ____________________________________________________________________________

My sentence: __________________________________________________________________________________

2. Luscious (pg. 28) ____________________________________________________________________________

My sentence: __________________________________________________________________________________

3. Preyed (pg. 31) _____________________________________________________________________________

My sentence: __________________________________________________________________________________

PART 2: READING QUESTIONS

1.  Why do you think the Dinka and Nuer have such a long history of fighting when they face such similar
challenges?

2.  In this chapter, Salva meets a boy from his tribe but with a different accent who must be from an area not near
Salva’s village. What does this tell you about the spread of the war?

3.  What is the meaning of the phrase “Salva heard that sigh all the way to his heart”? (29)

Write a 1-2 sentence summary of this chapter.

© 2014 Erika Forth @ TPT

ATOLONWGAWTAELRK Name: ________________________________ Date: ___________

ANSWER KEY – CHAPTER 5

PART 1: VOCABULARY
Infer the meaning of each vocabulary word using context clues in the story. Then write a sentence of your own that
uses the word.

1. Clashed (pg. 26) Argued, fought
My sentence: Answers will vary.

2. Luscious (pg. 28) Pleasant, rich, sweet
My sentence: Answers will vary.

3.  Preyed (pg. 31) Hunted, fed upon
My sentence: Answers will vary.

PART 2: READING QUESTIONS

1.  Why do you think the Dinka and Nuer have such a long history of fighting when they face such similar
challenges?

Answers will vary. Students may believe that they do not understand one another’s traditions, that they are
competing for valuable and scarce resources, or that it has always been that way and no one has stopped it.

2.  In this chapter, Salva meets a boy from his tribe but with a different accent who must be from an area not near
Salva’s village. What does this tell you about the spread of the war?

This fact tells the reader that the war has spread quite far from Salva’s village. Because they are in the same
tribe, they are likely in the same general geographic region (i.e., the southern part of Sudan); however, the
difference in regional accent shows that they are are large distance away from his home region, just like how
there are different dialects in different regions of the United States. The war is spreading very far across Sudan
and is not limited to certain villages or areas.

3.  What is the meaning of the phrase “Salva heard that sigh all the way to his heart”? (29)

When Salva thinks this, he has just spoken with a boy who also is missing his family and do not know where
they are, or even if they are alive. This phrase means that Salva feels the pain of this very deeply, and that he
understands exactly what the other boy is feeling.

Write a 1-2 sentence summary of this chapter.

Nya explains that for part of the year, her family lives at a large lake, but they cannot live there year-round dye to
conflicts with the rival Dinka tribe. Salva and his group suffers many beestings but are rewarded with finding honey;
he meets a new friend named Marial as they walk through Lion Country.

© 2014 Erika Forth @ TPT

TA OLONWGAWTAELRK Name: ________________________________ Date: ___________

STUDENT GUIDE – CHAPTER 6

PART 1: VOCABULARY
Infer the meaning of each vocabulary word using context clues in the story. Then write a sentence of your own that
uses the word.

1.  Gobble (pg. 36) _____________________________________________________________________________

My sentence:___________________________________________________________________________________

2. Rebelled (pg. 36) _____________________________________________________________________________

My sentence:___________________________________________________________________________________

3. Fortunate (pg. 37) __________________________________________________________________________

My sentence:___________________________________________________________________________________

PART 2: READING QUESTIONS

1.  What is one theme you are seeing emerge in the novel so far? Explain your answer.

2.  Describe the character of Uncle, citing evidence from the text.

3.  What do you infer happened to Marial? What is the evidence?

Write a 1-2 sentence summary of this chapter.

© 2014 Erika Forth @ TPT

TA OLONWGAWTAELRK Name: ________________________________ Date: ___________

ANSWER KEY – CHAPTER 6

PART 1: VOCABULARY
Infer the meaning of each vocabulary word using context clues in the story. Then write a sentence of your own that
uses the word.

1.  Gobble (pg. 36) Eat quickly; gulp
My sentence: Answers will vary.

2. Rebelled (pg. 36) Fought against
My sentence: Answers will vary.

3. Fortunate (pg. 37) Lucky
My sentence: Answers will vary.

PART 2: READING QUESTIONS

1.  What is one theme you are seeing emerge in the novel so far? Explain your answer.

Answers will vary. Ensure they are appropriate to the novel {survival, perseverence, hope, journeys, etc.}
and that they are thoroughly explained.

2.  What do you infer happened to Marial? What is the evidence?

Students should infer that Marial was eaten/killed by lions, because throughout the chapter, there are many
references to them. For example, the text states that “every day they saw lions” (37).

3.  Foreshadowing is when the author gives clues about an event that will happen. Find one example of the author
foreshadowing Marial’s death,

The author foreshadows Marial’s death by lions on page 37 when they discuss seeing lions every day. The author
describes the lion chasing a topi, stating that Salva saw many “bones of prey that had not been so fortunate.” This
foreshadows that Marial, who is also weak and small, would soon become one of these unfortunate prey.

Write a 1-2 sentence summary of this chapter.

Nya discusses living at the lake camp and the fear that someone will get hurt or killed in a conflict with a Dinka.
Salva finds his Uncle Jewiir alive and they continue their journey through lion country. His friend Marial goes
missing in the night.

© 2014 Erika Forth @ TPT

TA OLONWGAWTAELRK Name: ________________________________ Date: ___________

STUDENT GUIDE – CHAPTER 7

PART 1: VOCABULARY
Infer the meaning of each vocabulary word using context clues in the story. Then write a sentence of your own that
uses the word.

1. Constantly (pg. 40) __________________________________________________________________________

My sentence: __________________________________________________________________________________

2. Splotches (pg. 41) ___________________________________________________________________________

My sentence: __________________________________________________________________________________

3. Staggered (pg. 43) __________________________________________________________________________

My sentence: __________________________________________________________________________________

PART 2: READING QUESTIONS

1.  What do you think has made Akeer and so many others in Nya’s tribe sick? Explain why you think that.

2.  How has Marial’s disappearance changed Salva? Compare and contrast Salva before and after this event.

3. What do you think the Nile River could symbolize? Explain your answer.

Write a 1-2 sentence summary of this chapter.

© 2014 Erika Forth @ TPT

TA OLONWGAWTAELRK Name: ________________________________ Date: ___________

ANSWER KEY – CHAPTER 7

PART 1: VOCABULARY
Infer the meaning of each vocabulary word using context clues in the story. Then write a sentence of your own that
uses the word.

1. Constantly (pg. 40) Always, all the time
My sentence: Answers will vary.

2. Splotches (pg. 41) Blobs, spots
My sentence: Answers will vary.

3. Staggered (pg. 43) Walked unsteadily
My sentence: Answers will vary.

PART 2: READING QUESTIONS

1.  What do you think has made Akeer and so many others in Nya’s tribe sick? Explain why you think that.

Answers may vary. Students should make the connection to the bad water being the root cause.

2.  How has Marial’s disappearance changed Salva? Compare and contrast Salva before and after this event.

Before Marial’s disappearance, Salva was a very brave character. He was able to take care of himself, faced
down a soldier with a gun, and many other instances that showed his bravery. After Marial’s death, however,
Salva has become shaken up and a more fearful character. In fact, Salva is now shaking with terror “inside and
out” as they walk. He “clung to Uncle like a baby” and “looked around constantly.” Salva has made a complete
180 from a brave, strong child wise for his years to a fearful one who is afraid of every movement.

3. What do you think the Nile River could symbolize? Explain your answer.

The Nile River symbolizes life or survival because without water, their would be no life, and water is what
the characters in the book desperately need to survive. The Nile is a long, extremely important river through
ought history and is referred to as the “mother of all life in Sudan” (42).

Write a 1-2 sentence summary of this chapter.

Nya’s younger sister Akeer comes down with an illness, and they don’t know if they should make the dificult trip to
the doctor. Salva is terrified after learning that Marial was taken in the night by a lion. The group reaches the Nile
river and must construct boats to cross.

© 2014 Erika Forth @ TPT

TA OLONWGAWTAELRK Name: ________________________________ Date: ___________

STUDENT GUIDE – CHAPTER 8

PART 1: VOCABULARY
Infer the meaning of each vocabulary word using context clues in the story. Then write a sentence of your own that
uses the word.

1. Monotonous (pg. 46) ________________________________________________________________________

My sentence: __________________________________________________________________________________

2. Abundance (pg. 47) __________________________________________________________________________

My sentence: __________________________________________________________________________________

3. Dismounted (pg. 48) _________________________________________________________________________

My sentence: __________________________________________________________________________________

PART 2: READING QUESTIONS

1.  Complete the cause and effect graphic organizer below. Write one cause of Nya and Akeer drinking dirty water,
and one effect.

Nya and Akeer must
drink dirty water.

2.  Why do you think the fisherman not share their food with the refugees? Explain your answer.

3. Predict: What do you think will happen to the group in the Akobo Desert? Why do you think that?

Write a 1-2 sentence summary of this chapter.

© 2014 Erika Forth @ TPT

TA OLONWGAWTAELRK Name: ________________________________ Date: ___________

ANSWER KEY – CHAPTER 8

PART 1: VOCABULARY
Infer the meaning of each vocabulary word using context clues in the story. Then write a sentence of your own that
uses the word.

1. Monotonous (pg. 46) Dull, tedious, lacking in interest
My sentence: Answers will vary.

2. Abundance (pg. 47) Large amount; plenty
My sentence: Answers will vary.

3. Dismounted (pg. 48) Descend or get off a bike
My sentence: Answers will vary.

PART 2: READING QUESTIONS

1.  Complete the cause and effect graphic organizer below. Write one cause of Nya and Akeer drinking dirty water,
and one effect.

There isn’t enough Nya and Akeer must Akeer becomes sick
lake water at camp to drink dirty water. from contaminated

boil clean. water.

2.  Why do you think the fisherman not share their food with the refugees? Explain your answer.

The fishermen likely do not share their food for two reasons. First, the fisherman need to be able to feed
themselves and their families; what may seem like an abundance of food to starving Salva may actually only be
enough for them, and not enough to share. Second, with the amount of people displaced by the war, it is highly
the fishermen have seen group after group of refugees passing by. By now, they probably have shared enough
and no longer take much notice or care about refugee groups passing through.

3. Predict: What do you think will happen to the group in the Akobo Desert? Why do you think that?

Answers will vary. Students should predict that resources, especially water, will become very scarce due to the
mention of the desert being “the most difficult part of their journey” and that those who did not have water
containers to fill “tore strips from their clothing and soaked them in a desperate attempt to carry atleast a little water
with them” (50).

Write a 1-2 sentence summary of this chapter.

Nya’s family decides to take Akeer to the clinic and she diagnosed to have been sick from contaminated water, but is
healed. Salva and his group crosses the Nile River, are attacked mercilessly by mosquitos, and prepare to set out
across the Akobo Desert.

© 2014 Erika Forth @ TPT

TA OLONWGAWTAELRK Name: ________________________________ Date: ___________

STUDENT GUIDE – CHAPTER 9

PART 1: VOCABULARY
Infer the meaning of each vocabulary word using context clues in the story. Then write a sentence of your own that
uses the word.

1. Relentless (pg. 52) __________________________________________________________________________

My sentence: __________________________________________________________________________________

2. Gored (pg. 52) ______________________________________________________________________________

My sentence: __________________________________________________________________________________

3. Precise (pg. 54) _____________________________________________________________________________

My sentence: __________________________________________________________________________________

PART 2: READING QUESTIONS

1.  For what purpose do you think the visitors came to Nya’s village? What do you predict will happen with the
visitors?

2.  What does water symbolize in this chapter? Explain your answer.

3. Why does the woman give the dying men water, even when she knows it will not help and that it will hurt her own
chances of survival? What does this say about her character?

Write a 1-2 sentence summary of this chapter.

© 2014 Erika Forth @ TPT

TA OLONWGAWTAELRK Name: ________________________________ Date: ___________

ANSWER KEY – CHAPTER 9

PART 1: VOCABULARY
Infer the meaning of each vocabulary word using context clues in the story. Then write a sentence of your own that
uses the word.

1. Relentless (pg. 52) Constant, never ending
My sentence: Answers will vary.

2. Gored (pg. 52) Stabbed, pierced
My sentence: Answers will vary.

3. Precise (pg. 54) Exact
My sentence: Answers will vary.

PART 2: READING QUESTIONS

1.  For what purpose do you think the visitors came to Nya’s village? What do you predict will happen with the
visitors?

Answers will vary.

2.  What does water symbolize in this chapter? Explain your answer.

In this chapter, both Nya and Salva are lacking water. Salva and his group are in the desert, and water is the one
thing they must have to survive in the desert. Therefore, in this part of the novel, water symbolizes life and
survival, and it is something they do not have. In addition, Salva’s group comes upon dying water and members
of the group wrestle with if they should give water to the men. Some choose to, and some do not, because while
giving them water means a chance at survival for the dying men, it means less survival for the people giving it
up, because water is in very short supply.

3. Why does the woman give the dying men water, even when she knows it will not help and that it will hurt her own
chances of survival? What does this say about her character?

The woman chooses to offer water to the dying men at the expense of her own self because she knows it is the right
thing to do. She is generous, kind, and cares about others; when she looks up, there are tears in her eyes (55)
because she is so emotionally affected by the situation of the dying men. Even though she has been through a
terrible experience herself, she has not changed as a person, and still knows right from wrong.

Write a 1-2 sentence summary of this chapter.
Nya is confused because the visitors to her village are discussing water, and there is none in the village. Salva
struggles to walk through the harsh terrain of the Akobo desert, and their group comes upon a group of dying men.

© 2014 Erika Forth @ TPT

TA OLONWGAWTAELRK Name: ________________________________ Date: ___________

STUDENT GUIDE – CHAPTER 10

PART 1: VOCABULARY
Infer the meaning of each vocabulary word using context clues in the story. Then write a sentence of your own that
uses the word.

1. Revived (pg. 58) ____________________________________________________________________________

My sentence: __________________________________________________________________________________

2. Ravaged (pg. 59) ____________________________________________________________________________

My sentence: __________________________________________________________________________________

3. Receding (pg. 61) ___________________________________________________________________________

My sentence: __________________________________________________________________________________

PART 2: READING QUESTIONS

1.  How do you think the visitors will find water in the spot between the trees when Nya has never seen any water
there before?

2.  Salva wonders to himself if he would have given water to the dying men if he were older. Based on what you
know about his character, what do you think he would have done? Explain your answer.

3. Why did the strangers rob the group and shoot Uncle? What do you think was their purpose for doing this?

Write a 1-2 sentence summary of this chapter.

© 2014 Erika Forth @ TPT

ATOLONWGAWTAELRK Name: ________________________________ Date: ___________

ANSWER KEY – CHAPTER 10

PART 1: VOCABULARY
Infer the meaning of each vocabulary word using context clues in the story. Then write a sentence of your own that
uses the word.

1. Revived (pg. 58) Brought them back to health; healed
My sentence: Answers will vary.

2. Ravaged (pg. 59) Severely damaged
My sentence: Answers will vary.

3. Receding (pg. 61) Gradually diminish, move back
My sentence: Answers will vary.

PART 2: READING QUESTIONS

1.  How do you think the visitors will find water in the spot between the trees when Nya has never seen any water
there before?

Answers will vary; most students will infer they will drill for water.

2.  Salva wonders to himself if he would have given water to the dying men if he were older. Based on what you
know about his character, what do you think he would have done? Explain your answer.

Answers will vary. Many students will infer that yes, he would have, because throughout the novel he has
been responsible and has always done the right thing.

3. Why did the strangers rob the group and shoot Uncle? What do you think was their purpose for doing this?

The strangers robbed the group and shot Uncle for many different reasons. First of all, they were in the desert as
well, where resources are scarce, so their main objective was likely to steal supplies so that they could survive. In
addition, it is revealed that these men are Nuer, and throughout the novel we learned that there has been a history of
conflict and fighting between the Nuer and Dinka, so it is likely they attacked due to this always having been that
way. In addition, because they were laughing (63), we know that they enjoy violence and hurting others. It is likely
they killed Uncle as a show of power, because he was the leader.

Write a 1-2 sentence summary of this chapter.
In Nya’s village, the strangers pick out a spot they will find water in, but Nya knows there is no water there. Salva
learns that his Uncle is going to leave him at the refugee camp to go fight in the war, then a group of Nuer men come
upon them and rob the group.

© 2014 Erika Forth @ TPT

TA OLONWGAWTAELRK Name: ________________________________ Date: ___________

STUDENT GUIDE – CHAPTER 11

PART 1: VOCABULARY
Infer the meaning of each vocabulary word using context clues in the story. Then write a sentence of your own that
uses the word.

1. Uprooted (pg. 64) ___________________________________________________________________________

My sentence: __________________________________________________________________________________

2. Mourn (pg. 65) _____________________________________________________________________________

My sentence: __________________________________________________________________________________

3. Emaciated (pg. 68) __________________________________________________________________________

My sentence: __________________________________________________________________________________

PART 2: READING QUESTIONS

1.  Why does Salva feel stronger, bolder, and able to go on after his uncle’s death?

2.  Compare and contrast Salva’s reaction to Marial’s death to his reaction to his uncle’s death.

3.  How does Salva’s interactions with the group change after Uncle’s death? Why?

Write a 1-2 sentence summary of this chapter.

© 2014 Erika Forth @ TPT

TA OLONWGAWTAELRK Name: ________________________________ Date: ___________

ANSWER KEY – CHAPTER 11

PART 1: VOCABULARY
Infer the meaning of each vocabulary word using context clues in the story. Then write a sentence of your own that
uses the word.

1.  Uprooted (pg. 64) Pulled out of the ground
My sentence: Answers will vary.

2.  Mourn (pg. 65) Feel sorrow for
My sentence: Answers will vary.

3.  Emaciated (pg. 68) Abnormally thin or weak
My sentence: Answers will vary.

PART 2: READING QUESTIONS

1.  Why does Salva feel stronger, bolder, and able to go on after his uncle’s death?

Instead of succumbing to grief, depression, or fear as he did after Marial’s death, Salva feels stronger after his

Uncle’s because he knows the importance of continuing on and surviving. In the text, it states that “Salva knew
that both of them would have wanted him to survive, to finish the trip and reach the Itang refugee camp
safely” (65). The reason he pushes on with such renewed strength is that he wants to honor their memory and

carry out what he believes would be their wishes. In addition, he states that “it was almost as if they had left
their strength with him, to help him on his journey” (65).

2.  Compare and contrast Salva’s reaction to Marial’s death to his reaction to his uncle’s death.

After Marial’s death, Salva was extremely fearful. He clung to his Uncle like a baby, cried a lot, and was fearful
of every shadow. In contrast, Salva is the exact opposite after his Uncle’s death. He finds the inner strength to

go on because he wants to honor Marial’s and Uncle’s memory. He finds the strength to continue and finally
reach the refugee camp, even though things are even more difficult on the journey, because now that Uncle is
gone, he is completely alone and no one else in the group will help him.

3.  How does Salva’s interactions with the group change after Uncle’s death? Why?

After Uncle’s death, the group basically shuns Salva. They no longer help him, and refuse to share food or
company with him (66). Salva has to resort to begging for scraps, of which they are given to him reluctantly
(66). This could be because they gave Salva respect due to this position as relative of Uncle, who was their leader
before, and now that Uncle is gone, Salva has no position. In addition, the journey is getting more challenging,
so perhaps people are becoming more selfish and worried about their own selves. In Salva’s mind, he thinks this
is happening because they assume he is weak and useless (66).

Write a 1-2 sentence summary of this chapter.
The visitors work hard at clearing the land in Nya’s village. Salva finds reneewed spirit to continue on his journey
after his uncle’s death, and he finally reaches the refugee camp, which is overflowing with people.

© 2014 Erika Forth @ TPT

TA OLONWGAWTAELRK Name: ________________________________ Date: ___________

STUDENT GUIDE – CHAPTER 12

PART 1: VOCABULARY
Infer the meaning of each vocabulary word using context clues in the story. Then write a sentence of your own that
uses the word.

1. Skittered (pg. 73) ___________________________________________________________________________

My sentence: __________________________________________________________________________________

2. Torrents (pg. 74) ____________________________________________________________________________

My sentence: __________________________________________________________________________________

3. Merciless (pg. 75) ___________________________________________________________________________

My sentence: __________________________________________________________________________________

PART 2: READING QUESTIONS

1.  How does Salva change and grow as a character this chapter? What causes this change to happen?

2.  What is the mood at the end of the chapter? Cite words and phrases from the text that support this mood.

3.  What do you predict will happen at the Gilo River? Explain.

Write a 1-2 sentence summary of this chapter.

© 2014 Erika Forth @ TPT

TA OLONWGAWTAELRK Name: ________________________________ Date: ___________

ANSWER KEY – CHAPTER 12

PART 1: VOCABULARY
Infer the meaning of each vocabulary word using context clues in the story. Then write a sentence of your own that
uses the word.

1. Skittered (pg. 73) Moved quickly
My sentence: Answers will vary.

2. Torrents (pg. 74) Strong, fast-moving sheets of rain
My sentence: Answers will vary.

3. Merciless (pg. 75) Without mercy
My sentence: Answers will vary.

PART 2: READING QUESTIONS

1.  How does Salva change and grow as a character this chapter? What causes this change to happen?

Salva changes in many ways throughout this chapter. The first way he changes is that Salva finally accepts that

his family is most likely dead and gone. This allows him to fully realize that he is own his own, and that he must
rely on himself. After this realization, he wrestles with deep sadness, but he is able to coach himself through it
by focusing on one day at a time. This shows that Salva has become more mature and more independent, as well

as more driven to survive.

2.  What is the mood at the end of the chapter? Cite words and phrases from the text that support this mood.

The mood at the end of the chapter is tense, frantic, or stressed. This mood is conveyed through the events at the
end of the chapter, when the refugee camp suddenly closes down, and everyone is forced to abandon it. Some
specific words and phrases to support this are: “immediately, there was chaos,” “people ceased to be people and
instead became an enormous herd of panicked, stampeding two-legged creatures,” “Salva was caught up in the
surge.” “swept along by the crowd of thousands of people running and screaming,” “soldiers fired guns into the
air,” “shooting and shouting,” “the Gilo’s current would be merciless,” and “crocodiles.” These phrases all show
an atmosphere of panic and terror among the characters in the novel, which then creates a tense mood for the
reader.

3.  What do you predict will happen at the Gilo River? Explain.

Answers will vary. Students should predict that the river crossing will be dangerous, that many people will be
shot, and that there may be many crocodile attacks.

Write a 1-2 sentence summary of this chapter.
The visitors begin drilling at Nya’s village, and the women all assist by gathering rocks. Salva spends six years at the
refugee camp, until the camp is closed suddenly and the refugees are driven toward the Gilo river by soliders.ß

© 2014 Erika Forth @ TPT

TA OLONWGAWTAELRK Name: ________________________________ Date: ___________

STUDENT GUIDE – CHAPTER 13

PART 1: VOCABULARY
Infer the meaning of each vocabulary word using context clues in the story. Then write a sentence of your own that
uses the word.

1. Prodding (pg. 77) ___________________________________________________________________________

My sentence: __________________________________________________________________________________

2. Plagued (pg. 80) ____________________________________________________________________________

My sentence: __________________________________________________________________________________

3. Scavenge (pg. 81) ___________________________________________________________________________

My sentence: __________________________________________________________________________________

PART 2: READING QUESTIONS

1.  What does water symbolize to Nya in this chapter? What does water symbolize to Salva? Compare and contrast
the differences in the symbolic meaning of water throughout the chapter.

2.  Salva faced many dangers in this chapter. Of them all, which do you consider to be the most dangerous? Explain
your answer.

3.  Describe Salva’s character in the second half of this chapter. What character trait would you use to describe him
now? Explain your answer.

Write a 1-2 sentence summary of this chapter.

© 2014 Erika Forth @ TPT

TA OLONWGAWTAELRK Name: ________________________________ Date: ___________

ANSWER KEY – CHAPTER 13

PART 1: VOCABULARY
Infer the meaning of each vocabulary word using context clues in the story. Then write a sentence of your own that
uses the word.

1.  Prodding (pg. 77) Poking, touching
My sentence: Answers will vary.

2. Plagued (pg. 80) Affected, distressed
My sentence: Answers will vary.

3. Scavenge (pg. 81) Search for and collect
My sentence: Answers will vary.

PART 2: READING QUESTIONS

1.  What does water symbolize to Nya in this chapter? What does water symbolize to Salva? Compare and contrast
the differences in the symbolic meaning of water throughout the chapter.

In this chapter, water symbolizes hope for Nya. If they are able to get water to her village successfully, it will
change her life tremendously. She will no longer have to walk all day to get water, and they will no longer be at
risk for water-borne diseases because it will be clean. In contrast, Salva’s experience with water is negative. He

is forced to cross the Gilo river, which is fast moving and full of dangers such as crocodiles and downing. The
current is fast-moving and deadly, and many people die during this crossing. For Salva, water is symbolic of

death and danger.

2.  Salva faced many dangers in this chapter. Of them all, which do you consider to be the most dangerous? Explain
your answer.

Answers will vary.

3.  Describe Salva’s character in the second half of this chapter. What character trait would you use to describe him
now? Explain your answer.

Answers will vary. Students may describe him as a leader or responsible, because he takes charge of the group of
boys walking together. He makes decisions, organizes the boys, assigns jobs, and ensure that the boys all
contribute equally (80-81).

Write a 1-2 sentence summary of this chapter.

The visitors spend time drilling into the ground, and fixing many problems along the way, encourage on by their boss.
Salva crosses the Gilo River, barely avoiding drowning, crocodiles, and bullets. The surviving boys begin walking,
with Salva as the unofficial leader.

© 2014 Erika Forth @ TPT

TA OLONWGAWTAELRK Name: ________________________________ Date: ___________

STUDENT GUIDE – CHAPTER 14

PART 1: VOCABULARY
Infer the meaning of each vocabulary word using context clues in the story. Then write a sentence of your own that
uses the word.

1. Drifted (pg. 83) _____________________________________________________________________________

My sentence: __________________________________________________________________________________

2. Isolated (pg. 84) ___________________________________________________________________________

My sentence: __________________________________________________________________________________

3. Misery (pg. 84) ___________________________________________________________________________

My sentence: __________________________________________________________________________________

PART 2: READING QUESTIONS

1.  How do you think the visitors will fix the brown, muddy water at Nya’s village? Explain your prediction.

2.  In the space below, draw a sketch/picture of the Kakuma refugee camp. Make sure it accurately illustrates the
setting.

1.  Does Salva feel hopeful in this chapter? Why or why not? Compare Salva’s hope in this chapter to his hope on
the journey to the camps.

Write a 1-2 sentence summary of this chapter.

© 2014 Erika Forth @ TPT

TA OLONWGAWTAELRK Name: ________________________________ Date: ___________

ANSWER KEY – CHAPTER 14

PART 1: VOCABULARY
Infer the meaning of each vocabulary word using context clues in the story. Then write a sentence of your own that
uses the word.

1. Drifted (pg. 83) Walk casually
My sentence: Answers will vary.

2. Isolated (pg. 84) Alone, far away
My sentence: Answers will vary.

3. Misery (pg. 84) Suffering
My sentence: Answers will vary.

PART 2: READING QUESTIONS

1.  How do you think the visitors will fix the brown, muddy water at Nya’s village? Explain your prediction.

Answers will vary.

2.  In the space below, draw a sketch/picture of the Kakuma refugee camp. Make sure it accurately illustrates the
setting.

Drawings will vary. Student drawings should depict a prison-like camp isolated in the middle of a desert,
with tall barbed-wire fences, and possibly many people crammed inside.

3.  Does Salva feel hopeful in this chapter? Why or why not? Compare Salva’s hope in this chapter to his hope on
the journey to the camps.

In this chapter, Salva does not feel hopeful at all. In the text, it says “It was hard to keep hope alive when there
was so little to feed it” (85). He feels hopeless at the camp because there is no work and no opportunities. This
is very different from on his journey,, when no matter how hard things got, he always had hope because he had a
goal to strive toward. In the refugee camp, he has no goals to sustain him and his hope.

Write a 1-2 sentence summary of this chapter.

The visitors finally hit water, but it is very muddy. Salva feels hopeless at the refugee camp, and after travelling to
other camps, he found that the situations at other camps are the same. Salva soon meets an aide worker named
Michael who begins to teach him English, and soon finds that he has been chosen to go to America.

© 2014 Erika Forth @ TPT

TA OLONWGAWTAELRK Name: ________________________________ Date: ___________

STUDENT GUIDE – CHAPTER 15

PART 1: VOCABULARY
Infer the meaning of each vocabulary word using context clues in the story. Then write a sentence of your own that
uses the word.

1. Misunderstand (pg. 91) ______________________________________________________________________

My sentence: __________________________________________________________________________________

2. Lumbered (pg. 92) __________________________________________________________________________

My sentence: __________________________________________________________________________________
3. Abruptly (pg. 94) ____________________________________________________________________________

My sentence: __________________________________________________________________________________

PART 2: READING QUESTIONS

1.  In the cause and effect map below, think of three effects that will occur when Nya’s village finally gets water.

!
!

Nya’s village successfully !
gets water. !

!
!

2. Find two examples of similes in this chapter. Explain what is being compared.

Write a 1-2 sentence summary of this chapter.

© 2014 Erika Forth @ TPT

TA OLONWGAWTAELRK Name: ________________________________ Date: ___________

ANSWER KEY – CHAPTER 15

PART 1: VOCABULARY
Infer the meaning of each vocabulary word using context clues in the story. Then write a sentence of your own that
uses the word.

1. Misunderstand (pg. 91) Not understand, understand incorrectly
My sentence: Answers will vary.

2. Lumbered (pg. 92) Move slowly and awkwardly
My sentence: Answers will vary.

3. Abruptly (pg. 94) Suddenly
My sentence: Answers will vary.

PART 2: READING QUESTIONS

1.  In the cause and effect map below, think of three effects that will occur when Nya’s village finally gets water.

Nya will no longer have to Answers will vary.
walk to water daily.

Nya’s village successfully They will not have to worry
gets water. about water-borne diseases.

They will not have to move
throughout the year.

2.  Find two examples of similes in this chapter. Explain what is being compared.

“Cars crawled along the roads like ants in a line” (93). In this simile, Salva is looking down from high above in the
plane and seeing long lines of cars travelling on the roads, so he compares them to lines of ants.

“The frigid air hit Salva’s face like a slap” (95). In this simile, Salva is experiencing bitter cold for the first time, and
compares the sensation of cold air hitting his face for the first time to the same physical sensation of a slap.

Write a 1-2 sentence summary of this chapter.
Nya learns that there is still more drilling to do to get beneath the muddy water to clear water. Salva travels by plane
to America and has many new experiences on the way.

© 2014 Erika Forth @ TPT

TA OLONWGAWTAELRK Name: ________________________________ Date: ___________

STUDENT GUIDE – CHAPTER 16

PART 1: VOCABULARY
Infer the meaning of each vocabulary word using context clues in the story. Then write a sentence of your own that
uses the word.

1. Vague (pg. 99) ______________________________________________________________________________

My sentence: __________________________________________________________________________________

2. Notion (pg. 100) _____________________________________________________________________________

My sentence: __________________________________________________________________________________

3. Remote (pg. 100) ____________________________________________________________________________

My sentence: __________________________________________________________________________________

PART 2: READING QUESTIONS

1.  In the Venn Diagram below, compare and contrast Sudan and America.

2. Why is it so difficult for Salva to return to Africa to see his father? Explain, citing evidence from the text.

Write a 1-2 sentence summary of this chapter.

© 2014 Erika Forth @ TPT

TA OLONWGAWTAELRK Name: ________________________________ Date: ___________

ANSWER KEY – CHAPTER 16

PART 1: VOCABULARY
Infer the meaning of each vocabulary word using context clues in the story. Then write a sentence of your own that
uses the word.

1.  Vague (pg. 99) Hazy, unclear, not fully formed
My sentence: Answers will vary.

2. Notion (pg. 100) Idea, thought
My sentence: Answers will vary.

3. Remote (pg. 100) Isolated, difficult to reach
My sentence: Answers will vary.

PART 2: READING QUESTIONS

1.  In the Venn Diagram below, compare and contrast Sudan and America.

Dirt roads Volleyball Paved roads
School White people
African people Snow
Heat and desert
Villages without electricity Cities with electricity

2. Why is it so difficult for Salva to return to Africa to see his father? Explain, citing evidence from the text.

It is extremely challenging for Salva to return to Africa to visit his father due to geographic isolation and the
continuation of the war. At the particular location of Salva’s father, the are no telephones, mail service, or any other
way to communicate and get a message through (101). That makes it impossible for Salva to keep updated on his
father’s condition or to let him know he is coming. With the war still happening, not only is travel dangerous, but
there is much paperwork and red tape in the way of getting permission to enter the war zone (101). All in all, it took
Salva and his adopted family months to get the paperwork in order.

Write a 1-2 sentence summary of this chapter.

They begin clearing land in Nya’s village to build something, but Nya doesn’t know what it is yet. Salva adjusts to
life in New York, which is very different from life in Sudan. Salva learns his father is alive in Sudan, and takes
efforts to travel to see him.

© 2014 Erika Forth @ TPT

TA OLONWGAWTAELRK Name: ________________________________ Date: ___________

STUDENT GUIDE – CHAPTER 17

PART 1: VOCABULARY
Infer the meaning of each vocabulary word using context clues in the story. Then write a sentence of your own that
uses the word.

1. Scything (pg. 103) ___________________________________________________________________________

My sentence: __________________________________________________________________________________

2. Haze (pg. 106) ______________________________________________________________________________

My sentence: __________________________________________________________________________________

3. Trembling (pg. 109) __________________________________________________________________________

My sentence: __________________________________________________________________________________

PART 2: READING QUESTIONS

1.  Choose one character trait to describe Salva in this chapter. Cite two pieces of evidence to support your answer.

2.  What do you predict Salva’s project for South Sudan will be?

3.  How do you infer Salva feels about speaking in front of an audience? Cite two pieces of evidence from the text
that supports this.

Write a 1-2 sentence summary of this chapter.

© 2014 Erika Forth @ TPT

TA OLONWGAWTAELRK Name: ________________________________ Date: ___________

ANSWER KEY – CHAPTER 17

PART 1: VOCABULARY
Infer the meaning of each vocabulary word using context clues in the story. Then write a sentence of your own that
uses the word.

1.  Scything (pg. 103) Cutting
My sentence: Answers will vary.

2. Haze (pg. 106) Fog, confusion
My sentence: Answers will vary.

3. Trembling (pg. 109) Shaking
My sentence: Answers will vary.

PART 2: READING QUESTIONS

1.  Choose one character trait to describe Salva in this chapter. Cite two pieces of evidence to support your answer.

Answers will vary.

2.  What do you predict Salva’s project for South Sudan will be?
Answers will vary.

3.  How do you infer Salva feels about speaking in front of an audience? Cite two pieces of evidence from the text
that supports this.

Salva is very nervous speaking in front of an audience. One piece of evidence that supports this is that
“Salva’s knees were shaking as he walked to the mike” (108). Shaking knees a sign of nervousness. In
addition, Salva worries about his English and if he will make mistakes or not be understood (108). Worrying
about these issues also shows that he is very nervous to speak.

Write a 1-2 sentence summary of this chapter.

A school is being built in Nya’s village that she and all the other children will be able to attend. Salva is reunited
with his father and learns that his mother, sisters, and one of his brothers survived the war. Salva starts working on
project to help South Sudan.

© 2014 Erika Forth @ TPT

TA OLONWGAWTAELRK Name: ________________________________ Date: ___________

STUDENT GUIDE – CHAPTER 18

PART 1: VOCABULARY
Infer the meaning of each vocabulary word using context clues in the story. Then write a sentence of your own that
uses the word.

1. Disputes (pg. 113) ___________________________________________________________________________

My sentence: __________________________________________________________________________________

2. Maintaining (pg. 113) ________________________________________________________________________

My sentence: __________________________________________________________________________________

3. Assumed (pg. 114) ___________________________________________________________________________

My sentence: __________________________________________________________________________________

PART 2: READING QUESTIONS

1.  How have the volunteers creating one well transformed the lives of the villagers? Give at least three different
positive effects of the new well.

2.  How do Salva’s story and Nya’s story intersect and come together in this chapter? Why do you think the author
chose to tell the story this way?

3.  Was your prediction about Salva’s project from last chapter correct or incorrect?

Write a 1-2 sentence summary of this chapter.

© 2014 Erika Forth @ TPT

TA OLONWGAWTAELRK Name: ________________________________ Date: ___________

ANSWER KEY – CHAPTER 18

PART 1: VOCABULARY
Infer the meaning of each vocabulary word using context clues in the story. Then write a sentence of your own that
uses the word.

1.  Disputes (pg. 113) Conflicts, arguments
My sentence: Answers will vary.

2. Maintaining (pg. 113) Keeping in working order
My sentence: Answers will vary.

3. Assumed (pg. 114) Suppose without proof
My sentence: Answers will vary.

PART 2: READING QUESTIONS

1.  How have the volunteers creating one well transformed the lives of the villagers? Give at least three different
positive effects of the new well.

The village will be greatly impacted by the construction of the new well. The children will no longer have to
walk to fetch water, so they will be able to go to school and get an education. All villagers will have access
to clean, safe, sanitary water, so disease and illness will decrease. They are also constructing a marketplace,

and one day, a medical clinic. This will not just impact the village positively, but people living in the general
area surrounding the village will be able to use the well.

2.  How do Salva’s story and Nya’s story intersect and come together in this chapter? Why do you think the author
chose to tell the story this way?

In this chapter, we learn that the boss who was leading the project at Nya’s village was actually Salva himself.
The reader realizes that drilling wells for Sudanese villages was the project Salva was working on. Answers will
vary about the author’s purpose.

3.  Was your prediction about Salva’s project from last chapter correct or incorrect?
Answers will vary.

Write a 1-2 sentence summary of this chapter.
Nya’s village finally has water, and Nya learns that it was a Dinka man named Salva who brought it to the village.

© 2014 Erika Forth @ TPT

TA OLONWGAWTAELRK Name: ________________________________ Date: ___________

STUDENT GUIDE – MESSAGE &
AUTHOR’S NOTE
PART 1: VOCABULARY

Infer the meaning of each vocabulary word using context clues in the story. Then write a sentence of your own that

uses the word.

1. Perseverance (pg. 117)________________________________________________________________________

My sentence: __________________________________________________________________________________

2. Depicted (pg. 118) ___________________________________________________________________________

My sentence: __________________________________________________________________________________

3. Languished (pg. 119) _________________________________________________________________________

My sentence: __________________________________________________________________________________

PART 2: READING QUESTIONS

1.  Are you satisfied with how the book ended? Why or why not? If not, how would you have ended it differently?

2.  Do you think there will ever be peace in Sudan? Why or why not? Explain.

3.  What do you feel the theme/message of the book is? Explain your answer thoroughly.

Write a 1-2 sentence summary of this chapter.

© 2014 Erika Forth @ TPT

TA OLONWGAWTAELRK Name: ________________________________ Date: ___________

ANSWER KEY – MESSAGE &
AUTHOR’S NOTE
PART 1: VOCABULARY

Infer the meaning of each vocabulary word using context clues in the story. Then write a sentence of your own that

uses the word.

1. Perseverance (pg. 117) Resolve to do something and not give up
My sentence: Answers will vary.

2. Depicted (pg. 118) Represented or shown
My sentence: Answers will vary.

3.  Languished (pg. 119) Suffered
My sentence: Answers will vary.

PART 2: READING QUESTIONS

1.  Are you satisfied with how the book ended? Why or why not? If not, how would you have ended it differently?

Answers will vary.

1.  Do you think there will ever be peace in Sudan? Why or why not? Explain.
Answers will vary.

2.  What do you feel the theme/message of the book is? Explain your answer thoroughly.
Answers will vary.

Write a 1-2 sentence summary of this chapter.
Salva provides a note about his life, and the author provides more information about the war in Sudan.

© 2014 Erika Forth @ TPT

Erika Forth

Secondary Language Arts & Social Studies

Visit my store * Follow me

You May Also Be Interested In…

Credits: KG Fonts