Reading Check and Short Answer questions on key plot points are designed for guided reading assignments, in-class review, formative assessment, quizzes, and more.

Part 1, Preface-Chapter 3 (1919-1921)

Reading Check

1. What happened to the neighborhood known as Medallion?

2. What celebration does Shadrack found in Medallion?

3. What is Helene’s relationship with her mother?

4. What does Eva do to her son Plum?

Short Answer

Answer each question in at least 1 complete sentence. Incorporate details from the text to support your response.

1. How does Medallion come to be situated on a hill but referred to as “the Bottom”?

2. What is the purpose of Shadrack’s yearly celebration?

3. How does the friendship between Nel and Sula begin?

4. Who lives in Eva’s house along with her family and why?

Paired Resource

Elysium

• This encyclopedia entry explains the reference in the street name Elysian Fields, where “Cecile Sabat’s house leaned between two others just like it.”
• Do you think the street name is intended to be descriptive or ironic? Why?

Part 1, Chapters 4-6 (1922-1927)

Reading Check

1. Which male character catches the attention of Sula and Nel as they walk toward the ice cream parlor?

2. What does Shadrack say to Sula when she visits his home?

3. What two questions does Hannah put to Eva, which upset her?

4. What happens to Hannah in the yard?