Ch 1-2 Reading Comprehension
Discuss what you learn about Jonas’ family.
Jonas’ family includes his father, mother, and seven-year-old sister, Lily. His father is a nurturer who cares for babies and enjoys his job. His mother works for the Department of Justice and is practical and kind but feels frustrated with rule-breakers. Lily is a seven-year-old who expresses anger toward rule-breaking but forgives quickly. The family values sharing ideas and feelings and adheres to community rules.
Discuss the differences you already see between Jonas’ community and your own.
Jonas’ community has strict rules that govern every aspect of life, including ceremonies like the Telling of Feelings and the Ceremony of Twelve. Spouses are assigned, and there are constant reminders from speakers about the rules. This differs from a society with personal freedoms, individuality, and emotional expression.
What does Jonas notice about the apple?
While playing catch with Asher, Jonas notices the apple changes in a way he cannot describe. Its shape and size remain the same, but it briefly changes from time to time. Asher does not notice the change, and Jonas takes the apple home to investigate, finding nothing unusual.
Describe Jonas' personality traits.
Jonas is intelligent, curious, and observant. He questions the rules of his community while others follow them blindly. For example, he asks his father about the release process and notices color in the apple and Fiona’s cheeks when others cannot. Jonas is empathetic, caring, and highly perceptive.
What is a release?
Release is described as the worst fate for a citizen and is a form of punishment, except in the case of the elderly or new children. It signifies failure and is a final, irreversible decision.
What are some negative effects of living in Jonas’ community?
Negative effects include limited personal agency, lack of individuality, suppressed emotions, and the absence of personal freedoms or choices.
What does the reader learn about birthmothers?
Birthmothers receive little respect in the community and are not considered honorable. They are treated well for three years while producing children but become Laborers for the rest of their lives. Birthmothers are not allowed to see their children, and Jonas' mother discourages Lily from aspiring to this role.
Why does Jonas' ability to notice changes, such as with the apple, make him unique?
Jonas’ ability to notice changes shows heightened perception. He can see beyond what others in the community can perceive, such as color, which hints at his unique qualities and his potential future role.
What is the Ceremony of 12, and why is it so important?
It is a community ritual where twelve-year-olds are assigned their lifelong careers based on observations by the Committee of Elders. This ceremony determines each individual’s future role in the community.
Why is the Ceremony of Twelve so impactful on the community’s structure?
It assigns lifelong careers, ensuring that every member’s role is predetermined and serves the collective needs of the community, maintaining order and efficiency.
Where does Jonas spend his volunteer hours, and what does he do? What new information is revealed?
Jonas spends his volunteer hours at various locations. In this chapter, he is at The House of The Old, where he cares for an elderly woman by bathing her. The reader learns about the release process of the elderly, which includes a celebration of life. Larissa discusses these celebrations, and it is revealed that the community’s rules prohibit seeing others unclothed, except for the elderly or babies.
How does Jonas' curiosity about the release process demonstrate his critical thinking?
Jonas questions his father about the release process, showing he does not blindly accept community rules. This sets him apart as someone who critically evaluates the norms others take for granted.
Who is the Receiver?
The Receiver is the most respected Elder in the community who works alone. They are consulted for significant decisions and rule changes.
How does Jonas’ family’s behavior reflect the community’s values?
Jonas’ family follows the community’s rules, values open communication, and participates in rituals like sharing feelings. This reflects the community’s emphasis on order, conformity, and emotional regulation.
What does Jonas’ care for Larissa at The House of The Old reveal about his character?
Jonas’ actions demonstrate empathy, compassion, and respect for others, including the elderly. His willingness to assist Larissa in bathing reflects his caring nature and dedication to his community.
How are rules changed?
Rules are difficult to change. They are first sent to a committee for study, which can take years with little progress. Important rule changes are sent to the Receiver for a final decision.
Describe the character of Jonas by considering his personality traits, values, and unique qualities.
Jonas is thoughtful, observant, and curious. He values fairness and begins to question the rules and norms of his community, setting him apart as unique.